Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Seeks Nominations for Appleton Awards

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is now accepting applications for the Appleton Awards, recognizing Pre-K-12 educators in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, and Charlotte counties who use arts integration to inspire learning and build community. Winners receive funding for professional development and classroom projects and will share their experiences as Merit Scholars. The deadline for applications is November 22, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. The award is made possible by a legacy gift from Mrs. Louise Appleton, a local philanthropist who had a passion for connecting the arts with education.

"The Appleton Awards exemplify our commitment to empowering educators who harness the transformative power of the arts," said Kelli Maldonado, Executive Director of Mission & Impact. " By investing in both experienced and emerging educators, we foster innovation in teaching and inspire a lifelong love for the arts among learners of all ages.”

Awards are offered in two categories:

  • Experienced Educator Award ($5,000): For educators with significant expertise in arts integration.

  • Emerging Educator Award ($2,500): For teachers who have expressed interest and demonstrate potential for excellence in Arts Integration implementation in the classroom or in the community.

Winners will also be recognized at the 2026 Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Gala, featuring Tony Award–winning artist Idina Menzel on March 6, 2026.

For more information or to apply, visit PerformingArtsFoundation.org/Appleton.

2025 Appleton Award winners: Karim Manning, Ruslan Akhmadullin, and Brooks Tracey

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