Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar has announced the winners of its Above and “BEE”yond Teacher Contest, which recognized top teachers from 10 school districts throughout Florida and Georgia, as nominated by their students.

The contest was held at Applebee’s restaurants in Florida and Georgia owned and operated by franchisee Doherty Enterprises. 

Sandra Villela of Diplomat Middle School in Cape Coral was one of the awardees, receiving a $500 sponsorship check to use towards teaching supplies for the upcoming 2018-19 school year and an end-of-year party at Applebee’s for the teacher’s current class.

Students nominated candidates by submitting essays in-person at Applebee’s, explaining how their teachers go above and “BEE”yond for their students.  Contest submissions were reviewed by the local Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar team to select a winner from each district.