Michelle Rafach, a teacher at Pearl River Central High School in Carriere, has been named the 2024 Mississippi History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Established in 2004, this award recognizes elementary through high school teachers’ contributions to American history education.

Presented annually by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the award honors one K–12 teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and United States Territories.

“History teachers play a critical role in shaping students’ understanding of the past and inspiring hope for the future,” said James G. Basker, president of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “Their dedication to educating our youth is commendable, and we take great pride in honoring the most exceptional educators across the country.”

Michelle Rafach has been a history teacher at Pearl River Central High School for over a decade. Known for her engaging teaching methods and commitment to her students, Rafach integrates primary sources and innovative projects into her curriculum. She also sponsors the school’s history club and has organized numerous field trips to historical sites.”

Rafach will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a core archive of American history books, and educational materials curated by the Gilder Lehrman Institute. Additionally, she will be recognized at a local ceremony and join the group of 53 finalists contending for the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award.

The national award winner will be announced later this fall and will receive a $10,000 grand prize at a ceremony on October 15, 2024, at the Harvard Club of New York City.

About The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History

Founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is a nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 history education while serving the general public. The Institute’s mission is to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources.

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, an archive in American history. Drawing on the 85,000 documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection and an extensive network of historians, the Institute provides teachers, students, and the general public access to primary source materials.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is supported through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Institute’s programs have recognized awards from the White House, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Organization of American Historians, the Council of Independent Colleges, and the Daughters of the American Revolution.