Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Leadership Finalists Announced

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Golden Apple Foundation, the leading Illinois nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring, and retaining great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2026 finalists for the distinguished Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Leadership, presented in honor of founding Golden Apple board member Stanley C. Golder.

A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of seven Pre-K-12th grade school leader finalists from nearly 100 nominations received.

The Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership honors exemplary performance in school leadership by a principal or head of school who has had a significant and sustained positive impact on the school, created a culture of inclusivity, and delivered dramatic student growth.

“Strong schools are shaped by leaders who bring out the best in the people around them,” said Alan Mather, President of Golden Apple. “By supporting educators, encouraging continual growth, and always keeping their communities at the center of their missions, these leaders have created environments where all students can thrive.”

View the 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership Finalists

“Great school leaders understand that their influence extends well beyond their own work,” said Alicia Winckler, Chief Executive Officer of Golden Apple. “This year’s honorees have built school communities grounded in trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to student success.”

The Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership recipients receive a cash award of $10,000, with $5,000 for the school leader and $5,000 for the school for a project of the recipient’s choosing. Award recipients also become Fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, a community of educators who play an important role in preparing the next generation of teachers in the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs—initiatives dedicated to addressing the teacher shortage in Illinois.

About Golden Apple

Golden Apple's mission is to inspire, develop, and support teacher and school leader excellence, especially in schools-of-need. Our leading-edge preparation delivers exceptional teachers who make an impact. We help students thrive in the classroom and in life. Since our beginning, we have annually recognized those who prepare the next generation of teachers. Our vision is one in which every classroom has a great teacher, and to realize this, we are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage. Learn more at http://www.goldenapple.org.