Marion County honors teachers at 35th Golden Apple Gala; Westport’s Sarah Jacobs named 2025 Teacher of the Year

Marion County Public Schools and the Public Education Foundation of Marion County hosted the 35th Annual Golden Apple Gala at the Riley Arts Center to honor outstanding teachers across the district, culminating in the selection of Sarah Jacobs of Westport High School as the district’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.

The Golden Apple recognition program, produced by the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, spotlights school-based teachers of the year, rookie teachers and a district Teacher of the Year who advances to the Florida Department of Education’s state competition. Megan Magamore, executive director of the Public Education Foundation, described the Golden Apple Academy as “a cadre of positive, involved innovators who encourage ideas” and said the program is unique to Marion County.

Superintendent Diane Gullett thanked finalists and described the nominees’ classroom work and personal stories that led to their nominations. “As you heard from the very words of those we honor,…