Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Leadership Finalists Announced

CHICAGO (February 27, 2024) -- The Golden Apple Foundation, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring and supporting great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2024 finalists for the distinguished Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member Stanley C. Golder. 

A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of five Pre-K to the 12th-grade school leader finalists from more than 100 nominations received.

The Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership honors exemplary performance in school leadership by a principal or head of school who has had a significant and sustained positive impact on the school, created a culture of inclusivity, and delivered dramatic student growth.

"Each of these finalists has demonstrated transformative leadership, creating an environment that enables both educators and students to succeed,“ said Alan Mather, President of Golden Apple.  “We recognize their forward-thinking initiatives that have enhanced their communities, emphasizing their dedication to improving educational outcomes."

View the 2024 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership Finalists 

"Our 2024 Leader finalists strive for excellence, transforming their schools into hubs of achievement and innovation,” said Alicia Winckler, CEO of Golden Apple. “Their dedication has uplifted their educational communities. We are thrilled to commend their impactful work and the positive changes they've initiated.”

The Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership recipients receive a cash award of $10,000, with $5,000 for the school leader and $5,000 for the school for a project of the recipient’s choosing. Award recipients become Fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, a community of educators who play an important role in preparing the next generation of teachers in the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs - which are dedicated to addressing the teacher shortage in Illinois.

About Golden Apple

Golden Apple's mission is to inspire, develop and support teacher and school leader excellence, especially in schools-of-need. Our leading-edge preparation delivers exceptional teachers who make an impact. We help students thrive in the classroom and in life. Since our beginning, we have recognized master educators annually; and, these master educators help prepare the next generation of teachers. Our vision is one in which every classroom has a great teacher and to realize this, we are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage. Learn more at http://www.goldenapple.org.

Media contact:

Emily Evans
937.206.6039
emilye@theharbingergroup.com

AwardsTony Bosma