January 2022 | Vol. 48, Issue 6
An Orange County Public Schools Employee Publication
TIME FOR A LITTLE
PET-WORKING pg. 10 OUR CANINE COP,
COCO 2021-22
pg. 8
STELLAR AWARDS FINALISTS AND HONOREES pg. 13
Feature
EDITORS Shayla Cannady Alayna G. Riggins
DESIGN & LAYOUT Ashley Marrotte Eric Mateer
ADVERTISING Adrienne Noel
CONTRIBUTORS Sandra Carr Kimberly Eisenbise Beth Palmer To submit your story ideas, email orangepeal@ocps.net.
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SAVE THE DATE Jan. 3
Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
Jan. 4
Begin Third Marking Period, Begin Second Semester
Jan. 17
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Schools and District Offices Closed
The Orange Peal is a districtwide publication for and about the employees of Orange County Public Schools. The School Board of Orange County, Fla., does not discriminate in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities, on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other reason prohibited by law. The following individuals at the Ronald Blocker Educational Leadership Center, 445 W. Amelia Street, Orlando, Florida 32801, attend to compliance matters: Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer & Title IX Coordinator: Keshara Cowans; ADA Coordinator: Jay Cardinali; Section 504 Coordinator: Tajuana Lee-Wenze. (407.317.3200) ©2022
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6 TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
You're The Best
5
District Dispatches
6
Around OCPS
8
Our Canine Cop, Coco
10
Time for a Little Pet-working
13
2021-22 Stellar Awards Finalists and Honorees
31
Retirement Corner
32
Benefits Bulletin
10
2021-22
Finalists and Honorees
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You're the Best Congratulations to the following Fall 2021 Florida High School Athletics Association academic, district and regional champions:
Academic •
Boys Swimming - Boone ( Class 4A - 3.73 GPA), coached by Michael Martinac
Bowling • •
Apopka boys (Class 1A, District 8), coached by Doug Campbell Apopka girls (Class 1A, District 8), coached by Eddie Jenkins
Cross Country (Girls) •
Timber Creek: (Class 4A, Region 3), coached by JulieAnne Halsey
Football • • • • • •
Apopka (Class 8A, District 3, Region 1), coached by Jeff Rolson Boone (Class 8A, District 5), coached by Andy Johnson Edgewater (Class 7A, District 6), coached by Cameron Duke Jones (Class 6A, District 6), coached by Elijah Williams Timber Creek (Class 8A, District 4), coached by Jim Buckridge West Orange (Class 8A, District 9), coached by Mike Granato
Golf (Boys) • •
Dr. Phillips (Class 3A, Region 3), coached by Jerry Updike Windermere (Class 3A, District 9), coached by Eric Bacon
Golf (Girls) •
Lake Nona (Class 3A, Region 3), coached by Janine Mojica
Swimming & Diving (Boys) • • •
Dr. Phillips (Class 4A, District 7), coached by Leonardo Ramirez Olympia (Class 4A, Region 3), coached Kathy Zimmermann Winter Park (Class 4A, District 2), coached by Joe Auer
Swimming & Diving (Girls) • •
Windermere (Class 4A, Region 3), coached by Kyle Goller Winter Park (Class 4A, Region 1), coached by Joe Auer
Volleyball (Girls) • • •
Lake Nona (Class 7A, District 5), coached by Jake Penaloza Timber Creek (Class 7A, District 4), coached by Julianne Calcotte Windermere (Class 7A, Region 1), coached by Daniel Fuentes
District Dispatches Facility renamed to honor John Morris The Orange County Public Schools southern administrative complex has been renamed in honor of former Chief Facilities Officer John Morris, who died Nov. 2. The School Board approved the new name "John T. Morris Facilities Complex" for the campus at Oak Ridge Road and John Young Parkway that includes the Facilities leadership offices. From 2011 to 2021 Morris oversaw the construction of 102 new, renovated or replacement schools in every corner of the county, part of a $3 billion, ongoing facilities program. Before joining OCPS, he also played key roles in the construction of the Amway Arena and two phases of the Orange County Convention Center. Morris is survived by his wife, Patti, and son, Matthew. The Foundation for Orange County Public Schools has set up a memorial fund in Morris' name at https://orangepeal.pub/morrisfund.
