A social studies teacher at Ewa Makai Middle School will receive the Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence, which carries a $10,000 prize, Friday in Washington, D.C.

Cynthia Tong, pictured, is one of five educators nationwide receiving the honor, which is presented by the NEA Foundation and the National Education Association.

“Cindy has been a leader in every school where she’s taught,” said Corey Rosenlee, president of the Hawaii State Teachers Association, which nominated her. “She’s also been an agent for change not only for the keiki in her school, but for all the keiki in Hawaii.”

The honorees are also in the running for a $25,000 award, the NEA Member Benefits Award for Teaching Excellence, which will be announced Friday evening at the foundation’s 50th-anniversary gala.

Tong, an eighth-grade teacher, serves on the HSTA’s board of directors, representing Leeward Oahu teachers.