The spirit of the award, which celebrates the life and career of Helen Bach Moss, is that better beginnings make for stronger completions. It strives to recognize elementary teachers who are gifted in finding and nurturing the strengths of each student and fostering trusting relationships among pupils, parents, teachers, and administrators. The application for the award is anecdotal in nature. Teachers Selection Criteria Nominations will be assessed using the following criteria. Statements may take the form of letters, drawings, tape recordings, or videotapes.
Letters are limited to two pages.
Tape recordings and videotapes are limited to five minutes. Materials which exceed these limits will not be considered. Three copies of all nominating materials must be submitted. Those wishing to nominate a teacher for this award must obtain the endorsement of the president of the local board of education who will sign the Basic Data Sheet . Applications will be reviewed by a screening committee comprised of State Education Department staff members.