Celebration of Excellence recognizes exceptional students who have demonstrated their efforts in the classroom, at school and in the community, day after day. Distinguished scholars were selected on the basis of grade point average, honors and advanced placement courses, school activities and community service. To shed light on how these students were able to excel, the Butte Education Foundation asked the winners to select an educator who had a significant positive impact on their lives and write a short message explaining why that educator was chosen.
The Butte Education Foundation salutes these fine educators and thanks them for sharing their talents, knowledge, creativity and love of learning with our youth. They make a difference in their schools and community, one student and one class at a time.
The following essays are printed mostly as is, with some edits made for clarity.
Distinguished student: Emma Johnson
Parents: Erica and Walter Johnson
Honored educator: Maria Biastoch, West Elementary School
“Don’t smile,” Ms. Biastoch always says, smiling. While it sounds strict, it always has meant something truly special. She was and still is one of the most positive people I have ever known. She had a way of turning every day from 8:00 to 3:00 into something fun and meaningful. Her classroom was filled with energy, laughter, and a sense of comfort that made learning feel truly amazing. Ms. Biastoch made the smallest moments feel bigger than reality. She was once a volleyball coach while I played, and she even made that the best thing to look forward to everyday. She taught me how to find joy in learning and how to approach each day with a positive mindset. Her attitude and energy stayed with me long after fourth grade. Getting to help her once she became a kindergarten teacher and seeing her here and there makes me so happy. I can say I had and still have a role model like her in my life. I still carry that sense of optimism with me, always trying to see the good in situations and enjoy the little moments. Thank you, Ms. Biastoch, for everything you have done for me.
Distinguished student: Ryann Phillips
Parents: Jennifer and Russell Phillips
Honored educator: Jon Bercier, Butte High School
My name is Ryann Phillips, and I will be attending Montana Technological University. I will be majoring in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences and studying journalism and archaeology. I had Mr. Bercier as my art teacher when I was a freshman in high school. As I stepped into his classroom, filled with the aroma of paint, metals, and charcoal, I knew that this was going to become my favorite class. In his class I learned the importance of creating, not just earning a grade or passing the class, but producing something of value beyond what is expected. He taught me to push myself; he saw the creative potential in me and encouraged me to reach past my limits. His encouragement led me to produce three pieces of artwork that were then published in three art shows. My favorite of these pieces was a reinterpretation of an oil painting of Ophelia. This was my favorite because I would often skip class (sorry Mr. O’Neil) and go down to his classroom and paint. Bercier would even pick me up at 5:00 in the morning just so I could paint at school. Not only did Bercier help me with my art career, but he also helped me with my cultural identity. Bercier used to Indian dance with my dad when they were kids and my gramma even taught him how to drive. Bercier’s deep cultural ties helped me discover who I was within my culture by telling me stories and sharing knowledge about our tribes. Because of his support, I learned more about my tribal identity, leading me to receive my first ribbon skirt, and even learning how to bead. Thank you, Mr. Bercier, for gifting me the knowledge and wisdom so that I may have the privilege to create something of importance. And a special thanks for helping me find who I am in my Native roots.
Distinguished student: Ally Godbout
Parents: Chad and Megan Godbout
Honored educator: Rochelle Ryan, East Middle School
When I think about the teachers who have made a difference in my life, Ms. Ryan is the one who stands out the most. I had the pleasure of being in her 8th grade history class. While she was an amazing teacher, what has stayed with me the most are the memories of her character. She was someone who instantly made everyone who entered her classroom feel safe and welcomed. From the moment you walked in, you could tell she genuinely cared about her students, not just as learners, but as people. What made Ms. Ryan so special was her patience and understanding. She consistently created an environment where students felt welcomed, supported, and encouraged to do their best. Her calm and positive demeanor made her classroom a place where learning felt less like something I had to do and more like something I wanted to be a part of. That environment changed the way I viewed learning and school as a whole. Ms. Ryan left a lasting impact on me, and I will always be grateful for the time I had in her class.
