Teacher and coach Chase Penland received the final Golden Apple award for the 2019-2020 school year. 

Penland teaches health, weight training, and team sports, while also coaching the junior varsity soccer and football teams. 

“I enjoy competition and fitness,” Penland said. “I want to develop the opportunity for students to live a healthy and active lifestyle.” 

Previous Golden Apple winner Ashley Collins nominated Penland for the award because of his ability to put kids first. 

“He does everything he can to ensure that his students are successful in his class and all of their other classes,” Collins said. “He invests in the kids as people, and it’s evident to kids and colleagues alike how much he cares.” 

Penland has an undergraduate degree in health and physical education from the University of West Georgia and a master’s degree in education from Georgia Southern University. However, creating a positive environment for students takes practice. 

“Creating a challenging, fun, and motivating classroom atmosphere allows the opportunity for students to be successful,” Penland said. 

Tim Monihan and Farmers Insurance award Golden Apple winners with a $100 prize to purchase supplies for their classrooms. Penland plans to spend the money on a variety of weight room equipment to further improve student athletes.