Best Teacher Essay Contest Returns To Manahawkin Applebee's

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Every student has that one special teacher that made an impact on them and changed the trajectory of their educational career. Doherty-owned Applebee's restaurants want to know about that teacher - and possibly give them $500.

On Monday, Applebee's launched their eighth annual "Above and 'BEE'yond Teacher Essay Contest" at participating restaurants, including the Manahawkin location. The contest encourages local students to write an essay nominating their special teacher. Winners get a $500 check to improve their classrooms and the opportunity to host a special end-of-the-year celebration at their local Doherty-owned Applebee's.

Last year, one of the winners was a Manahawkin teacher. Tammy McComb, a fifth grade teacher at Lighthouse Christian Academy, was called "the best teacher ever" by her student, whose essay won her the award.

"I love just being with the kids," McComb told Patch. "I love the content. I love knowledge. I get very excited about the things that I teach." Read more: 'Never A Dull Moment In Her Class': Manahawkin Teacher Wins Award

Starting Monday, students can submit essays in-person at participating Doherty-owned Applebee's restaurants across the state, including the below locations in Ocean County:

• 52 Brick Plaza, Brick, NJ 08723
• 404 S. Main Street, Forked River, NJ 08731
• 205 Route 72 West, Manahawkin, NJ 08050
• 1055 Route 70, Manchester, NJ 08759

Elementary students must craft a half-page essay for nomination, while middle and high schoolers need to write 500 words on why their teacher deserves to win.

And as an added incentive, all students who submit an essay will receive a complementary ice cream certificate.

One essay can be submitted per student. The contest runs Jan. 8 through March 17 with a deadline of 10 p.m. Winners will be announced April 19.