Byrd elected vice chair District 7 Board Member Melissa Byrd was elected vice chair of the Orange County School Board in mid-November, succeeding Pam Gould. Byrd was elected to represent District 7 in 2018 and was re-elected in 2020 for a second four-year term. She serves on the Community Action Board for Orange County Government; Apopka Community Advisory Council for AdventHealth Apopka; Wekiva Culinary Program Advisory Council; Apopka Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors; and iBuild Central Florida 2021 board of directors. In 2019, she was named an Emerging Leader from the Florida School Boards Association and in 2020, she earned the distinction of Certified Board Member.
Schools welcome Esports OCPS has initiated its own Esports (electronic sports) competitive video gaming pathway to lead students to scholarship opportunities and/or career opportunities in computer science. Seventeen high schools have started Esports clubs after school and will compete in district competition and regional leagues, funded through the Title IV, Part A grant. A partnership with Full Sail University also will allow the clubs to compete in the inaugural OCPS High School Smash Brothers Invitational next spring and culminate with the top three-to-five students at each school competing at the district championship at Full Sail University's indoor Esports arena April 30.
Nourish to Flourish Congratulations to the following team members who randomly received a Nourish to Flourish $25 gift card: • Amanda Leonard, Resource teacher, Rock Springs Elementary (center) • Jantez Taylor Harrington, Testing coordinator, Laureate Park Elementary • Randy Thomas, Media clerk, Piedmont Lakes Middle (left) • Christopher Wargo, Science teacher, Memorial Middle (right). Delivered by district Student Services team members or a member of the Mental Health Commission, OCPS employees are encouraged to pay attention to our physical; emotional; behavioral; cognitive; interpersonal; spiritual; and professional needs.
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UND
AR
OC PS O
With the return of the Florida Blue Florida Classic to Orlando, Florida Citrus Sports recognized five local outstanding teachers at the Nov. 20 game, (from left): Dr. Bridget Wiliams, OCPS Chief of Staff; Jamie Delaughter, West Lakes Early Learning Center; Natalie Branin, Jones High; Ronald Williams, Rock Lake Elementary; Speshal McCall, Legends Academy; and Tamara Preston, Orange Center Elementary.
Principal Samuel Danner and first graders at Ivey Lane Elementary received copies of “Little Back, A Pony” from the Rotary Club of Orlando (from left: Frank Hopkins, Jon Stine and Danner).
Conway Middle staff were all smiles hosting a Parent and Family Engagement vision board event in December which focused on academic and personal goal setting for the upcoming new year.
Southwest Middle welcomed alumna Ashley Eckstein (voice of “Star Wars”’ Ahsoka Tano), who spoke to the school’s drama classes in early November.
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Florida Department of Education Chancellor Henry Mack (left) stopped by Orange Technical College for a quick tour of the main campus with Associate Superintendent for Career and Technical Education Melanie Stefanowicz and Senior Director Scott Weidl.
2397 As a holiday surprise and delight, the Foundation for OCPS gave out more than 700 gift cards to bus drivers and monitors with perfect attendance at our Transportation Services compounds. The Dragon staff at Castle Creek Elementary celebrated the “12 Days Before Winter Break,” with this day being “Tree-topper Day.”
District 6 Board Member Karen Castor Dentel was among Evans High alumni and volunteers at the Faces of the Future breakfast in November at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida Joe E Lee Branch.
District 2 Board Member Johanna López participated in the 2021 Teach-In at Legacy Middle, sharing her professional journey with students.
Magnolia School participated in the first Pine Hills Establishment Day Parade in December, reflecting the pride of Pine Hills, and unity and safety within the community. Wekiva High's Thespian Club, led by Krista Amico (in sweater), recently won Best in Show for Pantomime and Critic's Choice at this year's district competition.
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OUR CANINE COP,
COCO
Sniffing out danger and keeping OCPS schools safe are the top tasks of District Police K-9 Coco. The 2-year-old female German shorthaired pointer hails from Budapest, Hungary, and is the district's first K-9 officer. The German shorthaired pointer's breed originated back in the 19th century as a multipurpose hunting dog, renowned for its searching and detection abilities. These skills were highly desired when OCPS sought to obtain her. Coco's OCPS crime-fighting career began in September 2020 with District Police Sgt. Doug Pelton, who is her handler and partner. They both received 160 hours of training and began administering random safety screenings at district middle and high schools in November 2020. "Coco is a visual deterrent," said Pelton. "She is very energetic and always excited and motivated to perform her duties while contributing to the safety and security of everyone on OCPS' middle- and high-school campuses."
