Wal-Mart announces teachers of the year

In honor of National Teacher Day, Wal-Mart recognized select teachers throughout Georgia as part of the company’s 10th annual “Teacher of the Year” program.

One teacher is selected as a “local winner” by each Wal-Mart store, SAM’S CLUB location and Wal-Mart Distribution Center in Georgia.

Nationwide, more than 3,800 teachers are being honored as part of Wal-Mart’s Teacher of the Year program. Each teacher’s school will receive a $1,000 educational grant from the Wal-Mart & SAM’S CLUB Foundation, a $50 Wal-Mart shopping card to buy classroom supplies, and other recognitions.

“Teachers play a pivotal role in the lives of young people,” said Betsy Reithemeyer, vice president of corporate affairs for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. “Everyone remembers at least one special teacher who made a significant difference in their lives. We want to honor those outstanding educators who have done so much good for so many in our communities.”

This year Wal-Mart’s Teacher of the Year program will provide approximately $90,000 to schools in the Atlanta region, $141,000 to schools across the state of Georgia, and $4.2 million to schools nationwide. Over the past 10 years, the Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year program has contributed more than $696,000 to schools in the state of Georgia.

Teachers were nominated by members of the community during February and selected by a committee of store or club associates. Honored Atlanta-area region teachers and their schools at today’s banquet include: Linda Zacherl-Adams, Sara Harp - Minter Elementary, Fayetteville; WMT Mary Wilde - Booth Middle School, Peachtree City; Laura Line - Whitewater Middle School, Fayetteville.