Distinguished student: Franki Salusso
Parents: Beth and Mark Salusso
Honored educator: Eddie Stewart, Butte High School
Some coaches only focus on wins and losses, but Eddie was never just that to me. He played a huge role in shaping how I see not only the game but myself. He pushed me to improve, even on days when I doubted what I could do. Somehow, he made hard work feel worth it, and that’s a big reason my love for the game grew. What stands out the most, though, is who he is beyond the court. He’s funny in a way that makes everything feel better, even during the tough moments. The inside jokes we shared are memories I’ll always carry with me. At the same time, he knew how to be serious when I needed someone to believe in me, before I could believe in myself. He was always there, ready to listen without judgment. He gave advice that actually stuck and said what I needed to hear, not just what I wanted. The impact he has had on my life goes far beyond the court and I can’t thank him enough for everything he has done for me.
Distinguished student: Chloe Salusso
Parent: Caia Salusso
Honored educator: Adam Colvin, Butte High School
I have never been good at remembering every experience that positively affected me; however, I always remember the feelings that I felt, the kindness I was shown, and the laughter that filled the room. Adam Colvin was with me every step of my high school journey. He was my soccer coach for 3 years and my Chemistry teacher for 2 years. Colvin was there for me when I learned how to get back up on the field, when I learned how to play different positions and succeed in comfortable ones, he was there when I cried over soccer, family, and schooling, he was there when the world felt like it was coming to drown me with all the stressors and challenges of everyday life. Colvin has been a constant support in my walk. His support wasn’t in an outward sense that everyone, including himself, could see but I could see it. I could see how practice/games were changed, I could see how confidence in a test or a practice problem, even if it was momentary, was changed, I could see how my mood changed after a simple uplifting comment from him. Even though it’s not hard to be a good person, Colvin excels at being a better person.
Distinguished student: Cohen Andrews
Parents: Curtis and Laurie Andrews
Honored educator: Joana Benach, Butte High School
Through my 12 years of school, I was always used to the same boring curriculum structure: textbooks, memorization, and tests. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school where I found a class that truly made a difference in my life. Spanish 1 and Spanish 2 with Mrs. Benach were the most beneficial, fun, and useful classes I have taken in all my years of school.
Mrs. Benach’s style of teaching makes learning easy. Her class involves heavy interaction with other students, lots of laughing, and making fun Spanish stories. No textbooks, no pain, no boring class structure. Every student that takes her class will say that they ACTUALLY learn something.
Whatever I’m doing I will always find myself speaking a little Spanish. Mrs. Benach has inspired me to do a 2-year mission speaking Spanish after high school. I love Mrs. Benach and her deep passion for teaching. Unlike most teachers, she cares about the education of students. She makes sure that EVERY student feels accepted and valued and favoritism is not in her vocabulary. I truly have never met a teacher as funny, intelligent, and thoughtful as Mrs. Benach. I also appreciated how we never had homework!
Distinguished student: Sullivan Malouf
Parents: Benjamin and Jessica Malouf
Honored educator: Jean Perusich, Butte High School
Of the many educators who have aided both my academic and musical career, perhaps none have been quite as inspirational as Mrs. Jean Perusich. Butte High’s music program is made up of four classes and two clubs, each for different instruments and styles of music; each requiring vast musical knowledge. Ideally, each of these classes would have its own instructor, but, here, Ms. P teaches them all. Each and every week, she toils away to keep our small music program organized and thriving, all the while providing a supportive environment for every young musician she mentors. Beyond mere hard work, however, the greatest lesson I have learned from Ms. P is teamwork. Her Orchestra was my very first true opportunity to play alongside fellow talented musicians in a positive environment, fostering growth, artistry, and collaboration, and in the four short years I’ve spent in her program, I’ve witnessed countless young musicians grow from shy diffidence to poised confidence, as they learn what it means to be a part of an ensemble. Ms. P teaches us that every member of the band, no matter how inexperienced or insecure, has an integral role in the creation of music; a symphony cannot only contain first-chair violins — a chorus cannot harmonize if only the sopranos sing. We each have a part to play, and Mrs. Jean Perusich has helped me find mine.
Distinguished student: Keely Randall
Parents: Kevin and Lisa Randall
Honored educator: Lindsay Kambich, Butte High School
I have had the privilege of spending not only one, but two years in Ms. Kambich’s classroom... The first time as a freshman in her English class, and the second as a student aid this year as a senior. But giving her the title of just my teacher does not give her enough credit, as she takes on many roles in my life; my go-to for a good book recommendation, a confidant that I know I can trust without hesitation, and most importantly, a role model.
