12 finalists have been selected for the 2019 Golden Apple Awards which takes place on World Teachers Day, October 5^th at the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa.

Parents, students, graduates, fellow teachers and members of the public from across the Cayman Islands were able to nominate a teacher who they wished to recognise for excellence in teaching. A total of 76 teachers were nominated across the 5 categories.

The 2019 finalists for each respective category include:

·         High School Teacher – Private, Jennifer Artuch, St. Ignatius Catholic School          

·         High School Teacher – Private, Daniel Baker, Cayman Prep and High School         

·         High School Teacher – Private, Katie Dilbert, Grace Christian Academy   

·         High School Teacher – Public, Kerita Levermore Stewart, John Gray High School

·         High School Teacher – Public, Dee Clark, Cayman Islands Further Education Centre          

·         Primary School Teacher – Private, Kelly Cowling, Cayman Prep and High School 

·         Primary School Teacher – Private, Allison Copeland, Cayman Academy  

·         Primary School Teacher – Public, Nadesha Edwards- Nyathi, Bodden Town Primary School           

·         Primary School Teacher – Public, Erica Powell, Savannah Primary School

·         Principal in a Public or Private School, Adrian Jones, Layman E Scott High School 

·         Principal in a Public or Private School, Clare Thorpe, Island Montessori   

The winner of the prestigious Life Achievement award for 2019 is Marjorie Scott.

The awards, were first launched in 2007 by the Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, Agriculture & Lands, recognises teachers and principals in public and private primary and high schools

Chris Kirkconnell, President of the Chamber of Commerce, said; “the high level of nominations received this year is testament to the impact our teachers have in our community. The Chamber would like to thank all those who took the time to nominate. The Chamber believes education is one of the most important aspects in shaping the future leaders in Cayman” 

Clare Thorpe, Principal and Owner, Island Montessori said; “I am delighted to have made it to the final round of my category. Since opening Island Montessori in 2017 I have worked hard to assemble a wonderful team of teachers and support staff. This ensures we provide a unique, child centered environment nurturing and developing the next generation. To be nominated for this award is a huge honour and I am grateful for all the support from our parents and community” 

Tickets for the 2019 Golden Apple Awards are now on sale. Those interested in attending to support educators in the community can purchase tickets at www.caymanchamber.ky/goldenappleawards

The event is made possible by the support of our sponsors; Ministry of Education, Armand Hammer Foundation, Dart, CUC, Health City, Office Supply, GT Automotive, Kensington Management, Vampt Motors, Fosters Food Fair and Equilibrium Events.

IMAGE:

Photo: Clare Thorpe

Caption: Clare Thorpe, Island Montessori, Principal Category Finalist