OKEMOS - On November 20th, the Okemos Education Foundation, or OEF, will hold its annual award banquet for eight recipients of the 2014 Commitment to Excellence Award.

"The banquet on the 20th is our opportunity to pause and to recognize those contributions from our teachers, from our support staff, and our volunteers who make outstanding academic contributions to our district," said Martha Hentz, OEF Chair.

This year, five teachers, two support staff members, and one volunteer will be honored.

Recipients of the Commitment to Excellence Award are hard-working members of the school district. Nominees promote creativity and innovation in the classroom and promote the welfare of Okemos students. The nomination packets also include letters of support from various co-workers, students, and parents.

"It's these letters that are the real prize for the award winner," said Hentz. "They're very heartfelt and meaningful. It's so nice to get to read those rewards and see what others have to say about these individuals."

The OEF promotes innovation in Okemos public schools and supports academic programs at all levels.