About US

WHY?

Over the last several years, the profession of educator has become exponentially more difficult. Teachers spend their days with our children, often more hours than their own parents. They see our children at their best, and their worst, and continue to show up. Teachers and coaches see our kids struggle when a concept doesn't come easily, are a listening ear with personal struggles, and a constant support as our kids grow into the adults we hope they will become.

But we know that it isn't possible for every teacher have the same impact, if any, on every single kid. The hope, is that every student will have one teacher that helped them rise to the occasion when the going got tough. One teacher that saw their strengths when others may only see a poor behavior. One coach that helped them realize that they could do things they didn't feel capable of doing. One teacher to help them imagine the kind of future was within their grasp, and give them an idea of how to get there.

This is why we host this event. We present the Crystal Apple Award to 10 teachers that have had that impact on a student. All teachers are nominated by high school seniors that, looking back at the educational career, are able to see those beacons along their path. Teachers are not nominated or awarded based on being popular, although many exceptional teachers are popular among students for good reason. Even with a roster of 25 - 150+ students, teachers still have to reach out one to one to make a difference in a life. So that is how we honor them. One to one.