Applebee's Hosts Long Island 'Teacher of Year' Essay Contest

LONG ISLAND, NY — Applebee's wants to be more than about burgers and beer. Doherty Enterprises, which owns and operates the local franchises across Long Island, is holding the 8th annual Above and "Bee" yond Teacher Essay Contest.

Winning students will receive a $500 sponsorship check to use toward their classroom in the 2024-2025 school year and an end-of-year party.

To nominate a teacher, students must submit an essay in person at their local Applebee's restaurant, explaining why their teacher should be "Teacher of the Year."

Elementary students are required to write a half-page essay, while middle and high schoolers need to write a 500-word essay on why their teacher is most deserving.

All students who participate will get a certificate for free ice cream.

“We’re honored to recognize our local teachers who work so hard to educate the youth," Brian McDonnell, Doherty Director of Operations, Applebee’s LongIsland. "It’s truly gratifying to provide a platform where students can share the meaningful impact of their teachers."

Applebee's locations owned and operated by Doherty in Nassau County are:
Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury.

The participating Suffolk County locations are:
Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, Deer Park, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley.

Submissions will be accepted through March 17. Two winners will be selected from each county. Winners will be announced on April 19.