An apple for two teachers in East Valley

MOXEE -- Michele Gress' No. 1 goal for her students is that school isn't a painful experience.

And Friday, Gress, along with colleague Brian Locke, were recognized for their commitment to their students with the East Valley School District's Crystal Apple Award.

The 46-year-old Gress, who's been nominated twice before, teaches third grade at Moxee Elementary School, the same school she attended as a girl.

"She is absolutely the most fantastic teacher," said Suzanne Morrow, one of Gress' nominators. "She can take any student and make sure it's a positive year for them."

Locke, 38, teaches physical education at the elementary school and has been involved in raising money for new playground equipment, heads up family nights and helps out at the annual Moxee Hop Festival.

The co-winners split the 10th annual honor, which is usually given to just one outstanding educator in the district. The winner is selected by a committee from community nominations. This year, however, the committee couldn't decide between Gress and Locke, so they gave it to both of them, said John Schieche, East Valley's superintendent.

"They're two outstanding individuals that continue and continue to contribute a great deal to our kids and our community," said Schieche.

Like Yakima's Crystal Apple Award winners -- which were recognized Tuesday -- the recipients of East Valley's were kept secret. Gress and Locke didn't know Friday morning's school assembly for reading awards -- and a crazy hair competition -- would be for them, too.

"It was a big surprise," said Gress. "I said, 'I wonder why the superintendent is here.'"

Locke was unavailable for comment later. He was coaching softball.

Each will receive $1,000, a crystal apple and a certificate.