They impact the leaders of tomorrow and get little in return. So as part of a new weekly segment on First News A.M. we wanted to show our appreciation for our local teachers who go above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference in the classroom. We both were able to travel to Durant to meet a teacher who does just that. Here's our first ever Golden Apple Award.

The main benefit of being a teacher is that our students are so inspirational to us, " Lori McCoy said.

Lori McCoy, has been teaching for 17 years.
She says she has stayed with it for so long because of her love for her students.
"They come with such great attitudes and good personalities. They really don't get as much credit as they should," she said.

The Durant High School math teacher got quite the surprise when our cameras showed up.

"I'm Rita and this is Daniel from channel 12. We're with First News A.M. We wanted to present you with the first ever Golden Apple Award for outstanding performance in the classroom as an educator and in our community.

Principal Ron Craig says McCoy gets an A+ when it comes to being an educator.
"I've been in this business a long time Rita and I've been privileged to serve with a number of outstanding teachers. Mrs. McCoy ranks right up there with the best that I've ever been associated with," he said.

Dakota Banks says Mrs. McCoy is a one of a kind teacher...
"She just comes in everyday, gets in, and she just has an energy about her that makes education a fun process," Banks said.
That's why Lori McCoy is this week's Golden Apple Award Winner...>