Middle school teacher wins Applebee’s award

Before sending her students off for summer vacation, middle school teacher Karina Raimontgot to enjoy an end-of-the-year celebration with her class at their local Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar in Pembroke Pines. But instead of getting a bill at the end of her meal, Raimont got a check.

As part of the restaurant chain’s Above and “BEE”yond Teacher Contest, Raimont received a party for her current class and a check for $500 to use toward teaching supplies for the upcoming school year.

“Our restaurants are committed to giving back the communities we serve, and supporting education is a major focus of that commitment,” said Marc Prince, director of operations for Applebee’s in Florida and Georgia. “Teachers dedicate a tremendous amount of time and resources to building a better community to live, work and play, which extends beyond the classroom.”

To win the Above and “BEE”yond award, students had to nominate the teacher by submitting an essay about why they deserve to win to their local Applebee’s. Raimont, who teaches at Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School, was nominated by her student, Sarah Varnadoe. She is one of 12 winning teachers within Florida and Georgia school districts.

Sarah Varnadoe, essay contest winner and student, Pembroke Pines Charter, Karina Raimont, middle school teacher, Pembroke Pines Charter, Larry Wilcox, general manager, Applebee’s of Pembroke Pines

“It is an honor to be recognized for my efforts in the classroom,” Raimont said. “To know that students like Sarah are impacted by my work means theworld tome. I am grateful to Applebee’s for providing this opportunity to our students.”