Virgil I. Grissom School No. 7 art teacher honored with Golden Apple Award for decades of dedication to students

Rochester, New York – The Rochester City School District is celebrating a moment of pride and gratitude after one of its longtime educators received a distinguished honor for her commitment to students and creative learning. Jennifer Woods, an art teacher at Virgil I. Grissom School No. 7, has been named a recipient of the Golden Apple Award from News 8, a recognition reserved for educators who consistently go above and beyond for the children they serve.

For nearly three decades, Woods has dedicated her career to teaching in the District, building a reputation not just as an art instructor, but as a mentor who understands how creativity shapes confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving. Her impact is immediately visible throughout School No. 7, where student artwork fills the hallways, transforming the building into a vibrant reflection of student voice and imagination.

Principal Dave Lincoln, who has known Woods since their early teaching days together at School No. 19, says her arrival at School No. 7 five years ago marked a turning point for the school community. According to Lincoln, the presence of art as a central part of the school culture has reshaped how students express themselves and engage with learning.

“She inspires students every day; it’s not just a ‘special’ at our school,” said Principal Lincoln. “Art is a place where students find their voice, build confidence, take risks, and problem-solve. She is so deserving of this award.”

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Woods’ classroom is known for blending creativity with academic rigor. Rather than treating art as a stand-alone subject, she intentionally connects her lessons to New York State learning standards, including mathematics and writing. One recent project had students constructing detailed gingerbread replicas of their school for display at the George Eastman House, combining design, measurement, teamwork, and storytelling in a single hands-on experience.

Her involvement extends far beyond the art room. Woods plays an active role in school-wide initiatives and events, contributing to a positive and welcoming environment for students and staff alike. Lincoln credits her with strengthening the sense of community within the building and creating opportunities that allow students to shine.

“She is so involved with everything in the building,” said Principal Lincoln. “She is a part of our spirit committee and creates great opportunities for students. We are just so fortunate to have her here.”

For Woods, teaching has always been more than a job. Raised in a family of educators, she views her work as a lifelong calling rooted in service, creativity, and purpose. Receiving the Golden Apple Award, she says, represents the values she has carried with her throughout her career.

“I have a passion for working with children and also teaching them how to be creative thinkers,” said Ms. Woods. “I believe it was the way I was created to be, and my purpose to be here on the earth is to inspire.”

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She believes art offers students something essential that reaches beyond grades and test scores. In her classroom, art becomes a daily source of motivation and discovery, helping students see beauty, possibility, and meaning in the world around them.

“Why not art? Art is all around us,” Woods said. “It’s beautiful and brings us inspiration daily, and that’s what we do here for our students as well.”

District leaders say Woods’ recognition reflects the broader dedication of educators who work tirelessly to support students academically, emotionally, and creatively. Her work stands as an example of how passion, experience, and care can leave a lasting impression on a school community.

The Rochester City School District congratulates Jennifer Woods on this well-earned honor and thanks her for 29 years of dedication, inspiration, and unwavering commitment to students. Her Golden Apple Award serves as a reminder of the powerful role teachers play in shaping lives, one classroom at a time.