The Golden Apple Awards are presented by Cal State LA’s College of Education as part of its annual Day of the Educator and Honors Celebration.
The awards currently recognize outstanding mentor/master teachers and site supervisors who guide Cal State LA credential candidates during their fieldwork or internships. Honorees are recognized for:
- Providing high-quality mentorship and supervision
- Collaborating effectively with the University and preparation programs
- Understanding program standards, curricula, and objectives
- Tailoring their guidance to each candidate’s needs
- Applying current knowledge and practices in their field
- Helping aspiring educators address challenges and grow professionally
The awards reflect the College of Education’s appreciation for the experienced educators who help prepare future teachers, counselors, school psychologists, specialists, and school leaders.
2026 Golden Apple Recipients
Chung Kwan (Davis) Fan
Davis Fan is an alum of the COE's credential and Master's programs in Mild to Moderate Support Needs. He is an outstanding mentor teacher who over the years has mentored close to 20 student teachers/credential candidates in the program. All of the students whom he mentored are now successfully employed. Mr. Fan is continuously giving back to the college, besides being a veteran mentor teacher, he is a dedicated member of the Community Advisory Committee.
Student teachers and the university supervisors who observe them in Mr. Fan’s classroom consistently praise his extensive subject-matter expertise and deep understanding of special education policy, practice, and research. His engaging, innovative, and rigorous instruction prepares a diverse group of high school students for successful transitions to college and career pathways. He also provides aspiring educators with detailed, constructive feedback and meaningful opportunities to strengthen their instructional skills under his guidance.
Mr. Fan’s mentorship has produced lasting results: more than five of his student teachers have been hired by Montebello Unified School District, and all of his former mentees are successfully employed. His contributions to the College of Education extend beyond the classroom. In addition to serving as a veteran mentor teacher, he represents the Mild to Moderate Support Needs program on the Community Advisory Committee and played an integral role in the 2020 California Commission on Teacher Credentialing accreditation process as a member of the stakeholder interview focus group.
Through his mentorship, service, and commitment to excellence, Mr. Fan has made a meaningful difference in the lives of aspiring educators while strengthening the quality of the MMSN program.