OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Transforming young minds into tomorrow’s leaders.

The 35th Annual Golden Apple Gala presented by the Public Education Foundation of Marion County recognized educators for their unwavering dedication, inspirational motivation, and passion for shaping students’ futures. The award ceremony took place on the evening of Feb. 1, 2025, at the Reilly Arts Center.

Kevin Christian, Marion County Public Schools director of public relations, and Meghan Magamoll, Public Education Foundation executive director, served as the Masters of Ceremonies for the event.

This year, six finalists were honored as Marion County Public Schools’ Teachers of the Year due to a tie in voting. The 2025 Golden Apple Teachers of the Year were Joel Kunz, Dunnellon Middle School; Jennifer Aderholt, Eighth Street Elementary School; Sarah Burfening, Madison Street Academy of Visual and Performing Arts; Joan Edwards, North Marion Middle School; Kristen Wilson, Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School; and Sarah Jacobs, West Port High School.

Sarah Jacobs, an educator for 12 years, teaching ninth and tenth-grade English Language Arts at West Port High School, was named the 2025 Marion County Teacher of the Year. In addition to receiving this prestigious honor, Jacobs was awarded a three-year lease on a brand-new 2025 Acura Integra, courtesy of Ocala Jenkins Auto Group.

“Honestly, I’m just blown away by how blessed I felt to be here,” said Jacobs. “I know there are so many qualified teachers, but I do care about my job so, so much, and this gives me the opportunity to use my voice to hopefully make a bigger difference for my students.”

The selection process for this award spanned four months and involved a three-step process, including interviews and classroom observations. Candidates were evaluated based on their teaching expertise, ability to effectively communicate subject matter, and their passion for inspiring students and fellow educators.

“This whole experience has been an unbelievable dream and an honor,” said Jacobs. She acknowledged the other Golden Apple finalists and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with them. “I know this opportunity is going to lead to a lot of amazing things for me, for my school, for my students. I’m just happy to be here.”

Marion County Public Education Board President Mel Poole reflected on the significance of the evening, highlighting the impact of educators on the community.

“Nelson Mandela, the first president of South Africa, stated, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world,'” said Poole. “The vision of the foundation is to support our students, schools, and teachers…our vision is to enhance the performance of our district. Our actions focus community interest on public education.”

The role of teachers in shaping students’ intellectual, social, and emotional growth cannot be overstated. Dr. Diane Gullett, Marion County superintendent of schools, paid tribute to the dedication of educators, sharing excerpts from the Golden Apple finalists to provide a closer look at their contributions.

Courtney Morris, a second-grade teacher at Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary with two years of experience, was honored as the 2025 Rookie Teacher of the Year. The event also recognized all 2025 Teacher of the Year honorees throughout Marion County.

“This just shows that we have some wonderful talent in our district, and this is just a night to celebrate the great things that we do on a daily basis,” said Rev. Eric Cummings, Marion County Public Schools school board vice chair. “We have great teachers.”

The Golden Apple Gala was more than an awards ceremony—it was a celebration of educators’ dedication to transforming students’ lives and inspiring their dreams.

“When you think of teachers today, it’s more than teaching, and you can see it in these teachers, in their hearts and what they do, and the difference they’re making is unbelievable,” said City of Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano. “It’s a great night to recognize true heroes in our community.”