2013 eddy awards program

Celebratingthe Heart ofEducation

An evening honoringThe Florida Blue

Duval County Teachers of the Year

Thursday, March 14, 2013

An evening honoring

The Florida BlueDuval County Teachers

of the Year

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Celebratingthe Heart ofEducation

1

Florida Blue is a proud sponsor of the EDDY Awards.

Florida Blue is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 75610-0113

Celebrating the Heart of Education

PROGRAMMarch 14, 2013

EmceeStaci Spanos

WJXT Channel 4

WelcomeSusan Towler

Florida Blue

Scott Coble

Wells Fargo

:MÆMK\QWV[Scott Sowell

2012 Duval County Teacher of the Year

RemarksSuperintendent Nikolai Vitti

FinalistScott Cason

Special guests – Sarah Sowards

Jonathan Waring

FinalistCameron Foley

Special guests – Chenille Holley

Iron Stafford

FinalistBlair Nolan

Special guests – Anozhia Di’era Dixon

Darrien Samuels

FinalistApryl Shackelford

Special guests – Ruben Anderson

Timantha Raggins

FinalistRobyn White

Special guests – Michal Jones

Rose Nesmith

Rotary AwardJohn Kattman

Rotary Clubs of Duval County

Presentation of AwardsSteve Gritzuk

GCA Services Group

Tori Kaplan – CSX

Louisa Camp

Chartwells/Thompson Hospitality

Allen Burgtorf – prepaloo

Cindy Edelman

Jacksonville Public Education Fund

Jim Milligan

Schultz Center for Teaching and Leadership

Ami McClay – FBMC

Dan MacFerran

University of Phoenix North Florida Campus

Sam Inman

Community First Credit Union

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This has been a momentous year for education stakeholders in Duval

County with a new Superintendent, a new School Board, and the One

by One campaign lead by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. The

campaign included numerous conversations, meetings and a convention

where we listened to over 170 diverse grass roots citizens frame their

priorities as to where we want to be as a School District. Of those

priorities, great teachers and leaders emerged as one of the top four.

When asked to describe what that would look like, the following sub

themes bubbled to the top: focus on new and existing teacher training, purposeful

professional development, recognition, respect and paying teachers as professionals.

?M�IZM�KWVÅLMV\�\PI\�\PMZM�_QTT�JM�XZWOZM[[�QV�\PM[M�IZMI[��8TMI[M�RWQV�][�QV�\PM[M� efforts to improve outcomes for all teachers; we value your input and need your help.

At this 22nd annual EDDY Awards ceremony, we celebrate those of you selected by

your schools as Teachers of the Year. Congratulations and continued success

educating our young people.

We salute you!

WelcomeWelcome

The Rotary Clubs of Duval County

The Rotary Clubs of Duval County are honored to be

able to demonstrate their appreciation to teachers who

KWV[Q[\MV\Ta�M`MUXTQNa�\PM�WJRMK\�WN �:W\IZa�·�\W�MVKW]ZIOM�and foster the idea of service. Rotary became concerned

about and involved in the need to properly recognize

the best of the best teachers in the public schools even

JMNWZM�\PM�ÅZ[\�-,,A�)_IZL[#�IVL�:W\IZa�Q[�XZW]L�WN �Q\[� involvement in the EDDY Awards during the past 22 years.

Rotarians believe the recognition that teachers deserve and

receive through the EDDY Awards program shows that we

recognize teachers as true professionals and appreciate their

commitment to Duval County’s 160,000 public school

students – Rotarians understand that dedicated teachers

TQ^M�:W\IZa¼[�UW\\W��¹[MZ^QKM�IJW^M�[MTN�º�Ja�[MTÆM[[Ta� working to change the world one mind at a time.

Tonight is a momentous occasion as we honor our Florida

Blue Teachers of the Year! Congratulations! Each person

in this room is here to celebrate your sincere devotion

and commitment to excellence. We are inspired by the

hope, imagination, and love of learning you instill in your

students each day. As Superintendent, I am privileged to

support your work and sincerely thank you for your tireless

efforts in preparing students for lifelong learning and

success.

Good evening and welcome.

I had the great honor of participating in the selection

process for the Teacher of the Year Award this year. As a

native of Jacksonville who has spent several years trying

\W�PMTX�ÅVL�_Ia[�\W�QUXZW^M�W]Z�[KPWWT[��1�_I[�ÅTTML�_Q\P�pride at the quality of our teachers. These are folks who

IZM�VW\�WVTa�[UIZ\��UW\Q^I\ML�IVL�_MTT�Y]ITQÅML�\W�\MIKP�- they are also gifted with a level of love of both kids and

teaching that make them unique. We are so lucky to have

teachers like these in Jacksonville, and I know that as you

hear their stories tonight, you will share my pride.

