Stand Up 4 Teachers 2026

Join Tucson Values Teachers for Stand Up 4 Teachers 2026, our signature annual celebration honoring outstanding PreK-12 educators across Pima County. Presented by Tucson Electric Power, this evening brings together the Southern Arizona community to recognize the teachers who shape our students' futures.

Doors open at 5:00 p.m. for registration and a cocktail reception.

Cocktail Reception

Guests are invited to a cocktail reception prior to the ceremony. The evening opens with:

• Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and two beverages included with your ticket, with a cash bar on hand for anything more

• The return of live musician Erick Grillo, providing entertainment throughout the reception

• A silent auction and raffle featuring items and experiences donated by community partners

• Strike a pose at the photo booth, with professional photographers capturing the night as well

• The chance to leave a note of encouragement for each of this year's twelve E.L.E.V.A.T.E. finalists

• Mingling with educators, business leaders, and community champions, all in celebration of Southern Arizona's teachers

Awards Ceremony

Returning as Master of Ceremonies for a second year is Dee Cortez, StormTracker 4 Meteorologist for News 4 Tucson (KVOA), joined this year by fellow StormTracker 4 Meteorologist Chuck George. The evening's entertainment will also include live variety performances from Pima County's most talented youth. No Stand Up 4 Teachers celebration is complete without Lumify's signature video productions, a crowd-favorite tradition that returns to the big screen this year.

Excellence | Leadership | Engagement | Vision | Achievement | Transformation | Empowerment

This year's celebration spotlights the E.L.E.V.A.T.E. Award, generously sponsored by Raytheon | An RTX Business, whose longstanding commitment continues to elevate the teaching profession and celebrate the educators shaping Pima County's future. Twelve finalists will be honored on stage, with four awardees each receiving a $2,500 personal award plus an additional $2,500 gift to their school, and the remaining eight finalists each receiving a $500 award.

Spirit of Education Award: Desert Diamond Casino

Tucson Values Teachers will also present the Spirit of Education Award to Desert Diamond Casino, recognizing an exceptional and lasting commitment to supporting teachers and across Southern Arizona.