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Almost everyone knows how difficult it is to keep a secret in a small town. Yet, a group of supporters managed to do just that this week. On Monday, April 22, 2019, New Glarus students gathered in the high school gym for a "Special Assembly."

High School Principal Dr. Jeff Eichelkraut then introduced NBC 15 News Anchor Leigh Mills, who spoke about the Crystal Apple Award. Mills told the crowd that the award is given in appreciation for a teacher's hard work and dedication to her students and community. This year, they had received over 500 nominations. Out of those, five teachers would be chosen, and one was from New Glarus.

Then Mills asked the students to cheer while she announced the winner. The students enthusiastically complied, cheering so loud that the winner, Fran Zimmerman, didn't hear her name! When told that she had won, she looked a bit overwhelmed, and stepped forward to get her award.

Fran Zimmerman has been a teacher for 64 years. Although she officially retired in 1997, she has continued to teach as a substitute teacher.

Zimmerman had been nominated for the Crystal Apple Award by New Glarus Area EMS Chief Kristie Mueller, who coincidently lives in the first schoolhouse that Zimmerman taught at, the Nessa Schoolhouse in the Town of Primrose.

In her nomination letter, Mueller included letters from a dozen students, former students, principals and even Zimmerman's daughter, Kay.

Mueller noted that Zimmerman is a teacher and an educator. She explained that with a quote from Sister Geralyn Schmidt, "A teacher instructs specific skills and content according to a curriculum and developmental level. An educator coaches individuals to become what is essential, to develop into human beings who are fully alive."

Mueller also Zimmerman's commitment to students, and the community as a whole. She spoke of how Zimmerman baked cookies for the EMS Open House and would stop by the EMS station to visit on occasion, always ready with hugs and infectious energy.

Many who wrote letters commented not only of Zimmerman's support for the students in general but her dedication to the sports teams.

When the Glarner Knights basketball team went to the WIAA State Tournament for the first time in 87 years, tickets sold out quickly and Fran and her husband were unable to get some. Her students got together and found tickets so that the couple could attend the game.

Sue Moen

Fran Zimmerman and Leigh Mills. Zimmerman spoke of her love for all of her students over the many years she has been teaching.

With their home located across the street from the football field, her family and friends watch the games from their driveway and garage. Some weeks it has been almost an impromptu community picnic while cheering on the Glarner Knights.

Eric Anderson commented, "Fran Zimmerman has stood as an example of small town community generosity. Fran's hospitality resonates through her family and has clearly had an impact on those around her."

New Glarus Elementary Principal Laura Eicher said, "She is an amazing educator and community member. Most students call her Grandma Fran because she has taught them, their parents and their grandparents. Like the Energizer Bunny, she never quits!"

High School Principal Dr. Jeff Eichelkraut noted that she had been his sixth grade teacher. He commented on her special connection and loyal following with students.

There are five Crystal Apple recipients and ten Honorable Mentions. Each Crystal Apple Award winner will be featured on NBC15 News at Six, during the week of May 6th.