John KattmanRotary Clubs of Duval County

Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Superintendent Duval County Public Schools

Jim Milligan, Chairman Schultz Center for Teaching and Leadership

Cindy EdelmanPresident of the Board of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund

4 5

The Florida Blue Duval County Teacher of the Year selection process began at the

school level in August when the Teachers of the Year were selected by their school

community to represent their school. Each Teacher of the Year completed an extensive

packet that outlined their teaching philosophy, professional development activities,

leadership roles, and student achievement data. Five area selection committees read the

XIKSM\[�IVL�MIKP�[MTMK\ML�Å^M�\MIKPMZ[�\W�^Q[Q\�QV�\PMQZ�KTI[[ZWWU[��)N\MZ�\PM�KTI[[ZWWU�visits, the area selection committees each picked three teachers to comprise the

��[MUQ�ÅVITQ[\[��7^MZ�I�\_W�LIa�XMZQWL��\PM�ÅVIT�[MTMK\QWV�KWUUQ\\MM�QV\MZ^QM_ML� \PM��[MUQ�ÅVITQ[\[��)N\MZ�\PM�QV\MZ^QM_[��\PM�ÅVIT�[MTMK\QWV�KWUUQ\\MM�[MTMK\ML� \PM�Å^M�ÅVITQ[\[��.WTTW_QVO�KTI[[ZWWU�WJ[MZ^I\QWV[��\PM�_QVVMZ�_I[�KPW[MV��

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the following individuals who served on our committees. We truly appreciate the time and dedication they gave to this process. Special acknowledgement and recognition goes to Chip Leonard who continues to be a driving force behind the Teacher of the Year selection process.

On behalf of Wells Fargo, I’d like to welcome you to this year’s

-,,A�)_IZL[�XZWOZIU��8TMI[M�RWQV�UM�QV�KWVOZI\]TI\QVO� Duval County’s Teachers of the Year as they are recognized for

their outstanding contributions to education in our community.

In addition to supporting the awards program, Wells Fargo is

also very proud to support the “Excellence in Teaching” Seminar

Series. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for some of

W]Z�ÅVM[\�\MIKPMZ[�\W�[PIZM�QV[QOP\[�IVL�JM[\�XZIK\QKM[�_Q\P� KWTTMIO]M[�·�I�XZWOZIU�\PI\�JMVMÅ\[�JW\P�\MIKPMZ[�IVL�[\]LMV\[�

<PIVS�aW]�NWZ�JMQVO�PMZM�IVL�MVRWa�\PM�XZWOZIU�

.TWZQLI�*T]M�JMTQM^M[�QV�\PM�QUXWZ\IVKM�WN �ÅVLQVO�ZMIT��UMIVQVON]T�solutions to some of the most critical social issues that face our

state, issues such as education, literacy and access to healthcare.

The role that teachers play in our children’s lives is critical.

*MQVO�ZM[XWV[QJTM�NWZ�\PW[M�\PI\�_QTT�TMIL�IVL�QVÆ]MVKM�W]Z�N]\]ZM�leaders is no easy task. On behalf of all Florida Blue employees

- many of whom have children in your care 180 days each year

- I commend you for your nurturing, creativity, guidance and

commitment.

Thank you to this year’s Duval County Teacher of the Year, and

all teachers in Duval County!

Jordan Baker

Leslie Beasley

Youmone Berrien

Shelley Cain

Shawnelle Carrico

Zak Champagne

Kelly Coker-Daniel

Christy Constande

Africia Davis

Cindy Fitch

Ruby George

Staci Kelly

Chip Leonard

Gretchen Lynch

Lauren Martin

Martha McManus

Jim Milligan

Robert Mitchell

Lisa Page

Pam Paul

Lynn Peters

Paula Renfro

Pearl Roziers

Victoria Schultz

Helen Schultz

Mike Sims

Scott Sowell

Susan Verbeck

Beverly Walker

Welcome Recognitions

Scott CobleWells Fargo

Susan Towler Executive Director, Community Affairs Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida

6 7

Scott Sowell2012 Duval County Teacher of the Year

Being this year’s Duval County Teacher of the Year has

JMMV�I�\Z]M�PWVWZ�IVL�I�[QVKMZM�RWa��

I have had the pleasure of speaking to various civic

organizations and participating in a wide range of local

events. At each of these events, whether it was throwing out

\PM�ÅZ[\�XQ\KP�I\�I�;]V[�JI[MJITT�OIUM�WZ�[XMISQVO�\W�XIZMV\[�at a district PTA meeting, I have been constantly impressed

by the overwhelming interest and support for public

education here in Jacksonville.

I was honored to be asked to serve as a board member with the Jacksonville Public Education

Fund. JPEF, and other local organizations, are helping to create a groundswell of positive

energy and momentum within the community. We are truly fortunate to have such

WZOIVQbI\QWV[�KZMI\QVO�JZQLOM[�IUWVO�\MIKPMZ[��LQ[\ZQK\�WNÅKM[��IVL�KWUU]VQ\a�UMUJMZ[��

Not only have I had the pleasure of working with community organizations, I have also had

the chance to develop and sustain relationships among other master teachers and teacher

leaders. There are countless numbers of amazing teachers here in Duval County and

I have been personally invigorated and recharged by my interactions with my fellow

educators! These collegial relationships, more than any other aspect of my professional

life, make me proud to be a Duval County teacher.

