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
July 1, 2025
2025-2026 Classroom Grants Application Period Now Open! Winnebago and Boone county teachers can now apply for simple or large grants through applications on our website. Grants focus on early childhood education, special education, arts, literacy, STEM, mental health and resources. The application deadline is Wednesday, Sept. 10 and we will notify applicants in early October. Checks will be awarded at the grant reception in mid-October.
July 16-17, 2025
Guest Bartender Night:
- Swing by Ernie’s Midtown Pub, 1025 Fifth Ave., Rockford on July 16, to support guest bartenders from RPS205 (including Superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett!).
- Educators from Harlem CUSD122 will be at Rascal’s, 5223 Torque Road, Loves Park, July 16. They will also have dinner available for $20 here!
- Join educators from Hononegah Nations at Louie’s TapHouse, 5689 Elevator Road, Roscoe, on July 17. Bring your dog if you want to party on the patio!
Each event will also be raffling donated items including artwork, hockey tickets and tickets for shows at Hard Rock Casino Rockford. 100% of proceeds from raffles, the tip jars and a portion of food and beverage purchases will support scholarships, grants and recognition programs for Boone and Winnebago County teachers. This is always a fun event to relax and have fun with your colleagues, friends and family! Join us!
News
Grant Timeline Changed for 2025-2026
Guest Bartender Events Summer 2025
2025 Excellence in Education Banquet Held April 25
Gayle Haab Named 2025 Jan Jones Service Award recipient
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.
