Maine South High School math, English teachers finalist for Gold Apple award
Zanfina Muja, a sophomore English teacher, and Cheng Jin, an immigrant who was formerly part of an English Language Learner program, are in the running for a 2025 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, according to the nonprofit organization that gives out the award, as well as Maine Township High School District 207 officials.
According to the eponymous organization, the Golden Apple award honors 'outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students' lives and school communities. Teacher finalists demonstrate—in their teaching and results—a significant, positive impact on their students' growth and learning.'
Muja has 11 years of experience teaching English, and currently co-leads a classroom designed to support students with different learning abilities, according to District 207 officials. An English II instructor – teaching sophomores – she uses literary theories in her teaching, and helps students analyze texts through historical and societal lenses.
'Her students apply W.E.B. Du Bois' Double Consciousness Theory and Gloria Anzaldúa's Borderlands Theory to literature, deepening their understanding of identity and perspective,' district officials explained about Muja's teaching style.
Further, she takes part in curriculum development. Muja also mentors educators, coaches pre-service teachers, and leads literacy initiatives to strengthen instruction across disciplines. Also called an academic literacy specialist, she aids teachers in using 'robust instructional strategies' and helps cultivate student engagement, District 207 officials say.
'Her dedication to student mentorship has helped struggling learners gain confidence in writing and critical thinking, often shaping their future success. Recognized as a leader in equity-driven education, she creates a thought-provoking learning environment where all students feel valued,' officials said about Muja.
The Golden Apple award process is a highly competitive one, organization officials say, and of 470 nominations of ninth to 12th grade instructors, only 30 were selected as finalists.
'Great teachers change lives. These finalists exemplify the dedication and passion that define exceptional teaching,' Golden Apple organization President Alan Mather, stated in a news release announcing all of the 2025 finalists.
Maine South, located in Park Ridge, is one of three high schools in District 207 and enrolls some 2,500 students.
District 207 officials call Cheng Jin an 'exceptional' math teacher who 'brings unique perspectives and innovation to his classroom.'
School leaders explain that Jin, an immigrant from China and a former English Language learner, draws on his personal experiences to connect with his students.
'He is also committed to his professional development, which is evident in his pursuit of National Board Certification and his participation in the T3 (Teachers Teaching with Technology) Teacher Leader Cadre with Texas Instruments,' district officials say.
Through use of technology, Jin has helped bolster student confidence in using advanced calculators and other learning aids.
'Cheng's impact on student learning is remarkable,' officials say. 'His use of technology in the classroom has commitment to his students and their understanding makes him a standout teacher in his field.
All of the finalists will have to wait until spring to find out if they made the final cut to this year's class of award recipients.
According to the Golden Apple release, the winning teachers will be surprised in the spring, and their prize will include a sabbatical at Northwestern University at no cost. They will also receive a $5,000 cash award and be named fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators. The academy is described as a community of educators who play an integral role in preparing the next generation of teachers in the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs.
'Their commitment to fostering student growth and inspiring a love for learning enriches not only their classrooms but also the entire educational community. We are honored to recognize their invaluable contributions,' Gold Apple organization officials stated about the finalists and award-winners.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Business News
3 hours ago
- Time Business News
What I Learned the Hard Way About Accident Claims Experts in the UK
It was a Tuesday — gray skies, lunch running late, and my mind half on work, half on my weekend plans. I never imagined that crossing the street like I always did would land me flat on my back with a dislocated shoulder and a thousand questions no one seemed to want to answer. Accidents aren't just physical. They mess with your confidence, your calendar, your income — your sense of control. And when you're hurting, the last thing you want to do is dive into complicated paperwork and legal jargon. So yeah, I needed help. What I didn't know at the time is how much an accident claims expert UK could change the course of my recovery — not just financially, but mentally. Let's get something clear right away: not all accident claims experts are equal. Some feel like call centers with scripts. Others treat you like a real person. You need the latter. Desperately. The Mistake I Almost Made After my fall, I googled something like 'injury claim help UK.' Boom — 12 million results. All promising fast payouts and 'stress-free claims.' I clicked the first ad I saw. The person who answered the phone barely let me speak. 'Was the accident within the last 3 years?' they said. 'Yes.' 'Great. We can open your file now.' I hung up. It felt… robotic. Like I was just a number in a queue. That's when I paused and thought, Is this who I want fighting my corner? What a Real Accident Claims Expert Does Differently Eventually, I found someone local — a smaller team, fewer buzzwords, but actual people with names and conversations that didn't feel rushed. That's the key: a real accident claims expert listens first, acts second. They asked me: How long I was out of work? Did I have physio booked? How had the accident affected me emotionally? Not just the legal stuff — the human stuff. They helped me gather evidence I wouldn't have thought of: CCTV footage, a statement from a witness I had forgotten about, even photos of my hospital wristband (weird, but helpful apparently). They explained my rights in plain English. No pressure. No promises of fast money. Just honest expectations and solid advice. No-Win, No-Fee — Yes, It's Real (But Read the Small Print) I know, I was suspicious too. 