16 teachers remain in competition for Golden Apple

Sixteen teachers from seven communities across the state are being recognized as finalists for the 2017 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.

The Golden Apple Foundation of New Mexico honors outstanding educators every year for exceptional work in helping students learn, think, and create, organizers said in a release.

“Reaching this phase in the selection process is a real accomplishment,” says Golden Apple executive director Brian O’Connell.

Recipients of the award receive several benefits, including induction into the Golden Apple Academy of Fellows, a generous professional development fund, and a cash prize, organizers said.

Nominated by their communities and selected through a rigorous application process, these teachers will be receiving site visits from the Golden Apple selection committee over the next several weeks to determine the eventual seven recipients. The finalists are:

Miskee Blatner, Eldorado High, Albuquerque

Laura Carthy, Capital High, Santa Fe

Adia Corley, West Mesa High, Albuquerque

Travis Crawley, Volcano Vista High, Albuquerque

Janet Delgado, Rio Grande High, Albuquerque

Allison Dunn, Eldorado High, Albuquerque

Melody Hagaman, Centennial High, Las Cruces

Robert Hanson, V. Sue Cleveland High, Rio Rancho

Laura Iverson, Del Norte High, Albuquerque

Stephanie Jaquez, Farmington High, Farmington

Shara Montoya, Hot Springs High, Truth or Consequences

Mark Robinson, St. Pius X, Albuquerque

Angela Seiler, V. Sue Cleveland High, Rio Rancho

Amy Suman, Volcano Vista High, Albuquerque

Masika Sweetwyne, Gallup High School, Gallup

Nikki Turman, Del Norte High, Albuquerque

Recipients of the award will be announced in November.

To nominate a teacher for next year’s middle school level award, visit www.goldenapplenm.org.