The Golden Apple Foundation, the leading Illinois-based nonprofit committed to preparing, mentoring, and honoring great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today surprised Olga Nuñez-Johnson, a 1st-grade teacher at Thomas J. Waters School in Chicago, with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. Nuñez-Johnson is one of 10 teacher award recipients in Illinois. 

Following a highly competitive process, the 2024 teaching award recipients were selected from more than 600 Nominations of Pre-K-3rd grade teachers. 

"These exceptional educators have demonstrated an unwavering commitment, innovative spirit, and transformative influence on their students and school communities,” said Alan Mather, President of The Golden Apple Foundation. “They are not merely outstanding instructors but impactful leaders as well. By joining our mission, the 2024 award recipients will help shape the future of teaching, empowering the next generation of talented educators to make a profound difference in even more young lives."

The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching honor outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities. Teacher recipients demonstrate – in their teaching and results – significant, positive impact on their students’ growth and learning. 

About Olga Nuñez-Johnson

Olga Nuñez-Johnson has left a lasting impact on generations of students who fondly recall her influence on their educational journeys. Esteemed by colleagues and families alike, Nuñez-Johnson actively mentors aspiring teachers, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience.

In her daily teaching practice, Nuñez-Johnson prioritizes her students' needs, fostering a supportive and purposeful student-centered environment. According to colleagues, her personality and commitment to creating a respectful, challenging, and inclusive atmosphere make her an outstanding educator. She embodies the principles of love, care, and hope in both teaching and action.

Each award recipient receives a $5,000 cash award and a spring sabbatical provided by Northwestern University at no cost. 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 - which are dedicated to addressing the teacher shortage in Illinois.