A conference honoring excellent teachers in Zhangjiagang of Jiangsu province was held on September 7 to celebrate the 29th Teacher’s Day in China.

Ten excellent teachers and 10 other nominees got prizes.

The 10 excellent teachers include Li Xiulan, who teaches third year high school students. The period is considered the most important time for preparation for the college entrance exam. Other teachers include Zhang Wanqin, who takes care of her students like a mom, and Pang Yan, famous for her humorous teaching style.

Students and their parents gave the trophies to the 10 excellent teachers.

Yao Linrong, secretary of the CPC Zhangjiagang municipal committee, expressed his holiday greetings to teachers and congratulated the winning teachers. He also showed appreciation to all those contributing to youth education.

At the conference, the Zhangjiagang Youth Chamber of Commerce donated 1 million yuan ($163,366) to set up a teacher foundation.

There are many scholarships for poor students now, but teachers are likely to be neglected, said Li Xinghua, leader of the chamber. Teachers are important in education and have made great contributions to the city’s development. If teachers are taken care of, they will teach more excellent students, said Li.

The foundation aims to help teachers who face difficulties in life.