ENCORE, ENCORE: In concluding the 2026 Golden Apple Awards, we're sharing some of our favorite moments from the surprise visits that district leaders made to school buildings over the last several days to recognize and thank this year's winners.
And we also wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to our nominators, judges, district leaders, union representatives and the Eugene Education Foundation for the support that makes this annual recognition program for 4J employee and volunteers possible.
And, of course, congratulations and thank you to all of this year’s winners and nominees for the educational excellence, care and commitment they demonstrate each and every day in service to our students, families and broader community.
👏 TAKE A BOW! Let's give one more round of applause for all the recipients of this year's Golden Apple Awards, selected among the 254 nominees recognized for excellence in education! The winners in their respective categories are:
⭐ Mike Seager, Special Education Teacher, Roosevelt Middle School – Teacher & Licensed Specialist
⭐ Tori Brooks, Special Education Educational Assistant, Kennedy Middle School – Classified Staff
⭐ Teresa Myers, Assistant Principal, ECCO, EOA and GED programs – Administrator, Professional and Supervisor
⭐ Ileah Contreras, Volunteer, Edison Elementary School — Volunteer
⭐ Marshaun Tucker, Special Education Educational Assistant, Roosevelt Middle School — Apple Seed (for early-career educator)
⭐ Life Skills Team, Edison Elementary School — 4J Spotlight (spirit award)
⭐ Fernell Lopez, Bilingual Human Services Coordinator, Kelly Middle School – Lifetime Achievement
The winners received their awards during surprise visits from Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, along with school board members, employee association representatives and colleagues. In addition, all the recipients will be recognized at a school board meeting next month. Each winner will receive a $250 grant from the Eugene Education Foundation to benefit the 4J school or program of their choosing.
You can revisit all the surprise announcements, learn more about the winners' amazing contributions, and see all 254 nominees by visiting the program's webpage at 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. Congratulations to all our winners and nominees, and thank you for epitomizing educational excellence here at 4J!
🥇 THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART 7: Lastly, we’re thrilled to announce that this year’s LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD recipient is … FERNELL LOPEZ, bilingual human services coordinator at Kelly Middle School!
Lopez has dedicated 30 years of service to Kelly and will retire at the end of the school year.
Among his many accomplishments, perhaps the most enduring may be his leadership of Kelly's GANAS after-school program. GANAS – Spanish for desire, motivation or having the will to do things – steeps its 30 students in academics, cultural identity and leadership development. Through a partnership with the University of Oregon, the program coordinates mentors and tutors for students as well as exposure to higher education through campus visits.
Nine years ago, Lopez was honored for educational excellence as a classified employee through the ACE Awards, the Golden Apple Awards’ predecessor. This summer, Lopez will leave Kelly and 4J not only with another trophy signifying educational excellence, but having established a legacy of ganas.
“His impact can be seen in students who find their voice, families who find stability, and a community that is stronger because of his presence,” a nominator wrote of Lopez. ❤️
Lopez was surprised with a school-wide assembly to celebrate his award, which fittingly included music from students and Kelly staff members, as well as singing by Lopez himself. Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, school board members and other district leaders joined in the celebration.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about Lopez’s contributions to students and his school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment below.
Congratulations again, Fernell, and many, many thanks for your tremendous work and decades of service! 🙌
🥇 THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART 6: We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s winner of the 4J SPOTLIGHT AWARD is … the Life Skills team at Edison Elementary School!
Less than a year out of the gate, the team is drawing rave reviews from parents and colleagues as model collaborators who put student care and kindness at the center of everything they do.
It made this group of talented educators an easy choice to recognize with this year’s 4J Spotlight Award, which recognizes a team or individual who makes major contributions to the overall well-being and success of the district through service, teamwork and kindness.
The team of eight special education educational assistants – Marlie Annat, Randy Diemar, Leah Helfrich, Drew Hughes, Nate Lien, Olivia McDonald, Cody Santero and Kenzie Scout – led by special education teacher Chris Bickford emphatically checks each box.
The team’s individualized care has helped students make big strides toward their growth, independence and self-confidence. Nominators say the team’s classroom is a structured yet nurturing environment where students feel safe, valued and understood.
