Panama City - This week's Golden Apple award winner is a 4th grade teacher at Bay Haven Charter Academy in Lynn Haven. Ms. Fields says she was inspired to become a teacher by her son who grew up with special needs. She says his success fuels her passion for teaching.

In Ms. Fields fourth grade classroom plastic bottles are transformed into living, self-sustaining ecosystems. It's just one example of how she engages her students in hands-on learning experiences. "We do alot of real world problem solving and I think that really helps our children to be motivated and to stay engaged in the learning process," said Diane Fields. "She just makes learning fun and interesting, she is quite demanding, but they rise to the occasion," said Principal Larry Bollinger.

Colleagues and students alike say she has a gift for teaching reading and especially, writing. "Ms. Fields is an amazing teacher, she has taught me alot of things about writing," said 4th grader Nathan Redmond. "She teaches you the most juiciest writing you would ever know," said student Makaela Rinehard.

"The fourth grade is really where the curriculum has a strong emphasis on writing, and she is a master at it I can assure you," said Principal Bollinger. "I love watching children tackle a new concept, how excited they get, I try to keep them motivated so they will be lifelong learners," said Fields.

Congratulations to Diane Fields, this week Golden Apple award winning teacher. "She is very special because she is just the best teacher I have ever had," said 4th grader Olivia Walker.