5a�NMTTW_�\MIKPMZ[�IVL�1�OI\PMZML�\WOM\PMZ�\PQ[�NITT�I\�\PM�ÅZ[\�IVV]IT�<-)+0�+WVNMZMVKM�� I had the pleasure of serving on the planning committee for this conference, which was

spearheaded by WJCT. It was a phenomenal event that once again capitalized on the

power of bringing great teachers together to learn from one other.

As this year’s winner, I was also able to travel to the state Teacher of the Year conference

with all of the other winners from each of the other counties throughout Florida. In talking

with the other county winners, it became clear that our teacher of the year selection process,

the EDDY award ceremony, and the community’s involvement in the Teacher of the Year

program are miles and miles above those of other counties. This special event would not be

possible without the support of Florida Blue, the Rotary Clubs of Jacksonville, Wells Fargo,

Community First Credit Union, the Schultz Center for Teaching and Leadership,

Jacksonville Public Education Fund, and many more. Again, another indication of

how our city supports and celebrates great teachers here in Jacksonville!

Thanks again for this amazing honor!


The Rotary Clubs of Duval County congratulate all the teachers who were nominated by their schools

to participate in this year’s Teacher of the Year selection process. The Rotary Clubs of Duval County collectively decided 22 years ago that teachers were not properly or adequately recognized, and helped WR�SODQ�DQG�IXQG�WKH�¿UVW�(''<�$ZDUGV�UHFRJQLWLRQ�ceremony in 1991. The monetary contributions that

the Duval County Rotary Clubs have made over the years represent only a small token of the great

respect and appreciation that all members of Rotary have for the best of the best teachers

in Duval County.

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Honor Roll Finalist

Past Duval County Teachers of the Year2012201120102009200820072006200520042003

200220012000199919981997

199619951994199319921991199019891988198719861985

198419831982198119801979197819771976

197519741973

Scott SowellYoumone BerrienZachary Champagne5IZRWZQM�6WTIVLucretia MillerMichelle StinsonPatrick GibbonsClarence “Chip” R. Leonard, Jr.Janet Weisedayle timmons (2004 Florida Teacher of the Year)Judith Kim BaysSharon BurnetteMarilyn OlinJean AikensJ. Mark ScottGrace Williams (1998 Florida Teacher of the Year)Anastasia WashingtonBeverly HurstFranklin SmithBrenda Matthews Patsy RayburnCarla BoyntonJohn WrightLinda CuginiLinda Leigh SloanJane FeberLinda S. BoderMike Reynolds (1986 Florida Teacher of the Year)Roderick DickensBeverly EverettSara Barksdale PolandShirley HinsonGail BrinsonVoncile JacksonJohn W. Adcox, Jr.Janice LambMarita Eng (1977 Florida Teacher of the Year)Elizabeth HunterLouise Arrington

Helen H. Sherard

Darnell CookmanFirst Coast HighMandarin Oaks ElementaryFirst Coast HighChaffee Trail ElementaryHenry F. Kite ElementaryBeauclerc ElementaryWolfson HighJacksonville Heights ElementaryChets Creek Elementary

Twin Lakes Academy ElementaryCrown Point ElementaryPaxon School for Advanced StudiesFort Caroline ElementaryNathan B. Forrest HighNorth Shore Elementary

Parkwood Heights ElementaryAlimacani ElementaryRaines HighFirst Coast HighFletcher HighBeauclerc ElementaryWestside Skills CenterHighlands Junior HighBeauclerc ElementaryGeorge W. Carver 6th Grade CenterNormandy Village ElementaryFletcher High

Nathan B. Forrest HighTerry Parker HighLake Lucina ElementaryWindy Hill ElementaryFletcher HighHendricks Avenue ElementarySouthside Skills CenterNathan B. Forrest HighSandalwood High

Nathan B. Forrest HighArlington High

North Shore Elementary

Scott CasonTeacher of the YearMandarin High

AP World History, AICE US History, World Religions

EducationPh.D., The Florida State University; Religions of Western

Antiquity M.Div., Emory University; Religion

B.S., Lee University; Education

Highlights��;KP]T\b�+MV\MZ#�6M_�)8�?WZTL�0Q[\WZa�Training

��;KP]T\b�+MV\MZ#�)8�?WZTL�0Q[\WZa�,Q[\ZQK\�84+��;KP]T\b�+MV\MZ#�)8�?WZTL�0Q[\WZa�,Q[\ZQK\�Review for Students

��5IVLIZQV�0QOP�;KPWWT#�)8�?WZTL�0Q[\WZa�PLC Leader

��2IKS[WV^QTTM�=VQ^MZ[Q\a�IVL�.TWZQLI�;\I\M� College at Jacksonville; Online course development

��<M`\JWWS�I]\PWZ[PQX#�1V\ZWL]K\QWV�\W� Religions and World Religions

Dr. Cason sees his obligation as an educator to introduce his students to the idea that they are global citizens whose lives are inextricably linked to world affairs. His belief that the economic well-being of the global marketplace will only improve when all citizens of the world have access to a great education drives his motivation to empower his students to learn and think for themselves.

In order to create independent thinkers, Dr. Cason introduces “the big question” as a part of each lesson, leading students to see issues of history and current affairs from multiple perspectives. He sees his role as a guide, to provide his students with information necessary to formulate their own opinions in ways that are persuasive and well-informed.

