Whittington one of 30 finalists for Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence
By Tribune Staff • CHICAGO — The Golden Apple Foundation, a leading nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring, and mentoring educators who advance educational opportunities for students, today announced the 2026 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching.
A highly competitive award process resulted in the selection of 30 4th-8th-grade teacher finalists out of nearly 600 nominations.
Complete list of 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching finalists
“Exceptional teachers remind us every day what is possible for students,” said Alan Mather, President of Golden Apple. “They create classrooms where curiosity and challenge are encouraged, confidence is built, and learning feels meaningful. These finalists exemplify the dedication, care, and skill that define teaching at its finest. We are proud to recognize the lasting impact they have on their students and school community.”
The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching honor outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities. Teacher finalists demonstrate, through their teaching and results, a significant positive impact on their students’ growth and learning.
“The educators recognized this year demonstrate a consistent commitment to student achievement and measurable growth,” said Alicia Winckler, CEO of Golden Apple. “By modeling excellence in the classroom, they help students build the persistence and critical thinking required for long-term academic success.”
The selected 2026 Golden Apple Award recipients will be surprised in the spring. Northwestern University generously provides a spring sabbatical to award recipients at no cost. Each recipient receives a $5,000 cash award. Award recipients 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.
Selected from nearly 600 nominations statewide, Ashley Whittington, a 6th through 10th-grade English teacher at the Center for Educational Opportunities in Troy, is one of just 30 finalists for the 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, recognized for the impact she is making in the classroom.
Mrs. Ashley Whittington, Center for Educational Opportunities, 6th-10th Grade, English
For 11 years, sixth through 10th-grade English teacher Ashley Whittington has relied on a cyclical approach to instruction in her alternative school setting, where structure and engagement matter as much as content. In a recent grammar unit, she began with a pre-assessment on the eight parts of speech, using the results to identify strengths and gaps in understanding. She then designed a lesson that combined direct instruction with a creative “Grammar Menu” project, where students presented each part of speech as a themed menu item.
Interactive notes, built-in checkpoints, peer proofreading, and revision opportunities supported students who struggle with organization and time management. After presentations and review, she observed clear growth in comprehension and confidence.
Whittington also leads with empathy, using reflective conversations and self-examination to maintain an inclusive and supportive classroom. She believes that when students feel valued based on who they are, belonging and academic growth follow. Each week, students brainstorm acts of appreciation on Monday and carry them out on Friday, writing thank-you notes, delivering snacks, creating posters, or making handmade gifts. Over time, the initiative has become fully student-led, strengthening empathy, responsibility, and teamwork.
Through intentional instruction and leadership, Whittington prepares students for success both academically and personally.
Attached are the full press release, a headshot, and additional background materials. I’m happy to coordinate interviews with Golden Apple President Alan Mather or connect you directly with Ashley, and anything else you might need to support your coverage.
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 recognized master educators annually, and these master educators help 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. Visit http://www.goldenapple.org for more information. https://www.goldenapple.org/golden-apple-awards-finalists-2026
