A California high school teacher started his day like any other, but was unexpectedly surprised with a significant award.
Gregory Kraus, who teaches automotive technology at Amistad High School in Indio, was met with cheers from his students when he found out he had won $100,000 for his contributions to the school’s program.
He is among just 25 recipients of the 2026 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, which recognizes outstanding skilled-trades educators across the country.
What Kraus didn’t know was that this surprise was in the works. An administrator initially pulled him aside during class, pretending to discuss budget issues while his students were taken to the gym. Moments later, his students revealed the celebration prepared for him.
“This program is my passion,” Kraus shared. “I came into this with just the mindset of, ‘I want to change the world in a positive way, one student at a time.’”
This mission resonates deeply with Kraus. Years ago, as a young single parent, he needed a steady job to support his daughter. The skills he learned from his own high school automotive classes enabled him to enter the workforce immediately. For 15 years, he worked his way up in the automotive sector, notably at a Honda dealership.
Despite achieving career success, Kraus felt a lack of deeper fulfillment. When his mother suggested teaching, he initially dismissed the idea, thinking his lack of a college degree would hold him back. However, she helped him see that his practical experience was precisely what the education system required for its Career and Technical Education offerings.
Taking her advice, he shifted to teaching and dedicated the last nine years to developing Amistad’s program. Each year, he applied for the Harbor Freight prize, eager to gain recognition for his school. Previous attempts hadn’t led to success, making this year’s win feel even more significant.
This award carries more than just prestige; Kraus will receive $30,000 personally, while Amistad’s program will benefit from $70,000 to enhance its curriculum. The program has already helped students secure competitive jobs in technical fields, with alumni finding positions at major companies like Tesla, Toyota, and Boeing.
Kraus, who holds a master’s degree in Educational Administration from CSU San Bernardino, finally saw the fruits of his perseverance and commitment come to life.