'No win, no fee' sounds like a scam, doesn't it? But in the UK, this is a legitimate, regulated arrangement. What you need to check is how much the fee is if you win. Mine was 25%. That's standard. But some places sneak in higher percentages or extra charges for medical reports and admin. The right accident claims expert in the UK will explain every penny upfront. Ask questions. If they avoid answering, that's your answer right there: walk away. More Than Just Compensation I didn't walk away with some giant settlement. It wasn't life-changing money. But it was enough to cover the time off work, the physio sessions, and the cost of taking taxis while I couldn't drive. But more than that — the process made me feel like someone had my back. That someone, somewhere, still cared about fairness. And when you're bruised, sore, and a bit defeated? That means everything. Here's What I Wish I Knew Sooner: Don't wait too long — Evidence fades. People forget. And claims in the UK have time limits (usually 3 years). Write down your symptoms — Even the small stuff. I forgot to mention sleepless nights due to shoulder pain until it was too late. You don't have to be perfect — I blamed myself at first. Was I looking at my phone? Did I cross too soon? But partial fault doesn't mean you have no claim. Good accident claims experts can still help you get compensation even if the situation was complicated. Look for empathy, not just efficiency — You'll be talking to these people for months. Choose someone who makes you feel like you matter. Final Thought: Ask for Help, Even If You're Unsure If you're reading this and sitting on the fence, I get it. Nobody wants to feel like they're 'making a fuss.' But listen — if you were hurt because someone else didn't do their job, clean their floor, fix their steps, or watch the road… that's not your burden to carry alone. There are real professionals out there who care. The accident claims experts in the UK who still pick up the phone and say, 'How are you feeling today?' before asking about your injury photos. Find them. You deserve nothing less. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
New York Post
5 hours ago
- New York Post
Italian archaeologists unveil rare 2,600-year-old tomb untouched by looters
Archaeologists recently unearthed a remarkable 2,600-year-old tomb in Italy — a rare find untouched by looters. The discovery was announced by the Italian Ministry of Culture on June 30. In a press release, the organization said the burial mound dated back to the late 7th century B.C., during the Orientalizing period of Italian history. Advertisement The tomb is part of the Caiolo Necropolis within the San Giuliano archaeological area, some 30 miles north of Rome. The site is famous for housing other ancient burials, including the Queen's Tomb, the Tomb of the Stag, and the Tomb of the Beds. The newly discovered tomb has not been officially named, but authorities emphasized its significance – especially as it remained undisturbed for 2,600 years. Its treasures included ceramic vessels still bearing paint, along with bronze ornaments. 'Once the slab sealing the chamber was removed, numerous vessels immediately became visible,' the ministry said in a statement translated from Italian to English. Advertisement 'Some [were] fine painted ceramics, such as those near the entrance – deliberately placed according to a precise ritual performed before the tomb was sealed,' the statement added. 5 Archaeologists recently unearthed a remarkable 2,600-year-old tomb in Italy — a rare find untouched by looters. Jerolyn Morrison / Baylor University 'On the left-hand bed, a basin and several bronze ornamental elements belonging to the deceased remain in situ.' The excavation was conducted under the supervision of the Superintendency of Viterbo and Southern Etruria, in partnership with Baylor University. Advertisement Supervising archaeologist Barbara Barbaro said that the necropolis contains over 500 tombs, though most were looted by either ancient people or modern robbers – but not the most recent one. 5 'Some [were] fine painted ceramics, such as those near the entrance – deliberately placed according to a precise ritual performed before the tomb was sealed,' the statement said. Jerolyn Morrison / Baylor University 5 The newly discovered tomb has not been officially named, but authorities emphasized its significance – especially as it remained undisturbed for 2,600 years. Jerolyn Morrison / Baylor University 'Finding an untouched tomb is incredibly rare,' Barbaro noted. Advertisement 'That's what makes this discovery so exceptional.' Barbaro also said that further study on the site will be 'fundamental to advancing knowledge of the ancient world.' 'A sealed context is crucial not only for preservation but also because it gives us a complete snapshot of life through the ritual of death,' she added. 5 The excavation was conducted under the supervision of the Superintendency of Viterbo and Southern Etruria, in partnership with Baylor University. Jerolyn Morrison / Baylor University 5 In a press release, the organization said the burial mound dated back to the late 7th century B.C., during the Orientalizing period of Italian history. Ministero della Cultura Reflecting on the emotional weight of the find, Barbaro compared the discovery of the tomb to 'a bridge to our past, a doorway to our ancestors.' 'This is what happens when an untouched tomb is found – it becomes a collective event,' the archaeologist said. 'The silence … the awe, the respect for those waiting behind that massive stone. The emotion.' 'We're thrilled to have rescued this material from those who would illegally profit from it,' she added. 'Now, it will tell a beautiful story for everyone.'