Coco and Pelton's expertise, thoroughness and teamwork while performing safety screenings are helping to protect our schools, staff and students. When not on duty, Coco can be found playing with her KONG toys. She also enjoys snacking on Blue Buffalo Blue Bits Tasty chicken training-dog treats and hanging out with her French bulldog pals: Emma; Kingston; Sherman; Stella; and Victoria. Celebrate Coco, Pelton and our District Police department on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Jan. 9. Plus, learn more about Coco and her canine-cop role by following her adventures on Instagram: coco_ocps.
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Time for a Little Pet-working Behind every great person, there is someone (or something) that loves them, supports them and gives them reasons to smile. In many cases, that someone may be a parent; spouse; partner; sibling; child or friend. But for some of our employees, it is a furry, scaly or even slithery addition to their households. We introduce you to a few furry (and not so furry) friends of our fellow employees. Some exotic, some not – but all important members of households across the district.
Jocelyn + Peppermint (Age: 3) Guinea Peppermint is one of six in Joycelyn LeStourgeon's family. This furry addition was added to the household of the Bay Meadows Elementary first-grade teacher two years ago. Resembling the peppermint candy, he was named accordingly, with a pink streak going down his body.
Pamela + Indy (Age: 15) More than a decade ago, Teacher of the Deaf and ESE Instructional Support Pamela Fisher wanted a pet that was unique yet low maintenance. In her 4-foot ball python, Indy, she found just that. A few years ago, he was featured as a part of Fisher's Cleopatra Halloween costume. Causing quite the commotion, the two slithered to the top, winning the contest. Named after "Indiana Jones" (for his love of snakes – NOT), Fisher says Indy is known for his great hugs and calming effect.
Bonnie + Schroeder (Age: 35) Since 1986, Schroeder, a yellow-naped Amazon parrot, has traveled across the United States with owner Bonnie Peabody of Deerwood Elementary. The Varying Exceptionalities teacher has owned smaller birds in the past but always dreamed of owning a parrot. She acknowledges that the breed can be difficult pets due to their need for lots of attention but also notes they can be very affectionate. Hand raised and weaned within the Peabody home, Schroeder has been a part of the family for more than 35 years and is known for his love of singing.
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Diane + LeDeoux (Age: 15) For the past 5½ years, Orange County Virtual School Resource Teacher Diane Davitt has been the proud owner of an American paint horse. Affectionately known as LeDoux (after country music star Chris LeDoux), Davitt considers him the perfect horse. "He is kind and gentle, talented and versatile!" she said. LeDeoux was originally trained for cowboy mounted shooting and has competed in dressage competitions. The pair proudly ride as part of a patriotic drill team and recently rode in the Deland Veterans Day and Port Orange Christmas parades.
Sherleen + Drogon (Age: 3) and Khalessi (Age: 3) While many people don't like reptiles due to fear or lack of understanding, Spring Lake Elementary Teacher Shereleen Seary Cruz finds her two bearded dragons the perfect pets for her lifestyle and personality. Drogon and Khalessi are quiet members of Cruz's family and often accompany them on outof-home adventures. The two also have been featured on the Lake Mary Petsmart's Instagram page, have accounts of their own and have won a couple of contests. Although sweet most of the time, Cruz says they can be a bit judgemental, giving the occasional side eye. She says they also enjoy sunbathing; going to the farmers market; participating in 5Ks; cuddling; and even the occasional game of dress up.
Angela + Napoleon (Age: 6), Lucy (Age: 2), Grogu (Age: 4 months) and Daytona (Age: 6) You've heard of lions and tigers and bears, I'm sure. But what do you say of a mini pig, axolotl, gecko and turtle… Oh my! Napoleon, Lucy, Grogu and Daytona are beloved four-legged family members belonging to Angela West, fourth-grade teacher at Laureate Park Elementary.
