NEWTON Newton-Conover City Schools is launching what it hopes will be an annual award to recognize someone who made an outstanding contribution to the system and is seeking nominations for the honor.

The Red Blazer Award will be given to up to three people who gave time, money or effort to the system.

"We want to recognize people who have made outstanding contributions," said David Stegall, associate superintendent for the school district. "People who have a long history with our district, whether they are employees or volunteers."

The award is designed to recognize people who have a longstanding relationship with Newton-Conover City Schools, or who may be familiar with the school's history, in addition to donating their time or money.

"We have an athletic hall of fame already," Stegall said. "We will look at people who gave donations, made contributions or helped with the betterment of our district."

He said the award is modeled after the Baseball Hall of Fame award, with a committee selecting recipients of the award and honoring them with a red blazer with a logo and a plaque.

A plaque with the name of the recipients will be placed in the school system as well. People who have passed away can be nominated. Recipients will be notified by the second week in March. The award will be given at a banquet in early May and will be recognized at Newton-Conover High School's graduation as well. "We want to be able to say, 'They helped pave the way for you to come along,' " Stegall said.

The school system is asking the community to nominate people.

Applications will be on Newton-Conover City Schools' Facebook page, as well on its website, www. nccs.k12.nc.us. They will also be at the schools and at Central Office, at 605 North Ashe Ave., Newton. Applications are due by March 1.