TROY, Ill. — Ashley Whittington, who teaches sixth through 10th grade at the Center for Educational Opportunities in Troy, IL., is one of 30 finalists for the 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. She was selected from nearly 600 nominations statewide.
Whittington has taught for 11 years and uses what the release described as a cyclical approach to instruction in her alternative school setting, where structure and engagement “matter as much as content.”
In a recent grammar unit, she began with a pre-assessment on the eight parts of speech to identify strengths and gaps, then designed a lesson combining direct instruction with a “Grammar Menu” project in which students presented each part of speech as a themed menu item.
The unit included interactive notes, checkpoints, peer proofreading and revision opportunities intended to support students who struggle with organization and time management. After presentations and review, Whittington “observed clear growth in comprehension and confidence,” the release said.
The release also described Whittington as leading “with empathy,” using reflective conversations and self-examination to maintain an inclusive and supportive classroom. It said she believes that “when students feel valued based on who they are, belonging and academic growth follow.”
Each week, students brainstorm acts of appreciation on Monday and carry them out on Friday by writing thank-you notes, delivering snacks, creating posters or making handmade gifts. Over time, the initiative has become fully student-led, the release said, strengthening empathy, responsibility and teamwork.
The recognition comes as more than 400,000 teaching positions nationwide are either unfilled or staffed by underqualified hires, about one in eight classrooms, the release said. In that environment, experienced teachers play a critical role in sustaining student learning.