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Ranging in ages from four months to 6 years old, West has owned all except for Lucy since they were babies. Considered her most interesting pet, Lucy is an aquatic salamander who walks along the bottom of a tank and can regenerate limbs lost in the wild. In addition to these pets, West also owns chickens, one of which hatched in her classroom three years ago.
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Advance Your Education and Further Your Career As your local university development counselor, I’m here to help you learn more about Grand Canyon University and start your college journey! Why choose GCU? • • • •
More than 200 online academic programs Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs available 100% online* Cost-reduction options and scholarship opportunities Complimentary transfer credit evaluation and more For more information, contact me directly to discuss! Lauren Hazeltine | 602-247-3718 lauren.hazeltine@gcu.edu | gcu.edu/OCPS
*Excludes programs with residencies Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Important policy information is available in the University Policy Handbook at https://www.gcu.edu/academics/academicpolicies.php. The information printed in this material is accurate as of APRIL 2021. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu. ©2021 Grand Canyon University 21COEE0243
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2021-22
Finalists and Honorees
We are pleased to be able to once again celebrate our district's outstanding Stellar Awards honorees and 16 finalists at an annual in-person event. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, at this time the event has been postponed to Friday, April 8, at 6 p.m. at Rosen Shingle Creek. On the following pages, learn a little more about each finalist and congratulate this year's honorees from each OCPS school and work location.
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Assistant Principal o Kenya Nelson-Warren Evans High
When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "Education is huge in my family. I come from a lineage of educators – from my grandparents on both sides of my family to my very own mother – all were educators. I knew that I wanted to help people better their lives and empower them to exceed their potential."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "The greatest challenge in my career has been finding ways to limit the multiple barriers children face beyond school."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "[It means ensuring] our students are prepared for a world unseen by providing tools and resources for them to create their own pathways to success, and as a result, really seeing each child and [his or her] own uniqueness flourishing in [his or her] very own talents."
What person has been the most instrumental in leading you to success? "My mother, a retired educator of 35 years, … has been the most instrumental in leading me to success because of her knowledge and experiences in education. She's been an encourager; a motivator; a listening ear; a shoulder to lean on; and my biggest cheerleader."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "Failure happens every day in practice. What makes you better is how you react to it. Strive not to be a success but rather to be of value."
Tabitha Brown
Phillis Wheatley Elementary When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "Deep down, I always knew that I was meant to be an educator. I have always loved working with children, even at a young age. My cousins and I would always play 'school' and of course, I was always the teacher." "Being raised by an educator, I naturally tried to rebel and take a different path but always found myself volunteering to work with children. During my freshman year in college, we had to complete a community service project at a local elementary school. Working with the students brought me so much joy, and being able to create a spark in their eyes was fulfilling. It was [then] that I knew that education was my calling and immediately changed my major."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Leading students to success means doing what it takes to ensure all students have what they need to be successful. This includes, but is not limited to, appropriate resources; targeted interventions; differentiated instruction; a consistent practice of analyzing multiple forms of data; ongoing professional development for teachers; high levels of monitoring; and quality feedback for teachers."
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of the Year Finalists "Additionally, student success isn't just about academics because academics and social and emotional learning are connected. We must reach the whole child supporting the students' social, emotional and academic development. This is how we truly position students for success."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "Don't carry yesterday's frustrations into today. Start fresh each day as each day is a new day to make a difference, a new day to impact the lives of students, teachers, and the community. Attitude is everything!"
Autherene Opal Leighvard Pinewood Elementary
When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "I have always known that education was the right field for me. As a young person, my family always pushed education. They believed that it was the only true way to escape poverty and to make an indelible impact on the world. As immigrants from Jamaica, we came to this country with very little. As a family, we studied and worked hard to make a life in this new place. We knew that in order to be successful and create a family legacy, we had to be educated so that we could give and serve."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "There are several requirements that come to mind when I think about our work as we lead our students to achievement: One such requirement is a shift in mindset – knowing that students deserve the best that we have to offer and that every adult connected to the school must share that belief. It requires being committed and invested in the complex process of educating children and never settling for less than the best. It also requires that I am responsible and accountable for the attitude, choices and beliefs that I support in my leadership, and that all things lead toward student success."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "The piece of advice that I would give to my fellow employees is: 'Know your Why and go into each day with that in mind, recognizing that what you do creates a lifelong impact in the lives of others.'"
