30 Golden Apple finalists named
Among the 30 Golden Apple finalists recently recognized, 11 are from schools in Cape Coral or North Fort Myers.
The formal announcement by the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools was made Friday, Jan. 24, for the 38th Annual Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program.
“All of these exemplary professionals represent the outstanding teachers who work, day in and day out, to make sure our community’s greatest asset, our students, achieve at their highest potential. Our community is indebted to them,” said Marshall Bower, president and CEO The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools in a prepared statement.
2025 Annual Golden Apple Award finalists are:
• Fatimah Alhassan – Lehigh Elementary
• Jeffrey Armsworth – Lexington Middle
• Evalea Barrett – Gateway High
• Janet Bernard – Harns Marsh Middle
• Casey Brown-Baker – Island Coast High
• Chelsea Chase – Bayshore School
• Paul Chilson – Pinewoods Elementary
• Brandie Della-Luna – Oak Hammock Middle
• Kristopher Fisikelli – Caloosa Middle
• Suzanne Garrett – Veterans Park Academy for the Arts
• Catherine Griffin – Dunbar High
• Danielle Hopkins – Hancock Creek Elementary
• Tina Jacobik – Dunbar High
• Elizabeth Jimerson – Patriot Elementary
• Ashley Koehler – Cape Coral High
• Rachael Mas – South Fort Myers High
• Lori Mazon – Trafalgar Middle
• Jamie Miller – Harns Marsh Middle
• Jennifer Moyet-Nieves – Lehigh Senior High
• Leanne Olmstead – Ida S. Baker High
• Kelsey Olsen – Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts
• Brittany Owen – Trafalgar Elementary
• Ashley Randall – Veterans Park Academy for the Arts
• Arial Raulerson – Lehigh Senior High
• Jennie Rimes – Gateway High
• Patricia Smith – Lehigh Elementary
• Laura Trenholm – Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts
• Robyn Webber – Pelican Elementary
• Valerie Wieman Starling – Mariner High
• Tiffany Wilke – Challenger Middle
Finalists from the West Zone – Cape Coral and North Fort Myers schools
Casey Brown-Baker, Island Coast High School
“Being named as one of the Golden Apple Finalists is a deeply meaningful recognition,” said Casey Brown-Baker, AICE Global Perspectives teacher at Island Coast High School. “It signifies that my hard work, dedication, and passion for teaching has been seen. It shows the difference I have made in the lives of my students.”
The recognition also reminds her that teaching is about impact – cultivating curiosity, empowering students, and inspiring growth.
“It’s an opportunity to reflect on my journey as an educator and to share my passion with others, while also motivating me to continue making a difference,” Brown-Baker said. “I am very honored and shocked to have been selected as a Golden Apple Finalist. Teachers everywhere deserve this recognition.”
She began working at Island Coast right after graduating from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2012 – her first job.
“I started in the library as a paraprofessional and just waited for a social studies job to open up,” Brown-Baker said.
That was spring of 2014.
“I have been teaching in the same room and pretty much the same subject ever since.”
The finalist teaches AICE Global Perspectives, a requirement to earn the AICE diploma, and 10th grade honors and regular Pre-AICE World History.
“What I enjoy most about teaching is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on student’s lives,” Brown-Baker said. “There’s something incredibly rewarding about witnessing those ‘aha’ moments when a concept clicks for a student, or when they realize their potential and grow in confidence.”
Relationships that are built in the classroom are also rewarding moments.
“Getting to know students as individuals – their interests, strengths, and challenges – and helping them navigate their learning journey is a privilege. Every day is different, and the energy, curiosity, and creativity that students bring make teaching endlessly inspiring,” she said.
The ability to set a standard and stick to it is how the finalist keeps students engaged.
“Kids crave routine and peace even if they don’t show it,” Brown-Baker said. “I try to keep students engaged by building relationships with them and help them see the value in learning.”
