The Doug Bates Award grew out of a desire to honor the legacy of an early proponent of high moral and ethical standards for America's educators. Doug Bates was an attorney with the Utah State Office of Education and served for a number of years as the attorney for NASDTEC. In both roles, Doug was consistent and relentless in his insistence that state licensing agencies and employing school districts effectively screen applicants and monitor all educators for moral fitness.

Since 1997 NASDTEC has selected a person whose notable work in the field of professional practices deserves to be recognized.  The recipient of the Doug Bates Award is honored at a dedicated luncheon during the annual Professional Practices Institute. 

Selection for the award is based on a number of factors:

1. Membership in NASDTEC and/or affiliation with NASDTEC’s Professional Practices efforts or other noteworthy efforts in this regard.
2. Recognized contributions or work experience in the field of Professional Practices and educator misconduct.
3. Demonstrated dedication to the safety and welfare of school children.
4. Selection by the Professional Practices Committee with approval by the Executive Board.

Doug Bates Award Recipients