Twenty-one years ago the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program™ was created with the objective of recognizing and elevating the status of teachers and the teaching profession in Lee County. It was the initial program of the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, which had just been formed. The Program was conceptualized and led by Linda and Bob Taylor – to try to achieve several specific goals:

• A clear focus on teachers as the most important element in        children’s learning and development
• Appreciation for the dedication and skills of teachers
• Enhanced respect and status for the teaching profession
• Community wide understanding of the importance of high quality        education

During the past 21 years, the Golden Apple Program has achieved all of these goals – due to continued support by the community and to the quality of coverage provided by WINK TV.

In addition, the Golden Apple Program has helped cause the community to provide additional strong support for several other initiatives which help education – including:

• Classroom Grants for teachers
• Take stock in children scholarships
• Teacher resource center
• Jim and Ellie Newton Literature Center
  

Click here for the 2008-09 nomination form - Nomination Form