St. Norbert Teacher Named Golden Apple Finalist

NORTHBROOK, IL — Kristin Anson, a fifth-grade teacher at St. Norbert School, has been named a finalist for the 2026 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching. Anson is among 30 finalists selected from nearly 600 nominations for the prestigious award, which recognizes outstanding teachers in 4th through 8th grades.

The Golden Apple Foundation, a nonprofit organization, focuses on preparing, honoring, and mentoring educators. The awards are designed to honor teachers who have a lasting, positive effect on students’ lives and school communities.

According to the organization, Anson uses an inquiry-based approach in her classroom, known as the 5E model, which encourages students to investigate, reflect, and apply their learning. She incorporates hands-on learning units, such as a water cycle project where students design terrariums and devices for clean water. Literacy is also integrated across subjects, using picture books and novels to address real-world issues like access to clean water and inequality.

Beyond her classroom, Anson has completed intensive training in The Writing Revolution, which has resulted in gains in her students’ writing stamina and sentence construction. She also mentors her peers, sharing her expertise to enhance instruction.

According to her blog on the St. Norbert School's website, Anson is in her 20th year of teaching at the school. She says she spent her first three years at St. Norbert teaching third grade before moving on to fifth.

"Exceptional teachers remind us every day what is possible for students," said Alan Mather, president of Golden Apple. "They create classrooms where curiosity and challenge are encouraged, confidence is built, and learning feels meaningful. These finalists exemplify the dedication, care, and skill that define teaching at its finest. We are proud to recognize the lasting impact they have on their students and school community."

The 2026 Golden Apple Award recipients will be surprised in the spring. Each recipient receives a $5,000 cash award and a spring sabbatical at Northwestern University. Award recipients also become Fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, contributing to teacher preparation programs.