FLAGSTAFF – The sixth annual Coconino County 2018 Teacher of the Year and first annual Rookie Teacher of the Year Award nominations are now open. These awards recognize the contributions of state-accredited, full-time teachers from pre-kindergarten – 12th grade in Coconino County.

The Teacher of the Year awards recognize three exceptionally skilled and dedicated teachers, and rookie teachers, who have gained respect and admiration of students, parents and colleagues. These teachers inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn and are passionate about education.

Teachers must be nominated or self-nominated to be considered for either award. If nominated, teachers submit a detailed essay application with letters of support. The top six candidates for each award will then be interviewed. The Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the year, as well as two ambassadors for excellence and two Rookie Ambassadors for Excellence will be selected by a panel of judges.

All finalists will be recognized at the awards event in the spring and will receive cash prizes. The Teacher of the Year will receive an automatic nomination for the Arizona Teacher of the Year Award and various other prizes. The event is made possible through sponsorships by businesses and community members.

Superintendent Risha VanderWey invites the public to nominate any outstanding teachers in Coconino County. Nomination forms can be found on the Superintendent’s website at www.coconino.az.gov/celebrate. Nominations must be received by Nov. 6 at 5 p.m.

For more information contact the School Superintendent’s Office at 928-679-8070.