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
March 13, 2026
Teacher Appreciation Night at Rockford Ice Hogs game!
Join Golden Apple at a Teacher Appreciation Night at a Rockford Ice Hogs game! Friday, March 13, the Hogs take on the Chicago Wolves at a $2 beer or soft drink night. Watch out social media for a link to buy tickets. Join us and participate in the fundraisers, too, to support Golden Apple and local teachers (50/50 raffle, spin to win and more). Meet some Golden Apple teachers there and support all area teachers who work so hard for the youth in our community! Get your tickets through this link to save and to benefit Golden Apple: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Goldenappleteacher1
Thank you, Ice Hogs!
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
Six Apples Awarded on Golden Apple Day 2026
Kelsey Zammuto
Andrea Woldman
Ana Weickert
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.