Ms. Kambich is an exceptional educator, but the most important lessons I have learned from her have not been about English. She has always encouraged us all to “just be good humans,” which will always stay with me. I remember walking into her classroom during freshman orientation and feeling the warmth that she created. She has a rare ability to make everyone in the room feel seen, heard, and valued. At the time, I could have never known the part she would come to play in who I’ve become. Though I know this experience is not unique, because she has touched the lives of so many students. She truly has a heart of gold. Thank you, Ms. Kambich, for being such a bright light in my life, I am so grateful to be here tonight to honor you.
Distinguished student: Lucy O’Leary
Parents: Greg and Kerry O’Leary
Honored educator: Wendy Schoonen, Butte High School
I remember the first day I walked into your classroom, and you said that I must be Lucy. I am not sure if it was because you already knew me, or because I was the only one late on the very first day of school. We had started the first day by learning how to introduce ourselves in German. From that day on you were no longer Mrs. Schoonen, you were Frau.
For the two years I was in your German class, that name has come to mean so much more to me. You gave so much of yourself to ensure that we felt comfortable and excited to learn. I do not think that I ever saw you come into class without a smile. No matter what might have been going on in your life, you always chose to bring a light into ours. I will always remember your Oscar-worthy performances about people like David Hasselhoff or James Bond. They were silly, but they made us laugh, and more importantly, they made us want to learn.
You have made an impact on so many people’s lives, more than you even realize. I am incredibly lucky that I got the opportunity to be one of your students. What I am most thankful for is not just what you taught me, but the person you were every day in our classroom. It means so much to honor you today, but your impact on me is something I will continue to carry with me throughout life. You deserve the world Frau!
Distinguished student: Philip Russo
Parents: Amy and Anthony Russo
Honored educator: Hannah Telling, Butte High School
I entered Ms. Telling’s class with my chin up high and my confidence even higher. I thought “It’s my senior year, this class will be a breeze!” WRONG! Very quickly, I started to realize this class was not close to the smooth road I imagined it to be; rather, the road was bumpy, windy, uphill, and the car driving on it (me) was running on fumes — and refusing to annotate readings in class. My habit of doing the bare minimum and calling it greatness was failing. Over and over, Ms. Telling refused to let me coast. Multiple times I constructed the best passage arguably since Shakespeare, all to be met with a simple “Meh.” But she never let me leave without telling me exactly how I could improve. She graded papers based on my potential to be better, even giving me both a 30% on my literacy narrative and a heart attack at the same time. Yikes. Her ardor for making me the best writer I could be inspired me to finally follow that passion. That semester, I came into her class early to write over 55 college essays. Every morning, I was met with the same warmth — no matter how busy she was, she was always willing to offer her support. Simply put, I would not be where I am, or heading where I’m going, without Ms. Telling. The road never smoothed out, but thanks to her, I’ve learned to appreciate that roughness.
Distinguished student: Mattie Stepan
Parents: Matt and Sarah Stepan
Honored educator: Kelci Thatcher, East Middle School
Some people are lucky enough to have a great teacher. I was lucky enough to have one who is also my family. My aunt has shown me that teaching isn’t just about education, it’s about patience, compassion, and believing in people even when they don’t believe in themselves. As an immature, overly competitive teenager, I had a lot to learn about life. Kelci coached me in softball from the age of 10 to 16. Even now when I’m struggling, she is the first person I call. She showed me more than how to play, she showed me how to grow. I don’t know how her and my mom put up with me, let’s just say I have learned how to take criticism. No matter how difficult I was, she never changed the way she treated me. I would not be who I am today without her. She pushed me to perform at my fullest potential, in everything. Not only has she been the best influence, but she has also been my biggest supporter. When I was struggling with friends, she always welcomed me to hang out with her. When my parents are gone, I always have a place to go for dinner. I could ask Kelci for anything in the world, and she would find a way to get it for me. I do not know a better person than my aunt Kelci, she is the smartest, kindest, most levelheaded person I’ve ever met. To say I’m blessed to have her is an understatement. I would be lucky to become half the person she is.
