Golden Apples

Sister Rounds out trio of exceptional educators

Among the dedicated faculty at Pittsburgh’s Northside Catholic Assumption Academy there are three recipients of the Diocese of Pittsburgh Golden Apple Award for teachers! That’s correct – three in the same school! Having a trio of winners raises the local community’s awareness of the quality of education at NCA Academy by recognizing the high standards of professionalism, leadership and innovation in teaching .

Sharon Duerr received the Golden Apple Award in 2009. Her students know she is always available and willing to listen whenever they need her support. Her colleagues say she is dedicated beyond measure and has added much to the Spanish curriculum.

Our own Sister Carol Ann Papp, received the Golden Apple Award for Principals in 2014. While ministering at St. Irenaeus School in Oakmont, Sister Carol Ann introduced robotics to the junior high students and, most of all, encouraged the students to believe in themselves and what they could accomplish. With her art background, creativity was key in whatever Sister Carol Ann introduced during her 13 years as administrator. These days she teaches art and religion at NCA Academy, a the K-8.

This year, Barbara Venturela received the Golden Apple Award. Throughout her years in education, Barbara has been active in her parish religious education program. She has a special gift for preparing students to receive the sacraments, whether it be First Communion or Confirmation.

All three of the Golden Apple teachers at NCA Academy agree that, no matter what the subject or grade, “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.”