,Z��+I[WV�IT[W�_WZS[�\W�ZMIKP�PQ[�[\]LMV\[�\PZW]OP�\PQVO[�\PMa�ÅVL�QV\MZM[\QVO�IVL�ZMTM^IV\��He uses gaming techniques and even allows students to use their cell phones in class. Dr. Cason creates polling questions that students respond to with a text. Responses are immediately posted online to the classroom site so that students see results in real time and they often engage in a game to see who posts the most original comment to the question.

In addition to teaching in the classroom, Dr. Cason sees training teachers outside the KTI[[ZWWU�I[�WVM�WN �\PM�UW[\�ZM_IZLQVO�XIZ\[�WN �PQ[�RWJ�I[�IV�ML]KI\WZ��0M�Q[�QV^WT^ML�QV�many professional training communities, mentors young teachers and has authored on-line curriculum and textbooks at the college level.

“We are deeply honored to have this experienced teacher on our faculty….This is a teacher

_PW�_QTT�IT_Ia[�JM�ZMUMUJMZML�Ja�PQ[�[\]LMV\[�I[�I�XW_MZN]T�QVÆ]MVKM�QV�\PMQZ�TQ^M[�º��

Dr. Donna A. Richardson Principal

Mandarin High School

10 11

Finalist Finalist

Blair NolanTeacher of the YearFirst Coast High

Grade 9 English/Language Arts

EducationJuris Doctorate, University of Florida, Levin College of LawB. A., The University of Florida; English

*TIQZ�IVL�PMZ�UW\PMZ�5IZRWZQM�UIa�JM�\PM�ÅZ[\�UW\PMZ�LI]OP\MZ�\MIU�\W�JMKWUM�ÅVITQ[\[�for the Duval County Teacher of the Year. Although Blair’s original path took her to law school, her mother’s example led her to the classroom instead of the courtroom. Ms. Nolan was eight years old when her mother took her to “Bring Your Daughter to Work Day” and it was on that day she decided she wanted to be a teacher too. In fact, she taught an analogies lesson that day to 30 seventeen year olds!

5[��6WTIV�ÅVL[�KZMI\Q^M�_Ia[�\W�MVOIOM�ITT�WN �PMZ�[\]LMV\[�[W�\PI\�\PMQZ�TMIZVQVO�JMKWUM[�ZMTM^IV\�\W�TQNM��7V�UW[\�LIa[��aW]�_QTT�ÅVL�5[��6WTIV�LZM[[ML�QV�KPIZIK\MZ�I[�[PM�JZQVO[�ideas and literature to life for her students. In January 2012, after her students took their second FAIR test, Ms. Nolan, dressed in scrubs and a doctor’s coat with a stethoscope around her neck, and wrote a diagnosis and a Prescription for FCAT Success for each student. At the end of that school year, her students showed great gains in FAIR and on the FCAT.

5[��6WTIV¼[�ZWWU�Q[�LMKWZI\ML�_Q\P�[IQT[�IVL�Å[PQVO�VM\[�I[�_MTT�I[�QV[XQZQVO�Y]W\M[�[W�\PI\��in the words of student Brianna Moore, “…her room (is) comfortable for learning... Her room stands out from all other rooms in First Coast…”

5[��6WTIV�PI[�JMKWUM�I�\MIKPMZ�TMILMZ��_QLMTa�ZMOIZLML�VW\�R][\�Ja�PMZ�\MIU�J]\�PMZ� colleagues at First Coast High. Her strategy for student success is clear: encourage students; [M\�KTMIZ�M`XMK\I\QWV[#�\MIKP�ZMILMZ�[XMKQÅK�[\ZI\MOQM[#�LM^MTWX�[SQTT�[XMKQÅK�TM[[WV[#�IVL� increase the time students spend reading. Most importantly, Ms. Nolan works hard to connect on a real and personal level with all of her students so that they leave her classroom at the end of the year with a love of reading and learning.

“As Duval County Teacher of the Year, Blair would be a living example of the greatness of our profession. Her passion, compassion and love of her students is evident in every aspect of her teaching.”

Brenda Matthews District Literacy Specialist

1993 Duval County Teacher of the Year

Highlights��aMIZ[�\MIKPQVO� ��-4)�!�8ZWNM[[QWVIT�Learning Community Lead Teacher

��+ZMI\ML�IVL�\I]OP\�\_W�LQ[\ZQK\�TM^MT� workshops: Ratcheting Up the Rigor: Enriching the Academic Literacy Curriculum and C’s-ing the Day: The Ten C’s New Reading and English Teachers Need to Know

Cameron FoleyTeacher of the YearRamona Boulevard Elementary

Grades 4-5 Reading Intervention Specialist

EducationB.S., The University of South Carolina; Psychology

In Ms. Foley’s capacity as a reading intervention specialist, she works everyday with struggling students, something she is passionate about. Ms. Foley’s work is data driven, but she is driven by a desire to lay the foundation for success for all her students. She speaks of her “real Job” to teach in a way that nurtures students’ self-esteem and makes them believe in themselves enough to engage in the demanding work necessary day after day to catch up. ;PM�ZMITQbM[�\PI\�[]KKM[[N]T�M`XMZQMVKM[�QV�MTMUMV\IZa�[KPWWT�XZW^QLM�\PM�KWVÅLMVKM� and perseverance to meet the challenges of middle school and beyond.

