Insurance Credit Union Banking Careers Golden Apple Awards recognize educators, student-focused programs One teacher organizes a student corps to volunteer in the community. Another opens his American Sign Language class to all students. Teenagers write and perform a play on race relations.
Professional writers teach in high schools.
Winners of the 1999 Golden Apple Awards excel in different areas but share a common accomplishment they've made a positive difference for students. Robert Knatt, music director at Washington Middle School in Seattle, built the school's jazz band into a national winner. Ron Podmore, instructor at Decatur High School in Federal Way, fought to have American Sign Language offered for foreign language credit. Susan Venable, principal of College Place Elementary in Edmonds, turned her school around by focusing on school readiness, reading, and recognition. Evan Woodward, physical science teacher and coach at Hanford Middle School in Richland, used attention-grabbing demonstrations to make science fun and exciting.