Arch Coal Teacher Achievement Awards were presented to five outstanding Utah classroom teachers today by the Arch Coal Foundation.

Announcement of the recipients of the regional teacher recognition awards was made by Arch Coal senior VP Mr Paul Lang. He was accompanied by Utah Education Association VP Mr Tom Nedreberg.

The five award winning teachers of 2011 are:
Bonny Dahlsrud - Salina Elementary School, Salina
Karen A. Hansen - Gunnison Valley Middle School, Gunnison
Lori Ware Labrum - Cottonwood Elementary School, Orangeville
Ashlee Larsen - Monroe Elementary School, Monroe
Janiece Tuttle - Ashman Elementary School, Richfield

Mr Lang said that "It's clear that Utahans believe in the value of quality education provided by caring, professional teachers. These award-winning teachers are not only masters of the materials they teach, but also provide a caring, nurturing environment for their students. They challenge the children and support their efforts to succeed."

The Arch Coal Foundation's teacher recognition program is available to classroom teachers in Carbon, Emery, Sanpete and Sevier counties. The counties surround the Skyline, Dugout Canyon and Sufco mines operated by Canyon Fuel Company, a subsidiary of major US coal producer Arch Coal, Inc. Each recipient receives a distinctive trophy, a classroom plaque and a USD 3,500 personal, cash award.