Welcome To Golden Apple Foundation

We are a volunteer-driven organization that inspires, celebrates and supports educational excellence in our community. Since 1997, the Golden Apple Foundation has grown from honoring teachers in one school district to honoring teachers, principals and volunteers in more than 150 schools, both public and non-public, in Winnebago and Boone counties.

The Foundation operates entirely on the generous financial support of community businesses and individuals, as well as the more than 400 volunteers who donate their time and energy to make our programs successful.

Our Programs

The Golden Apple Foundation continues its mission of educational excellence
in our community through our four core programs.

Upcoming Dates

Oct. 10, 2024

Oct. 10 is the deadline to submit nominations of PreK-5th grade teachers in Boone or Winnebago counties for the 2025 Golden Apple Teacher award! Get nomination forms at schools or on our website.

Oct. 14, 2024

On Monday, Oct. 14, we’ll be attending the Youth Story Ledger event at Flinn Middle School in Rockford. This powerful event will feature students from Rockford Public Schools sharing their personal narratives with the community. It’s a unique opportunity to listen, learn, and connect as these young voices share their stories, break assumptions, and embrace authenticity. This event is open to the public, so come be a part of the conversation and support our students as they open up their lives and experiences. Let’s come together as a community to celebrate their courage and insight. Golden Apple contributed grant money to this program and is thrilled to witness its presentation!

Oct. 30, 2024

Oct. 30 is the deadline to submit a grant application for the 2024-2025 school year! Forms are available on our website. We have thousands of dollars ready to grant for your literacy, STEM and special education needs!

Nov. 16, 2024

Visit our friends at Lucha Cantina, 1641 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, for your lunch or dinner and tell them you’re there to support Golden Apple Foundation. We get 15% of the day’s receipts when you do!

Dec. 7, 2024

Visit Golden Apple Foundation representatives at Holiday Hustle Craft Show from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Midway Village, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford. We will have our 2025 Rockford CityTins for sale. Get your holiday shopping started and start saving money at participating local restaurants and shops!

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Get Involved

We need volunteers to continue our mission! Learn more about our committees and the many ways you can help, including fund development, special events, grants and more!

Teacher Academy

Through the Golden Apple Teacher Academy where Golden Apple teachers mentor and share their knowledge with other teachers through our professional development programs.

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