Assistant Principal of the Year Honorees Jose Gonzalez
Bridgewater Middle
Shane Silpe
Cheney Elementary
Kenya Nelson-Warren Evans High
Robert Walker
Autherene Opal Leighvard
Amy Lerman
Michelle Cardoso
Howard Middle
Orange County Virtual
Tabitha Brown
Phillis Wheatley Elementary
Pinewood Elementary Ventura Elementary
Alisa Hambrick
Waterbridge Elementary
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Principal of th Julie Helton
Castleview Elementary When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "I taught dance to younger students when I was in high school. It was then that I realized I loved helping people to learn and enjoyed guiding groups to accomplish common goals."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "I am fortunate to have worked in a variety of settings from elementary to high school and district departments. I think the greatest challenge in education is its ever-changing nature; however, it is so rewarding to work with a team and rise to the challenges in order to positively impact students."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Leading students to success means helping students to see their potential and use their strengths to accomplish their goals. There are many definitions of success and countless paths to achieve it. Our job as educators is to equip students with all of the necessary tools to continue learning and thriving throughout their lives."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "We are changing the future. We will never see all of the impact we have made, but we must trust and believe we have been a positive light for our students, their families, our colleagues and our community."
Martha Chang Lake Nona High
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "I have had the privilege of working at a myriad of schools, and all of them struggle in ensuring we are providing equity in all aspects for children. I have worked at the lowest-performing school in the state and I have worked at a high-performing school. All schools struggle with ensuring there is equity for all students. When a school works together to ensure that the needs of all students are addressed, the rewards and results are just amazing."
What person has been the most instrumental in leading you to success? "I adopted [my daughter, Julie,] when she was a teenager, and let's say I now understood what it meant to be a parent late in life. This gave me perspective when I spoke to parents and when understanding the challenges of my own teachers and staff. "Most importantly, every decision I make for students, I think about Julie. If this is good enough for Julie, then it is good enough for the students at my school. This applies to classroom instruction, expectations and activities available to students on campus."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "As Confucius would say, 'Choose a job you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life.'"
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he Year Finalists Lukeshia J. Miller
Phillis Wheatley Elementary When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "My first interest in education surfaced when my mother bought me a chalkboard when I was in elementary school. I've always had a strong desire to help others and I assumed that I would do that by being a psychologist. During my first year of college, the dean of students encouraged me to pursue the path of education versus the field of psychology in order to help more people on a global scale."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "The greatest challenge thus far has been my turnaround experience at Phillis Wheatley Elementary. This is my 21st year working in a Title I school, and based upon my experiences, there are varying levels of Title I settings. Leading a turnaround school comes with an array of challenges, and being able to move a school to 'C' grade during a pandemic has been most rewarding."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Leading students to success means creating opportunities and experiences to help children discover who they are and what they are capable of achieving despite their backgrounds. [It] means hiring the right people for the positions that are most impactful for student achievement. [It] means sacrificing beyond an individual's personal needs in order to meet the diverse needs of the children being served."
Principal of the Year Honorees Douglas Loftus
Lino Rodriguez
Lukeshia Miller
Acceleration East
John Young Elementary
Karen Verano
Martha Chang Lake Nona High
Pinewood Elementary
Julie Helton
Carletta Davis-Wilson
Rebecca Watson
Azalea Park Elementary Castleview Elementary
Maxey Elementary
Phillis Wheatley Elementary
Kelly Steinke
Walker Middle
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Support Person of Davina Chunoo
Secretary, Gotha Middle When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "Since I could remember, I have loved helping others learn. I began in early childhood education and since have been involved in Girl Scouts as a troop leader and coached Pop Warner cheerleading for over a decade."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "My favorite experience in education has been admiring our students' resilience throughout the pandemic. They have modeled strength, the ability to adapt and persevere."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Equipping our students with the skills to advocate while showing kindness to themselves and others."
What person has been the most instrumental in leading you to success? "My daughter! Having been an OCPS student and in turn, as an OCPS parent, created the desire to make a difference. Being involved in her life academically and athletically has led to collaborations in various roles and projects at multiple schools. The experience gained strengthened my desire to impact our youth in the hopes I could inspire them to better their best."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "Be kind."
