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
May 12, 2026
Class of 2026 Induction Ceremony
Teacher Academy members will induct the most recent Golden Apple teachers into the Academy of past recipients and discuss what this means.
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.
June 25, 2026: Garden Explorers
Garden Explorers at Anderson Japanese Gardens
Garden Explorers is a ten-week interactive parent/child activity at Anderson Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford. Each week features a story time led by a community leader, followed by an activity, craft, or children’s music. Garden Explorers is appropriate for four to six-year-olds, but children of all ages are welcome. Golden Apple teachers will be reading and leading crafts and movement activities June 25. Join us!
June 25, 2026: Guest Bartender Fundraising Event
Guest Bartender Night
Teacher Academy members will also be behind the bar from 4-7 p.m. at Ernie’s Midtown Pub, 1025 Fifth Ave., Rockford. Fill the tip jar, get some great food and drinks. A percentage will come back to Golden Apple to support local teachers. Your server may even turn out to be Dr. Jarrett! It’s a FUNdraiser — join us!
News
Hundreds attend spring banquet
Elliot Ganet named 2026 Jan Jones Service Award Recipient
Dr. Heather Baker named 2026 GA Outstanding Principal
Teachers and Hockey Fans Raise $4,600
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.
