Applebee’s Offering $500 Classroom Grants, End-Of-Year Parties For LI Teachers

LONG ISLAND, NY — Students across Nassau and Suffolk counties are being encouraged to spotlight educators who have made a lasting impact through the launch of the 2026 Above & “BEE”yond Teacher Essay Contest, announced this week by Doherty Enterprises-owned Applebee’s locations on Long Island.

The annual contest will recognize four teachers — two from Nassau County and two from Suffolk County — each of whom will receive a $500 classroom sponsorship for the upcoming school year, along with an end-of-year class party hosted at Applebee’s.

The contest officially runs from Monday, Jan. 12, through Sunday, March 15. Winners will be revealed on Friday, April 24, and end-of-year class parties must be scheduled by June 30.

“We’re proud to celebrate the teachers who do so much for our communities,” said Timothy Doherty, president and COO of Doherty Enterprises. “This annual contest is a small way to say thank you and provide meaningful resources to classrooms. We look forward to reading the essays and honoring the educators who make a real difference for students across Long Island.”

To enter, students must nominate a teacher who currently teaches in Nassau or Suffolk County. Middle and high school students are required to submit a 500-word essay explaining why their teacher deserves the honor, while elementary school students must submit a half-page essay. All essays must be submitted in person to the general manager or manager on duty at a participating Doherty-owned Applebee’s location, with one entry permitted per student.

All submissions must be received by 10 p.m. on March 15.

Each winning teacher will receive a $500 classroom sponsorship. Winners will also be awarded an end-of-year class party at Applebee’s. If a class party cannot be accommodated, the prize will be replaced with two Dinner-for-Four certificates for the winning essay writer.

The Above & “BEE”yond Teacher Essay Contest is valid only at Doherty Enterprises-owned and operated Applebee’s restaurants on Long Island. A full list of participating locations and official contest rules is available at www.dohertyinc.com.