Highland Park Neighbors Magazine Articles

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) has named Jon Bogie, a fourth-grade teacher at Wayne Thomas Elementary School, as the recipient of the 2026 HPCF Golden Apple Award, recognizing his extraordinary impact on students, families, colleagues, and the broader school community.

Established in 2010 by HPCF in partnership with a local family foundation, the award honors outstanding educators in the Highland Park and Highwood public school systems. To be eligible, nominees must have completed at least four full years of teaching. The award rotates annually among elementary, middle, and high school levels; this year, full-time elementary school teachers were eligible.

Sara Sher and Jon Bogie

“A Selection Committee — comprised of exemplary current and retired educators, administrators, and former award recipients — carefully evaluates each application,” said Sara Sher, Chair of the HPCF Golden Apple Committee. “The Committee also conducts a full day of observation for each finalist, assessing instruction, content knowledge, interactions with students and staff, and contributions to the school and community.”

After a rigorous review process, the committee selected three finalists: Jon Bogie, Erin Lichtfuss, and Rachel Joseph Milner. Following classroom observations and evaluation, Jon was selected as this year’s recipient.

Jon learned he had received the award during a surprise celebration on May 7, where he was presented with a golden apple statuette along with The Sara Sher Excellence in Teaching Prize — a $2,000 honorarium and a $500 Apple Store gift card.

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

Sara noted that Jon’s students respond positively to his teaching style, which allows each child to build confidence and grow regardless of their learning needs. One parent shared that “Mr. Bogie empowers them to understand how they learn best.”

Jon’s mastery of curriculum and lesson structuring ensures that students acquire the skills needed to meet their academic goals, but, according to Sara, his classroom is much more than a place where lessons are taught. “It is a place where students feel safe to take risks, where they are encouraged to be themselves, and where they are reminded daily that they matter,” she said.

Through intentional classroom design, authentic relationships, and a strong commitment to both academic and social-emotional learning, Jon has created an environment where students know they are supported and “never walking alone.” A sign reading “YNWA” — short for “You’ll Never Walk Alone” — hangs above his classroom door, reflecting the inclusive community he has built over the years.

Jon Bogie

Jon’s impact also extends throughout the school district and broader community. Whether through “Bogie Lunch,” Guitar Lunch, serving as a musical director, technology leader, or grant recipient, he consistently creates opportunities that enrich the lives of both students and colleagues.

He also partners with Kids Rank, a nonprofit and HPCF grantee supporting militaryconnected youth, helping students participate in projects that foster resilience and empathy. As one student shared, “He always makes you feel like you’re enough.”

Mike Lubelfeld, superintendent of North Shore School District 112, called Jon “an incredible human, a wonderful teacher, and a very experienced educator.”

“He leaves an indelible mark of excellence on students.” Mike said. He also highlighted Jon’s hands-on, project-based learning experiences, which encourage students to explore their interests while actively engaging with classroom content.

“He creates milestone moments for students,” Mike said. “Every child is set up for success by connecting their interests to the content of the class. Students absolutely love him each and every year.”

In addition to naming Jon as this year’s recipient, HPCF recognized two exceptional semi-finalists.

Erin Lichtfuss, a second-grade teacher at Indian Trail Elementary School, was recognized for creating a classroom environment built on collaboration, trust, and enthusiasm for learning. Sara described Erin’s classroom as one where students of all backgrounds feel academically supported and emotionally safe while being encouraged to embrace their individuality.

“She intentionally builds strong connections with both students and families,” Sara said, noting Erin’s commitment to individualized instruction, differentiated learning opportunities, and strategic peer partnerships that build confidence and independence.

Rachel Joseph Milner, a first-grade teacher at Braeside Elementary School, was honored for her people-first approach to education and her ability to make every child feel seen and valued. Rachel created the Braeside Kindness Club and is known for fostering an uplifting classroom environment filled with creativity, compassion, and encouragement.

“It is impossible to describe the magic Rachel creates for her students each day,” Sara said. “She is an advocate, a cheerleader, a confidant, a guide, and a steadfast presence in the lives of every one of her students.” And, as one student shared, “She never lets students leave the classroom without being happy.”

Mike praised both semi-finalists as “superstars,” adding that he has personally visited both classrooms and witnessed “excellence in education.”

HPCF is proud to recognize educators like Jon, Erin, and Rachel, whose dedication, creativity, and compassion make a lasting impact on students and families throughout Highland Park and Highwood.