Sandys Rotary Club has set aside a night next month to recognise 11 teachers for outstanding service.

The club's vocational service director Mr. Ralph Richardson said the club has been focusing on education since the beginning of its year last June.

In addition to adopting Sandys Secondary, the club has handed out a scholarship to a Bermuda College student and has held a trial interview seminar there.

It also recently held a soccer match between students and club members to foster their relationship.

The Outstanding Teachers Award ceremony will be a continuation of club's efforts to highlight education.

Mr. Richardson said each school from Warwick Academy west was invited to submit the name of a teacher who gave outstanding service by going the extra mile, showed patience, and interacted well with their peers.

"The schools had a problem with selection,'' he said. "Most of the schools did so by holding a secret ballot.'' The club also asked the schools to submit specific reasons why the teachers were selected.

"We recognise that teaching today is very difficult,'' Mr. Richardson added.

"We will read that (the reasons for selection) out on the night of the awards.'' The awards will be held at the Sonesta Hotel on May 13, beginning at 7 p.m.

Warwick Academy jazz band will open the awards. Bermuda Institute's steel band, a soloist, and the Aldano Quintet will also perform.

Home Affairs Minister the Hon. Irving Pearman, Education Minister the Hon.

Clarence Terceira, Shadow Education Minister Ms Jennifer Smith, Education Permanent Secretary Dr. Marion Robinson, and Board of Education chairman Mrs.

Kim Young have also been invited.

Tickets for the semi-formal event are $65 and available from Mr. Richardson at 295-5566, president Mr. Gary Pitman at 295-1774, and committee member Mr.

Carneal Smith at 292-1668.

SANDYS VICTORY -- Sandys Rotary president Sen. Gary Pitman presents the soccer trophy to Sandys Secondary captain Zulema Mills, following a game of soccer with Sandys Rotary members at Heron Bay field in Southampton. The school team defeated the Rotarians by 7 to 3. The successful event, which was followed by a barbecue catered by the club, will become an annual event.