The program concentrates on the Houston area, recognizes innovative and results-oriented teaching, and raises public awareness of the importance of effective and committed teachers in the KIPP Texas Public Schools – Houston, YES Prep Public Schools, Teach for America – Houston, and Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston networks.

The award has a transformational impact on the lives of the educators who earn it. In the past, teachers have used the award money in various ways to help improve the quality of life for themselves, their families, their students, and their communities.

The KETA honorees are recognized annually in the fall.