"Superior teachers are able to challenge their students to learn and then show them how to succeed,” Arch Coal senior vice president and Arch Coal Foundation president Deck Sloane said at the launch of the 2013-14 program.

“Not only are such teachers examples for their colleagues and other education leaders but they are also champions for better education in their communities."

The awards program is the longest-running, privately sponsored teacher recognition program in both West Virginia and Wyoming.

"The Arch Coal Foundation has recognized hundreds of outstanding teachers over the years," Sloane said.

"One key to the success of this unique program is that the public nominates these special teachers and then a blue-ribbon panel of past recipients judges the applications."

The Arch Coal teacher achievement award recipients each receive a $3500 personal cash award as well as widespread recognition.

Program nominations will close on January 6, 2014.