The Arts:

The nominated teacher makes outstanding contributions to instilling a love of the arts among students. This person may be a teacher of the arts (art, music, drama, etc.), or may be a classroom teacher in other disciplines who integrates the study and appreciation of the arts within the classroom.

Behind the Scenes:

This recipient is a full-time non-administrative professional staff person (i.e., librarian, counselor, aide, tech coordinator, social worker, reading specialist, nurse, etc.) who contributes to the success of the educational program in unique ways.

Catholic School Identity and Mission:

This classroom teacher displays best practices in religious education through the design and implementation of effective catechetical approaches in the curriculum and also models a commitment to promoting peace and justice.

Early Childhood:

This preschool or kindergarten teacher implements a high quality early childhood program with an integrated curriculum and assessment system that meets the social, emotional, physical and cognitive needs of young children. This teacher plans and provides developmentally appropriate activities & materials, maintains a safe & healthy learning environment, has a warm, supportive attitude toward children and establishes a collaborative relationship with families.

Innovation and Creativity:

The nominated person exhibits the best of educational practice by initiating and implementing new learning methods in the classroom. The nominee contributes to educational excellence in curriculum development, student performance and professional development.

Leadership:

This classroom teacher exhibits exceptional dedication in the classroom, school and community by providing leadership in one or more of the following areas: student activities, parent/school organizations, school administration, or state or national professional teacher organizations.

Rising Star:

This recipient is a teacher for three years or less and contributes to the success of the school by exhibiting vigor, enthusiasm and excellence in the classroom. The nominee is involved in extra-curricular activities, exhibiting innovative and engaging strategies both in the classroom and out, and enthusiastically accepts added responsibilities.

Technology:

This individual makes outstanding contributions in integrating technology in education by affecting one or more of the following: curriculum, student learning or interest, assessment, or the learning environment.

Phase I: Nominations

Teachers/non-administrative professional staff are nominated using only the form provided by the Office of Catholic Schools. This form may also be found online at http://Schools.ArchChicago.org. Nominations may be made by anyone in the Archdiocese of Chicago:

• Students
• Colleagues
• Pastors
• Parents
• Principals
• Others

Nominated teachers/non-administrative professional staff will receive an application form specific to the focus area for which they were nominated.

Phase II: Application

Each candidate will submit a written application containing biographical and professional information; respond to a series of essay questions that include professional biography, philosophy of education and achievements in one of the focus areas. Nominees return the completed application with a signature of endorsement from the principal. Candidates will be notified that the application has been received.

Phase III: Review

Applications will be initially screened by the Heart of the School Awards committee for completeness and compliance with application requirements. A selection committee using the approved rubric will then review copies of each application. The finalists will be presented to the superintendent for final approval.

Phase IV: Announcement

Winners will be notified well before the awards presentation.

Phase V: Awards Ceremony

Award winners, their principals and select number of guests will be invited to the Awards Ceremony in March 2009.