Chelsea Chase, Bayshore Elementary School
“Being named a Golden Apple Finalist for the second year in a row is truly an honor,” Bayshore Elementary School kindergarten teacher Chelsea Chase said. “It’s a thrilling recognition, and I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received from my school, students, and friends and family. Their belief in me has made this achievement even more meaningful.”
The finalist attended Gulf Elementary School, Gulf Middle School and graduated from Mariner High School. Her entire teaching career has been spent at Bayshore Elementary School, with this year marking her 11th.
“I havee the joy and privilege of teaching kindergarten, where I get to lay the foundation for young learners’ academic journeys and foster a love for learning from the very beginning,” Chase said.
Student growth in such a short period of time is what Chase enjoys the most about teaching.
“It’s truly rewarding to see them develop both academically and personally. Beyond that, I deeply value the relationships I build with my students, their families, and my colleagues. These connections create a supportive and nurturing environment that enhances the learning experience for everyone,” she said.
The engagement of her students is met through activities that spark excitement and enthusiasm.
“One of my favorite strategies is themed learning, where I transform the classroom into an immersive environment that brings our lessons to life. I decorate the room to match the theme and even dress up to make the experience more interactive and fun, ensuring my students are always eager to discover something new each day,” Chase said. “I truly love being a teacher — it’s not just a job for me, it’s my passion. Every day, I have the privilege of shaping young minds, sparking curiosity, and helping students realize their potential. The joy I feel when I see my students grow, both academically and personally, is unmatched. Teaching allows me to make a meaningful impact on their lives, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than knowing I’m contributing to their future success.”
Kristopher Fisikelli, Caloosa Middle School
“As an electives teacher it sometimes feels like the core classes – math, science, language arts, and social studies, garner all the attention,” said Kristopher Fisikelli, the head of the fire arts department at Caloosa Middle School. “To be recognized by my students and their parents as a nominee, and then to be selected as a finalist by the committee, is an incredible honor and I hope that I can continue to prove how impactful our elective teachers and their classes can be.”
He also wanted to thank all those around him.
“I would not be anywhere near a Golden Apple finalist if not for the amazing team at my school, from the administration to the custodial staff. Caloosa Middle is an amazing place to work, and our students are just as awesome. I also couldn’t do any of this without my incredible wife Allison, who is the organization to my chaos and always the strength I need,” Fisikelli said.
He has spent the last six years, out of the 21 years of teaching, in Lee County. As the head of the fire arts department, he teaches three courses – drawing, painting and photography, digital art and design and art in world culture.
Fisikelli enjoys watching his students accomplish goals.
“Watching students, especially those who firmly believed they could not do something, accomplish their goals is always amazing. Seeing students awaken their creative minds every day is at the top of the list as well,” he said.
The engagement comes from Fisikelli helping his students find something in the work that speaks to them and their creativity.
“Whether it’s from challenging them with something, making it competitive, or just showing them something in a way they hadn’t seen or considered before, students can find themselves in any subject, even the ones that they think of as boring,” he said.
Elizabeth Jimerson, Patriot Elementary School
“Being named a Golden Apple finalist means I get to welcome 12 members of the community into my classroom to learn about my amazing students. We are such a different population than what they would normally see in the school setting. Most people don’t even know this class exists because my students are intellectually disabled, and many are medically fragile. We eat through g-tubes or pureed food, wear diapers, are nonvocal, and most are in wheelchairs. Being a finalist means I can bring awareness to this population and expose more people to my kids,” Patriot Elementary School ESE teacher Elizabeth Jimerson said.
She has taught 11 years at Patriot Elementary, and 12 years in Lee County. Jimerson has a self-contained classroom named functional skills where her students learn pre-academic skills such as sitting up, using a spoon to feed themself, and/or cause and effect. Each student in her class needs one-on-one engagement to learn the skills in their individualized education plan.
