In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is calling on the Surprise community to nominate educators who make a lasting impact in the lives of their students.

The grand prize is a year of free Lou Malnati’s pizza and a classroom pizza party.

Lou Malnati's has a Surprise location at 13382 N. Prasada Parkway.

Now through Friday, May 9,  students, parents and school staff can submit nominations for their favorite teachers — from pre-K through college — across the Phoenix metro area. 

A total of eight local teachers will be recognized.

One grand prize winner will receive “Free Pizza for a Year” from Lou Malnati’s and a $250 classroom pizza party catering package.

Seven honorable mentions will each receive a $100 Lou Malnati’s gift card.

Winners will be announced on National Pizza Party Day on Friday, May 16. 

Community members can submit nominations via an online form, sharing in 100 words or less why their favorite educator deserves to be celebrated. Entries will be judged based on originality and strength of the nomination story. 

All nominators and nominated teachers will receive a special "thank you" pizza offer via email during the week of May 12. 

“Teachers shape the future of our communities in countless ways,” said Marc Malnati, owner of Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. “They work tirelessly to give kids the skills and confidence they need to succeed, both in and out of the classroom. At Lou Malnati’s, we’re proud to support those who support others—with a slice of something special.”

For details, complete rules and to nominate a deserving teacher, visit loumalnatis.com/celoubrate-teachers.