By 
SCC Alum Joshua Shearer
ANNA, IL (February 27, 2026) – Shawnee Community College proudly congratulates alumnus Joshua Shearer, an art teacher at Davie/Anna Junior High School, on being named a 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching finalist by the Golden Apple Foundation.
Shearer is one of just 30 fourth- through eighth-grade teachers selected statewide following a highly competitive process that drew nearly 600 nominations. The Golden Apple Awards honor educators who demonstrate a lasting, positive impact on students’ lives and school communities through exceptional teaching, measurable student growth, and deep commitment to their profession.
Now in his 19th year in the classroom, Shearer teaches third through eighth-grade art and draws heavily on his own life experiences to shape an inclusive, student-centered learning environment. Growing up with cerebral palsy in a small, rural community, Shearer recalls that school often felt overwhelming during his early years. That changed in eighth grade when an older student took the time to include him, introducing him to friends and helping him feel seen and valued.
“That experience stayed with me,” Shearer said. “After nearly two decades in the classroom, the most sustainable strategy I’ve learned is simple: lead with love. You’ve got to love them if you want them to listen.”
That philosophy guides every aspect of his teaching. Shearer intentionally fosters a classroom culture where students feel welcome, respected, and encouraged to be themselves. Students have sought him out to sponsor an Inclusive Rights Club—an honor he describes as one of the proudest moments of his career. He also sponsors Art Club, Chess Club, and Scholar Bowl, ensuring students with a wide range of interests have opportunities to belong and thrive.
In the classroom, Shearer designs engaging, relevant lessons that connect art to lived experience. In a recent seventh-grade street art unit, students explored public murals and graffiti while examining their own assumptions about art, expression, and public space. Through guided discussion and creative projects, students developed critical thinking skills while learning to see art, and each other, from new perspectives.
An administrator with more than 32 years of experience praised Shearer’s impact, writing, “Mr. Shearer is without a doubt the most passionate fine arts instructor I have known. He works tirelessly to introduce students to the art world and instill in them a genuine appreciation for art.”
Shearer is a graduate of Shawnee Community College, where he began his academic journey before pursuing a career in education. College leaders say his recognition reflects the lasting influence SCC alumni have across the region.
“Joshua’s story is a powerful example of how education can change lives, and how our graduates go on to change the lives of others,” said Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor. “We are incredibly proud to call him an SCC alum.”
According to Golden Apple President Alan Mather, the 2026 finalists exemplify the very best of the profession. “Exceptional teachers remind us every day what is possible for students,” Mather said. “They create classrooms where curiosity and challenge are encouraged, confidence is built, and learning feels meaningful.”
Golden Apple Award recipients will be surprised in the spring. Each honoree receives a $5,000 cash award, a spring sabbatical at Northwestern University, and induction into the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, where they help prepare and mentor future teachers across Illinois.
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Additional contact information
Avery Resendiz
779-225-2222
averyr@theharbingergroup.com