Rock Canyon principal wins school district award
Rock Canyon Principal Andy Abner received the District Administrator of the Year award at the 2025 Apple Awards Ceremony hosted in March. He is joined on stage by Assistant Superintendent Danny Winsor (left) and Executive Director of Schools, John Gutierrez (right).
Each year, the Foundation for Douglas County Schools recognizes Douglas County School District (DCSD) staff members with Apple Awards in a district-wide ceremony for educators and administrators who inspire a love of learning, excel in their contributions to students and are innovators in the classroom. This year, Rock Canyon High School (RCHS) principal and Castle Pines resident, Andy Abner, received the Apple Award for District Administrator of the Year.
Principal Abner is a pillar of the RCHS culture. Abner believes the way that administrators should interact with students should rely on connection and inspiration with teenagers. Abner goes above and beyond to ensure all students at RCHS feel empowered, encouraged and seen. He can be found in the halls, classrooms or sitting courtside, supporting the incredible achievements of his students. On any school day, Abner greets his students with his iconic catch phrase, “It’s a great day to be a Jag!” His motto is emblazoned on the school’s wall courtesy of the class of 2022.
“I’m incredibly honored and truly humbled. With so many outstanding administrators across our district, this recognition means the world to me,” stated Abner.
Created in 2006, the Apple Awards honor staff members in each of the five Employee of the Year categories: Classified Employee, Department Employee, Elementary Educator, Secondary Educator and District Administrator. Among the thousands of nominees, to include staff from American Academy, RCHS, Rocky Heights Middle School, Timber Trail and Buffalo Ridge elementary Schools, one recipient is awarded per category.
Principal Abner recognized his entire staff and the educators of all of the Douglas County schools as the reason he is able to lead RCHS with such success.
“This award is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the excellence we all strive for together as staff, students, and families alike,” concluded Abner. “I would like to thank our community for their continued support and for making RCHS such a special place.”
To learn more about the Apple Awards, or read about other recognitions and nominees, visit foundationdcs.org/apple-awards.
Article by Marly Holsman; photo courtesy of Andy Abner
