Outstanding principals inspire excellent teachers and create a positive learning environment essential for the culture of a successful school. Golden Apple Foundation recognizes one exceptional principal each year with the Outstanding Principal Award and $1,000 to be used at his or her school.
About the Award
All Winnebago and Boone county public and ISBE-recognized non-public school teachers, administrators and parents are encouraged to nominate a principal they consider worthy of this prestigious award. Nominated principals exemplify best practices and leadership abilities according to this criteria:
- A commitment to positive student achievement and development
- Professional growth and leadership development among teachers
- A positive learning climate and sense of community in his or her school
- A minimum of five years of experience as an administrator and in good standing within his or her district
The recipient of the award is notified through a surprise presentation in his or her school and is recognized at the spring Excellence in Education banquet.
Past Principal Award Recipients
Erin Anderson Named 2024 Golden Apple Outstanding Principal
2023 – Carolyn Timm
Carolyn Timm, who lives in Stillman Valley, has been principal of Cherry Valley Elementary since it opened in the 2018-2019 school year….
2022 – Melissa Yuska
Melissa Yuska was hired as principal on June 24, 2019. She previously served as the assistant principal at Windsor and Olson Park Elementary Schools. Before that, she was a supervisor of special education…
2020 – Erin Salberg
Erin taught first grade in the Rockton District from 2006-2015. From 2015-2016, she was Assistant Principal of Rockford Public Schools’ Creative and Performing Arts Academy/ Gifted Academy.
2019 – Eric Flohr
As an Eagle Scout, a high school science teacher (1988-1996) and a principal (1995-2019), Eric Flohr has always set and achieved goals. One of Flohr’s goals is for teachers to be there 100% for the students and to always provide them their best.