The Teachers Who Made a Difference program gives Kentuckians an opportunity to thank the teachers, principals, college professors, or other educators in the state for the way they have inspired and motivated students to succeed.
"Too many times we don't realize the difference teachers make in our lives until long after we're grown," Smith said. "When I look back on my days at Great Mills High School and George Washington Carver Elementary, the teachers sure made a difference in my life."
The program does not select winners from a pool of nominees. The UK College of Education created the program to provide individuals a means to express thanks to educators who have impacted their life. The event will honor the first 100 teachers officially submitted for recognition. Organizers ask that nominators limit recognitions to one teacher per year.
"The Teachers Who Made a Difference program gives everyone the opportunity to thank that one special teacher in their life," Smith said. "I'm proud to offer my support to this outstanding recognition program for teachers."
To nominate a teacher, visit the College of Education's Web site at www.uky.edu/Education and complete the online form. The deadline for nominations is March 5, 2007.
In 2006, Kentuckians honored 100 teachers. Since the program's inception, more than 1,000 teachers have been honored. The program includes a special recognition event and reception attended by both the teachers and their nominators.
For more information, contact Bonnie Gay at bonnie.gay@uky.edu or by phone at (859) 257-2666.
Local schools to compete in regional academic event
On Saturday, Feb. 17, local middle schools will gather to take part in the Region 16 Governor's Cup Competition at Harrodsburg Middle School.
Participating schools are Burgin, Harrodsburg, King, Danville Bate, Boyle County, East Jessamine, West Jessamine, Berea Community, Clark Moores, Model Laboratory, St. Marks, Garrard County, Lincoln County, Rockcastle County, Foley, and Madison Middle schools.
The Governor's Cup features eight events, including the quick recall event, which is the only event open to the public. Quick recall begins at approximately 10:45 a.m.
Regional winners advance to the Kentucky Academic Championships, sponsored by Ashland Inc., in Louisville on March 17-19.
East forensics team places in tournament
The East Jessamine High forensics team earned fifth place at the Bluegrass Regional Speech Tournament last weekend.
Competing with nine members, the team missed tying Henry Clay High School for fourth place by one point.
Seven members of the team qualified to compete in the KHSSL State Tournament in Bowling Green at the end of March. Captains Parker Collins and LeAndra Longoria will be joined by seniors Samantha Ratcliffe, Dana DeKrey, and Carey Colliver, junior Morgan Baker, and sophomore Liz Skovran.