Distinguished student: Gunner Bushman
Parents: Mark and Tori Thompson
Honored educator: Todd Finstad, Butte High School
I had the pleasure of being taught by Mr. Finstad in my junior year pre-calculus class. I never thought that a pre-calculus class would leave an impact on my life, but he proved me wrong. He had so much patience in every student and he took the time to make sure everyone understood the topics of the course. Whenever I struggled, I would ask him questions, and he would turn those questions into opportunities to learn. Mr. Finstad didn’t just teach me the tedious steps of pre-calculus, but he taught me the true mindset of learning. I have had more confidence in myself ever since last year. I took all the skills that he taught me, and I still use them to my advantage when learning in school. When I struggled in his class, instead of letting me fall behind, he would work with me until I understood. Because of Mr. Finstad, I now approach challenges with a more positive attitude. He didn’t just teach pre-calculus — he taught me how to believe in myself, and that lesson will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Distinguished student: Brooks Vincent
Parents: Janelle and Josh Vincent
Honored educator: Julie Johns, Butte High School
Mrs. Julie Johns is a cornerstone of the Butte School District, and I have the privilege of accompanying her tonight. My relationship with Mrs. Johns spans eighteen years. Long before I knew her as Mrs. Johns, I knew her simply as Julie. Some of my earliest memories with her were spent at the lake, on the river, and at gatherings with family and friends, well before we ever stepped into a classroom together. She is one of the kindest people I know, and it is rare to see her without a smile. Mrs. Johns has been my math teacher for three of my four years of high school, and each year has left a lasting impact. Our academic journey began my freshman year, when she stepped in to teach my geometry class, a subject she hadn’t previously taught, after our teacher had to step away. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of learning from her in Algebra II and now Calculus. More than any other teacher, Mrs. Johns has challenged me to grow, pushed me to think deeper, and played a significant role in shaping who I am today. Beyond academics, Mrs. Johns has been a constant source of encouragement and positivity. Before every sporting event, she wished me good luck, and she was by my side through any adversity I faced. She genuinely cares about her students, taking the time to build relationships and make each person feel valued. I am grateful for the opportunity to know Mrs. Johns and cannot thank her enough for the impact she has had on my life.
Distinguished student: Tatum Trefts
Parents: Tim and Val Trefts
Honored educator: Tricia Dean, East Middle School
Seventh grade was one of my worst years of school to date, so, naturally, I had very low expectations going into eighth grade. However, I was pleasantly surprised by one of the best teachers I have ever had. Ms. Dean was my eighth grade English teacher, and the very first thing I remember about her class is how comfortable I felt being myself. Her reassurance made me confident in a way I could have never achieved on my own. But the thing that stood out the most about Ms. Dean’s class was all the laughter. Every joke that was shared between the students felt like it was also shared with her. Her incredible kindness and sense of humor made everyone feel welcome. There certainly has not been another time in my academic career where I was allowed to demonstrate how to make a cake using spam for my class. Ms. Dean has absolutely changed my life for the better. After meeting her, I gained a more optimistic perspective on life. Call it the “Ms. Dean Effect.” She is an excellent person, a wonderful role model, and I am so incredibly happy to have spent time learning from her.
Distinguished student: Kimberly Breitbach
Parents: Jen and Jon Breitbach
Honored educator: Jennifer Lynch, Emerson Elementary School
Ms. Lynch taught me it was okay to struggle, but to always work hard — and that has stuck with me since sixth grade. Walking into her class, you were welcomed with a warm, genuine smile that made you want to be there. You could tell she genuinely loved what she did. She took time to learn about each student, making us feel cared for. If I remember right, she even created the “cozy corners” with comfy chairs for reading, which helped me, since focusing on reading was challenging in elementary school. She was always there to talk and willing to put in more work with me if I was stuck. I’m so grateful I had Ms. Lynch as a teacher when I did. The way she always encouraged me helped me be proud of myself for my accomplishments. Her kindness inspired me, and I thought I wanted to be a teacher just like her. I have always had a liking for pretty stationery materials like cool notebooks, paper, and pens. I remember one day she said she didn’t want her notebook anymore, but I was convinced it was just about the coolest thing out there. Even after six years, it’s special because someone I looked up to gifted it to me, even if it was something so simple. Now, though, I have decided I want to go to school to become a Physical Therapy assistant. With this, I hope to help others improve their lives by teaching them about their bodies. Thank you, Ms. Lynch. You truly shaped part of who I am today, and you’re a big part of why we are here at this dinner.
