About the Awards
Established in 1984, the Glenn W. Hoffmann Exemplary Program Awards recognize outstanding school programs that make a significant impact on student success across Santa Clara County. Named in honor of Dr. Glenn W. Hoffmann, who served as County Superintendent from 1967 to 1984, the awards reflect his enduring belief that strong educational leadership is essential to meaningful educational reform.
Each year, school districts are invited to submit exemplary programs for consideration. Applications are reviewed by a committee of board members and educators, with the highest-scoring programs receiving a Glenn W. Hoffmann Exemplary Program Award and the top-scoring program also receiving the Kristi Porter Outstanding Program Award. Winning programs are honored at the annual Hoffmann Awards ceremony each spring, and program information and videos are featured on this website so that others can learn from and be inspired by exemplary programs across the county.
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Each year, one program also receives the Kristi Porter Outstanding Program Award, presented to the highest-scoring program among all applicants. Kristi Porter served for ten years on the Oak Grove School District Board and was deeply involved with SCCSBA and numerous community initiatives. As Hoffmann Chair, she revitalized the awards program with her vision and energy. Kristi and her son, Robert, tragically lost their lives in an automobile accident while vacationing in Hungary on April 24, 2006. She is fondly remembered by colleagues, family, and friends, and SCCSBA honors her legacy each year through this award.
Timeline for the 2027 Application Process
Applications Due
Finalists Notified
On-Site Visits
Winners Announced
Video Production
Awards Ceremony
How to Apply
Please review the Applicant Information Packet before beginning the application. It includes detailed guidelines, the application timeline, and selection criteria. Once you have reviewed the packet, complete the Online Application Form [Coming Soon].
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Operational status — the program must have been operational, not in planning or development, on or before September 2024.
Public education — the program must be consistent with a free, public education for all students.
Program scope — multi-district, district-wide, school-based, or classroom-based programs are all eligible.
Submission limit — each district may submit one application this year.
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Applications are reviewed by a committee of board members and educators using a scoring rubric based on six criteria. The criterion Positive Impact on Students is weighted more heavily than the other five.
Positive Impact on Students (Weighted 2x)
Clearly Defined and Intentional Goals
Innovation
Sustainability
Replicability
Supporting Data
Explore Past Awards
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2026 Hoffmann Awards
Applications, winners, & event photos
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2025 Hoffmann Awards
Applications, winners, & event photos
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Winner videos
Hoffmann Award winner videos since 2011
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Full winner list
All Hoffmann Award winners since 1984
Hoffmann Awards Sponsors
The Hoffmann Awards ceremony would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Click a logo below to learn more about each of our sponsors. Interested in becoming a sponsor? View our Sponsorship Opportunities.
