Breads of the World, the local franchisee for Panera Bread in central and southwest Ohio, announced the fifth annual Rising Above student essay contest, which will run from March 1 to March 31. To participate, students must submit an essay about why his or her teacher deserves to be honored with the Panera Rising Above Award. The winning essays will be announced during National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 3–8.

To nominate a teacher, participants must submit a 100- to 200-word essay at a local Panera, via e-mail, or through the mail. Entry forms and contest rules are available at all 48 Panera Bread bakery-cafes located throughout central and southwest Ohio, as well as online. Teachers must demonstrate leadership in the community, be honest and genuine, and present fresh, innovative, and creative ideas to their students. Three Grand Prize winners will be announced during National Teacher Appreciation Week. Winning teachers and their schools will be awarded a $500 grant, a $50 Panera Bread gift card, and a catered breakfast for them and their class. The student winner in each category will win a $100 gift card to Borders Books.

“Quality teachers today are the heroes of tomorrow,” says Jeff Rains, president of Breads of the World. “We encourage all students to take this as an opportunity to recognize their teachers for their time, care, and involvement in giving them the tools they need for success.”