News Release May 1, 2001

News Release For Immediate Release
Contact: Tamara Rummel - 353.5190 ext.148
Date: May 1, 2001
232.1484 (pager)

Call for Commitment to Excellence Nominations

OKEMOS - The Okemos Education Foundation (OEF) is seeking nominations for outstanding Okemos public school educators or administrators. The 2001 Commitment to Excellence Award nomination forms are now available at all nine school offices, the Okemos Community Education office and Office of the Superintendent. Nomination forms must be returned by Thursday, May 31, 2001.

Community members, school personnel and students may nominate an educator or administrator they feel inspires and motives students, demonstrates innovative and creative teaching, promotes the welfare of the students and one who is a role model, provides leadership and facilitates partnerships.

"The Commitment to Excellence Award," OEF Chairman Jack Hettiger said, "gives community members an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate individuals who demonstrate leadership, innovation and commitment to overall student success. These qualities make Okemos Public Schools academically and culturally outstanding. Last year we had 26 nominations, this year we hope for even more." The 2001 Commitment to Excellence Award Nominees will be announced during the first day of school, August 27, 2001.

The 2001 Commitment to Excellence Awards will be presented during the annual Community Recognition Dinner to be held November 1, 2001. 2000 Commitment to Excellence Award winners include: David Chapman, Trish Finnerty, Tom Jury, Jill Kingdon, Bill Paull and Cindy Scarlett. The 2000 Founders Award recipient, Michael Atkins, was honored for quality leadership, outstanding community contributions and commitment to public education excellence.

The purpose of the Okemos Education Foundation is to secure and provide funds to encourage innovative educational opportunities that are beyond the school district's budgetary and operational functions. Trustees are working to expand support of the school system through capital campaigns resulting in annual contributions, pledged installment payments, payroll deductions and estate planning donations. All campaign programs are focused on perpetual growth of the established OEF Endowment Fund.