Get to Know Misty Richmond, Golden Apple Award Winner

Every year, the Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching are given to Illinois educators who have “lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities.” This award is extremely prestigious and competitive—this year, only 10 teachers were selected from nearly 600 nominations from across the state.

One member of this small group of outstanding educators is Misty Richmond, a middle school science teacher at James Ward Elementary School in Armour Square. Ms. Richmond learned she was a Golden Apple winner at a surprise celebration that brought her colleagues, students, loved ones, and even CPS Superintendent/CEO Dr. Macquline King all together in the Ward auditorium.

“I feel honored to be recognized on such a grand scale for doing what I feel called to be doing,” said Ms. Richmond.

Although the Golden Apple Award celebration was technically a surprise, Ms. Richmond’s dedication, care, and talent as an educator is no secret. A 20-year veteran of CPS, she is a beloved teacher and member of the Ward school community. She is also a supportive colleague and an advocate for student voice. Ms. Richmond is clearly devoted to uplifting those around her, which makes this opportunity to shine the spotlight on her even more special.

With a teaching style she describes as inclusive, flexible, and engaging, Ms. Richmond is known as someone who can always get students to talk in her class. She encourages curiosity, helps her students connect classroom topics to their own lives, and turns her room into a safe space for students to ask questions and share their thoughts. This positive, enriching environment creates many opportunities for the moments Ms. Richmond loves the most—when the lightbulb goes off and a science concept finally clicks for a student.

As she takes this moment to reflect on her career, one important element stands out to her: the people in her life. To Ms. Richmond, James Ward Elementary is special because of the way people support each other. This sense of community is crucial, especially for new teachers. In fact, her biggest piece of advice to educators early in their career is to “find your people.”

“All the best educators have a support team, especially when things get challenging,” she said. “Find someone who supports your wild ideas, someone who challenges you to think differently, and someone who pushes you to try a little harder. Having people like this during my teaching career has truly helped me grow.”

Thank you, Ms. Richmond, for everything you do for your students! The best are truly with CPS!

Watch Ms. Richmond’s surprise Golden Apple Award celebration here and read the Golden Apple Foundation press release here. Learn more about the Golden Apple Foundation and see the full list of award recipients here.