Celebrating Shakespeare in the Classroom: The Parr Prize for Excellence in Teaching

Gary Parr established the Parr Prize for Excellence in Teaching Shakespeare to honor a lifelong appreciation for the reading and performance of the Bard’s plays. Like many, his first encounter with Shakespeare came during high school English class—but what made the difference was the teacher.

“Great teachers make Shakespeare accessible, relevant, and unforgettable,” says Gary Parr, founder of the Prize.
“This award was inspired by Miss Gragg, the remarkable English teacher who opened the world of Shakespeare to me in 10th grade. I know many others have had their own ‘Miss Gragg’—teachers whose passion and imagination breathe life into these timeless works. Through this Prize, we celebrate the educators who make Shakespeare’s words resonate deeply in the hearts of their students.”

What sets the Parr Prize apart is not only its mission but also the caliber of the scholars who shaped its foundation. A distinguished group of Shakespeare educators contributed to the Prize’s development, crafting thoughtful criteria and application questions that reflect genuine excellence in teaching. These same scholars will serve as judges, bringing their expertise and deep commitment to Shakespeare education to the evaluation process.

In every sense, the Parr Prize is a tribute to the transformative power of teaching—and to the educators who ensure Shakespeare continues to inspire new generations.