Inspiration Indy Teacher Receives First Golden Apple Award of the School Year

September 25, 2026

Another school year is once again upon us, and with it comes the return of the Golden Apple Award!

“She Is Above and Beyond”

The Golden Apple Award recognizes inspirational Indianapolis teachers who are making a huge difference in the classroom. Every month, Hensley Legal Group, PC and WISH-TV honor a new educator with a trophy, a video message from students and staff, a school supply shopping spree at Teachers’ Treasures, and a $500 check courtesy of HLG.

Hensley team member (and former teacher) Ryan Kreicker and a WISH-TV crew recently gave the first Golden Apple of the 2026-2027 school year to Mrs. Tonya Gamble-Daoust, a second grade teacher at Indy’s own Tindley Genesis Academy, whose use of songs and sayings helps kids master math and reading.

“It is hard to pick one thing for Tonya,” explained Tindley Assistant Principal Aaron Book, who nominated her for the Golden Apple Award. “She is above and beyond for not only her students, but the community and the families.”

Everyone at the school had nothing but praise for her teaching style, which makes learning fun with music, games, pop culture, and even some of the “old-school acting” she had previously brought to her audition for the show Saved By the Bell.

Mrs. Gamble-Daoust said that she was surpised by the award but “grateful to know the impact I have made,” adding that she hopes that “me believing in these babies is going to give them an opportunity and opportunities galore to go out and take on the world.”

If you know a teacher who deserves to be celebrated, please complete a Golden Apple Award nomination form on WISH-TV’s website now.

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