*a�NWK][QVO�VW\�R][\�WV�LI\I��J]\�\PM�_PWTM�KPQTL��5[��.WTMa�_I[�IJTM�\W�QLMV\QNa�TQ[\MVQVO�habits rather than learning disabilities as the reason for poor performance by many of her students this year. Through intensive observation, she realized that as soon as a lesson started, students began to engage in non-productive habits. Using strategies learned in her graduate program, Ms. Foley was able to redirect the unsuccessful habits. She set goals and gained her students’ trust, leading to great success.

People and time are two of Ms. Foley’s most valuable learning tools. She engages teaching interns, volunteers and parents in her classroom in order to reduce the adult-to-student ratio. She offers formalized instruction time before school, during breaks, lunch periods and after school. By using every minute possible, providing relentless encouragement and consistent encouragement, Ms. Foley successfully built a community of learners.

“Ms. Foley is the ultimate professional and has proven time and again that the welfare and

academic growth of students is always her number one priority.”

La Shawn S. RussPrincipal

Ramona Boulevard Elementary

Highlights��5MV\WZ�\MIKPMZ�\W�VW^QKM�\MIKPMZ[��,QZMK\QVO�\MIKPQVO�NWZ�ML]KI\QWV�UIRWZ[� from UNF and FSCJ

��;INM\a�8I\ZWT�;XWV[WZ��,M^MTWXML�IL]T\�TQ\MZIKa�K]ZZQK]T]U�NWZ� Jacksonville Public Library

12 13

Finalist Finalist

Apryl ShackelfordTeacher of the YearNorthwestern Middle School

Grade 6 Intensive Reading

EducationM.ED., University of Phoenix; Curriculum and Instruction

B.S., Everest University; Criminal Justice

Ms. Shackelford’s teaching philosophy is based on a belief that all children can learn; that it is incumbent on the teacher to understand how to reach and motivate them. Ms. Shackelford’s personal life experiences have given her the capacity to deal with the myriad issues many of her students bring with them into the classroom that often serve as a hindrance to learning. Although she is always prepared to help, Ms. Shackelford does not allow any of her students to make excuses. Instead, she holds them to a high standard and with that expectation comes responsibility.

All of Ms. Shackelford’s instruction is data driven so that students know when they have reached benchmarks and when they need to review in order to reach a target. She continuously encourages her students while providing them with the skills to take charge WN �\PMQZ�W_V�TMIZVQVO��)[�I�ZM[]T\��ITT�WN �PMZ�[\]LMV\[�UISM�[QOVQÅKIV\�OIQV[�NZWU�\PM� time they enter and leave her class.

Her greatest reward, Ms. Shackelford says, comes from her involvement in her mentoring group F.I.R.E. Through this program, young ladies focus on values like honesty, caring, ZM[XMK\��ZM[XWV[QJQTQ\a�IVL�KWVÅLMVKM��)[�I�ZM[]T\��\PMa�JMKWUM�[\ZWVO�IVL�KWVÅLMV\� which translates not only to success in the classroom, but in life.

“As students enter the classroom, Apryl attacks the emotional level of learning; therefore, students engage their minds for advanced learning…(and) student achievement is accelerated.”

Dr. Marvin McQueenAdministrator

Northwestern Middle school

Highlights��AW]VO�4ILQM[�4MIL�)L^Q[WZ��.IJ]TW][�AW]VO�Ladies, Innovative, Responsible and Educated (F.I.R.E)

��6WZ\P_M[\MZV�5QLLTM�;KPWWT�;)+�+PIQZ��6WZ\P_M[\MZV�5QLLTM�;KPWWT�4MIL�:MILQVO�Teacher

Robyn WhiteTeacher of the YearWest Jacksonville Elementary

Grades K-5 Reading Coach

EducationM.S., Florida State University; Education

B.S., Florida State University; Child Development

When asked about her choice to become a teacher, Ms. White describes her career path not as her choice, but one that actually chose her. Reaching back to her experiences in school, she knew she wanted to model her practice after those teachers who instilled in her the KWVÅLMVKM�IVL�LM[QZM�\W�IKPQM^M�5[��?PQ\M�UWTL[�IVL�ZMÅVM[�PMZ�XZIK\QKM�\PZW]OP�\PM�TM[[WV[�[PM�TMIZV[�NZWU�\PM�KPQTLZMV�she teaches. As she recognized that each student has a different learning style and brings unique life experiences into the classroom, Ms. White adapted her lessons to reach all of her children in unique and effective ways. If they talked about football on Monday, then Tuesday they learned how to decode words from a newspaper article about Maurice Jones Drew. If a student mentioned a favorite restaurant, they learned about text features from that menu. Through her efforts, Ms. White gained her students’ respect and trust and [QOVQÅKIV\�TMIZVQVO�\WWS�XTIKM�Through her connection to her students, Ms. White has been able to gain the trust of their parents and guardians. She attends monthly parent nights and frequents community events in the apartment complex where many of her students live. Developing relationships outside school walls has allowed Ms. White to engage her students’ caregivers in their education, encouraging hard work and success from their homes.

