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"Warren Twp. Golden Apple Awardee Shares Insights on Nurturing Young Minds"
INDIANAPOLIS — The Golden Apple Award, presented by WISH-TV, recognizes exceptional teachers in central Indiana, celebrating their dedication and impact on students. This prestigious award includes a $2,000 cash prize, a trophy, a school supply shopping spree, and a surprise visit from the News 8 team.
December’s Golden Apple Award recipient is Mrs. Angela Grace, a teacher at Creston Intermediate Middle School in Warren Township. Known as the home of the Cyclones, Creston saw nearly 50 nominations for Grace's recognition.
Grace—affectionately called “Coco” by her friends, colleagues, and students—began her journey as a parent with four children in the district before transitioning to teaching STEM to seventh and eighth graders at the same school. Her eighth-grade students expressed their joy over her win; Maurice Martinez remarked that he had an inkling she would win because "everybody in school liked her." Ryann Norris added that given what they put her through, "she most definitely needs this," while Shaniah Coleman emphasized that "she deserves it."
Principal Todd Nailon highlighted how quickly Grace became a favorite among students. Most refer to her simply as “Coco,” which fosters a more personal connection between her and the kids. Nailon noted, “With that point of connection to them, it’s kind of opened the door for her to be more than just a teacher to the kids.”
Grace's path began when she became involved as a substitute teacher after being an active parent in Warren Township. Recognizing her innate ability to connect with children led Nailon to encourage her to pursue teaching full-time. She is currently enrolled in the Transition to Teaching program and is set to graduate in August 2025.
Students find excitement in Grace's classes through engaging activities such as dissecting sheep brains and building structures with popsicle sticks. Fellow teacher Ron Peckham pointed out that students appreciate not only fun projects but also the support she provides when they need help improving grades.
Hannah Henegar, an eighth-grade language arts teacher who collaborates frequently with Grace, praised her authentic approach: “These kids have to be socially and emotionally safe before they can ever be academically successful. And she does a great job of that.” Henegar was among nearly 50 who nominated Grace for this award.
When surprised in her classroom by WGU and News 8 representatives alongside family members, Grace was overwhelmed with emotion upon receiving the award check: “I guess my students love me,” she said tearfully after watching heartfelt messages from them.
The nickname "Coco" has been part of Grace's identity since childhood; it's derived from her middle name Nicole—a gift from her grandmother. Reflecting on her unexpected journey from school parent during the pandemic to becoming a STEM educator since 2021, she stated: “This was not my plan but this was God’s plan.”
Grace encourages others by sharing vital lessons learned along the way: “Love the children. You have to build a relationship with them." She understands many children lack supportive bonds at home and believes strong relationships foster trust—leading them towards success both academically and personally.
This commitment creates an environment where students can thrive—a testament to how essential nurturing bonds are within education.