Lyons Township Teacher Wins 2016 Golden Apple Award

Western Springs, IL - Jason Crean, biology teacher at Lyons Township High School, was surprised Tuesday with a 2016 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.

Students in Crean's class track use data and field notes to track a group of lions in Africa, according to Golden Apple. They analyze genotypes of the lions and build a pedigree.

Crean inspires his students and colleagues to actively participate in the world of science.

“My daughter was so interested in what she learns in Crean’s class that she came home every night and taught it to me,” one parent said.

The Golden Apple awards recognize outstanding teachers for their role in building a stronger, better-educated society. The recipients were selected from more than 400 nominees. Recipients were nominated by students, community members and colleagues.

Each Golden Apple Award recipient receives a tuition-free spring quarter sabbatical to study at Northwestern University. They also receive a $5,000 cash award. Award recipients also become Fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators.

The 2016 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Leadership recipients will be honored at an awards ceremony May 20 at WTTW/Channel 11 Studios in Chicago. Check goldenapple.org/awards for updated information on the broadcast dates.

Photos courtesy of Golden Apple.