Ms. White has also worked to improve her profession and inform the work of her colleagues by integrating the teaching of reading and writing into a Literacy Block. Teachers who have adopted her curriculum have seen their students master the skills they need to meet Common Core Standards.

“The sky is the limit for Ms. White; she will undoubtedly continue \W�JM�IV�IUIbQVO�TMILMZ�QV�\PM�ÅMTL�WN �ML]KI\QWV�º R.E. Gresham

PrincipalWest Jacksonville Elementary

Highlights��516<�5MV\WZ�<MIKPMZ�\W�VW^QKM�\MIKPMZ[��)[[M[[UMV\�?ZQ\QVO�<MIU�4MILMZ

��:MILQVO�)[[M[[UMV\�8ZWNM[[QWVITDevelopment – provide professional development to UNF students

14 15

“Mrs. Adkins deserves the Teacher of the Year Award.

She does so much for all of us. She’s helpful and caring

IVL�_WZS[�^MZa�PIZL�I\�PMZ�RWJ��*MQVO�I�\MIKPMZ�KIV�JM�I�\W]OP�RWJ��J]\�5Z[��)LSQV[�IK\[�TQSM[�Q\¼[�I�XQMKM�of cake! She is a good listener and helps us to better

understand math and science.”

Salea RiddleCurrent Student

Central Riverside Elementary

“Rebecca understands that teens in particular only

connect with their learning if they understand the why

JMPQVL�\PM�TM[[WV��VW\�R][\�\PM�KWV\MV\�WN �\PM�TM[[WV��Knowing this, Rebecca spends many hours outside of

the classroom researching and facilitating ways for her

students to connect to chemistry in real life.”

Matthew KirkAssistant Principal

Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School

“Going above and beyond what was expected of her is

the best way to describe Mrs. Coston. I believe she was

happiest when each student accomplished his/her goals

in her class. Mrs. Coston told me always work hard and

try my best that’s what matter. This is why Mrs. Coston

is the best Teacher of the Year. I was truly blessed to

have such a nice, caring and creative teacher whom

I will never forget!”

Kaylyn HallFormer Student

Enterprise Learning Academy

Stacey AdkinsCentral Riverside Elementary3rd Grade Math and Science (Inclusion)

Rebecca Austin-Datta Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School

10th Grade Chemistry 1 Honors

Carol Coston Enterprise Learning Academy4th Grade

“One of the most important reasons Mrs. Dostaler is

such a dynamic teacher is because of the relationship

she develops with her students. While she provides

excellent instruction, she makes each student feel as if

they were the most special student in the world. She

holds them accountable and they strive to do

their best for her.”

Brenda Dale BlackmonRetired Instructional Coach

Seabreeze Elementary

Lynn DostalerSeabreeze Elementary

5th Grade

Semi-Finalist Semi-Finalist

16 17

¹1�PI^M�[MMV�ÅZ[\�PIVL�PW_�[\]LMV\[�JTW[[WU�]VLMZ�PMZ�tutelage. Her classroom is characterized by high levels

of student energy and teacher passion. The engagement

level of her kindergarten students is amazing. Ms.

0IZXMZ�\ZIQV[�PMZ�[\]LMV\[�\W�JM�[MTN�[]NÅKQMV\��I[� evidenced by the high standards of performance

that the students hold themselves to.”

Charles McWhitePrincipal

Tiger Academy

“Through her work with the Reading Council, I have

found that Ms. Kelly is extremely organized

and articulate. She is able to work as a team member

without hesitation. Her passion for literacy, learning and

student success is evident through discussions at board

meetings. Ms. Kelly is truly a shining example of the

new generation of educators that will shape

our students into well prepared citizens

that can compete in a global society.”

Lisa Wells2012-2013 Past-President

Duval County Reading Council

“Carolyn actively seeks evaluative feedback from mentors

IVL�[XMKQITQ[\[�QV�PMZ�ÅMTL�\W�QUXZW^M�PMZ�MNNMK\Q^MVM[[�as a teacher. Her positive relationship with colleagues is

demonstrated by collaborations with other teachers

in musical productions at her school, providing

a service to her school that goes beyond expectations.

Her professionalism and dedication to the music

program at Oceanway has proven to be a direct

cause of the school’s success.”

Dale ChoateDistrict Music Specialist

Duval County Public Schools

Susan HarperTiger AcademyKindergarten

Elizabeth Kelly Lone Star Elementary

3rd Grade English and Language Arts

Carolyn Tuttle Oceanway Middle School

6th, 7th & 8th Grade Music

“Mrs. Pelham not only has the ability to connect with

her students, but she also sets high standards for each

of her students and they know they must follow her

expectations. Mrs. Pelham is a teacher that I have

modeled many of my classroom expectations from and

she has inspired my philosophy of teaching in many

different ways. I have never heard or seen Mrs. Pelham

give up on any child.”

