Drew Bowers, choral director at Milton High School, was one of four Fulton educators selected for the Atlanta Families' Awards for Excellence in Education (AFAEE), which includes a $7,500 prize.

The AFAEE was conceived as a way to recognize the "best of the best" in Atlanta education. By recognizing outstanding educators each year, the program hopes to help school districts retain excellent teachers and school leaders, inspire other educators to transform their craft, and increase the public's awareness of educator and student success across metro Atlanta. Educators were nominated by coworkers, students, parents and the general community, and were selected through their demonstration of excellence in three areas: raising student achievement, enhancing students' self-esteem and collaboration with multiple stakeholders for the benefit of students.

The $7,500 prize includes funds for innovative classroom projects ($3,500), professional development ($1,500) and a personal stipend ($2,500). AFAEE has operated the recognition program over the past nine years with Atlanta Public Schools, but this year expanded it to include Fulton County Schools.

The 2014 winners will be celebrated formally on November 6 with an awards ceremony at The Carter Presidential Center.