The Biology Educator Leadership Scholarship (BELS) program was established to encourage and support teachers who want to further their education in the life sciences or life science education. The award recipient is required to be a practicing educator who is also enrolled (or anticipates enrolling) in a graduate program at Masters or Doctoral level. NABT members with less than or equal to ten years of teaching experience are eligible. The BELS program is sponsored by NABT Members and includes a $5000 tuition assistance award, a plaque to be presented at the NABT Professional Development Conference, and one year of complimentary membership to NABT.