“The impact they have had on her confidence and happiness cannot be overstated,” wrote one nominator whose student is supported by the team. “Even on days school is not in session, she crawls to the door wanting to get on the bus to go to school.” ❤️
The team was presented with its award last week during a surprise visit to the school by school board members, Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, union representatives and colleagues. The team and other Golden Apple Award recipients announced this week will be recognized at a school board meeting next month.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about the Edison Life Skills team’s contributions to students and the Edison school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment. The celebration concludes later this afternoon with the announcement of this year’s recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Congratulations again, Edison Life Skills team, and many, many thanks for your tremendous work! 🙌
🥇THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART 5: We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s Golden Apple Award winner in the teacher and licensed specialist category is … MIKE SEAGER, special education teacher at Roosevelt Middle School.
Seager can juggle while riding a unicycle. Even more impressive, however, is his mastery as a special education teacher. Core to his work with students is his Academic Success Rubric, a comprehensive list of skills needed for them to be successful in the classroom. He asks students to rate themselves in various areas to set goals for themselves. It’s through this collaboration, nominators say, where students develop a sense of buy-in in their own education to help them be successful. Similarly, Seager delivers social skills instruction that is tailored to the interests and strengths of his students so it’s meaningful, relevant and engaging.
Most mornings and after school, Seager’s classroom temporarily transforms into the Roosevelt Circus, where students can learn new things, such as practicing on a large collection of instruments or juggling. And there can be no circus without a magician, a role Seager fills adeptly with his ability to know exactly the right thing to do or say to support an upset student in a place where they feel safe and supported.
As one parent nominee put it, “Mike deserves not just the Golden Apple Award, but the All-Time Best Example of How to be With People in the World Award.”❤️
Seager was presented with his award earlier today during a surprise visit to the school by school board members, Superintendent Mickelson, union representatives and her colleagues. He and the other Golden Apple Award recipients to be announced this week will be recognized at a school board meeting next month.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about Seager’s contributions to students and his school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment below. The celebration concludes tomorrow with announcements for the Spotlight and lifetime achievement awards.
Congratulations again, Mike, and many thanks for your tremendous work!🙌
🥇THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART 4: We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s winner of the Apple Seed Award is … MARSHAUN TUCKER, special ed educational assistant at Roosevelt Middle School.
Less than a year into his career in K-12 education, Tucker is a dependable and energetic team player, willing to assist with any task, whether that’s helping students in the classroom, providing accommodations for students with special education needs, or supervising the hallways and common areas during breaks and lunches. In working with students, Tucker is kind and considerate while also clearly communicating expectations and, at times, setting boundaries. Students and colleagues alike describe Tucker as patient, affirming and approachable, someone who helps students feel capable, respected and connected.
In addition, Tucker leads the school’s Black Student Union to provide a safe and supportive space for students that strengthen the school community by promoting inclusivity and engagement.
“Marshaun is an exceptional educational assistant,” his nominator wrote. “He consistently demonstrates dedication, kindness, and a deep commitment to student success. His ability to support students academically and socially makes him a valued member of our school community.” ❤️
Tucker was presented with his award earlier today during a surprise visit to the school by school board members, Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, union representatives and his colleagues. He and the other Golden Apple Award recipients to be announced this week will be recognized at a school board meeting next month.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about Tucker’s contributions to students and his school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment below. The celebration continues this evening with the announcements for the winner in the teacher and licensed specialist category.
Congratulations again, Marshaun, and many, many thanks for your tremendous work! 🙌
🥇 THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART 3: We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s Golden Apple Award winner in the ADMINISTRATOR category is … TERESA MYERS, assistant principal for 4J’s ECCO, Eugene Online Academy and GED programs.
Myers has a gift for putting herself in the shoes of others. One moment, Myers can defuse a difficult situation with a student with unexpected humor. In another, she can bolster the morale of her building, which serves as 4J’s alternative education program for high schoolers, by writing a personalized thank-you note to every member of her educator team.
It’s her uncanny ability to read the room, as well as the need behind actions and words, that has elevated Myers as the linchpin of the program less than a year after stepping into the role. Notably, she’s won over what can be a tough room for administrators, leading a program for students who have struggled in traditional school settings and often lack trust in adults. She has done so by balancing compassion with accountability, helping students feel respected while remaining firm on her expectations for them.
“Quite simply, she is someone we can rely on,” wrote one of the many educators who nominated Myers for the award. “Our school community is more connected, more supported and more effective because of her leadership.” ❤️
Myers was presented with her award earlier today during a surprise visit to the school by school board members, Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, union representatives and her colleagues. She and the other Golden Apple Award recipients to be announced this week will be recognized at a school board meeting next month.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about Myers’ contributions to students and her school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment below. The celebration continues tomorrow with announcements for the winners in the Apple Seed (for early-career staff) and teacher and licensed specialist categories.
