Teachers from across Collier County gathered for Champions For Learning’s annual Teacher of Distinction breakfast on January 5th, graciously hosted by Adams Foods/McDonald’s, Inc. at the Shoppes of Pebblebrooke. The 2022- 2023 Teachers
of Distinction came together to kick off the new year and the next phase of the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program.
This is always a special celebration for the teachers, as McDonalds prints tray liners with the photos of the Teachers of Distinction and each teacher is provided a framed copy. Additionally, Adams Foods provides teachers with a branded tumbler. This year, a fifth grade Entrepreneurship class at Eden Park Elementary, that manages the Bobcat Boutique – a student run business that designs and cuts vinyl items- made the tumblers, which made the gift even more special for the teachers.
“The Golden Apple program is a wonderful way for the community to celebrate and elevate the amazing teachers in Collier County Public Schools,” said Amy Snyder, 
Executive Director of Educator Programs, Champions For Learning. “The teachers make a difference in their classrooms day after day and having a morning outside of their classrooms, being celebrated by the community, is always special.”
The Teacher of Distinction McDonald’s breakfast is just one component of the Golden Apple program. In addition to several celebration and networking opportunities, the community-based selection committee learns about and observes the Teachers of Distinction best teaching practices, which leads to the selection of the Golden Apple recipients.