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Guffey gets Golden Apple

2 min read
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ANDREA GALABINSKI Bayshore Elementary Science Teacher James Guffey surrounded by students celebrating his Golden Apple win with class.

North Fort Myers Bayshore Elementary Science teacher James Guffey is now among the teacher elite. He was chosen as one of the six Golden Apple Teachers by the Lee County School Foundation.

The honor is the best of the best, and Bayshore Elementary Principal Lynn Herrell said it simply: “He’s the real deal. He loves the children and they love him. He deserved this honor, and we are so proud of him.”

From among the more than 2,000 nominations submitted by students, parents and the community, 30 teachers became finalists for the distinction. Guffey then made the final grade, the top six.

“Jim Guffey epitomizes what the Golden Apple teacher is all about,” said Marshall T. Bower, Esq., president & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “He truly cares about his students and makes learning science relevant and enjoyable to them. The way he engages students in the learning process truly makes a positive impact in their academic achievement.”

But Guffey, with his dynamic personality, refuses to take credit for the award, saying it belongs to many.

“My kids are Golden Apple kids, and my team is excellent. That includes my principal Lynn Herrell – a Golden Apple teacher herself – and Mrs. Ackerman, Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Barker,” he said.

Parents at the school are also a big part of the equation to his success. “Our parents are very involved, so it makes it a true team effort.”

Of what he will gain from the distinction, Guffey said, “It is a chance for me to know and learn from other Golden Apple teachers, and network with business and community leaders who are part of this.

Golden Apple recipients were surprised in their classrooms by their principals, Foundation members, community and business leaders. “There were so many people (when they came) it was an entourage, and my kids were so excited.

“If anyone sees me as an awesome teacher, it is because I have an awesome team.”