Guiteras School fifth grade teacher Allison Powers and her students were engrossed in a lesson on westward expansion Thursday afternoon when they got a surprise: An unexpected drop-in by state education commissioner Ken Wagner and a camera crew from WJAR Channel 10, who came to the school to present her with a Golden Apple Award.

Ms. Powers, who grew up in Bristol and has taught at the elementary school for five years, was nominated for the honor by a former student, Lindsie Medeiros. The award is a joint collaboration between the Department of Education, WJAR and Hasbro, and is bestowed on outstanding teachers who make a difference in the lives of their students. In her nomination letter, Lindsie, now a sixth grader, wrote that her former teacher is one of her favorites:

“She is not your average teacher,” Lindsie wrote. She is “energetic, determined, encouraging and free-minded (and) finds a way to make learning exciting.”

Ms. Powers was nearly speechless when the visitors arrived, but tried to compose herself as she was given a loud round of applause.

“Oh my goodness! They make the job worth it every day,” she said.

“I’m one of the lucky people who like to come to work every day. I’ve just been so lucky to have students that I’ve touched. To nominate me, I’m absolutely honored. You become so close to students, so it’s nice to hear from them as the years go on.”

Ms. Powers recently returned to work from maternity leave. Her husband Bobby, also a teacher, brought their infant son Jack along to witness the honor. Though Jack didn’t have much to say, her husband did:

“Truly deserving,” he said. “Being a mom and a teacher to 20-plus students every year is definitely a challenge, and she’s ready for a challenge, for sure.”

Apart from her Golden Apple Award, Ms. Powers will receive a $250 grant from Hasbro, and a gift bag.

The presentation will be broadcast by WJAR 10 during the 6 o’clock news on Saturday, March 10.