Two UF College of Education Grads are “Hand-Picked” for Golden Apple Awards

Two University of Findlay College of Education graduates were recently announced as finalists for the 2020 Golden Apple Award by the Findlay Rotary Club.

This annual award is the symbol of teaching excellence and is meant to honor top educators in Findlay and Hancock County. One finalist is named at the elementary school, middle school and high school levels.

Lani Sapp, a first-grade teacher at Jefferson Primary School, graduated in ’97 and received her Master of Arts in Education in ’02. She has a unique perspective as she was originally licensed as an Intervention Specialist and then added Early Childhood licensure. “We have placed many student teachers with Lani, she is an excellent cooperating teacher. She is engaging and a team player,” said Julie McIntosh, dean of the College of Education. Susan Brooks, assistant professor of teaching in education, explained, “Lani is skilled at bridging the gap between Intervention Specialists and Early Childhood educators. She builds collaborative teams within her building and is a role model for our future educators.”

Martie Andrews, an intervention specialist at Findlay High School, received her Master of Arts in Education in ’10. “I am exceptionally proud of Martie, I have known her since she was in high school,” said McIntosh. “She was a student in my Biology class and truly a standout. She was exceptionally organized, caring, and professional. Martie has the true heart of an educator, she sees the best in everyone and encourages students to be the best that they can be.” Brooks echoed McIntosh’s praise stating, “Martie is a team builder and views what students can do rather than focusing on what they cannot do.”

During the Findlay Rotary Club’s awards dinner, the finalists for each level were announced and received the Golden Apple Award along with a $2,500 cash prize. Sapp and Andrews will join past finalists in the Golden Apple Academy.

For more information on the University’s excellent Education Programs, visit the College of Education online.