And what a surprise it was for Gloria Moyer who teaches reading and writing to visually impaired children at Otis Elementary School.
"Your teacher was identified as one of the very best teachers in the whole state of Illinois," said Ron Huberman, CEO, Chicago Public Schools.
Moyer's motto is meeting the needs of each student. Her students may not be able to see her but they can feel her caring spirit and loving nature.
"It is very special. When you think of the number of teachers we have in the state of Illinois," said Gloria Harper, Golden Apple Award recipient.
Hundreds of children at Hunting Ridge Elementary School in Palatine roared when they heard that physical education instructor David Sobel was selected as a Golden Apple recipient. Sobel could barely hold back the tears of joy.
"I actually have real tears this time because you guys mean everything to me," said David Sobel, Golden Apple recipient.
The school hired a band for the celebration that followed the announcement. School officials say that Sobel has distinguished himself as a teacher with a passion for his profession.
"It means the world to me. I still can't believe I really am here. It's a reflection on the staff and the teachers I work with and the students," said Sobel.
His mother and father - both retired teachers - were on hand to support him along with his wife and two daughters.
Sobel uses video photography to document what the students are doing in class and in sports.
"It's an honor. He's such a dedicated man the he gets up at 4:00 A.M. To do the videos for his kids at school," said Jennifer Sobel, David's wife.
Sobel says he is dedicated to inspiring his students and the community.
Close to a 1,000 teachers were nominated and only ten winners of this prestigious award. The winners will receive a tuition free spring term sabbatical at Northwestern University and a $3,000 personal computer. They also receive membership in the Golden Academy of Educators which has now inducted 230 expert teachers who work together to ensure that all children have the excellent teachers they deserve.
