Orland Junior High Teacher Surprised with Golden Apple Award

ORLAND PARK, IL - Students, faculty and staff at Orland Junior High on Friday gathered in the school gymnasium on Friday to surprise English teacher Michelle Kedzierski with the news that she was chosen as a Golden Apple award winner.

Kedzierski - who teaches reading, literature and language arts to sixth, seventh and eighth graders at the school - "uses literature as an entrée to exploring critical social issues, such as bullying," according to a news release.

"She believes ardently in the potential literature holds to open minds and inspire positive choices and behaviors. At a time when participation in hateful practices is conducted online anonymously and often, she believes it is essential for middle school students to explore the potential consequences of choices."

The Golden Apple award recipients this year were selected from a pool of more than 600 nominations and represent 4th-8th grade teachers throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Kedzierski was one of just two recipients from the south suburbs this year.

Read More: Orland Junior High Teacher Nominated for Golden Apple Award

Take a look at Kedzierski's reaction the moment she found out about her win.

Photo submitted to Orland Park Patch