Tom Moore Honored with Modelo de la Comunidad Award for Advancing Educational Opportunity

College Board

• April 16, 2026

CHICAGO - Tom Moore, superintendent of Niles Township High Schools District 219 and chair of College Board's Board of Trustees, is the 2026 winner of the Modelo de la Comunidad Award, recognizing his leadership in expanding access and opportunity for students. The award was announced at the annual Prepárate conference.

The Modelo de la Comunidad Award is presented each year to individuals and organizations who demonstrate outstanding leadership, advocacy, and service in advancing education and well-being within the Latino community. Nominated by members of the Prepárate National Advisory Committee, recipients embody a deep commitment to expanding access, removing barriers, and creating opportunities for all students to thrive.

"Tom Moore exemplifies what this award represents," said Prepárate Co-Chair Dr. Luis Narváez Gete. "His leadership goes beyond words. He takes meaningful action to open doors for students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, and builds systems where every student has the opportunity to succeed."

Since becoming superintendent of District 219 in 2022, Moore has led efforts to expand access to rigorous coursework, including the elimination of fees for Advanced Placement® (AP) Exams. That change-which removed a financial barrier for many students-has driven increased Latino student participation in advanced coursework across Moore's district.

Moore's impact extends beyond academics. He strengthens connections between schools, families, and communities through initiatives designed to increase access, engagement, and student success. Moore's core philosophy-that all students are "my kids"-has driven him as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent to advocate that all students, regardless of background, deserve opportunities to pursue their full potential.

In accepting the award, Moore emphasized the collective responsibility of educators to uplift students and communities:

"I am truly honored because I know what this represents. I accept this on behalf of a community that has welcomed me, influenced me, and taught me," Moore says. "We must use our voices for those who, because of language, citizenship, or circumstance, cannot speak for themselves. That is our charge every day."

He adds, "I believe deeply in the possibilities of this country and in our students. If we clear paths for them and show them how to clear those paths themselves, they will not only succeed, they will lead."

Moore's career in education spans decades, beginning as an Advanced Placement European History teacher and continuing through roles as principal and superintendent in both Connecticut and Illinois. He has received numerous honors, including Connecticut Superintendent of the Year and the United States Presidential Scholars Program Teacher Recognition Award, and has served on College Board committees at both the regional and national levels for more than 15 years.

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