Local teachers receive Golden Apple awards

CHICAGO Mayor Richard Daley handed out the National Golden Apple Awards at Peirce Elementary School. Music teacher Brooke Thompson was just one of the recipients.

Each year the award recognizes superior teachers for their devotion. The national awards are sponsored by the Golden Apple Foundation.

Mayor Daley says it's important for the city to have professional teachers of the highest quality.

"We are doing more each year to attract better quality teaching candidates, doing all to insure that they go into the schools that need the help the most," he said.

Mayor Daley said in 2006, more than 26 percent of newly hired teachers had advanced degrees.