The online community at GOOD and University of Phoenix have teamed up to create the Great American Teach-Off contest, which will reward one teacher with a $10,000 grant for his/her classroom.

Starting today, anyone can nominate an elementary school (K-6) teacher who is making a difference" by completing a nomination form at www.good.is/GATO. Nominations are due September 16, 2011. Finalists will be selected by GOOD and an independent panel and announced on September 19, 2011. The ten finalists will each be sent a video camera and asked to record themselves answering specific questions about their impact and teaching innovations. The videos will appear on www.good.is, and the public will begin voting for a winner on September 24, 2011. Each week two finalists will be eliminated until one remains. The winner will be announced on October 27, 2011.

Unlike other contests to identify exemplary educators, the Great American Teach-Off uniquely galvanizes a broad network of supporters around each teacher to help him or her win in friendly competition against other teachers. As such, GOOD and University of Phoenix will bring to light the fervent enthusiasm, support and appreciation students, parents, friends, family and peers have for great teachers in this country. 

The contest will take place again in 2012 for high school and middle school teachers (grades 7-12). 

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