Cardinal Elementary Kindergarten school teacher Amy Shultz was awarded the Golden Apple during Friday’s annual South Sioux City Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet at the Marriott Event Center.
"It's a little overwhelming to win. I was honored just to be nominated. It's very gratifying to know that people appreciate the work that teachers do. It's very fulfilling," commented Shultz.
"The winner this year is a standout educator whose passion for teaching is evident in every moment of the school day,” Dr. Ortega stated. “Her classroom is a place where learning never stops — whether during a morning meeting, lining up, or transitioning between activities — she seizes every moment as a teachable one. Her students often don't even realize they're learning, thanks to her seamless, conversational approach.”
The South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce has recognized exceptional teachers in the South Sioux community with the recognition of the Golden Apple since 1992. To be considered for the award, the teacher must have positively and significantly impacted the lives of students whom they have taught and mentored and the community in which they live.
Shultz has been teaching for 33 years. She has been teaching in the South Sioux School District for 31 years and has taught kindergarten for 26 years and second grade for seven years.
"They're all at different levels in kindergarten. It takes a lot of planning and hard work to bring everyone up to the same spot," commented Shultz.
An issue shared by Dr. Ortega.
“She takes immense pride in student achievement, especially in reading and math. No matter where her kindergarten students start, they're performing at the top of the grade level district-wide by the end of the year,” he said. “She dives deep into data to understand exactly what each child needs and differentiates instruction accordingly, ensuring that every student, regardless of background or ability, has the support to thrive."
But her greatest reward in teaching was shared and shown many times during the Friday night celebrations.
"My greatest reward is when former students return and share their school memories with me. I'm at the point now, too, where I'm teaching former students’ children now. It's just great to make those lasting relationships," Shultz said.
