Welcome To Golden Apple Foundation
Golden Apple Foundation recognizes teachers and empowers them with classroom resources to improve educational outcomes in our community.
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
Since 1997, Golden Apple Foundation of Rockford has been inspiring, celebrating and supporting educational excellence in public and private schools in Winnebago and Boone counties through our core programs: awards and recognition, grants, scholarships, the Teacher Academy and community engagement.
Upcoming Dates
Feb. 12, 2026
Give Back Night: The Eclectic Jewel Valentine’s Fundraiser
The Eclectic Jewel is having a Valentine’s Fundraiser at Lucha Cantina at Edgebrook Center from 4-8 p.m. Feb. 12. Just mention “Golden Apple” at check out and she will donate 10-15% of the sale to us! And of course, you know Lucha Cantina is in our Golden Apple Rockford CityTin — use their coaster to save on dinner and drinks when you go! If you don’t have a tin yet, get one soon!
Feb. 19, 2026
Give Back Night: Backyard Grill & Bar!
Join Golden Apple at a Give Back Night! Backyard Bar & Grill, one of our Golden Apple Rockford CityTin participants, will be giving back a percentage of sales from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19. Bring your family, teacher friends, neighbors and more for some great food and drinks to benefit local teachers! You don’t have to register or sign in — just show up, eat, drink and be merry with us.
Jan. 20 - Feb. 13, 2026
Classroom Observations!
Between Jan. 20 and Feb. 13, our trained volunteers will be traveling Boone and Winnebago counties to observe our 20 teacher award finalists in their native environments: their classrooms! This is a key part of the selection process and requires a LOT of volunteers! If you are interested in joining us, contact info@goldenappleofrockford.com or 779-210-2991 as soon as possible! Training sessions will be held Jan. 13-Jan. 15.
Nov. 6, 2025 - March 4, 2026
Nominate an Outstanding Principal!
Nominate an outstanding principal in Boone or Winnebago County schools with at least five years of experience as an administrator by March 4 here.
Dec, 12, 2025 - March 12, 2026
Nominate someone who gives back to Education!
The 2026 Golden Apple Foundation Jan Jones Service Award will be presented to an individual, couple, organization, or business for demonstrating a deep commitment to Excellence in Education in Winnebago and/or Boone County through volunteerism. Submit nominations by March 12 here.
April 24, 2026
Golden Apple Banquet! Help us celebrate some amazing educators: the Class of 2026 Golden Apple Teachers, award finalists, grant recipients and the Jan Jones service award recipient. The event features dinner catered by GreenFire, motivational speeches, award presentations, music, silent auction, gift card pull and more.
June 5, 2026
Deadline to submit application for the Golden Apple/Don Zimmerman masters degree scholarship!
Apply to receive a scholarship for a tuition-paid (two years) first masters degree through our partnership with co-founder Don Zimmerman’s family. See our website for the application and more information here.
News
Kelsey Zammuto
Andrea Woldman
Ana Weickert
Katie Volk
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.
