Six Lee County Teachers Win 2025 Golden Apple Awards

In a joyful celebration, six outstanding teachers received Golden Apple Awards this March. The winners emerged from thousands of nominations across Lee County schools.

Winners represented different schools: Brittany Owen teaches at Trafalgar Elementary, while Danielle Hopkins teaches art at Hancock Creek. Kelsey Olsen guides students at Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School, along with Paul Chilson, Janet Bernard, and Jamie Miller from other district schools.

"I have been wanting this for a very long time. A couple doors down, I was an 8-year-old girl who wanted to be a teacher. To be able to give back to this school that has given me just everything, it's just full circle," said Olsen to News-Press.

A thorough selection process included interviews and classroom observations. The winners were surprised when foundation members walked into their classrooms to announce their victory.

Since 1986, the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition program has recognized 213 exceptional teachers.