Ten Renton teachers have been selected as finalists for 2016 Ahead of the Class Excellence in Education Awards, sponsored by the Renton Chamber of Commerce. The five final winners will be named at a public ceremony April 14.

This year’s finalists are Andrew Lurker/Andrea “Andie” Ahlfors from Campbell Hill Elementary School, Molly Bowman from Talbot Hill Elementary School, Monique Cabellon from Honey Dew Elementary School, John Campbell from Renton Technical College, Christopher Coy from Hazen High School, Lauri Nichols from Renton Prep Christian School, Rebecca “Becca” Ritchie from Nelson Middle School, Zefire Sloczen from Renton Technical College, Abbey Zenk from Amazing Grace Christian School and Michelle R. Zimmerman from Renton Prep Christian School.

Winners will be announced at the ceremony, 7 to 9 p.m., April 14 at Virginia Mason Activity Center, 12 Seahawk Way. The event is open to the public and will feature friends, family, students and community members gathering to honor these teachers.

The five winners will receive a $500 cash award; the remaining five will receive $100 cash award and special honors at the award ceremony. This event is free and open to the public but register now as seating is limited to the first 160. This year 140 teachers were nominated by their peers, students and parents. Sixty teachers sent in applications.

The Ahead of the Class award program is a partnership between the Renton Chamber of Commerce, Renton public and private schools, and Renton businesses. It is part of the Chamber’s effort to provide individuals, businesses, and organizations the opportunity to invest in a brighter and better tomorrow for our young people. The program’s aim is to enhance community awareness of the excellence of education in Renton.

To RSVP or for more information, call the Chamber at 425-226-4560 or visit www.GoRenton.com. To register: http://chamber.gorenton.com/events/