The Atlantic Rotary is asking all parents, students, and community members: do you know a teacher who deserves recognition for going above and beyond the call of duty? The Atlantic Rotary Club is seeking nominations for the 7th Annual Rotary Club of Atlantic Outstanding Teacher Award, and would love to hear from you! The award, designed to recognize excellence in education in the Atlantic Community Schools, can be given to any certified, full-time teacher who spends at least 60% of his/her time instructing students.

The teacher selected will receive recognition at a school employee event, and will also receive a $3000 cash award. The award may be used to enhance the educational resources of the teacher, further the teacher’s education, or for any other purpose which the selected teacher deems appropriate.

The Atlantic Rotary Club has been a dedicated supporter of education in the community for many years through senior scholarships, and annual events such as senior recognition and new teacher welcome. In addition, they are frequent contributors through funding for many school needs such as updating technology in the classroom, supporting curriculum for local preschools, and a number of other school requests. Members of our club have been continually insistent that we also recognize and support the talented educators that are the heart of our schools, and we are very happy we have been able to continue this program.

Justin Williams and Karen Vogl, Atlantic High School CCEOC teachers were the 2020 award winners. They both continue to teach here in Atlantic. The outstanding nominees each year make this process difficult and exciting.

For teachers to be considered for the 2020 award, completed nomination forms, including letters of support, must be received by Monday April 13th. Nominated teachers will be evaluated based on their skill with students, classroom management, parent communication, peer interaction and community involvement. Teachers must be nominated by three individuals- they can be current or former students, parents of students, co-workers, or any combination of these. Forms were sent via email to all current parents through from the Atlantic Community School System in March. Application materials may be found on the Rotary Club of Atlantic website: www.atlanticrotary.com under the Grants and Scholarship tab.

It is the intention of the Atlantic Rotary Club, through this award, to recognize and reward outstanding educators in our public school system who exemplify the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” through their continuous dedication to students, parents, peers and the larger community, as well as the art and practice of education. This award is funded by proceeds from the Atlantic Rotary Club’s annual auction, which is made possible by the generous donations of local businesses and community members.