Give a 'Salute' to Outstanding Educators

They're on their feet all day, exciting, engaging and yes, disciplining our kids. If not the hardest job, teachers certainly have one of the most important under-recognized positions.

So the 's 'Salute to Education day, is a special chance to recognize the men and women who go above and beyond the call of duty to serve local youth.

This year's celebration, slated for Friday, May 11, will honor 15 teachers, who have been selected on the basis of outstanding achievement in key programs, funded by the Education Foundation.

Here's the full list of honorees:

• For outstanding work in the Exploratorium Science Project: Craig Madison, Gennifer Caven, and Tim Curley
• For exceptional teamwork in the Visual Thinking Strategies Art Program: Sassarini 1st Grade Teaching Team: Debbie Bacher, Victoria Silberman, Nora Alexander, and Marla Camp
• Sassarini Kindergarten Teaching Team: Kim Tomasello, Anne Carroll, Ronette Wesson, and Billie Perez
• For leadership in the Teacher Support Network (TSN) Program at Sonoma Valley High School: Brigitta Crews and Janet Hansen
• For a spirit of innovation in the School Garden Project: Dutch Van Herwynen and Shirley Austin-Peeke.

“We are so glad to have an opportunity to recognize the dedication and success of our local teachers," SVEF Executive Director Laura Zimmerman said.

‘Salute’ will be held in Andrews Hall at the from 7-9 p.m.  The evening is free and will begin with a wine and cheese reception.

Retiring teachers will be honored earlier in the evening, from 5 - 6:30 p.m.