Every year, a teacher at Clarion-Goldfield-Dows is honored for his or her outstanding work. Last week at the Teacher Appreciation Gathering, the 2022 Golden Apple recipient was named. Middle School Social Studies teacher Adam Vorrie 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.
Vorrie teaches classes pertaining to civics, U.S. history and global studies. Upon receiving the Golden Apple Award last week, he said, “I’m thankful for these last seven years in the CGD district.” Vorrie related a story about the principal of a different school district long ago telling him to teach at CGD if ever given the opportunity. With that now a reality these last several years, Vorrie stressed, “I know this is where I am meant to be.”
Golden Apple committee member Andy Young shared some excerpts from nominations for Vorrie. One said, “Mr. Vorrie leads by example, providing classroom materials in Spanish, keeping his cool as a coach, teaching Sunday School. His curriculum extends beyond the classroom and into the community, challenging students to make a contribution to their corner of the world.”
Another nomination emphasized, “Mr. Vorrie’s public policy projects aim to solve real problems and connect students with local, state, and even federal elected officials. His students appreciate that he is teaching them to think for themselves.”
Vorrie’s principal at CGD Middle School, Steve Haberman, also spoke glowingly of the teacher. “I appreciate Adam’s commitment to education and our students and programs,” emphasized Haberman. “He is very dedicated to his craft. I truly value the education that takes place in his classroom.”
For winning the award, Vorrie received a golden apple statue and cash prize from the Golden Apple Charitable Foundation.
In all, seven CGD teachers were nominated for the Golden Apple Award this year. In addition to Vorrie, nominees included Lori Swanson, Sarah Kakacek, Erin Morrical, Olivia Huntley, Maycie Rector, Joan Thurn. All nominees received recognition certificates.
