Golden Apple 11/14/12

It couldn't happen to a nicer guy or a better teacher.

That was the feeling of fellow teachers and support staff at Union City Middle School when they found out the winner of this week's Golden Apple Award.

Here's Lou Baxter to tell you about him.

((Take pkg))

Award presentation

For 21 years, Jerry VanZandt has been teaching school. He's a 6th grade science teacher at the middle school in Union City.   He got his inspiration for teaching at home.

Jerry VanZandt, Golden Apple Award Winner:

"My mom was a teacher. She was the inspiration.

Teaching just feels like what I should be doing."

Whether in the classroom or the lunch room, the students who nominated Mr. VanZandt say he encourages them to be the best they can be. He takes the time to help them understand, to learn and to be better young men and women.

Lou Baxter: " This weeks Golden Apple Award Winner...in and out of the classroom."

Hannah Hedderick, 6th grade student: "I like how he connects to everyone.... He'll be there for you."

Trista Gradler: "He made learning fun. ... He reached out to a lot of students."

Mary Jo Melvin Phd, Edinboro University:  "It's one thing to be able to teach content. ... inside and outside of the classroom."

And that's why Mr. Jerry VanZandt is this weeks Jet 24 Edinboro University Golden Apple Award winner.  In Union City, Lou Baxter, Jet 24 Action News.

Be sure to nominate your favorite teacher by going to the contest page at yourerie.com.