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Teacher & Employee of the Year Info
Charlotte County Teacher & Support Employee of the Year Information
Purpose
The purpose of the "Teacher and Support Employee of the Year" program is to recognize outstanding teaching and outstanding support service in Charlotte County Public Schools.
This application should be used only to apply for the Teacher of the Year recognition; there is a separate application and process for the Support Employee of the Year.
The goals of the Florida Teacher of the Year program are to:
- Enhance the stature of teachers and the teaching profession.
- Promote the importance of quality education and teaching for our future.
- Inspire and attract talented people to become teachers.
- Provide information regarding Florida’s scholarship and loan programs related to teaching.
- Promote the teaching profession within community and business groups.
- Provide information to retired military personnel and other individuals who might consider teaching as a second career.
Golden Apple Awards 2026
The Golden Apple Gala is an annual celebration honoring the outstanding educators and support professionals who represent the very best of Charlotte County Public Schools. Hosted at the stunning Sunseeker Resort, this elegant evening recognizes our Teacher and Support Employee of the Year finalists, individuals whose skill, compassion, and dedication inspire students and elevate our schools every day.
Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening of recognition, fine dining, and community pride as we celebrate those who go above and beyond to fulfill our shared mission of Success for All. The Golden Apple Gala is a tribute to the people who make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and in the heart of our community.
Date: Friday, January 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM EST
Location: Sunseeker Resort 5500 Sunseeker Way, Charlotte Harbor, FL 33980
Eligibility
As defined by the Florida Department of Education, the following full-time district educators are eligible for nomination:
- Classroom teachers - Grades Pre-K through 12
- Adult education teachers
- Postsecondary vocational/technical education teachers
- Department chairpersons who actively engage in classroom training
- Guidance counselors
- Media specialists
- Speech/language pathologists
- Special area teachers (i.e. ESE, foreign languages)
- Other professional educators performing instructional support services with students
School personnel who work in an administrative or supervisory capacity, such as principals or deans of students, are ineligible for this program.
Evaluation Process
- Complete the attached application and return it by the due date.
- Only completed applications will be accepted.
- Applications received after the due date will not be considered by the selection committee.
- An independent selection committee of Charlotte County education, community, and business leaders will review the local applications. All information will be treated confidentially.
- To ensure impartiality, a "blind review" process will be utilized.
For More Information
Claudette Smith
Public Information Officer
Charlotte County Public Schools
Phone: 941-255-0808
1445 Education Way, Port Charlotte, FL 33948