Loaf 'N Jug to help us find Wyoming's star teachers.

The Arch Coal Foundation's prestigious Teacher Achievement Awards program has started in Wyoming and Loaf 'N Jug has extended its participation to nine straight years.

Greg Schaefer, vice president of external affairs, western region, for Arch Coal, Inc. announced that the foundation has increased the award for each recipient to $3,500, effective with the 2009 program year. The 10 recipients are expected to be named near the close of the 2008-2009 school year.

"Our teacher recognition awards are unique because we ask the public to nominate the best teachers in Wyoming," said Schaefer. "Then, prior recipients of the award serve as judges of their colleagues' applications. Nominated teachers are asked to complete an exhaustive application that must profile the applicant's teaching philosophy, classroom proficiency and community service.

"Our foundation is looking for Wyoming's star teachers," said Schaefer. "These are the people who immediately come to mind when you think of teachers who have changed your life or a child's or friend's.

"We make it easy for students, parents, grandparents, teachers - everyone - to tell us about our state's very best classroom teachers," said Schaefer. "Nomination forms are available in schools and libraries throughout the state Loaf 'N Jug locations, and nominations may be made online through the Wyoming Education Association Web site and at www.archteacherawards.com.

"The Wyoming Department of Education, Wyoming Education Association, Wyoming library community and Loaf 'N Jug stores have helped promote this program and have made nomination forms available at their locations," Schaefer said. "Arch Coal and the Arch Coal Foundation appreciate their invaluable assistance."