On April 12th, more than 800 people gathered at the Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center to celebrate the dedication teachers in Douglas County demonstrate every day in our schools. Guests at the third annual Apple Awards , presented by Wells Fargo, enjoyed an evening of reflection, humor and camaraderie that included a video presentation with student, administrator and community member commentaries.  It is always a pleasure to recognize teachers for their hard work, dedication and success," says Superintendent Jim Christensen.  "It's one of my favorite celebrations of the year.  It makes me proud to be an educator."

Sixty-five teachers were nominated by their peers and school community to represent their school at the Apple Awards . This event showcases the wonderful examples of how teachers touch lives on a daily basis in and out of the classroom.

From the sixty-five nominees, seventeen finalists were selected to represent secondary and elementary schools in each feeder area. Each finalist was introduced by their principal, giving the audience a glimpse of the many unique personalities behind the classroom door. The program culminated with the announcement of this year's two award recipients, one from the Elementary level and one from the Secondary level. The 2007-2008 Apple Awards recipients are Kristie Krier, a Second Grade Teacher at Timber Trail Elementary and John Veit, a Computer Resource Teacher at Castle Rock Middle School.  Below is a picture of these two wonderful teachers that each received a trophy, ring and a $3,000 check as Apple Awards recipients.

This wonderful celebration was possible through the title sponsorship of Wells Fargo and the many corporate sponsors who supported this event.  In addition to honoring these amazing teachers, the Douglas County Educational Foundation raised approximately $100,000 to support excellence in the classrooms.

2008 Apple Awards Finalists Named 

Seventeen finalists were chosen by representatives from the DCSD, DCF, DCEF and community members from the Apple Awards Nominees. "These teachers represent some of the best we have to offer students in our District. Their passion for what they do in the classroom is unrivaled," say Superintendent Jim Christensen. "Congratulations to all nominees and finalists." The committe based their decisions on the nominee's applications which addressed their educational history and professional development activities, instructional expertise, philosophy of teaching, their thoughts on educational issues and trends and on their letters of support. The finalists will represent each of the Douglas County feeder areas at the upcoming Apple Awards. To read a press release about the 17 Apple Awards Finalists click here…

To view a picture and bio of each of the finalists click on their name below...

2008 Apple Awards - A World of Possibilities

The Douglas County Educational Foundation, in cooperation with the Douglas County School District and the Douglas County Federation, is pleased to announce the 3rd Annual Apple Awards will be held on April 12, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency Tech Center. The Apple Awards are a recognition program and awards dinner that honors teachers of Douglas County for their excellence in education. To read an overview of the Apple Awards click here…

As in year's past, the dress for the event will be black-tie optional and guests are invited to stay and dance the night away as we celebrate and honor the "World of Possibilities" teachers create for students! "It is our pleasure to honor these teachers each year. They deserve it," says Executive Director of the DCEF, Sean McGraw. He adds, "What better way to celebrate their work than at one of our biggest fundraisers, which directly benefits students and staff." The DCEF expects another sold out event with over 800 in attendance. Each school will have a table at the dinner and additional tables for sponsors will be available.

Over sixty teachers have been selected to represent their local schools in the upcoming Apple Awards. Even though these teachers represent a small number of the highly qualified and truly inspirational teachers we have throughout Douglas County, they provide wonderful examples of how teachers touch lives on a daily basis in and out of the classroom. For a complete list of the 65 Apple Awards Nominees click here…