MANSFIELD — Abraxas teacher Julie Pfeifer was named one of three Crystal Apple Award recipients from School Specialty.
As a winner, Pfeifer received a Crystal Apple Trophy, a $250 School Specialty merchandise certificate for Abraxas and a $500 School Specialty merchandise certificate for herself.
This remarkable achievement comes after a rigorous selection process. Ten finalists were chosen from an impressive pool of 600 nominations.
The winners were ultimately decided through a public voting system, with thousands of votes cast.
School Specialty wrote, “Every year, School Specialty invites educators and school communities to nominate deserving teachers who embody our key contest criteria of inspiration, leadership, and passion.”
In addition to teaching math and life skills at Abraxas, Pfeifer started an Auto Body Club, a 3D Printing Club and a Book Club to provide students with new opportunities.
Jolene Edwards, Principal at Abraxas had this to say about Pfeifer:
“Julie is a fantastic teacher and so deserving of this award. She helps students achieve their greatest potential,” Edwards said.
“She writes grants and participates in facilitating after-school clubs, giving students opportunities that they would not normally have. We are so happy for her!”
Julie Pfeifer
Julie Pfeifer started her teaching career later in life. She attended college at the same time as her son, with her daughter in junior high, and graduated with honors while raising her family.
Julie has written numerous grants to provide students with new opportunities. She has written curricula for new courses, including a Lifeskills class where the students earn certifications, write a resume, learn how to cook and sew, and learn about taxes, W-4s, W-2s, and retirement plans.
Julie teaches Algebra I and II, Geometry, and Lifeskills.
She started a Book Club, an Auto Body Club, and a 3D printing Club for students to design and create. She is always planning new ways to motivate and interest her students.
To learn more about Pfeifer and the Crystal Apple Award, visit blog.schoolspecialty.com/2024-crystal-apple-award-winners.