Teacher At Great Lakes School Named Finalist For Golden Apple Awards

GREAT LAKES, IL — A teacher at a local charter school is a finalist for a prestigious statewide teaching award.

Melissa Behrendt, who teaches kindergarten to 3rd grade students at Learn 6 Charter School in Great Lakes, was on Tuesday named one of 30 finalists for the Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching. More than 600 teachers were nominated for the awards this year.

Each year, 10 winners are selected in the spring and granted $5,000 cash, a sabbatical at Northwestern University and membership in the Golden Apple Academy of Educators.

Teachers from a rotating range of grade levels are honored by the Golden Apple Foundation from year to year.

This year, teachers from pre-kindergarten to 3rd grade are eligible for the Golden Apple awards, which has been given to area educators since 1985.

"These finalists have shown outstanding commitment and made a positive impact on students' growth and learning, significantly contributing to their academic and personal development,” said Alan Mather, president of the Golden Apple Foundation.

“We are proud to honor these educators, acknowledging their crucial role in shaping the future of education and inspiring the next generation," Mather said in a statement.

The Learn charter school network is made up of 11 schools, with locations in Chicago, North Chicago, Waukegan and Washington, D.C. It ahs more than 4,200 students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, according to its website.

In her North Chicago classroom, Behrendt prioritizes social-emotional learning and shares her own mental health experiences to foster open communication and create a safe space with her students, according to her nominating materials.

Behrendt also empowers students to take ownership of their education through engaging and exciting lesson-planning. Students feel seen and heard in her classroom, a "lively hub" of collaboration and creativity, according to her nomination.

"Beyond academic instruction, she imparts essential life skills, teaching respect, conflict resolution, and even incorporating yoga as a certified instructor," it said.

"Despite setting high standards, Behrendt remains receptive to feedback, showcasing not only her passion but also her commitment to continuous growth and improvement as an educator."