Lori Mazon, Trafalgar Middle School
“It is very humbling to be named a Golden Apple finalist,” Trafalgar Middle School Gifted Math teacher Lori Mazon said. “There are so many amazing educators that I work or have worked with in the past that deserve this honor as well. I am trying to enjoy the process and learn from other great educators while navigating the Golden Apple process.”
She began teaching in the Lee County School District at the elementary level 29 years ago.
“Teaching students to love math is my passion and for the student to recognize that math is everywhere in their daily lives,” Mazon said of teaching gifted math. “Math isn’t just about computation, but mostly about critical thinking and applying concepts.”
The light bulb moment is a favorite for this finalist – that sudden gasp, or the sound of excitement when a student understands something they did not before.
“These are the best moments of teaching,” Mazon said.
The students are engaged through a variety of methods.
“You’ll see students partnering up to help each other, working on whiteboards, some students standing, activities built for excitement, and if they finish early, many math challenges and even a classroom puzzle,” she said.
Leanne Olmstead: Ida S. Baker High School
“Being named a finalist is exciting and daunting. It’s quite the responsibility to be a representative for all the amazing educators in Lee County. The process is stressful and challenging, but getting to interact with members of the Foundation, other finalists, and members of the selection committee make it worth it,” Ida S. Baker High School teacher Leanne Olmstead said.
Her teaching career began in 2001 in her home state of North Dakota. She moved to Southwest Florida in 2016 and has been at Ida S. Baker High School ever since.
“I am a licensed high school English teacher, but for the first time ever in my career, I am not teaching ELA. Rather, I’m teaching two different AICE classes that are part of the Cambridge program,” Olmstead said.
The kids are the best part of teaching.
“I love getting to know them and forming meaningful relationships. Everyone remembers a teacher who made an impact on them, and I strive to be that person in my students’ lives,” she said.
Engaging students can be a challenge.
“I try to make lessons fun and rewarding. I encourage collaboration and friendly competition. Because I genuinely get excited for the work my students produce and their growth, they’re usually eager to get to work to show me what they’re capable of,” Olmstead said.
Brittany Owen, Trafalgar Elementary School
“Being named one of the Golden Apple finalist means that I have the opportunity to represent all of the amazing educators in our country,” Trafalgar Elementary School first grade teacher Brittany Owen said. “I have the opportunity to connect with educators and community members within Lee County through numerous evens. It is so important to connect with others within the community as it enhances my teaching in the classroom.”
She taught for two years in Broward County before she moved to Lee County five years ago.
The enjoyment of teaching comes from seeing the growth of her students.
“It is amazing to see how much they learn and grow within my classroom both academically and socially,” Owen said. “I am very grateful to be able to make a difference in a child’s education and I hope to make a positive impact on my students, families, colleagues, and the school district.”
The engagement of her students is done through hands-on learning through real-world experiences.
“When students can make connections, physically touch, and move around, they are able to be engaged learners,” she said.
Robyn Webber, Pelican Elementary School
“Being named a Golden Apple finalist is a powerful reminder of why I became an educator – to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of children,” Pelican Elementary School third grade teacher Robyn Webber said. “It strengthens my commitment to not only help my students succeed academically but to empower them to realize their full potential. This honor is not just about my personal efforts — it’s a reflection of the incredible teamwork and dedication of my students, their families, and my colleagues. It highlights the transformative power of education and the meaningful connections we create in the classroom every day. Above all, it reminds us that when we come together as a community to support our children, we can help them achieve greatness.”
Webber began teaching nine years ago, all of which have been in the School District of Lee County. The relationships formed with her students is what she enjoys most.
“Watching them grow academically, socially, and emotionally is a privilege I cherish. I love seeing their confidence bloom as they overcome challenges and celebrate their successes. It’s incredibly rewarding to create an environment where students feel empowered to take risks, learn from their mistakes, and support one another. The joy and pride on their faces when they realize their potential is what makes teaching so fulfilling for me,” she said.
A safe, inclusive and interactive classroom with hands-on activities, technology, and real-world connections that are relevant and exciting is how she keeps her students engaged.
