Early childhood education teacher Hope Via is the March recipient of the Golden Apple Award. She was selected by February’s recipient, David Cooper.

“She has a lot to manage between regular classes, grocery store runs, preparing meal plans for the little ones, clean up, and all the other things that go along with taking care of a bunch of little kids,” Cooper said. “She has had a strong impact on my kid along with many of the other teachers’ kids in the school, and I wanted to make sure she knew how appreciated she was.”

Via grew up in Fayetteville and went to Fayette County High School. She got her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human growth and development from Auburn University. She then went to the University of Georgia for her teacher’s certificate. She also earned her specialist’s degree from the University of West Georgia.

Via teaches the early childhood education pathway at Starr’s Mill. She also runs the weekly daycare program, Lunch Bunch.

“I do try my best and try to connect with my students,” Via said. “It’s not just about grades and content. It’s about making relationships and teaching skills that’ll be useful for their life after high school.”

Via receives $100 from Farmers Insurance to spend on curriculum and instruction. He will also receive a free large pizza from Buck’s Pizza, a gift certificate to Lisa’s Creperie in Senoia, a goodie bag from Safelite Auto, and a free haircut from Main Hair in Peachtree City.