LAUP is accepting nominations to recognize five outstanding educators who teach preschool in Los Angeles County, who will be honored for going above and beyond the call of duty to better prepare preschool students for elementary school and life. The application deadline has been extended through May 5, 2010.

The “Los Angeles County Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards,” are open to all preschool teachers in Los Angeles County, including those who work in non LAUP-affiliated preschools. Candidates may nominate themselves, or be nominated by anyone associated with the nominee’s preschool, such as parents or co-workers.

Winners will have demonstrated a strong commitment to a quality preschool education and a dedication to making a positive contribution to the children they serve, using creative instructional strategies as well as contributing to the well-being of the child, preschool and community.

To obtain a nomination form, please visit www.laup.net/teacher. To be considered, applications must be received by May 5. Nominations will be screened and based upon a balanced, thoughtful and impartial evaluation, taking into consideration the candidate’s record. LAUP will notify award winners in early May, and winners will be invited to attend a celebration event.

“A quality preschool education puts a child on the path to success in life,” said Gary Mangiofico, Ph.D., CEO of LAUP. “With this award, we want to not only encourage, but also celebrate exceptional teachers for their hard work, commitment and dedication to the children. We want to recognize those model teachers who are molding the next generation of productive citizens.”

In 2008, LAUP created the Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards to recognize the contributions of preschool teachers in Los Angeles County and to highlight the importance of a high quality preschool experience.

“We did so because preschool teachers play a critical role in a young child’s social, educational and emotional development by nurturing the child’s confidence, inspiring their imagination and creativity and advocating for the well-being of the children and their families,” Dr. Mangiofico said.

For more information about the application process, please call 213-416-1312.