Joshua Nelson4th Grade Teacher

Annie R. Morgan Elementary

Natalie Pelham Annie R. Morgan Elementary 5th Grade

Semi-Finalist Semi-Finalist

18 19

“Mrs. Yarbrough serves as a mentor to teacher interns

as well as new teachers to the campus. Her passion and

dedication to the students far exceeds expectations.

;PM�Q[�I�6I\QWVIT�*WIZL�+MZ\QÅML�TQNM�TWVO�TMIZVMZ�� Her level of communication with the faculty and

parents allows for the door to be continually open

to the highest level of teacher service.”

Sharwonda PeekPrincipal

James Weldon Johnson College Preparatory

Dayna Yarbrough James Weldon Johnson College Preparatory

6th and 7th Grade English and Language Arts

Semi-Finalist School Teachers of the Year

Johnnie MillerA. Philip Randolph

Academies of Technology

Jenna PughAlimacani

Elementary

Kelly MatzAbess Park Elementary

Sabrina HallAndrew Jackson

High

:PWVLI�/QNÅVAlden Road Exceptional

Student Center

Leslie WaddelowAndrew Robinson

Elementary

Erin RoyceAlfred I. duPont

Middle

Natalie PelhamAnnie R. Morgan

Elementary

Donnasha Sparman-Waters

Arlington Elementary

Leslie Bransford Bayview

Elementary

Cynthia Steeg-DiazAtlantic Beach

Elementary

Nicole GilbertAtlantic Coast

High

Katherine MullisBaldwin Middle/

Senior High

Monica CrispArlington Middle

Catherine WatkinsArlington Heights

Elementary

Cynthia RayBartram Springs

Elementary

“What impresses me the most about her instruction and

impact on student learning is the manner in which she

designs activities that engage the students. Her work

embodies Knowledge of Students. By using colorful,

tactic and interactive ways in both instruction and

through student work, Catherine allows students to

demonstrate their knowledge in a way that speaks

to the child’s heart.”

Emma Araya4th Grade Teacher

Arlington Heights Elementary

Catherine WatkinsArlington Heights Elementary4th Grade

20 21

School Teachers of the Year School Teachers of the Year

Patricia LeftwichBrentwood Elementary

Robyn PuttickChaffee Trail Elementary

Shamar JohnsonCrystal Springs

Elementary

Nonie MarascoDuncan U.

Fletcher High

Cynthia MooreEnglewood Elementary

John JamesFort Caroline Elementary

Terrie SlaughterGeorge W. Carver

Elementary

April BlackmonBrookview Elementary

Betsy McCallChets Creek Elementary

Melody ZorteaDinsmore

Elementary

Rebecca Austin-Datta

Darnell-Cookman Middle/High

Tammy WoehleDuncan U.

