A math teacher and a veteran English instructor from Maine South High School have been name finalists for a coveted education award.
Zanfina Muja, a sophomore English teacher, and Cheng Jin, an immigrant who was formerly part of an English Language Learner program, are in the running for a 2025 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, according to the nonprofit organization that gives out the award, as well as Maine Township High School District 207 officials.
According to the eponymous organization, the Golden Apple award honors “outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities. Teacher finalists demonstrate—in their teaching and results—a significant, positive impact on their students’ growth and learning.”
Muja has 11 years of experience teaching English, and currently co-leads a classroom designed to support students with different learning abilities, according to District 207 officials. An English II instructor – teaching sophomores – she uses literary theories in her teaching, and helps students analyze texts through historical and societal lenses.
“Her students apply W.E.B. Du Bois’ Double Consciousness Theory and Gloria Anzaldúa’s Borderlands Theory to literature, deepening their understanding of identity and perspective,” district officials explained about Muja’s teaching style.
Further, she takes part in curriculum development. Muja also mentors educators, coaches pre-service teachers, and leads literacy initiatives to strengthen instruction across disciplines. Also called an academic literacy specialist, she aids teachers in using “robust instructional strategies” and helps cultivate student engagement, District 207 officials say.
“Her dedication to student mentorship has helped struggling learners gain confidence in writing and critical thinking, often shaping their future success. Recognized as a leader in equity-driven education, she creates a thought-provoking learning environment where all students feel valued,” officials said about Muja.
The Golden Apple award process is a highly competitive one, organization officials say, and of 470 nominations of ninth to 12th grade instructors, only 30 were selected as finalists.
“Great teachers change lives. These finalists exemplify the dedication and passion that define exceptional teaching,” Golden Apple organization President Alan Mather, stated in a news release announcing all of the 2025 finalists.
Maine South, located in Park Ridge, is one of three high schools in District 207 and enrolls some 2,500 students.
District 207 officials call Cheng Jin an “exceptional” math teacher who “brings unique perspectives and innovation to his classroom.”
School leaders explain that Jin, an immigrant from China and a former English Language learner, draws on his personal experiences to connect with his students.
“He is also committed to his professional development, which is evident in his pursuit of National Board Certification and his participation in the T3 (Teachers Teaching with Technology) Teacher Leader Cadre with Texas Instruments,” district officials say.
Through use of technology, Jin has helped bolster student confidence in using advanced calculators and other learning aids.
“Cheng’s impact on student learning is remarkable,” officials say. “His use of technology in the classroom has commitment to his students and their understanding makes him a standout teacher in his field.
All of the finalists will have to wait until spring to find out if they made the final cut to this year’s class of award recipients.
According to the Golden Apple release, the winning teachers will be surprised in the spring, and their prize will include a sabbatical at Northwestern University at no cost. They will also receive a $5,000 cash award and be named fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators. The academy is described as a community of educators who play an integral role in preparing the next generation of teachers in the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs.
“Their commitment to fostering student growth and inspiring a love for learning enriches not only their classrooms but also the entire educational community. We are honored to recognize their invaluable contributions,” Gold Apple organization officials stated about the finalists and award-winners.
