Eugene School District 4J

💛✨ What a night! More than 300 people gathered at North Eugene High School on the evening of May 6 for the 2025 Golden Apple Awards to celebrate 4J’s outstanding staff and volunteers.

The evening was filled with joy, recognition and dazzling student performances—from the North Eugene Ukulele Allstars to Ballet Folklórico dancers from River Road/El Camino del Río Elementary. Plus delicious appetizers prepared by 4J Catering Service.

Principals Charlie Jett (Howard Elementary) and Karen Ramirez Gutierrez (River Road/El Camino del Rio Elementary) hosted the night with heart and humor, helping us honor all 272 nominees and announce finalists and winners in seven categories.

WINNERS:

Roger Butenschoen, Head Custodian, Twin Oaks Elementary - Classified Staff

Annika Zeigler, English Teacher, Churchill High School - Apple Seed

Ayhana Gaines, School Counselor, Adams Elementary - Teacher & Licensed Specialist

Deaf & Hard of Hearing Team, Madison Middle School - 4J Spotlight (Ayla Adkins [pictured], Kelle Bucolo, Abigail Donnelly, August Meredith, Allissa Phoenix, Asia Tong, Katrina Wadsworth)

Alex Zuniga, Bilingual Office Support, Buena Vista Spanish Immersion Elementary - Lifetime Achievement

Dana Brummett, Principal, McCornack Elementary - Administrator, Supervisor & Professional

Mary Phelps, McCornack Elementary - Volunteer

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the people who make our schools shine! 🌟
See the full list of nominees