It is with great honor and sincere admiration that I nominate Sara Buerman as the next recipient of the Golden Apple Award. Since coming to Bellevue she has been a dedicated team member who willingly steps up to help students and colleagues in multiple ways. Sara was instrumental in developing the idea for last year’s Community Read and served on the March is Reading Month committee. She volunteered to help with the mobile summer reading program; has helped organize Holiday Hooplas and several field trips; provides leadership on the PBIS team; and she is currently planning a Spelling Bee. For those who may not be aware, Sara has also provided her technology skills and ideas to those who needed a little extra support.

     In addition to her many helpful qualities, Sara has also proven to be a very kind and caring individual. She can often be seen offering up a smile or extending encouraging words to students and fellow teachers. Even when things get stressful Sara continues to positively push through difficulties, providing an example of true resilience to those around her. Her actions prove that she genuinely cares about others and will do anything to help make their lives or situations better. One example of this was shared by her teaching partner, Jessica.

     “The nicest thing she has done for me was when I sent the text letting her know I was in the hospital. I felt bad because I had my Math Teacher's Edition and we had NWEA testing. Her response at 6:31 a.m. was, ‘Let me know if you need anything, we will be fine at school so don't worry.’ And then again at 3:13 p.m., ‘I have sub plans written for you for next week so please don't worry about that. It is following our plans so your kiddos would not fall behind.  Please take all the time you need to be better. Testing went good today. I think we have everyone done. Do not hesitate to ask if you need anything.’ Not only did she care, she took her time to do MY lesson plans for the WEEK on HER planning. She is amazing and deserves so much more than a golden apple. We are SO blessed to have her as part of our Bellevue Family! I so love her!”

Thank you, Sara for being an amazing educator! We are so fortunate to have you and are grateful for all the help and kindness you bring to our students, staff, and community!