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Charlotte County Public Schools

Charlotte County Public Schools Announces Golden Apple Teacher and Support Employee of the Year Finalists

Posted Date: 11/21/25 (9:25 AM)

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Charlotte County Public Schools Announces Golden Apple Teacher and Support Employee of the Year Finalists

November 21, 2025
An elegant invitation for 'The Golden Apple Gala' with gold lettering on a dark background.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla -- Charlotte County Public Schools is pleased to announce the finalists for the 2025 Golden Apple Teacher of the Year and Support Employee of the Year awards. These individuals have distinguished themselves through their dedication to students, their contributions to their school communities, and their commitment to supporting a positive learning environment.

Teacher of the Year Finalists:
  • Theresa Waller, Charlotte Technical College
  • Chassity Strauss, Murdock Middle School
  • Becki Mendelsohn, L.A. Ainger Middle School
  • Allie Gregory, Kingsway Elementary
  • Emilie Zusman, Charlotte High School
Support Employee of the Year Finalists
  • Taleshia Anthony, CCPS Early Childhood Programs
  • Ciara Wells, Port Charlotte High School
  • Marlene Civin, Charlotte Harbor Center School
  • Karen Sullivan, Sallie Jones Elementary School
  • Jessica Baker, East Elementary School
The finalists will be honored during the Golden Apple Gala Awards celebration on January 9, 2026, at the Sunseeker Resort. The event will recognize the impactful work of educators and support professionals across Charlotte County and will culminate with the announcement of this year’s winners.

Charlotte County Public Schools extends its appreciation to Suncoast Credit Union and Harbor Nissan for their generous support of the Golden Apple Awards. Tickets for this year’s celebration will be released to the public on November 25.

For additional information about the Golden Apple Awards, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Charlotte County Public Schools Communications Office at Communication@yourcharlotteschools.net.
Purchase Tickets Here