 A near record 167 teachers are candidates for Minnesota Teacher of the Year. The 167 candidates are the third most in the 54 year history of the award and the most since 1981. This year's program will name the 54th Minnesota Teacher of the Year, celebrating the tradition of excellence in teaching in Minnesota. Candidates include Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade and adult basic education teachers from public or private schools. Several of this year's candidates come from the Lakeland viewing area, including Angie Hurtig from Bertha Hewitt Public Schools, Eric Carlson of Kelleyer Public Schools, Randy Thompson from Monaga Public School District 821, Mary Jo Schaefer representing Pierce Public Schools, Sue Vottenstahl of Rozo Community Schools, Lois Lewis of South Kuchaching Rainy River District, Jim Snyder is also from the South Kuchaching Rainy River District, Holly Becker from Wadena Deer Creek Schools and Katrina Reeves representing War Road Public Schools. The 2018 Minnesota Teacher of the Year will be announced on Sunday, May 6th. Over the coming weeks, a 25 member panel of community leaders will name a group of semi-finalists and then later a group of finalists. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.