Celebrating Excellence: The 2024 Crystal Apple Awards

Every year, the Crystal Apple Awards bring a wave of gratitude and celebration to our community, recognizing educators who light the way for their students. This prestigious event honors teachers, coaches, and administrators who inspire and uplift, and this year’s ceremony was no exception. Dana Hills High School, San Clemente High School, and San Juan Hills High School came together in a heartfelt tribute to those who shape young minds. What makes this event truly special is the power of student voices—through their votes, students handpick the educators who’ve left an indelible mark on their lives.

The Importance of Student Voice

At the heart of the Crystal Apple Awards lies the student vote, a process that empowers young people to reflect on the educators who’ve made a difference. Students don’t just choose based on academic rigor; they vote for those who’ve shown kindness, sparked curiosity, or offered guidance during tough times. Whether it’s a teacher who stayed late to explain a tough concept or a coach who instilled confidence, these choices reflect personal connections. Recognizing educators who’ve touched students’ lives in meaningful ways strengthens the bond between schools and their communities, reminding us all of the impact a single teacher can have.

The Ripple Effect of Appreciation

The Crystal Apple Awards do more than honor individuals—they cultivate a culture of gratitude that reverberates through our schools. When teachers feel valued, it fuels their passion, creating classrooms where students thrive. These emotional connections don’t end at graduation; many honorees shared stories of former students reaching out years later to say how a single lesson or kind word shaped their path.

The 2024 winners Front Row - Sharon Gibby DHHS, Sandra Mesa DHHS, Kristin Dimperio SCHS, Jamie Gonzalez SJHHS Back Row - J Bisch SCHS, Dean McElroy SJHHS

Our MC, Former San Clemente Mayor Tim Brown