WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Six public school teachers from Whatcom County have been named as finalists for an award that recognizes outstanding local educators.

Brown & Brown Insurance is presenting a $5,000 award to the winner of its new Excellence in Education Award. Nominations by the public were accepted for more than three months earlier this year.

The finalists include Jodi Hammond of Nooksack Elementary, Bria Henthorn of Lynden High School, Susan Kelley of Kendall Elementary, Riley Liddle of Squalicum High School, Meagan Shelley of Bernice Vossbeck Elementary and Katie Tully of Happy Valley Elementary.

Brown & Brown spokesperson Paul Kenner says they hope the award will give students a platform to thank to their favorite teachers.

The winner will be announced during an ice cream social that is open to the public from 4-6 p.m. on May 22 at the Jansen Art Center in Lynden.