On Thursday, November 7th, Mrs. Carpenter officially won the Golden Apple Award. Furthermore, she is now in the running for Teacher of the Year. Starting in 1986, teachers are selected to receive the Golden Apple Award every year. The founders of Golden Apple, Mike and Patricia Koldyk, felt that teachers did not get proper recognition for all their hard work and contributions to developing a strong, educated society. The Golden Apple Award strives to encourage and support teachers and school leaders, especially in schools that face challenges. The Golden Apple Award plays a significant role in preparing the next generation of teachers through initiatives like the Golden Apple Scholars program, which helps to address teacher shortages.

According to Mrs. Carpenter, the Golden Apple Award is an honor to have. “It’s been such an honor because of how many teachers are nominated each month; it’s very special.” When asked how she teaches her students, she replied, “I teach based on their 8th grade scores, benchmark scores, and how they do on the state tests, and I show them what they need based on that.” She plans to use the earnings from the award in her classroom; however, she has not figured out how she plans to utilize them. Even so, she still thinks about the future and the well-being of her students.

In retrospect, the Golden Apple Award is not only an honor for Mrs. Carpenter but also an honor for the school and teachers all around the world. Teachers devote themselves to their students, ensuring that they will develop a better future together.