By Staff Writer: Erika Hernandez
Teachers are the backbone of education, shaping young minds and paving the way for future generations. In New Mexico, the Golden Apple Foundation, through time, has supported, honored, and recognized many amazing educators in the State of New Mexico. Through scholarships, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities, the foundation is making a lasting difference in classrooms across the state.
The Golden Apple Foundation is known for honoring the top performing teachers in our state. These are teachers who have demonstrated dedication to their students and their communities. Nominated educators are those who have also continued to receive mentorship and trainings which allow for them to continue to learn and inspire our young learners.
In addition to recognizing exemplary teachers, the foundation addresses the ongoing teacher shortage through the Golden Apple Scholars Program. This program encourages high-achieving students to pursue careers in education. This program offers hands-on classroom experience, and mentorship from seasoned professionals. By investing in the next generation of educators, the foundation ensures a steady stream of well-trained, passionate teachers committed to student success.
To gain further insight into the foundation’s impact, I spoke with Jaime Hernandez, Manager of Undergraduate Scholar Supports, Mentoring, and Placement. When asked about the role of the Golden Apple Foundation in teacher retention and professional development, he shared:
“We are dedicated to recruiting and preparing aspiring teachers from New Mexico with the goal of keeping them in their local communities or within the state. Currently, 120 New Mexican Scholars are enrolled in the program, receiving top-tier education preparation to ensure they are classroom-ready from day one. Through mentorship, training, and ongoing support, we cultivate exceptional educators who not only enhance student learning but also contribute to the long-term success of New Mexico’s education system. By providing the necessary resources and guidance, our program strengthens instructional quality and helps retain passionate teachers in classrooms across the state, ultimately benefiting New Mexico’s students and communities.”
Hernandez frequently travels across the state, visiting schools to recruit potential scholars interested in the program. Among those benefiting from this initiative are students from Eastern New Mexico, who are actively participating in the Scholars Program. This effort ensures that the next generation of educators remains deeply connected to their communities, fostering a lasting impact on the state’s education system.
As the demand for quality education grows, the Golden Apple Foundation continues to be a driving force in supporting teachers and ensuring a brighter future for students. Their unwavering commitment to educational excellence makes a profound difference, proving that by empowering educators, we uplift entire communities.