Do you know a great educator who deserves recognition? Nominations are now open for the 2008 Crystal Apple Awards. The 12th annual event recognizing excellence in education is set for Nov. 13 at Salem’s historic Elsinore Theater.

All community members, students and parents are welcome to nominate any full or part-time employee of Salem-Keizer Public Schools or Salem or Keizer private schools.

Find nomination forms at any school in the district, or download the form from the Salem-Keizer Education Foundation website at www.skeducationfoundation.org

All nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on October 3, 2008.

The 2008 celebration will again feature a red carpet walk for nominees. Tom Hewitt, Judson Middle School drama teacher and local actor and comedian, will emcee.

The 2008 Crystal Apple Awards are presented by the Salem-Keizer Education Foundation in cooperation with Salem-Keizer Public Schools, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and the Keizer Chamber of Commerce.

The Salem-Keizer Education Foundation is a catalyst for enhancing the education of Salem-Keizer public school students by providing resources for creative and innovative programs and materials, educating and mobilizing the community, and sustaining collaborative partnerships that support its goals.

The Awesome 3000 all-youth fun run is the organization’s signature event. The annual event is recognized as one of the largest children’s runs in the nation. Awesome proceeds and foundation sponsorships go toward some $50,000 in grants each year for original and motivational school programs. More than 800 grants totaling over $750,000 have been awarded to educators since 1982.