2010 Golden Apple recipients celebrate

Most teachers will agree: celebrating with your students is a great way to start the day. That's what Tracy Wiedeman and her second grade students at Glenbrook Elementary did after she received a Golden Apple.

Why does she like to teach?

"The kids! I love the kids,” Wiedeman said. “They make it a lot of fun and every day is a new adventure. I get to have an exciting journey with them every day. And I get to see them learn and grow."

Golden Apples are a small token of appreciation for teachers in the greater Green Bay area.
This week, FOX 11 along with the Partners in Education, are giving them to seven deserving instructors.

Nicolet Elementary School honored two teachers.

Laurie Gehrke teared up a little, and was speechless - mostly from being sick. She teaches fifth grade, and was quick to recognize others - with what little voice she had left.

"This is the team that does it,” Gehrke said. “I've had great team members for 17 years, and they really support everyone at Nicolet, and I really appreciate everybody."

David Lepisto, who teaches physical education at Nicolet, also recieved a Golden Apple.

"The reason it's a great honor because I share it with all of you,” Lepisto said. “You make my job easy. To be able to do things differently, and be appreciated for it, is a thrill."

The two instructors were able to share a congratulatory hug.

And, "finalmente," it was Katie Titler's turn. She teaches Spanish to the students at Pulaski High School.

¡Qué bien!

"Every day is exciting,” Titler said. “You can be as creative as you want to be. It's great to see the kids get excited about what we do and learning Spanish."

After a morning of smiles, hugs and victory laps, there is no doubt that a Golden Apple tastes pretty good to these teachers.