Fletcher Middle

Katina HigginsEnglewood High

Lisa CorprewFort Caroline

Middle

Darlynthia SmithCarter G. Woodson

Elementary

Stacey AdkinsCentral Riverside

Elementary

Sheila HandresChimney Lakes

Elementary

Mary HughesDon Brewer Elementary

Kristin SmithDuval Virtual Instructional

Academy

Christy DoddEugene J. Butler

Middle

Katie SantosFrank H. Peterson

Academies of Technology

Carly CoffmanBiscayne

Elementary

Cheryl SabbCedar Hills Elementary

Andrea GoreCrown Point Elementary

Denise DvorakDouglas Anderson School of the Arts

Brian SeechEdward H. White

High

Blair NolanFirst Coast High

Allison WhiteFishweir

Elementary

Carol CostonEnterprise Learning

Academy

Callie BroughtonGarden City Elementary

Larry HarrisonBiltmore

Elementary

Bettie ColonBeauclerc

Elementary

22 23


Suzanne VerducciHighlands

Elementary

Pat GeigerHospital Home-bound Virtual

Program

Alexandra GregoryJ.E.B. Stuart Middle

James GaspardJean Ribault Middle

Alicia WillisJohn N.C. Stockton

Elementary

Tonesia HoustonJustina Road Elementary

Petika TaveHighlands Middle

Lola ThompsonHyde Grove Elementary

Kathy LaPointeJacksonville Beach

Elementary

Gailya StewartJefferson Davis

Middle

Diane FulpJoseph Finegan

Elementary

Amanda CummingsKernan Middle

DeeAnna DurdenHogan-Spring Glen

Elementary

Dawn WaggonerHyde Park

Elementary

Allison OssorioJacksonville

Heights Elementary

Dayna YarbroughJames Weldon

Johnson Middle

Euteria WrightJohn E. Ford K-8

Angela McNuttJoseph Stilwell

Middle

Jocelynn BecksmithKernan Trail Elementary

Jill NewhouseHenry F. Kite Elementary

Fran BarberHoliday Hill Elementary

Shannon SimonJ. Allen Axson

Montessori Academy

Diane HollackJean Ribault High

Rebekah KelemenJohn Love

Elementary

Ana MacReynoldsKings Trail Elementary

Robyn WilhelmJulia Landon Col-lege Preparatory

& Leadership

DonnaRae EsterGreenland Pines

Elementary

Kim CorralGregory Drive

Elementary

Cheryl PearthreeHendricks Avenue

Elementary

Jessica Carew/ZMMVÅMTL�

Elementary

Jacquelyn JonesGrand Park

Educational Center

Phillip BoydGlobal Outreach Charter Academy

24 25


Connie Krug4W]Q[�;PMNÅMTL�

Elementary

Jennifer BrownMandarin Oaks

Elementary

Dorothy BurchMayport Middle

Thomas JohnsonNeptune Beach

Elementary

Rachel NunnallyOak Hill

Elementary

Apryl ShackelfordNorthwestern

Middle

Teresa CarterLove Grove Elementary

Brittany JohnsonMartin Luther

King Jr. Elementary

Kathryn HouserMerrill Road Elementary

Justin BlakemanNew Berlin Elementary

Suzanne MacCrayOceanway

Elementary

Patricia MontgomeryMamie Agnes Jones

Elementary

Veronia LaxMatthew W. Gilbert

Middle

Laurie BlanchardMount Herman

Exceptional Student Center

Monique WorthenNormandy Village

Elementary

Ann KogelmanOrtega Elementary

Carolyn TuttleOceanway Middle

Erica LindseyLoretto

Elementary

John WellsMandarin Middle

Scott CasonMandarin High

Kacy KellyMattie V.

Rutherford Middle

Austin Shea HunterNathan B. Forrest

High

Andrena BarnesNorth Shore Elementary

Jodi GibsonPalm Avenue

Exceptional Student Center

Dorothy HammLandmark Middle

Laura MakouskeLaVilla School

of the Arts

Lisa MartinLake Lucina Elementary

Ashley SherwoodLong Branch Elementary

Elizabeth KellyLone Star

Elementary

Jacquelyn Harris Bradley

Lake Forest Elementary

Rachid MechmechKirby-Smith Middle

Jaclyn RocheLake Shore Middle

NO

IMAGE

AVAILABLE

26 27


Augustina VeneyPinedale Elementary

Urslyn AustinRichard L. Brown

Elementary

Tracy SieberPreschool

Disabilities Center

Vamecia PowellRobert E. Lee High

3I[IVI�/ZQNÅVS. P. Livingston

Elementary

Nana KearneySaint Clair Evans

Academy

Rachel WhortonSan Mateo

Elementary

Lynn DostalerSeabreeze

Elementary

Carson SavySpring Park Elementary

Caroline Spottswood

Ruth N. Upson Elementary

Kimberly RoweSabal Palm Elementary

Patricia BeachSamuel W. Wolfson

High

Charles WillardSandalwood High

Elaine WiltshireSouthside Estates

Elementary

Ravonia ChisholmPickett Elementary

Susan BurnsR.V. Daniels Elementary

Cameron FoleyRamona Boulevard

Elementary

Anora SimonRufus E. Payne

Elementary

Pamela StricklandS. A. Hull

Elementary

Sruthika RavulaSallye B. Mathis

Elementary

Sara RussoSan Pablo

Elementary

Kori JohnsonSomerset Academy

Eagle Campus

Erika MiguesStanton College

Preparatory

LaTonya SmithRutledge H. Pearson

Elementary

Casey PutneySadie T. Tillis Elementary

Robert IngleSan Jose

Elementary

Fredette HendonSchool for the

Future

Simia RichardsonPine Estates Elementary

Jonathan WalkerReynolds Lane

Elementary

John MartinPaxon School for Advanced Studies

Robyn Lynn PetersonParkwood Heights

Elementary

LaToya BurtonSouthside Middle

NO

IMAGE

AVAILABLE

28 29


Christine KennedyTerry Parker High

Jodie UnderwoodTwin Lakes

Academy Elementary

Shirley AndersonWayman Academy

of the Arts

John ChionchioWhitehouse Elementary

Susan HarperTiger Academy

Renoda NealeyVenetia

Elementary

Lee TownsendWest Riverside

Elementary

Kay OdomWindy Hill Elementary

Jennifer JonesThomas Jefferson

Elementary

Zandra PopeTwin Lakes

Academy Middle

Robyn WhiteWest Jacksonville

Elementary

Ronique GroomesWilliam M. Raines

High

Katherine StallingsTimucuan

Elementary

James HallWaterleaf

Elementary

Monica AndersonWestview K-8

Dana KlabackaWoodland Acres

Elementary

Jessica FowlerSusie E. Tolbert

Elementary

Resa GroomesStonewall Jackson

Elementary

30 31

S A L E S & M A R K E T I N G

Good work means the world to us.Acosta is committed to the success of our clients,our customers, and our communities.

Acosta is proudto support:

The EDDY Awards

At Acosta, we believe that doing good work means much more than just a healthy bottom line. That’s why we make community involvement a high priority, fostering a corporate culture in which giving back is both encouraged and rewarded. In fact, we’re well known for being highly visible in our communities through various programs and fundraising events. It’s just one of the ways our 32,000 associates embrace and demonstrate Acosta’s core values.

Title Sponsor

Best Practices Seminar Series Sponsor

Reception Sponsor

Special Recognition Sponsor

Teacher Recognition Sponsors

Sponsored by:

Distinguished Sponsors Notable Sponsors

Gretchen and Tom Lynch

Presenting Sponsor


2013 eddy awards program

Documents