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
Nov. 13, 2025
Nominee Reception
Please RSVP to us if you were nominated for the 2026 Golden Apple teacher award and invited to the reception, which will be at Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford. We want to celebrate with you!
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
541 Teachers Nominated for the 2026 Golden Apple Awards
Grant Recipient Reception Held
Golden Apple Volunteer Named Crusader Health Foundation’s 2025 Spirit of Caring award recipient
We treated them; now you need to nominate them!
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.
