Costa Mesa, Calif., Nov. 19, 2010 – University of Phoenix and the LA Kings are launching a “Teacher of the Month Appreciation” program to recognize Southern California K-12 teachers in the counties of Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino. Members of the community can nominate teachers who they feel have made a difference in their education or career by completing a nomination form and writing an original essay. Information needs to be submitted by Dec. 3, 2010.

“On behalf of University of Phoenix Southern California Campus faculty and staff members, I would like to thank all teachers for their commitment to educating and inspiring their students,” said Dr. Lori Curci-Reed, campus college chair for University of Phoenix Southern California Campus. “Our university believes in recognizing the individuals who help mold and inspire our children and the future of this country.”

Recipients will be awarded two tickets to one of the LA Kings’ regular season home games, parking and dinner for two at the San Manuel Club at STAPLES Center, in addition to being recognized in front of thousands of fans at the game.

“We hope this appreciation award provides the acknowledgement teachers deserve from their communities,” Curci-Reed explained. “It’s our hope that every person who had a teacher that inspired them to continue their education and career dreams will take the time to nominate that deserving teacher.”

For official rules and nomination form, click here.

About Los Angeles Kings The LA Kings began play in 1967. The club calls STAPLES Center in downtown Los Angeles home and their 2010-2011 regular season schedule began on Oct. 9 at Vancouver. For all Kings information, visit LAKings.com, and for all ticket information call 1-888-KINGS-LA (1-888-54647-52) and visit LAKings.com.

About University of Phoenix University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. During the quarter ended August 31, 2010, 470,800 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.