In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week (02-06MAY) and educators across Canada and the U.S., Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced the relaunch of its "Norwegian's Giving Joy" recognition program, which provides educators with free cruises and a chance to win up to USD $25,000 for their schools.
The annual program is designed to highlight the connection between travel and education and to recognize teachers for their dedication to inspiring students, and has already awarded 130 teachers across the Canada and the U.S. with free cruises and over USD $185,000 to schools since 2019.
In 2022, 100 teachers can win an exclusive sailing aboard NCL's newest ship, Norwegian Prima, during the inaugural five-day sailing from Galveston, Texas from 27-31OCT 2022.
"We're so proud to celebrate educators, the unsung heroes of our communities, with our Norwegian's Giving Joy program," said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Teachers are tenacious, they are inspiring, and more than anything, they are dream makers."
The month-long campaign runs from 02MAY through 03JUN 2022. NCL is encouraging nominations of certified or accredited teachers in the Canada and the U.S. who "strive to bring joy into their classrooms and inspire their students day-in and day-out." The top 100 educators with the most votes will be one of the first to sail aboard Norwegian Prima from Texas in October. In addition, the top three grand prize winners will receive an additional seven-day voyage for two from the Canada or the U.S., as well as a USD $25,000, $15,000 and $10,000 donation respectively for their school.
Ashley Steadman, educator at Maynard Evans High School in Orlando, Fla. and second place winner of the 2021 Norwegian's Giving Joy campaign said, "Norwegian Cruise Line made me feel appreciated throughout the entire Giving Joy experience. With the prize money, our Student Government Association has been able to organize student engagements throughout the year, creating a stronger sense of community and pride for our students and staff."
Sommer continued, "Educators, like travel, leave a lasting impression on us. They help shape who we are and expand our horizons. Norwegian's Giving Joy campaign brings to light the importance of travel as a powerful means of education. Travel broadens our perspective and encourages us to discover, adapt and accept new cultures and experiences. We cannot wait to celebrate the next class of deserving Giving Joy winners aboard the highly anticipated Norwegian Prima this fall."
To nominate a teacher, to vote, or for more information, visit Norwegian Cruise Line's web site.
