Spanish teacher Marcela Sample is the April recipient of the Golden Apple Award. She was selected by March’s recipient, Hope Via.

“I spoke to my students and got lots of suggestions, but Senora Sample’s students were adamant,” Via said. “She gives them a safe place to take risks with new content by correcting their mistakes in a way that helps them learn and still feel good about themselves.”

Sample went to college in Mexico to pursue a business degree, but when she moved to the States, she changed her major to education. She has earned her teaching certificate from Georgia State University, her master’s degree from Central Michigan University, and her specialist’s degree from Lincoln Memorial University.

“I want them to enjoy the language and the class they are taking,” Sample said. “But I also want them to grow as a person [through the class] and to go on the right path.”

Sample manages the Interact Club and the Hispanic-Latino Student Society. In her free time, she enjoys going on walks and being close to nature, spending time with loved ones, and cooking.

Sample receives $100 from Farmers Insurance to spend on curriculum and instruction. She will also receive a free large pizza from Buck’s Pizza, a gift certificate to Lisa’s Creperie in Senoia, a goodie bag from Safelite Auto, and a free haircut from Main Hair in Peachtree City.