Golden Apple Awards: January

The Golden Apple Awards are a great opportunity to showcase the heart and innovation that run the classrooms of RI.

Today's awards were no different.

Often operating behind the scenes, avoiding the limelight and working diligently, special education teachers can be the magic that shifts a child's life.

Our first stop was to surprise Patricia Kilsey, of Lincoln High School, who works to help transition adult learners as they move into society. One of her students shared that she's the "best teacher" and she helps students develop life skills and links students with work options. Thank you for valuing each of our children and ensuring that others do too!

Her huge family was there to help surprise and honor her achievements.







The second taping today was also a special education teacher. Many of Keri Bettencourts 's students at Jenks Middle School in Pawtucket are non-verbal.

However, as one parent wrote, "she finds a way to communicate with each one." Families recounted how secure they felt, knowing when they brought their children to school they were under the care of Ms. Bettencourt.

















Our final stop was Mrs. Yessenia Rodriguez, of Southside Charter Elementary School, Providence.  "Miss Yessenia" was clear about the importance of love and kindness in teaching her children. It is clear that they also feel this, as they hugged and celebrated to honor their teacher.








This classroom is a looping classroom, so students have been able to develop and continue this bond for 3 years! The students have created pledges, raps, and music on how to Choose Love when confronted with difficulty and how to deal with bullies. This safe environment where each child is seen and valued allows for deeper learning. Another unique feature of this school is that it has a comfort dog, trained and used to calm children (and adults no doubt) when necessary. In fact, the camera crew came back the next day to do a feature on the dog and its role in the school culture.

I am honored to be able to witness the work that is happening each day in the state of RI and be inspired to share these unsung heroes making a difference in children's lives each day!