OVHS choir director receives prestigious WTHI Golden Apple Award

In a heartfelt and exciting moment at Owen Valley High School, Choir Director Dr. Matthew Latta was honored with the prestigious WTHI Golden Apple Award recently. The surprise presentation was made by WTHI-TV Anchor Susie Dinkel, who visited the school to deliver the award in front of an enthusiastic group of district leaders, high school administrators and students.

The Golden Apple Award is a long-standing recognition from WTHI-TV, awarded to educators who make a significant and lasting impact on student learning, growth and development. Dr. Latta's dedication to his students, passion for music and commitment to the Owen Valley community made him a standout recipient of this honor.

Dr. Latta has been the choir director at OVHS for the past eight years. His classroom is known for its energy, positivity and high standards.

Every day, students are welcomed into a vibrant learning environment where they are encouraged to develop both their musical talents and their personal confidence.

More than just a teacher, Dr. Latta is a tireless advocate for the arts and for his students. He devotes countless hours outside of the school day to rehearsals for large-scale musicals, concerts, competitions and special events.

Under his leadership, OVHS choirs have grown in skill and reputation, participating in numerous community and statewide performances.

What sets Dr. Latta apart is not just his musical expertise, but his unwavering commitment to his students' overall experience. He goes above and beyond the classroom to ensure they have opportunities to shine.

Whether it's organizing fundraisers, directing musicals or supporting students' dreams, Dr. Latta is a constant presence.

It's not uncommon to find him on the weekends washing cars alongside his students at a fundraising car wash, flipping burgers at athletic events or working a booth at the Owen County Fair. His active presence and willingness to give his time demonstrates his belief in the power of education, community and the importance of the arts in schools.

OVHS Principal Robert Boltinghouse noted, "Dr. Latta is the example of everything you want in an educator. He is student-centered, and he is Patriot Red, White and Blue through and through.

Dr. Latta contributes in the building anywhere he is needed and called upon. He is much more than a 'choir' teacher.

Our students could not be more blessed working with an educator like Dr. Latta.

He helps make Owen Valley a better place for all!"

The presence of teachers like Dr. Latta has a ripple effect throughout a school community. His enthusiasm is contagious, and his dedication fosters a sense of pride and purpose among students and colleagues alike.

In a time when schools across the country are facing challenges in arts funding and student engagement, involved educators like Dr. Latta are vital to maintaining thriving school cultures.

District and school leaders expressed their admiration for Dr. Latta following the surprise award ceremony, noting that his commitment to excellence and community service represents the best of what Owen Valley Schools stand for.

More details about Dr. Latta's nomination, his impact on the OVHS community, and the Golden Apple Award segment will be shared soon. Be sure to tune in to WTHI to witness the special moment when Dr. Latta received the award and was celebrated by his students and colleagues.

For now, OVHS is proud to celebrate one of its own: Dr. Matthew Latta, whose voice, passion and heart have made a lasting difference in the lives of so many.