A favorite teacher can make an indelible impact on a student's life. That's why Barnes & Noble wants to celebrate educators with its My Favorite Teacher contest.

High school students in metro Atlanta, and across the nation, are invited to submit a letter about their favorite teacher in the contest throughout the month of February.

Barnes & Noble’s annual contest recognizes teachers who inspire and influence their students.

The national winner of the contest will receive $5,000 and an additional $5,000 for the school where they work.

To participate, students can write an essay, poem or thank you note explaining how a favorite teacher has influenced them. Entries must be 500 words or fewer, according to the contest page.

Students can submit their entries online or at one of the four Barnes &  Noble locations in metro Atlanta.

Entries will be accepted through Feb. 29.