Since 1990, the Golden Apple Program has shined a light on high impact practices of Collier County Public School educators. As an educator development program, Golden Apple combines sharing high impact practices within and among educators and schools, recognizing and celebrating the teaching profession, and providing continued leadership development for educators.  

The components of the program begin with the selection and identification of educators who are utilizing high impact practices, which are engaging and innovative learning strategies to support student success. During the fall semester, Champions For Learning invites each Collier County Public School to designate an outstanding educator. Every nominated educator will be recognized as the Teacher of Distinction from their school and represented at the Golden Apple Celebration Event. The goal of Golden Apple is to empower educators to facilitate the sharing of high impact practices and build alignment and support within the educator community. As a result, the program cultivates educators’ future growth in the profession and prepares them for success in the classroom.  

The Golden Apple Leadership Academy is designed to strengthen the connection between, and alignment of, educators within Collier’s schools by facilitating the sharing of high impact practices and by developing the capacity of educators to perform leadership roles within their schools. This commitment to encouraging career growth and collaboration among our educators results in stronger classrooms, schools, and communities.  

The Golden Apple Celebration comes at the conclusion of the Golden Apple Selection Process that allows the community a glimpse inside Collier County classrooms. Pointing a spotlight on our innovative educators, the awards show provides the opportunity to honor our outstanding educators and their impact on student learning.  

At the 35th Annual Golden Apple Celebration, Champions For Learning invites the community to join us for this free event to support Collier County educators and encourage their continued success in the profession. During the awards-show-style program, we will formally announce and recognize the 2024-2025 Teachers of Distinction, Collier County Public Schools Teachers of the Year, and Golden Apple recipients. Our educators’ ingenuity and dedication to the profession not only increases student engagement, but also inspires further collaboration among their peers. Following the celebration, guests will enjoy champagne and hors d’oeuvres during a Cocktail Reception to further honor our educators in support of our mission to serve as a catalyst for educational success by investing in Collier’s students and educators. 

Please join us to celebrate Collier County’s educators at Golden Apple Celebration of Teachers on Saturday April 26th at 4pm at the Naples United Church of Christ. This free event is open to everyone, but please reserve your seats today.