WHS PTSA Honors Exceptional Educators with Golden Apple Awards

Woodinville High School Special Education Teacher Katherine Smith and Social Studies Teacher Jim Backstrom were recently bestowed with the prestigious "Golden Apple" awards from WHS PTSA during the Moving Up Assembly on Thursday, June 8.

In a heartfelt announcement, Kim Norris, a representative from WHS PTSA, proudly expressed, "It is with great pleasure that I present the 2023 Woodinville High School PTSA’s Outstanding Educator Award. This esteemed recognition celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to enrich the education of students at WHS. We received nominations for nearly 70 different teachers, a testament to the exceptional caliber of educators we have in our midst. Students have conveyed how challenged, safe, and cared for they felt within your classrooms, and they deeply appreciate the extra efforts you have invested in their learning. As a community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for everything you have done for our students this year. Let's give a resounding round of applause to all our teachers."

Norris continued, "Our first exceptional teacher award recipient is adored by students at WHS. Students have described this teacher as 'awesome,' offering thumbs-ups and even blowing kisses. These simple yet heartfelt responses speak volumes. Colleagues have referred to this educator as 'the most passionate teacher I have ever met. Her love for her students is genuine, evident in her relationships with them.' Another colleague remarked that she 'possesses a huge heart and remarkable patience.' 'She excels in her role, demonstrating dedication and determination to ensure her students have a voice and receive the best education in any situation.' A parent wrote, 'As a mother of special needs children, I constantly worry about what happens after dropping off my child each day. I wish I could tell all the other mothers what great hands their children are in here at Woodinville.' Katherine Smith, please accept your well-deserved award and our deepest appreciation for leading an exceptional special education department and showing unwavering love to all students at Woodinville High School."

Norris concluded, "Our second outstanding educator award recipient is renowned for being thoughtful, kind, dedicated, passionate, generous, and a walking encyclopedia. A colleague likened this teacher to Cal Ripken, Jr., the legendary MLB player who set the record for the most consecutive games/years played. Like Cal, he shows up every day at WHS without fanfare and excels in his role: teaching, listening, and serving as an advocate and role model for students and staff alike. Students have attested, 'He ensures that we can achieve our goals and provides us with every opportunity for success.' Another student expressed, 'His knowledge of history and world events is unparalleled. In fact, before Google, if my students asked a question I couldn't answer, I would rush to his room to obtain the information I needed.' Another shared, 'It's time to recognize the tremendous amount of extra time he selflessly devotes to his students. He leads the hiking club, Model UN, and the Poetry club. He engages with students enthusiastically and is an incredible colleague! He is a master teacher in every sense.' After dedicating over 30 years to this profession, we are delighted to congratulate Jim Backstrom as one of our Golden Apple Award recipients. Thank you and congratulations."

Woodinville High School PTSA extends their heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Smith, Mr. Backstrom, and all the exceptional teachers at WHS. They wholeheartedly embrace their motto, "One Falcon, One Family," and deeply appreciate the efforts and support of students, parents, teachers, and staff in fostering a sense of family within the school community.

The award recipients were determined with input from WHS students and staff, and the WHS PTSA.