Congratulations to Mrs. Gwen Rockette from Clarkdale Elementary. The third-grade teacher has been chosen as November's Golden Apple Award recipient. The award recognizes outstanding teachers and educators in East Mississippi and West Alabama. Given this fact, Mrs. Debbie Fant from Clarkdale said Mrs. Rockette was a perfect fit.
"I'm the librarian at the middle school and high school, and I know that Mrs. Rockette is one of the true unsung heroes in our community," said Fant. "Her ability to zero in on the individual strengths of each child is remarkable."
The surprise announcement was made during a recent special school assembly.
"I'm humbled. I'm overwhelmed, and I'm very grateful," said Rockette. "I strive for my students to leave my class better than they arrive. I want them to leave knowing more and being better off than when they met me."
For the honor, Mrs. Rockette is receiving $1,300 in school supplies, a $300 cash award, and a $1,000 Continuing Education Voucher for MSU Meridian. Sponsors for the Golden Apple Award include The Meridian Family of Stations, The Meridian Star, Meridian Community College, Citizens National Bank, EMEPA, Mississippi Power Company, Woodstock Furniture, MSU Meridian, Avery, LaBiche Jewelers, Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling, and College Savings Mississippi.
Click on the link below to view footage of Mrs. Rockette's surprise presentation.