Dr. Heather Baker named 2026 GA Outstanding Principal

On March 19, Golden Apple Foundation of Rockford traveled to Dorothy Simon Elementary in Winnebago to surprise principal Dr. Heather Baker with the 2026 Golden Apple Outstanding Principal Award. She is the 20th recipient of this award. Sponsor Bucciferro Family McDonald’s couldn’t stop Grimace from coming along to celebrate with everyone! The students sang two congratulatory songs to Dr. Baker. Programs chair Kyle Keith, Executive Director Jennifer Stark, Rich Wolter of Bucciferro Family McDonald’s and John Schwuchow all had wonderful remarks to share about Dr. Baker.

Dr. Baker has been principal of Dorothy Simon Elementary for six years. Here are some highlights from her nomination:

• This year, Simon Elementary was named a Model PLC School, making it one of just 600 in the United States and Canada. It was also one of the first schools in Illinois to be recognized through Project ADAM as a Heart Safe School.
• Baker was recognized this year as the Kishwaukee Region’s Elementary Principal of the Year by the Illinois Principals Association. In 2025, Dr. Baker was named a regional Remarkable Woman through Nexstar. After a sudden cardiac arrest at work in 2018, she became a well-known and sought-after speaker and advocate for CPR/AED training and cardiac emergency drills in skills. She is on the American Heart Association’s 2025-2026 Midwest Region Board of Directors, on the Project ADAM board, and an adjunct professor at Aurora University.
• Her nomination said, Dr. Baker’s “impact is measurable in data, visible in culture and felt in relationships.” In 2020, fewer than 50% of the students were able to read at or above grade level. Now, more than 80% of students in grades K-2 are at or above grade level for reading skills. Morale was low. Her nominator shared, “rather than positioning herself as the sole decision-maker, Dr. Baker acts as a facilitator and coach – asking reflective questions, encouraging innovation and supporting thoughtful risk-taking.” She created a culture in which now, “educators feel respected and empowered, and where students thrive because they are surrounded by adults who feel valued and inspired.” She is visible not just during school hours, but also at school games and events. She knows staff, students and their families professionally and personally. One supporter said, “She is somehow everywhere all of the time”!
• Teachers placed photos of their loved ones in the collaboration room under a sign she made saying, “Is it good enough for them,” reminding staff that the school mission, “All in for All Kids,” means they should treat all kids as they would want theirs treated and that demographics do not determine destiny. She’s also all in for all teachers and the community, where she organized a wellness expo to make families aware of available services. Her nominator says, “She’s the type of Principal every educator deserves.”

Dr. Baker received an award plus $1,000 to be used at her school. Congratulations, Heather!