Time running outfor Teacher of the Year nominations

The deadline for accepting nominations for the Washington 2006-2007 Teacher of the Year award is midnight, March 1. The announcement came from the award sponsor, Teacher's Insurance Plan, a car insurance program exclusively for members of the educational community.

Teachers, students and parents can nominate any of the state's more than 65,000 accredited teachers. Nomination forms are available online at http://www.teachers.com/toty. To nominate an educator, explain in 250 words or less why this teacher should be the Teacher of the Year. Nominees will be judged on their ability to motivate students, their special talents, and their contribution to their school, students or educational community.

The award will include $1,000 to the winning teacher and a $500 grant to the teacher's school. The state winner will also be eligible for the National Award that includes a special recognition and a $2,500 travel certificate. Winners will be announced at the end of the school year.