Lemont Alumna Tabbed With Golden Apple Scholar Accolades

LEMONT, IL — Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois annually honors the best of future teachers, and for the first time since 2015, a Lemont High School student can lay claim to this most prestigious of awards. The school said recent graduate Maria Purpura has been cited as one of 175 Golden Apple Scholars in the Class of 2019 – one of the largest classes in the 30-year history of the program. Purpura and the rest of the 2019 Golden Apple Scholars were honored by the Golden Apple Foundation at an induction ceremony on June 8 at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace.

Purpura plans on majoring in elementary education at Illinois State University.

According to the school, she was a high honor roll student who was a standout in the school’s Fine Arts program. A four-year member of the choir, Purpura also was involved in the Drama Club throughout her career, holding roles in several drama productions and spring musicals. She also was a four-year member of the Color Guard, serving as a section leader as a senior.

Purpura also was a two-time Group Interpretation cast member, and a four-year member of the Speech Team. She served as captain of the Speech Team in her final season. The school said she also earned induction into the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, International Thespian Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois candidates endure a rigorous application and interview process. In exchange for successful completion of a bachelor’s degree and a commitment to teaching for five years in an Illinois “school of need,” Golden Apple awardees receive financial assistance for four years to attend one of approximately 50 public and private universities that take part in the program, and also participate in summer programs such as teaching internships and enhanced teacher preparation.

Lemont’s previous Golden Apple Scholars have included Emily Durham ‘14, Kelly Kardas ‘07, Sara Michaelsen ‘07, Lauren Moravecek ‘07 and Jake Rangel ‘15.