East Baton Rouge Parish schools nominated 78 outstanding school volunteers to be honored at Volunteers In Public Schools (VIPS) 21st annual Volunteer Picnic & Apple Awards set for Thursday, May 12, from 4 - 6pm at University Baptist Church, 5775 Highland Road.
 
"The record number of volunteers who were nominated is a fine example of the increased community involvement in our public schools. At VIPS, we are thrilled that so many schools took the time to nominate those who give their time to help students succeed," said Rob Wood, VIPS Volunteer Director.
 
Nominees and guests of the Picnic will be treated to a complimentary jambalaya dinner provided by chefs from the ExxonMobil Polyolefins Plant along with ice cream sundaes from Sonic Restaurant.  Following the jambalaya dinner, guests will move into the sanctuary for the announcement of the 2011 Golden and Crystal Apple winners. Crystal Apple nominees are those who have volunteered in a school for ten years or longer.
 
Crystal Apple sponsors include CH2M Hill and Our Lady of the Lake. Golden Apple sponsors are Cortana Mall, Wright & Percy, Louisiana Lottery and Taylor Porter. In-kind sponsors include ARAMARK, Baton Rouge Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and Lance Hayes Flowers.

A list of of 2011 Apple Award nominees can viewed at http://vips.ebrschools.org/eduWEB1/1000189/docs/apple_award_nominees_2011.pdf