Distinguished student: Taylor Dickinson
Parents: Bill Dickinson and Stefanie Ryan
Honored educator: Jami Fabatz, East Middle School
For a majority of my educational career, English has been my least favorite subject. Whether it was writing essays, doing presentations, or even simply learning the material, I always found it to be boring. That was until my eighth-grade English teacher, Ms. Fabatz, showed me how powerful English can be. One thing that made Ms. Fabatz stand out was the way she cared for her students. She took the time to get to know us, making sure we felt valued and supported in and out of her classroom. Because of her genuine care, I was no longer afraid to take risks and try new things. The confidence she helped me build in myself is something that has stuck with me throughout high school and something that will continue to guide me in the future. What I admired most about Ms. Fabatz was how she continually connected assignments to the real world. She didn’t just teach from a book; she encouraged us to look at our own lives, relationships, and experiences in a deeper way. She reminded me to appreciate and truly enjoy life every day. I will always be grateful for the lessons Ms. Fabatz taught, both in English and in life, and I know her influence will continue to impact my life for many more years to come.
Distinguished student: Joshua Schrader
Parents: Richard and Susan Schrader
Honored educator: Guy Wadas, Butte High School
Having you as one of my first teachers of my high school years, a time when I was unsure and nervous of the new chapter of my life, meant a lot. Coming to your class everyday, especially after a boring art class, gave me something to look forward to every school day. The way you were super easy to talk to about whatever I was struggling on in school always gave me reassurance and helped me find my footing in high school. Joking about my made-up weekend plans and playing table tennis on your desks are still some of my favorite memories from high school. All of the labs we did gave me a new found love for science, one that I didn’t experience in grade school, especially the Cheetos lab where you allowed us to eat the burnt Cheetos afterwards. Even though it tasted awful I really appreciated you letting us figure that out ourselves and not telling us not to eat it. Now as a senior I find it really easy to make conversation with all of my teachers which I don’t think I could have done if it didn’t start with you. After I graduate, I want to major in Biology and attend the University of New Mexico. The reason I want to major in biology is because I want to pursue veterinarian medicine and become a veterinarian. Although you did not teach biology you sparked a huge interest of science in me. As I am now on my way to pursue my goals, I want to thank you for all the support, especially throughout my freshman year and the love you have for teaching that helped motivate me to love learning. So, thank you Mr. Wadas.
Distinguished student: Kaleb Celli
Parents: Damon and Tammie Wrampe
Honored educator: Rochelle Farrow, West Elementary School
I had the joy of being in your 6th grade class. You made a huge impact on my educational career as my teacher. I had hoped for years that I would get you as my teacher; and when I finally found out I was in your class, I was ecstatic. Sixth grade was also the year that COVID changed everything. I had to finish part of the school year remotely, which was very difficult. I had to miss out on all of the fun end of the year activities and having a closure to my elementary years, but you made sure to make me feel supported and connected.
Now I’m moving onto the next chapter of my life, I’m going to Tech to pursue a career in either Petroleum or Electrical engineering, and I wanted to thank you for the impact you’ve had on my life. My love for math stems from your class. You made learning fun and helped me feel more confident. I thank you for being the joyful, amazing teacher you are. Without your optimistic teaching, I have no idea where I would be today. Love you, Ms. Farrow! P.S. I miss you as my neighbor.
Distinguished student: Allissa Pennock
Parents: Kristy and Tim Allred
Honored educator: Ben Wlaysewski, Butte High School
For my senior year, I had Mr. Wlaysewski’s fifth period, Building Trades. Throughout this semester I have been taught different lessons that I will be able to apply for the rest of my life. The most valuable one being delayed satisfaction. Depending on the project, it would take weeks before I saw the results of my work. Having patience is a great life skill to have since everything good in life comes with time. In Mr. Wlaysewski’s class, I have been able to allow my creativity to lead rather than him giving out assignments. We are given full rein in what we choose to create, and Mr. Wlaysewski makes it happen for every student. His patient and caring attitude is reflected in his dedication to make sure each student gets the one-on-one time they need in order to get their project completed the way they envision it. This is the only class I have had where I have truly learned independence. I have learned not only how to operate, but to feel comfortable using eclectic tools. I never thought this was something that I would have been able to accomplish on my own. I deeply appreciate this because soon enough I will be moving out and won’t be able to rely on my dad for any tool related issues and will be able to solve them on my own. Thank you for the skills and support you have given me throughout this school year, Mr. Wlaysewski. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to take your class.
