by Kelly J. Larson, Austin Area Public Affairs Coordinating Council Media Specialist
AUSTIN, Texas — Twenty-one teachers from local high schools were honored at a teacher appreciation banquet on March 27, 2019, each receiving a Crystal Apple Award for their positive impact on students.
More than a hundred guests including high school teachers, students, parents, seminary teachers and school administrators, attended the banquet held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 5201 Convict Hill Road hosted by the Austin Oak Hills Stake.
High school seniors who attend an early morning religion class (seminary) every day before school, were asked to nominate a teacher of high moral character who has had the most impact on them during their high school career.
Teachers from six high schools in the Austin area (Dripping Springs High School, Lake Travis High School, Del Valle High School, Westlake High School, Bowie High School and Kipp Austin Collegiate) were selected. Fifteen of the nominated teachers, many of whom brought a guest, were able to attend the banquet.
The church cultural hall was illuminated with strands of lights and a backdrop structure was built to feature one word describing each teacher, chosen by the student who nominated them. Texas barbecue was served as the meal.
Hardback books covered in bright white paper, tall glass vases filled with greenery and a few red apples adorned each round banquet table, which were covered with floor length white linens. Several teachers expressed appreciation and gratitude for being honored.
Teachers received a Crystal Apple Award and a letter from the student who nominated them. Every high school senior was able to choose one teacher. A standing ovation was given at the end of the presentations.
The program featured remarks from two high school seniors, Rebecca Stout and James Bartling. Music was performed by high school students Abigail Storm, Madi Jensen, Chloe Storm and Sophia Lynn, accompanied by Carli Bartling on the piano and Rachel May on the violin. Chris Germann, stake president, and Sina Jensen, director of public affairs for the Austin Oak Hills Stake, also spoke briefly. Jensen, who visited 18 of the 21 teachers at their schools, personally invited each one to be honored at the teacher appreciation banquet.
Dripping Springs Independent School District Superintendent Bruce Gearing said, “It was an honor to witness the relationships that have been intentionally built between teachers, students and parents with the support of the church community. I sincerely appreciate what I see happening through your ministry. Thank you for creating this amazing opportunity for our children and faculty.”
Gearing continued, “Thank you so much for honoring them and more importantly for the work you do with all these fantastic young people. You can clearly see in that room the positive effects you are having on so many lives.”
Lake Travis High School teacher, Russell Henry, said, “It was an honor to be amongst this group of amazing kids. Thank you for your hospitality and generosity.”
“It was so evident in each detail of the banquet that you and everyone involved were passionate about making us feel welcome and appreciated,” Lake Travis High School teacher, Elizabeth Stark, said.
“I was so overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity displayed,” Jeff Henson, a Bowie High School teacher, commented.
Henson added, “I cannot tell you how much I appreciated your efforts on our behalf. Having students like Dartanian makes it easy for me to get up and go to work every day. All of those students (who attended) showed that they have so much to offer.”
Original artwork was created by ten high school students to add to the ambiance with a gallery for viewing prior to and during the program.
