Teachers Honored with Students' Winning Essays

students Jacob Stork and Abby Jacques were both recognized after winning a Barnes & Noble essay contest about their favorite teachers.

Jacob wrote a heartfelt essay about his 5th grade teacher Nicole Snedden () and Abby Jacques wrote an inspiring essay about her middle school math teacher Chelsea Lee (MMW).

Both teachers were honored as local winners and received a certificate, gift cards and books. The students were invited to read their essays. Both Jacob's and Abby's winning essays have been entered into the regional contest.

Jacob’s essay highlighted how Mrs. Snedden helped prepare him for middle school. “I needed help with reading and Mrs. Snedden would help me find books in the library that were at my reading level and stories I would be interested in. She helped me feel better about myself. I like reading so much better now. I will always remember Mrs. Snedden. She has a very kind heart. I am glad she is a teacher.”

Students could submit nominations through written essays, poems or thank you letters to share how their favorite teacher has influenced their life and why they appreciate and admire their teacher.

Judging was based on “the compelling nature of the teacher’s qualities, the sincerity of the student’s appreciation and the quality of expression and writing,” according to Barnes & Noble.

Regional winners will go on to a national contest in May where one teacher will be selected as Barnes & Noble Teacher of the Year and will take home $5,000 and earn $5,000 for their school as well.

If you wrote an essay about a favorite teacher, who would you write about? Tell us in comments.