Thursday
October 23, 2008
We are so proud and applaud our Golden Apple Fellow and colleague, Cheryl D. Watkins, principal of Pershing West Magnet Elementary School, for her selection as a National Educator Award recipient from the Milken Foundation.
Golden Apple’s relationship with this fine educator began in 1991 when she was nominated as a teacher of autistic children as Agassiz Elementary School and was named in the 6th cohort of Golden Apple Award winners. Cheryl has distinguished herself in the Golden Apple Academy ever since her inclusion. Cheryl serves as a Pre-K-3rd class representative on the Golden Apple Academy Committee. She has taught and mentored our prospective teachers through the Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois program. She has always been a vibrant and articulate advocate for children and represents Golden Apple’s interest and programs superbly. We hailed her appointment as principal of Pershing West and have joined in her pride at seeing her vision of excellent educational experiences for deserving children come through on Chicago’s south side.
The Milken Award was presented to Cheryl by Lowell Milken, chairman of the Milken Foundation and creator of the Milken Family Awards. He explained the rational behind the award, “I believe that teachers and principals have the most important jobs in the country. Research confirms that the most important school-related factor in student achievement is the quality of teachers and principals.”
Cheryl received the award at an assembly she had been asked to organize at Pershing West Magnet School. The assembly was ostensibly called to hear accolades from Chicago Public School CEO Arne Duncan for the school’s outstanding educational achievements. Her obvious pleasure at the description of the school’s success was replaced by disbelief and tears of joy as she was announced as a recipient of the $25,000 Milken Educator Award.
Golden Apple prides itself at being far before the curve in recognizing educators of uncommon talent and promise. We cheer that the outer world is now growing in recognition of the talent and passion of this extraordinary teacher and leader who so ably represents the mission and spirit of our organization.
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I had the privilege of being with Lowell Milken as he surprised Cheryl Watkins with the Milken Educator Award. What an inspiring day! Cheryl’s students at Pershing West were so proud of their principal...and also should be proud of their own accomplishments. These young people in grades 4-8 impressed me as I asked their future goals, which included a peditrician, veterinarian, architect, two fashion designers, and an astronaut. To watch video from the event,check out http://www.mff.org/mea/notif2008.taf?page=videos&vid;=1022.
I would like to congratulate Cheryl Watkins as a new parent to the school. I can say that my daughters attitude about school has changed since being at her school. I am so pleased with what I see at Pershing West and hope I can be a parent that helps Ms. Watkins achieve bigger and better for the school. Thanks again for recognizing GREATNESS. KUDOS CHERYL WATKINS AND PERSHING WEST!!!