Boston Globe
6 hours ago
- Boston Globe
Portuguese library in New Bedford lives to see another day
Advertisement But on Tuesday the Mayor's office The library has a deep history in the community. Founded in 1971 out of a store front, 'It was a very unique thing for the community to have a municipally funded library dedicated to a particular community, a language speaking community,' Melo said. 'And this was a cornerstone of the community, it was a gathering place.' Advertisement The library's collection, now half in Portuguese and the other half in English, has grown to 24,000 volumes from the few thousands it started with. It also hosts archives of Portuguese cultural and historical life in the city, Melo said. Books on shelves at Casa da Saudade Library in New Bedford. The library has been serving the Portuguese-speaking community in the city since the 1970s. Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff Melo's connection to the library goes way back to when she was a new immigrant in New Bedford. It was at Casa da Saudade that she fell in love with literature. 'I started to visit the library because we were not a family with money to purchase books,' she said. She discovered she could borrow and read as many books as she wanted — in Portuguese at first and eventually in English. The library became so important to her that she went to work there. 'My first job was here as a substitute library assistant,' Melo, who is turning 60 this year, said. 'Here I am, almost 40 years later, as the library director. Because this place showed me the magic of libraries and what it means.' Melo said that part of the challenge the library has faced in recent years is that locals are not using it like they used to in the past. 'It still means a lot to a lot of people and it is still being used. But not to the extent that we're seeing with the other branches,' she said. Going forward, the library will open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and close on Mondays. It was already not available on Fridays. It will also go back to its original mission of focusing on Portuguese content and act as a research center for Portuguese-American life in New Bedford. Advertisement '[To] make sure that our new generation understands the value of the collection that's there,' Melo said. For some, public libraries serve a special role for communities. Sara Slymon, president of the Massachusetts Library Association and the Executive Director of The Thomas Crane Public Library in Quincy, said libraries should not be valued in the same way that a society does a corporation. 'We're not meant to generate revenue. . . . We are a free service to provide lifelong learning and literacy opportunities for every person in our Commonwealth equally,' she said. 'You can never go wrong funding a public library, whether it is the heaviest use public library or the lightest use public library in the state.' Casa da Saudade operates like any other public library across the US. The only difference is things tend to have a Portuguese flavor to them there. An American flag flies alongside a Portuguese flag outside Casa da Saudade Library in New Bedford. Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff In front of the building an American flag flies alongside its Portuguese counterpart. Inside, on a shelf next to Portuguese cook books, sits a crochet of soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo in his Portuguese team's red and green jersey knitted by a member of the crochet club that meets at the library on Tuesday afternoons. Also on the shelves, visitors can find Walter Isaacson's biography of Steve Jobs, Michelle Obama's autobiography 'Becoming' and the African writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's novels — all available in Portuguese. There were books in English too but a lot of visitors come to Casa da Saudade for the Portuguese collection. Antonieta Lucas, 81, is Portuguese and has been coming to Casa da Saudade since it was out of a store front nearby. She likes the library because she can get books in Portuguese for herself and some to read to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Advertisement She was shocked to learn that it might close. 'Stupid idea. It's a long time, this is open,' she said on a recent afternoon. Melo said that the reaction of the impending closure of Casa da Saudade showed that the community valued the library and its place in the city. 'That was definitely a driving force that led to the conversations of how can we do this,' she said. Melo said that she will have to reduce some hours from other branches in the system to help keep Casa da Saudade open. New Bedford has one main library and four other branches. But she was glad that the library will stay open. 'We are so lucky that we have this institution. It is unique in the United States for being a publicly funded library with an initial mission to serve a specific community,' she said. 'We have to support it and we're going to develop it with a collection that will continue to make it unique.' Omar Mohammed can be reached at
