Celebrating Amazing Teachers

As the leaves turn to shades of red and gold, and the crisp autumn air fills our days, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the incredible teachers who shape the future of our children.

Our “Nominate a Teacher” contest has come to a close, and we are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and appreciation for educators everywhere. You nominated inspiring individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of their students. Today we are thrilled to announce the winners of our special prizes!

The four teachers chosen for prizes stood out among many amazing entries. Each of these teachers will be receiving our signature 2023 Apple Orchard Friends decorating set. The tradition of giving apples to teachers has a long history, although it’s more symbolic than a common practice in modern times. Apples have long been a symbol of knowledge. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in rural areas, apples were a token of appreciation and were a gesture of gratitude — not to mention a healthy snack. That’s why we thought this would be the perfect treat for a few hardworking and big-hearted teachers.

Meet Some Amazing Teachers

? Mrs. Burton, Central High School of Clay County ?

Nomination: We received 11 nominations for Mrs. Burton. Each of them spoke to her skills as an ELA / English teacher. The words “fun,” “helpful,” “welcoming,” and “nice” were all echoed.  Here are a couple of the specific quotes: “Mrs. Burton is the only teacher that has made English enjoyable for me. She helps me understand different things that we do in English and she just makes jokes and things that makes English fun. She is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had, and is one of those teachers that will most definitely be remembered after high school.” The elves did chuckle as several of her students point out that, “she really loves these rats.” Her students really rocked the vote with their heartfelt admiration!

? Ms. DeFilippi ?

Nomination: “Stephanie is a special education teacher in a below-the-poverty-level school. She teaches third grade students who have learning and behavioral disabilities. She works very hard advocating for her students so they get all the services they need to be successful in their academics. She is also enrolled in school to get her administration license so she can improve the whole school not just her class. Stephanie goes after all available resources so that her students have free trips, school supplies, coats, and whatever else they need not just for themselves but for their whole family. Stephanie has taught special needs students for seven years now in different low income schools and goes to work each day with a smile on her face. She loves nothing more than making a difference in a child’s life.”

? Miss Allen, Franklin Elementary ?

Nomination: “Miss Allen is a special education access teacher starting her fifth year this fall. Her students have various diagnoses, ranging from various levels of autism, cerebral palsy, and Down Syndrome, among others. These children love to learn and are able to understand and do many things. Miss Allen puts much thought and creativity into the curriculum that the district provides, but she provides and creates MUCH more. She purchases relevant, interesting, and beautiful books, and researches and creates learning-based and fun activities for her students. She loves ❤️ and cares for her students in many ways. They, in turn, love her. The parents of these students know and appreciate the things and experiences that she provides. The district has named Miss Allen a model special education teacher. She is a caring and dedicated teacher!”

? Ms. Gosling, Kingston School District ?

Nomination: “I am nominating myself. Why? I have taught K-8 in my 29 years as an educator. I retired July 1st after a total of 21 years at Kingston K-14. This district is special to me because it is the same district that I attended when I was in school. I have taught students of close friends from my childhood, to those students’ children and most recently a few grandchildren of my childhood friends. I have witnessed the growth of children to adulthood. I remain close to several of my former students and was blessed to have many at my retirement gathering. Several former students have come to teach/work at Kingston and have informed me that I had inspired them to be an educator. I even witnessed two former students become registered nurses and they too have worked for the district. Although there were many great memories, I would be foolish to not mention the devastating loss that I have experienced as an educator. In my tenure, losing five former students to suicide (one of which took his own life in the boys restroom), six to car accidents, and two from cancer. Each one held a special place in my heart, yet my loss was heaven’s gain. It is important to me to stay in contact with as many students as I can. Since retiring, I have an enormous amount of time to be there with listening ears to continue to guide them in their lives. They ALL will be my forever kids!”

Thank You For Your Nominations

Please join us in congratulating these four special teachers! But here’s the thing: Every teacher who was nominated is a true hero. ?‍♂️?‍♀️ While we can only select a few for these special prizes, we believe that every educator deserves a standing ovation and a round of applause. ??

Teachers, you are the backbone of our society, the guiding lights in our children’s lives, and the orchard keepers who nurture the seeds of knowledge. ?? Your dedication, passion, and love for teaching are what make our world a better place.

As we embrace the season of apples, let’s remember that just like apples are a symbol of knowledge, you, dear teachers, are the keepers of wisdom. ???

So, to all the teachers out there, thank you for your hard work, your creativity, and your unwavering commitment to helping our kids become better humans. You are the true treasures in our lives, and we are forever grateful for everything you do.

Let’s give our amazing educators a virtual round of applause! ?? And let’s keep spreading the love, gratitude, and kindness like the autumn leaves that fall gently from the trees. ?❤️

Stay tuned for more opportunities to celebrate and appreciate the incredible teachers who shape our future! ???

Don’t Miss These Teacher-Favorite Designs!