Every year, a teacher at Clarion-Goldfield-Dows is honored for his or her outstanding work. In 2020, due to COVID, no recipient was chosen. Fortunately, this year, the practice started up again. And last week at the Teacher Appreciation Gathering, the 2021 Golden Apple recipient was named. Middle School English Language Learner (ELL) teacher Jenny Smith was presented with the award.
The Golden Apple Charitable Foundation was started within the Clarion-Goldfield-Dows school system in 1999. The purpose is to recognize exceptional educators in the district. Certified full-time preschool through 12th grade teachers who have completed one full year within the C-G-D district are eligible every year, including guidance counselors, media and technology specialists, and all special area teachers. Parents, colleagues, students, and community members can nominate teachers.
Smith who received the award teaches ELL. As her school profile notes, “We currently have 100 students in ELL from 3 different countries. Our program mission is to teach students English and explore the world of vocabulary.” She seems to have succeeded in that mission over the years. Here are what a few of those who nominated her said about Smith:
“Students need to experience a teacher like Mrs. Smith. I was one of the lucky ones who did. I have dreams and goals for my life because of her. I can now look back at that 6-year-old child who came from Mexico, who never believed she’d do anything in this country, and tell her ‘you did it, and you are doing it.’”
Another nomination said, “I remember when I first started [Mrs. Smith’s] class without knowing a single English word, and looking back, it’s mind-blowing to see how much growth I have done because of her, and many other great teachers, along the way. She has been a great blessing to my life, my family, and to all of the students she has taught.”
For her part, Smith was very moved and humbled by receiving the award. She attributed her accomplishments to those around her. She said, “It’s no secret that I have passion, and it’s because of who I work with that drives that passion.” Smith received a golden apple statue and an award from the Golden Apple Charitable Foundation.
In all, sixteen CGD teachers were nominated for the Golden Apple Award this year. Nominees included: David Ackerman, Paul Hansch, Tom Klaver, Cara Odland, Whitney Dahlgren, Tanja Jensen, Jeff Meyer, Megan Fiscus, Jay Klaver, Pat O’Brien, Lynette Smith, Heather Walker, Tessa Yackle, Kaia Voss, and Celina Thompson. All nominees received recognition certificates and a lapel pin.
