Bolingbrook HS Teacher Wins Golden Apple Award

BOLINGBROOK, IL — On Tuesday, Bolingbrook High School Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Erin Clifford was told she was needed for a meeting in the cafeteria with the VVSD Nutritional Service staff, Valley View School District said in a news release.

Instead, the 20-year teaching veteran was greeted by her students, fellow teachers, administrators, Board members and Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta, and presented the 2025 Gold Apple Award for excellence in teaching.

The District said the Golden Apple Foundation delivered the news that Clifford is one of 11 teachers in the state recognized with the award.

“I am honored to be selected for the Golden Apple,” Clifford said in a release. “But most of the credit
goes to my students. They allow me to be creative, and they keep me young, and they show me
they deserve every ounce of energy that we put in as teachers. They are my 'why,' and I am so
thankful for all of them.”

The Golden Apple Foundation is an Illinois-based nonprofit committed to preparing, mentoring, honoring, and retaining great educators who advance educational opportunities for students, according to a release.

"Exceptional teachers ignite curiosity, build confidence, and create pathways to lifelong
success for their students," said Alan Mather, President of The Golden Apple Foundation. "Erin Clifford exemplifies teaching at its finest. Erin blends passion with expertise and innovation with compassion. As she joins our community of excellence, Erin will help us strengthen the teaching profession across Illinois, inspiring and mentoring emerging educators who will shape countless young minds for generations to come."

Clifford is also the Preschool Lab Coordinator at BHS, which is also known as “The Little Raiders Pre-School” program, the District said. Clifford has created a classroom that is described as a "welcoming space that students bring their friends to and return to, even after completing her class," according to the district.