HPCF Golden Apple Recipients

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) is proud to recognize Jon Bogie, a fourth-grade teacher at Wayne Thomas Elementary School, as the recipient of the 2026 HPCF Golden Apple Award.

Jon Bogie

Jon is known for creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. Through hands-on learning, authentic relationships, and a deep commitment to both academic and social-emotional growth, he helps students build confidence, develop resilience, and discover their strengths. A sign reading “YNWA” — short for “You’ll Never Walk Alone” — hangs above his classroom door, reflecting the inclusive and supportive community he has built over the years.

“What sets Jon apart is not just his extensive knowledge of content, but his absolute joy in teaching and subject matter,” shared Sara Sher, Chair of the HPCF Golden Apple Committee. “His understanding of children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth is unmatched.”

Parents, students, and colleagues alike describe Jon as an educator who makes every child feel valued and capable. One parent shared that “Mr. Bogie empowers students to understand how they learn best,” while a student noted, “He always makes you feel like you’re enough.”

Surprise Celebration. HPCF Golden Apple Committee Chair Sara Sher presenting the award to Jon Bogie

Jon’s impact extends well beyond his classroom. Whether through “Bogie Lunch,” Guitar Lunch, serving as a musical director, technology leader, or partnering with organizations like Kids Rank, he consistently creates meaningful opportunities that enrich the lives of students and colleagues alike. Mike Lubelfeld, superintendent of North Shore School District 112, described Jon as “an incredible human, a wonderful teacher, and a very experienced educator” who “leaves an indelible mark of excellence on students.”

The HPCF Golden Apple Selection Committee chose this year’s recipient following a rigorous review and classroom observation process. Jon learned he had been selected at a surprise celebration on May 7, where he was presented with a golden apple statuette and The Sara Sher Excellence in Teaching Prize — a $2,000 honorarium and a $500 Apple Store gift card. Semi-finalists Erin Lichtfuss and Rachel Joseph Milner were also recognized for their excellence in teaching and dedication to students.