IN CLASS: This feature is part of an ongoing education column highlighting the various activities that engage school communities.

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — If you want to recognize an outstanding teacher at your Staten Island school, you can nominate them as part of an essay contest.

Doherty Enterprises-owned Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants announced the start of its annual Above & “BEE”yond Teacher Essay Contest. The contest will recognize one teacher from Staten Island, as well as five other educators in New York City and Westchester County, with a $500 sponsorship check for classroom supplies and end-of-year party for their current class.

The contest began Jan. 12, and will end on Sunday, March 15.

Winners will be announced on Friday, April 24.

“Teachers shape our communities every day,” said Timothy Doherty, president and COO of Doherty Enterprises. “This annual contest gives students a meaningful way to say ‘thank you’ while providing teachers with a direct classroom sponsorship. We’re proud to celebrate the educators who work tirelessly to inspire the next generation.”

Here’s how to enter.

Students must nominate a teacher who currently teaches in one of the eligible areas. Middle and high school students must submit a 500-word essay explaining why their teacher deserves to be Applebee’s Teacher of the Year. Elementary students must submit a half-page essay on why their teacher is worthy of the honor.

Essays must be submitted in-person to the Applebee’s general manager or manager on duty at participating Doherty-owned Applebee’s locations no later than 10 p.m. on March 15.

Participating Applebee’s on Staten Island are located at:

Expressway Plaza — 1451 Richmond Ave., GranitevilleStaten Island Mall — 2655 Richmond Ave., New SpringvilleHylan Boulevard — 2636 Hylan Blvd., New DorpBricktown Centre — 2720 Veterans Rd. W, CharlestonSend us your stories

Do you have a story idea for the In Class education column? Email education reporter Annalise Knudson at aknudson@siadvance.com.