2007 Golden Apple Awards

Golden Apple recipients recognized by Rotary Club

By Sherry F. Pruitt

JONESBORO -- The Jonesboro Rotary Club on Tuesday recognized Craighead County's cream of the teaching crop.

Eleven elementary school teachers received Golden Apple Awards for their work in the Jonesboro, Valley View, Nettleton, Bay, Westside and Brookland school districts.

Dr. Rusty Clark, Sixth Grade Academic Center principal, emphasized the importance of teachers in the community. They are prepared for class and ready to welcome 20 to hundreds of children each day, he said.

"What an impact this has on our community and the future of this community, the state, nation and the world!" Clark said. "I appreciate this club sponsoring the Golden Apple Awards."

Sometimes, teachers are recognized within their buildings or their districts, but the Golden Apple Awards are special because outsiders are looking into the classrooms and recognizing teachers who stand out among their peers.

"You really are special, and we appreciate you," Clark stated.

Thom Beasley made the presentations, along with Harry Puddephatt, who was instrumental in establishing the Golden Apple Awards about 11 years ago.

At that time, the president of the Rotary Club asked the Vocational Awards Committee to add another award, designated for the "most deserving group -- the excellent teachers in Jonesboro and Craighead County."

This year, a group of teachers "who take them when they're small and mold" youngsters, were honored for their work with elementary students, said Rotarian Sam Hummelstein.

Recipients and comments made about each included:

• Sara Miller, Fox Meadow Elementary -- a kind, patient and wonderful teacher, according to students.

• Sherris Bond, Valley View Elementary -- a 30-year veteran, who is versatile, capable and dynamic -- truly a master teacher.

• Tacey Cravens, Sixth Grade Academic Center -- she gives 100 percent of herself, 100 percent of her time and puts students first.

• Nancy Hubbell, Philadelphia Elementary -- students respect her for wanting to be a good teacher, and she gives students feedback on assignments.

• Kathy Farris, West Elementary -- with 27 years behind her, she is a hard worker, a caring teacher and coworker and a team player who is compassionate.

• Mark Dobson, South Elementary -- a physical education teacher who devotes time and energy to students and their health, the coach has an excellent rapport with students.

• Allie Brooks, Brookland Elementary -- always has a smile, tells the truth and treats students, parents and teachers with fairness.

• Wendy Green, Bay Elementary -- goes above and beyond the duties of teacher, organized her classroom to help students with autism and teaches students, not subjects.

• Paula Barnett, University Heights Elementary -- brings the best of old school to new school and teaches character and value.

• Marc Sloan, Westside Elementary -- attitude is the reason he is an outstanding teacher.

• Tricia Oxford, Jonesboro Kindergarten Center -- energetic, self motivated and has a creative flair for art in the classroom.

sherry@jonesborosun.com