Math teacher Julie Spencer is this month’s Golden Apple recipient. She was selected by last month’s nominee Madeline Rodriguez.

“Julie Spencer is an outstanding educator, like our faculty is, but the one thing that sets her apart from her colleagues is that she makes memories for our seniors and junior marshals on graduation day,” Rodriguez said.

In addition to teaching math, Spencer is part of the Starr’s Mill graduation committee alongside assistant principal Brandi Meeks, English department chair Jillian Bowen, and guidance counselor Paula O’Shields. 

Spencer believes that everyone should learn, whether it’s math or not. Even if she doesn’t teach them, she wants them to learn something along the way on their journey through life. She also wants them to realize everyone is able to learn and can benefit from learning.

“I just want them to be life-long learners,” Spencer said.

She has been teaching for 20 years, and all at Starr’s Mill. She graduated from Auburn University with a degree in applied mathematics. She then worked for several years, until going back to school at West Georgia to earn her teaching degree. 

Spencer has taught all different types of math throughout all four grades, but has never taught an AP class. She also tries to help her students by giving them constructive feedback on their assignments. 

“We all make mistakes, and that’s how we grow,” Spencer said.

Spencer will receive $100 from Farmers Insurance to spend on curriculum or instruction. She has not yet decided how the funds will be spent. She also receives a free large pizza from Buck’s Pizza, a gift certificate to Lisa’s Creperie in Senoia, and a free haircut from Mane Hair in Peachtree City.