Distinguished student: Taylor Olsen
Parents: Jim and Lisa Olsen
Honored educator: Luke Blaskovich, Butte High School
I had the opportunity to enter Mr. Blaskovich’s class as a sophomore. As eager and ready to learn as I was, I will admit that I had no idea what I had gotten into. In the following school year, I not only learned biology, but I also learned various life skills and lessons. A tangent as it relates to speech is defined as a wandering mind in which someone says whatever they think. Mr. Blaskovich sure likes his tangents, or so, I thought. The first couple made me wonder whether or not I was in the right class to be honest. But one special day I realized something. Passion. Passion is Mr. Blaskovich’s strongest suit. He doesn’t just go off on “tangents” about random things. Rather, he chooses subjects he is passionate about. That has been my largest takeaway from his class. From then on, I have strived to find things I am passionate about, and it has made me much more satisfied in life. I would like to include one small last story. One day in class I asked Mr. Blaskovich how he itches his head. For those of you who know him, you know he is one of the most muscular men in Butte. Therefore, he must have a difficult time reaching his head. Much to my surprise, in response to my question he said something like “that’s my little secret and maybe if you are lucky, you will find out.” Later, he grabbed a yard stick and began itching it. All in all, I am forever grateful for the mentorship and companionship that Luke Blaskovich has given me. Thanks to him I will know the importance of passion and of course biology along the way.
Bowler Memorial Scholarship
2026 Recipient
Mr. Michael Verlanic
The Butte Education Foundation is proud to announce the recipient of the 2026 Donna and Chet Bowler Memorial Scholarship, Mr. Michael Verlanic. Michael is the son of Jake and Shauna Verlanic. He was a three-sport athlete — football, basketball and track — while at BHS and was also a member of the National Honor Society, Community Connections and Excel Club. Michael also found time to work at various jobs throughout high school, ending with a position at Big Sky Senior Living, where he learned to listen with patience and show compassion, even in difficult situations. He plans to study engineering at Montana Tech in the fall. The Bowler Scholarship is worth $10,000 over four years. It is with great honor that we award this scholarship to Michael and wish him the best of luck in the future.
Butte Education Foundation CTE Scholarship
2026 Recipient
Mr. Jaxon Jonart
The Butte Education Foundation is proud to announce that the recipient of the 2026 CTE Scholarship is Butte High senior Jaxon Jonart. Jaxon is the son of Leesla and Ryan Jonart. Jaxon is an active member of the community and Butte High School, excelling in both soccer and tennis at BHS. He gained valuable experience working at several places during high school, learning how to work safely and efficiently. He also found time to volunteer with the Shriners and the Veterans’ Freedom Ranch. He plans to attend Missoula College to study heavy equipment operation in the fall. The scholarship, worth $1,500 per year for two years, is intended to support students seeking to complete a two-year program or certification. We wish Jaxon the best of luck in all his future endeavors.
Butte Education Foundation CTE Scholarship
2026 Recipient
Mr. Gannon Sullivan
The Butte Education Foundation is proud to announce that the recipient of the 2026 CTE Scholarship is Butte High senior Gannon Sullivan. Gannon is the son of Dan and Kriss Sullivan. Gannon is an active member of the community and Butte High School. He excelled in both football and track at BHS and is a member of the National Honor Society. He volunteers his time with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Crime Stoppers, Dream Big Foundation and Trout Unlimited. He also worked at various jobs throughout high school. He plans to attend Helena College to study fire and emergency services in the fall. The scholarship, worth $1,500 per year for two years, is intended to support students seeking to complete a two-year program or certification. We wish Gannon the best of luck in all his future endeavors.
Golden Apple Award
The Butte Education Foundation has awarded the first Golden Apple Elementary Teacher Awards to Heidi Burgess (Margaret Leary), Taelor Conway (West), Kaden Hanni (Emerson), Aleesha LaBreche (Whittier), Courtney LeProwse (Kennedy), and Emily Rivers (Hillcrest), not present. The Golden Apple Award is given to a teacher selected by the sixth-grade classes at each school who has made an impact on student life and education. Comments from the students included: “She helped me when I was having a hard day,” “He made time for me when I didn’t understand the assignment,” “She told us jokes and always had a smile on her face,” “He gave us treats when we were good,” and “She made school warm and fun.” These teachers are making a difference in our schools and community every day. Thank you!