“I also ensure that my lessons are student-centered, allowing them to take ownership of their learning and explore topics in ways that resonate with their interests and experiences. Additionally, I make an effort to celebrate each student’s unique strengths, which helps them feel seen and motivated to do their best,” Webber said.
This finalist is deeply committed to her students in and out of the classroom, as they have mutual respect for one another that has enabled a true sense of family in the classroom.
“We show up for each other, whether it’s celebrating achievements, supporting one another through challenges, or participating in events outside of school. It is an honor to serve as a role model for my students, creating a space where they feel valued and know that their dreams and goals are not only valid but worth pursuing. Together, we build the confidence and resilience they need to believe in themselves and their potential to achieve greatness,” Webber said.
Valerie Wieman Starling, Mariner High School
“Being named a Golden Apple finalist is an honor, but also a responsibility. We have so many wonderful teachers in this county, and I want to represent them well. I also want to live up to the hopes and expectations of my students who took the time to nominate me. I want to make them proud, and I am grateful for the opportunity to show why I love teaching the way I do,” said Valerie Wieman Starling, Mariner High School AICE Environmental Management and Environmental Science teacher.
She began teaching 17 years ago, all of which have been spent in Lee County. Her journey began as an English teacher in middle school before she changed to science.
“When it comes to the future, some of our biggest challenges have to do with the environment. I love the fact I get to help students understand their role in the environment and encourage them to think critically when learning about complex environmental issues and how they can impact the world. Our students are the ones who will help us all achieve a sustainable future, and it is fulfilling to know I get to play a small part in that,” Wieman Starling said.
The love of teaching stems from teaching her all time favorite subject, science, and watching her students find their own passion in the field.
“I’ve always believed if we have high expectations for our students, and provide the right supports, they will not only meet but exceed those expectations. I get to watch my students excel in a subject I love, and I can’t imagine a career more fulfilling than that,” she said.
Hands-on activities, case students that highlight environmental challenges across the globe, and group discussions are a few ways she engages her students. The group discussions encourage students to think critically and back up their arguments with scientific data.
“Science is not a solitary activity, so collaboration is a key facet in everything we do,” Wieman Starling said.
Tiffany Wilke, Challenger Middle School
“Being named a Golden Apple finalist is still so surreal. It’s the ultimate recognition in the education community and an incredible honor. It’s humbling to be acknowledged alongside such talented educators who share the same commitment to making a difference in the lives of students,” Challenger Middle School sixth grade Global Perspective teacher Tiffany Wilke said. “This recognition motivates me to continue striving for excellence and reminds me of the impact we, as educators, can have on shaping the future.”
She said she is incredibly honored and thankful to be given the opportunity to be a Golden Apple finalist.
“I remember growing up and going to McDonald’s with my dad and seeing the tray liners with all the finalists each year. I was always aspiring to be one of those teachers, and now being here feels like an amazing blessing,” Wilke said.
She began teaching in the district six years ago, and is currently teaching an advanced reading course that focuses on research and collaboration skills.
The opportunity to build meaningful relationships with her students is what stands out the most, as it helps her get to know them as individuals through personalities, strengths, and even the challenges we face.
“I love being someone they can trust and rely on, whether they need encouragement, guidance, or just someone to listen. Those connections make it possible to inspire them not just academically but personally as well. Seeing a student light up when they feel understood or succeed at something they’ve worked hard for is what makes teaching truly special for me,” Wilke said.
The engagement is created through an environment that is interactive and relevant to the student’s life through hands-on activities, discussions, and technology integration.
“I also make it a priority to connect the content to their interests and real-world applications, so they see the value in what they’re learning. Most importantly, I build relationships with my students to understand what motivates them individually, which helps me tailor my approach to keep them curious, challenged, and excited to participate,” she said.
Ashley Koehler, a teacher at Cape Coral High School, was also named a finalist.
She could not immediately be reached for comment. This story will be updated when more information is available.