In 2024, through this tribute to teachers, Colossal raised more than $2.7 million to benefit Teach for America. It couldn’t have been possible without the incredible passion and support of the competitors and their voters. Hundreds of local news stations across the country supported their local teachers, giving them the exposure and attention they deserved for helping to raise America’s kids in thoughtful and creative ways.

This year, get ready for an electrifying experience with the iconic “Science Guy.” Known for inspiring millions with his passion for science and learning, Bill Nye joins America’s Favorite Teacher to honor the educators shaping our future. The winning teacher’s school will enjoy an unforgettable virtual assembly, sparking curiosity and excitement in students like never before!

Teachers do so much more than just teach; they mentor, inspire and guide students toward becoming the best versions of themselves. They foster curiosity, resilience and a love for learning while equipping students with the critical thinking and life skills needed to succeed. By believing in their students, teachers empower them to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. They are the unsung heroes shaping not just individual lives but the future of our communities and beyond.
Registration is now open to join America’s Favorite Teacher, where educators across the nation are invited to compete in a tournament-style online competition that narrows with each round, and the winner will be chosen through public voting.
Along with the virtual school assembly hosted by Bill Nye, America’s Favorite Teacher 2025 will appear in Reader’s Digest, take home $25,000 and be whisked away for a dream trip to Hawaii.

Colossal is proud to support The Planetary Society through this year’s America’s Favorite Teacher competition. This organization is the world’s largest nonprofit space organization. Founded by Carl Sagan, The Planetary Society inspires the next generation of explorers through education, innovation and a shared passion for the cosmos. With a mission to empower global citizens to explore new worlds and seek answers to life’s greatest questions, their work reflects the same dedication to discovery and wonder that educators instill in their students every day.
“Teachers play a critical role in shaping curious, thoughtful students who will go on to make an impact in the world. At Colossal, we’re proud to support educators through this competition while partnering with The Planetary Society to inspire the next generation of explorers.”
– Mary Hagen, Colossal CEO
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Through online competitions like America’s Favorite Teacher, participants have the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact. This competition is operated by Colossal as a fundraiser on behalf of DTCare, a nationally registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Donations raised from votes cast during the competition go to DTCare, which will subsequently issue a grant to The Planetary Society after the conclusion of the competition.

Colossal competitions offer a platform for individuals to cultivate self-confidence, motivate one another and make a global impact all at the same time! Regardless of the outcome, the community takes pride in knowing that each and every participant has contributed to positive change in the world.
Colossal is searching for extraordinary talents, unstoppable forces and untapped potential ready to take the spotlight. Whether a seasoned chef, aspiring baker, trailblazing fashionista, stage-commanding entertainer, fabulous woman over 40 or excellent educator, Colossal is here to elevate the journey to greatness. Who’s next?
Learn more at colossal.org, and register for America’s Favorite Teacher now.
FAQ
What is a professional fundraiser?
A professional fundraiser (sometimes called a commercial fundraiser for charitable purposes, professional solicitor or paid solicitor) is a person or entity who is paid to raise money for, and directly solicit donations on behalf of, one or more charitable organizations.
How do Colossal competitions work?
Colossal partners with a variety of brands, publications, influencers and charities to develop amazing prize packages for our competitions. Interested people sign up, and we vet them to make sure they are real humans and good candidates for the competition. People vote for their favorite, and the competitor with the most votes in the final round wins!
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes! All donations made through the Colossal platform go to DTCare, a U.S. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity. DTCare has partnered with Colossal to make giving internationally and domestically safe, easy and effective for U.S. donors, by raising charitable donations from members of the public to fund monetary grants to other charitable organizations.