[/quote]

Sounds like next year you need to withdraw from the running. Thanks for what you do regardless.[/quote]

I am grateful that a Special Education teacher was recognized, and yes I AM very proud...... But, I feel that popularity and good teaching are 2 completely different things. I know that the essay, etc.. is for district wide T.O.Y., and I have no problem with these directives (actually, I am looking forward to showing off my kiddos and what we do in class!) I was wondering if any other districts run their program differently. I have an Aunt that retired from Houston ISD after 40+ yrs., and she says that it is different in Houston, although she did not elaborate (82yrs old, so she cant remember every detail..). Dont get me wrong, it is a wonderful honor to be the standout teacher among 50+ other teachers on this campus. But there are so many great teachers here who go out of their way to help these kids succeed, I want them all to be recognized!

I might have sounded ungrateful, which is definitely not the case, I am just wondering what happens outside my little world....