PHOENIX – Taylor Morrison, a leading builder and developer in North America, and Phoenix radio station KEZ 99.9 have teamed up to give special recognition to one outstanding Arizona educator.

Dave Peterson of Arcadia High School received the Excellence in Education Award in December for his outstanding achievements as an English teacher. The award was presented during a surprise visit to Peterson’s Arcadia High School classroom, where he was given a commemorative plaque and a $99 prize for his achievements.

“It’s important to all of us that we recognize the dedication and hard work of exceptional teachers here in the Valley,” said Todd Hahn, vice president of sales and marketing for Taylor Morrison’s Phoenix division. “These amazing individuals go the extra mile to give their students a strong foundation, and you can see the positive influence they have on their students’ lives. We hope that this award helps to express just how important great teachers like Dave Peterson are to our community.”

Peterson was chosen to receive the Excellence in Education award for his contagious enthusiasm in the classroom and his skill as an English teacher. His remarkable ability to help students develop their writing skills, think critically and find their own voices make him a valuable asset.

“In part, Dave Peterson's coursework, perspective, and guidance shaped me into the man I am today,” said former student Marshall Klarfeld. “He introduced us to the works of those who explored new worlds, challenged conventional thought, and illuminated the human condition. His syllabus and methods are bright and cherished memories of my time at Arcadia High School.”

Students also cited his love for teaching and the care he takes in assuring that his students receive the individual attention they need to succeed academically.

“Ask any student who has come through Mr. Peterson’s class, and they will tell you they will never read literature or short stories the same way again,” said Will McClellend, a recent Arcadia High School graduate. “Every student deserves the privilege of taking his class and sharing the joy of learning with this wonderful teacher.”

Each month, Taylor Morrison and KEZ will select a new Excellence in Education Award winner from entries received throughout the school year. To nominate a teacher or to learn more about previous winners, visit http://www.kez999.com/common/i-nominate/excellence-in-education/.

For more information about Taylor Morrison, please visit http://www.taylormorrison.com.

About Taylor Morrison

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Taylor Morrison Home Corporation operates in the U.S. under the Taylor Morrison and Darling Homes brands and in Canada under the Monarch brand. Taylor Morrison is a builder and developer of single-family detached and attached homes, serving a wide array of customers including first-time, move-up, luxury and 55+ or better. Taylor Morrison divisions operate in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida and Texas. Darling Homes serves move-up and luxury homebuyers in Texas. Monarch, Canada’s oldest homebuilder, builds homes for first-time and move-up buyers in Toronto and Ottawa as well as high rise condominiums in Toronto.

For more information about Taylor Morrison, Darling Homes or Monarch, please visit www.taylormorrison.com, www.darlinghomes.com and www.monarchgroup.net.