On behalf of the Prime Minister, the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry, today announced the launch of the 2008 nomination process for the Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence and Excellence in Early Childhood Education.

"It is my pleasure to announce the launch of this competition, which will honour our most outstanding educators. Our teachers have a unique opportunity to educate and influence the children in their classroom and help them become the leaders of tomorrow," said Minister Prentice. "In addition, early childhood educators inspire our youngest citizens to build a foundation for learning, behaviour and health over their lifetimes."

Teaching Excellence award recipients are selected based on their innovative use of information and communications technologies in the classroom; the excellence and innovation of their teaching practices; and their ability to achieve outstanding results with students, to inspire them to learn and continue learning, and to equip them with the knowledge, attitudes and skills they will need to succeed in an ever-changing society and economy. The Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence are funded in partnership with RBC Foundation.

Excellence in Early Childhood Education award recipients are selected based on their innovative approaches and outstanding ability to engage and support the development of the children in their care, and on their overall commitment to the development of children and the early childhood education and care profession. The Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education are administered by Industry Canada in partnership with Health Canada and Human Resources and Social Development Canada.

The deadline for nominations is December 17, 2007. Nomination forms and further information regarding the Prime Minister's Awards can be found at http://www.pma.gc.ca.