🙌 Congratulations again, Teresa, and many, many thanks for your tremendous work!
🥇 THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART 2: We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s Golden Apple Award winner in the CLASSIFIED STAFF category is … TORI BROOKS, special ed educational assistant at Kennedy Middle School.
If there are three words that encapsulate Brooks, they are competence, compassion and reliability. Teachers often describe Brooks as more of a co-teacher than an educational assistant because of her initiative, adaptability and instructional skill. Students and staff alike praise Brooks as a calming, trusted presence who helps students feel safe, supported and capable of success. Brooks is an educator beloved by students to such a degree that there was even an impromptu rock-paper-scissor tournament held to settle an impasse. The prize to the winning student? Having the honor of crafting the thank-you note for Brooks during Classified Employee Appreciation Week in March.
“In essence, Tori plays such an important role in helping our students be successful in class every day,” wrote the parents of a Kennedy student. “She has made such a difference in our son’s success at school, as well as for countless other students at Kennedy Middle School.” ❤️
Brooks was presented with her award earlier today during a surprise visit to the school by school board members, Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, union representatives, school colleagues and her mom, who is a teacher at the school. She and the other Golden Apple Award recipients to be announced this week will be recognized at a school board meeting next month.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about Brooks’ contributions to students and her school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment below. The celebration continues tomorrow with announcements for the winners in the Apple Seed (for early-career staff) and teacher and licensed specialist categories.
🙌 Congratulations again, Tori, and many, many thanks for your tremendous work!
🥇👏 THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE, PART I: We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s Golden Apple Award winner in the VOLUNTEER category is … ILEAH CONTRERAS at @edisonelementaryeugene .
Contreras has already made a big impact at Edison, just nine months after moving to Eugene from California, where she worked as an adapted physical education teacher. Among her many contributions, she collaborates with general and special education teachers to build up the school’s Unified program, where students with and without intellectual disabilities participate together in sports. Additionally, she serves as a mentor to fourth grade and Life Skills students, empowering them to take on leadership roles and support one another.
“Ileah is more than a volunteer—she is a leader, advocate, mentor and connector,” one of her nominators said. “As a new member of our community, she has stepped in with confidence, compassion and purpose, helping our programs not just function, but truly thrive.”
Contreras was presented with her award last week during a surprise visit to the school by school board members, Superintendent Miriam Mickelson, union representatives and district staff and colleagues. She and the other Golden Apple Award recipients to be announced this week will be recognized at a school board meeting next month.
You can revisit the surprise announcement and learn more about Contreras’ contributions to her school community in the video below and by visiting 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple. You can also share in the celebration by posting a comment below. The celebration continues tomorrow with announcements for the winners in the classified and administrator categories.
Congratulations again, Ileah, and many, many thanks for your tremendous work!
🥁✉️ DRUMROLL PLEASE: The nominees have been recognized, the judges' scores have been tallied — and we're a day away from starting to reveal this year's Golden Apple Awards winners from among our esteemed class of 254 nominees.
Announcements of the winners in each of the seven categories will be posted on the following schedule: Monday, May 11: Volunteer Tuesday, May 12: Classified Staff Tuesday, May 12: Administrator, Supervisor and Professional Wednesday, May 13: Apple Seed Wednesday, May 13: Teacher and Licensed Specialist Thursday, May 14: Spotlight Thursday, May 14: Lifetime Achievement
Make sure to check in daily to learn who the winners are and join in the celebration of their amazing accomplishment.
Happy Mother’s Day! 💐
Today we celebrate and honor the mothers, grandmothers, guardians, and all those who nurture, support, and care for our students each and every day. Your love, guidance, and encouragement help shape not only individual lives, but our entire community.
Thank you for the countless ways you show up—for your children, for our schools, and for the future.
Wishing you a day filled with appreciation and joy!
#growingtogethercenteringstudents #MothersDay2026
👏💛 2026 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD NOMINEES: And, finally, join us in congratulating Timothy Coleman, Jody Garratt, Alex Shuffield and Marshaun Tucker, the final distinguished members of our nominee class for this year's Golden Apple Awards.
These passionate and dedicated educators are being recognized for their exceptional contributions to our students and school community. Take a few moments to show your appreciation for these nominees by liking this post or leaving a comment below.
✨The stage is now set for the public announcement of the winners in the seven categories starting this Monday, May 11. Make sure to check back daily here or at 4j.lane.edu/goldenapple through Thursday, May 14, to learn who the winners are and join in congratulating them for their amazing accomplishment.
