Van Alstyne High School teacher Renee Jacquez received a surprise announcement Tuesday when she was named a Golden Apple award winner. The award, presented by Texoma Chevy Dealers and KTEN, recognizes Jacquez’s dedication to her students, engaging classroom instruction, and impact across the school community.
Jacquez is one of 16 Golden Apple recipients who will be recognized across the Texoma area during the 2026-27 school year. Each recipient receives $750 to use toward classroom needs and is featured in a special KTEN television segment highlighting their impact on students and their community. Recipients are nominated by students or families of students.
A 20-year veteran educator, Jacquez teaches biology at Van Alstyne High School and serves as Student Council co-sponsor. She works to find engaging ways for students to connect with course material and has played a role in growing the Student Council, including helping establish a dedicated elective period. Jacquez co-sponsors the council with Catherine Wells and credited Wells for their shared efforts.
