Two teachers to receive Golden Apple Awards

The West Aurora school board will present two of its best teachers with Golden Apple Awards Monday.

The honorees are Sue Ludwigs, a Jewel Middle School physical education teacher, and Kim Zenz, an instrumental music teacher and band director based at Herget Middle School and Schneider Elementary School.

There will be a reception for the two at 5:30 p.m., followed by a 6 p.m. award presentation at West Aurora High School, 1201 W. New York St., Aurora.

The Golden Apple Award recognizes and honors outstanding teachers who have "gone above and beyond" the high expectations established for their positions.

"Rarely, if ever, have I seen someone with the passion, talent and commitment to teaching as I see in my coworker on a daily basis," a colleague said of Zenz in a nomination letter.

"Not only does she involve her students in the learning process, she is able to unify students from diverse backgrounds in working toward and achieving a common goal. In her classes, each student knows the important role he or she plays in the group's ultimate success."

Ludwigs is PE teacher, department chair and volleyball coach. She has 30 years of teaching experience and is a mentor to both staff and students.

"I have been truly inspired by her ability to connect with special needs students and her dedication to the overall safety of the learning environment," wrote Jewel Principal Greg Scalia.

Scalia said one way Ludwigs stands out is her work with children who have physical disabilities. For example, she has designed adaptive games for these students and works with them to both get exercise and have fun.

Ludwigs also is the "safety guru" of Jewel, Scalia said. "Her drive and commitment to safety has created an atmosphere that is conducive to learning while reassuring to students, staff and parents alike."