Golden Apple winner finds her Happy Place teaching at Trafalgar Elementary School
Trafalgar Elementary School’s Brittany Owen was one of the six teachers to receive the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Award last week.
“I was completely shocked and deeply honored when they surprised me in the classroom,” Owen said. “It was a moment I’ll never forget! But the best part? The reaction from my students. They were absolutely over the moon with excitement. Their joy and enthusiasm made the surprise even more special, and seeing their faces light up was the greatest gift of all.”
The other five 2025 Golden Apple Teacher recipients were Janet Bernard from Harns Marsh Middle School, Paul Chilson from Pinewoods Elementary School, Danielle Hopkins from Hancock Creek Elementary School, Jamie Miller from Harns Marsh Middle School and Kelsey Olsen from Edison Park Creative & Expressive Arts School.
“Being selected as a Golden Apple Recipient is an incredible honor that means so much to me,” Owen said. “This recognition is not just for me but for all teachers who dedicate their hearts and souls to shaping the lives of their students. I am humbled to represent the countless educators who pour their passion, energy, and love into their classrooms every single day, making a lasting impact in ways both big and small. I do what I do for my students, with the hope of making a difference in their lives — whether by inspiring them to believe in themselves, encouraging them to chase their dreams, or simply showing them that they are valued and supported.”
Owen taught for two years in Broward County before she moved to Lee County five years ago. She now teaches first grade and her enjoyment of teaching comes from seeing the growth of her students. She said it is such an honor to be recognized by the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools and the community for all the hard work they do as educators day in and day out.
“One of the most important attributes in defining the quality and success of any community is the education delivered in its public schools. The cornerstone of an economically strong community is a quality public education system. Teachers are the backbone of our school district and deserve the respect and admiration from our business community and the community at large. These six Golden Apple recipients are representative of all our great educators. Please join us in celebrating all that they do for our community’s greatest asset, our students!” Foundation for Lee County Public Schools President and CEO Marshall Bower said in a prepared statement.
These six recipients went through an extensive selection process, which began in August with community nominations. The finalist were selected after completing a three-step process, which included a blind comprehensive application, classroom observation for their teaching style and skill and personal interviews with the Golden Apple Selection Committee.
The recipients will be honored at a black-tie affair at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center at the Luminary Hotel on Friday, April 25. Tickets are $200 per person and can be purchased by contacting the foundation’s office at 239-337-0433.
The banquet will be broadcast May 3 at 8 p.m. on Gulf Coast NBC.