About the Outstanding Principal Award Program

Golden Apple Foundation believes that strong leadership in schools promotes excellence in teaching. Outstanding principals inspire outstanding teachers and create a positive learning environment essential to the culture of every successful school.

The family of Sunil Puri has partnered with Golden Apple Foundation to recognize exceptional principals each year with the Puri Family Outstanding Principal Award. Thanks to the generous award sponsorship from the Puri family, selected principals receive $1,500 to be used in their school and a $500 in Volcano Falls gift certificates to reward excellent students.

All Winnebago and Boone county public and ISBE-recognized non-public school teachers, administrators and parents are encouraged to nominate a principal they consider worthy of this prestigious award. Nominated principals exemplify best practices and leadership abilities according to the following criteria:

• A commitment to positive student achievement and development
• Professional growth and leadership development among teachers
• A positive learning climate and sense of community in his or her school
• A minimum of  5 years’ experience as an administrator and in good standing with their district

The recipient of the award is notified through a surprise presentation in their school and is recognized at the annual banquet.