Aberdeen Public Schools Foundation Presents Golden Apple Awards

The Aberdeen Public Schools Foundation announced the seventh annual Golden Apple Awards, recognizing individuals that are dedicated, inspiring, and making a difference in the Aberdeen School District. This year’s honorees are Simmons Elementary School Principal Kim Aman, Central High School Band Instructor Jeremy Schutter, and Special Education Coordinator Mendy Jones. Each received $500 and an engraved golden apple.

Aman learns the names of new students within the first week of school, and she has implemented many positive behavior plans, including growth mindset and restorative behavior practices. She also promotes a caring atmosphere for staff members, and will drop whatever she is doing to help others. Building relationships is important to Aman, and in addition to her students and staff, she also works closely with the school’s PTA and local businesses. Her passion for learning is evident by her many degrees and accolades. 

Schutter goes above and beyond what is expected in his responsibilities by creating strong personal connections with each of his students. He makes his classes exciting to be in by including challenging materials in order to push students to improve their skills. Schutter’s impact can be found outside of the classroom because many of the lessons he teaches are essential lessons for life in the real world. He emphasizes punctuality, strong work-ethic, and self-improvement. 

Jones began her career by working in several school settings for at-risk students. When transitioning to the public schools, her caring, supportive, and enthusiastic demeanor was evident in her daily interactions with her students. Her ability to connect with them along with her high classroom expectations created a welcoming environment where students felt safe in expressing their thoughts, ideas, opinions, and feelings. She played an essential role in developing the Basic Classes at Central High School as she saw a need for more classes that would specifically fit the academic needs of students which improved the graduation rate of students with special needs. //

For more information, visit www.AberdeenPublicSchoolsFoundation.org.