What’s really holding you - or your organization - back from applying for The Yass Prize? Welcome to the third (and final!) edition of our Myth Busters series, where we continue unpacking common misconceptions and highlighting the realities behind the Prize and the application process. If you haven’t read our first or second edition, we encourage you to take a look.

With the June 1st deadline approaching quickly, now is the time to revisit any barriers that may be standing in your way. The examples ahead challenge traditional assumptions and point to a clear takeaway: this isn’t the time to hold back. Apply today to vie for the $1 million Yass Prize!

Myth: The Yass Prize only awards organizations in states with strong education freedom policies. 

Myth Busted: While the Yass Prize is rooted in a commitment to Sustainability, we recognize that there are multiple paths to achieving it. Consider School House (2025 Finalist) in Long Island, and Siembra Leadership High School (2025 Semifinalist) in Albuquerque, New Mexico - both operate in states that rank lower on the Center for Education Reform’s Parent Power! Index, yet they continue to deliver STOP-worthy outcomes for their students, with School House actively pursuing a national expansion model.

Myth: Being in a rural area hinders our chances at being selected as a contender.

Myth Busted: Rural communities have a strong need for innovative education providers, which is why our awardees include organizations from Iowa, Oklahoma, Maine, North Dakota, Indiana, Oregon, Wyoming, and many other states serving primarily rural populations. Randolph Eastern School Corporation (2023 Semifinalist), a traditional public school district in rural Indiana, is bringing project-based learning, dual enrollment opportunities, and CTE partnerships to its students. Learn more from Superintendent Neal Adams on building successful, innovative rural school communities in this episode of Edreform in 10.

Myth: The Yass Prize has already recognized someone in my region.

Myth Busted: The power of the Yass Prize network is connection, not competition. As highlighted in our Florida Roadshow for Opportunity Impact Report, we actively bring leaders together - whether they’re across the country or just down the road. As Urban Preparatory Academy (2022 Finalist) Founder Wade Moore shared: “I found awardees within a two-hour drive. We’re now exploring visits and regional collaboration.”

Once part of the Yass Prize network, education leaders thrive through connection across sectors, states, and backgrounds - strengthening, not replacing, what they’ve built. Apply today by June 1st and become part of a network designed to help you grow and scale your impact.

2026 Yass Prize Application