PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. – August 19, 2025 – Elizabeth Prewett, a teacher at Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School in Little Rock, has been named the 2025 Arkansas History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Since 2004, this distinguished award has recognized exceptional K–12 educators for their remarkable work in teaching American history.
The annual recognition program, presented by the Gilder Lehrman Institute—the nation’s leading nonprofit for K–12 American history education—celebrates one outstanding teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. Territories. It recognizes educators for their dedication, creativity, and effective use of primary sources. Nominees are recommended by students, colleagues, or school leaders and selected by state committees of historians and educators.
Prewett is in her 6th year as a teacher and 4th year at Mills University Studies High School. She teaches AP US History, US History Since 1929, and AP Psychology. Prewett loves her students to use primary sources and infuses as much Arkansas-specific history as possible into her courses. She has students show their understanding through creative ways -- having made a children's book about Civil Rights leaders, researched their school's history through yearbooks and newspaper archives, and told the story of historical events through comic strips.
“I love teaching history because it helps us understand more of who we are and helps shape who we become. I love teaching students about things that have happened in the past to provide context for our present day. History is full of examples of resilience, sacrifice, courage, and leadership. I love getting to share those stories with my students, because I hope it inspires them to be kinder, more courageous, and better leaders too,” Prewett said.
As the 2025 Arkansas History Teacher of the Year, Elizabeth Prewett will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a curated collection of American history books and educational materials from the Gilder Lehrman Institute, and recognition at a local ceremony. She will also join 52 other honorees as a finalist for the 2025 National History Teacher of the Year Award.
“History teachers play an essential role in helping students understand the past, build critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our nation,” says James G. Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “We are proud to recognize educators who go above and beyond to make history engaging, meaningful, and relevant in their classrooms.”
The national winner will be announced this fall at a special ceremony at the Harvard Club of New York City and will receive a $10,000 grand prize. To view the full list of 2025 state honorees, click here.
About The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, visionaries and lifelong supporters of American history education, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 history education while also 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, one of the great archives in American history. Drawing on the 86,000 documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection and an extensive network of eminent historians, the Institute provides teachers, students, and the general public with access to unique 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 been recognized by 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. Learn more at gilderlehrman.org.