Rosemary Carsello
Secretary, Lake Buena Vista High When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "When my children began attending public education, I realized I had no idea of what to expect of the academics/services the school they attended would provide or exactly the depth of my role as a parent in public education. As a result, I set a goal early on to be an on-site school volunteer. As a volunteer, I acquired a 'beginners' understanding of aspects of the public education environment I had been previously unaware of. I used that experience to help be a better support vehicle for my children at home with their education and realized I had skills to offer in support of public education as an employee."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "Despite an ever-changing and challenging work environment, I continue to be impressed with the incredible dedication and caliber of professional educators and support personnel actively participating in OCPS students' school-day experience."
What person has been the most instrumental in leading you to success?
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"Principal Guy Swenson is the most significant influence in my professional career in education. It has been under his leadership that I came to appreciate the depth of reach each of us in public education is capable of providing every day."
f the Year Finalists Kelly Pfeiffer
Nurse, Maitland Middle When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "My mom was an elementary school teacher ..., and I wanted to follow in her footsteps. But through an unlikely chain of events, I found myself working in the medical field, and I absolutely fell in love with nursing. … For me, this was the best of both worlds. I was still able to follow in my mom's footsteps by working in education while also using my passion for health care to support my students in and out of the classroom."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "For me, leading students to success means doing my part to level the playing field. Sometimes
I'm supporting them by meeting their basic needs (food, clothing, etc), other times I'm helping them through an acute illness or educating them on managing a chronic medical condition, and oftentimes I'm supporting them through anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. Whatever it is that is standing in their way, when students are properly supported and cared for, every student has an equal chance of success."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "... Remember that your role is important. Whether you are [in] admin, food service, custodial, classified, instructional, etc., you play an important part in caring for and educating our students. Keep showing up and keep focusing on the kids. Even when you're frustrated and it feels like you're not making a difference, I promise you that you are."
Jessica Perez
Secretary/Bookkeeper, Phillis Wheatley Elementary During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "During my career with OCPS, there have been many challenges. But one that stands [out] the most was learning to apply the English I learned in Puerto Rico. It was very hard at the beginning to communicate. I used to overthink how I was going to speak correctly. The principal [who] hired me told me: 'Jessica, I understand you, and that is what matters.' Imagine a secretary with poor English! As years passed by I improved. Now I feel confident."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Leading students to success to me means helping them discover their potential, their purpose and helping them believe that their efforts matter. It means helping them mentally [and] physically to achieve their goals."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "Love and be proud of what you do, and do it with excellence. Never give up, even if the circumstances at work or personal life are not the best. Keep doing your work with finesse. Failure is not an option. Always be kind, never give up, be patient with yourself and others. Be diligent, have good work ethics, be responsible and encourage others. Let your light shine!"
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Joy Hamilton
Exceptional Student Education program assistant, SunRidge Middle When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "I learned that I wanted to work in education, while working for an after-school program nine years ago. As a before- and after-school program counselor, I realized that my life purpose had been discovered. Helping students with their work and guiding them through personal or social issues filled me with an unfamiliar joy that I couldn't let go of."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "I'd say the biggest surprise for me has been learning how fragile children really are, and how their emotional well-being can truly affect their education. It can be difficult trying to juggle supporting students academically while also caring for their emotional and mental health. Even with the challenge though, it is the most rewarding feeling in the world to know that in their hearts, they feel safe with you, feel valued with you, and that you want them to be happy, healthy and successful."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "To me, leading student success means cultivating an entire generation that will leave the world better than it was when we were kids. Whatever knowledge, skills and talents students attain while in school, help mold them into positive members of society."
Support Person of the Year Honorees Tish Atehortua Acceleration East
Rene Salguero Rodriguez Acceleration West
Sarah Giesler
Aloma Elementary
Cynthia Gonzalez Alternative Education
Tiffany Tatro
Andover Elementary
Susan Roberts
Apopka Elementary
Jason Ramos
Kathy Rojas Avalon Middle
Kristi Gay
Azalea Park Elementary
Te Pham
Baldwin Park Elementary
Josie Rodriguez
Bay Lake Elementary
Janet Rivera
Mizpah Greene Carver Middle
Amy Evans
Castle Creek Elementary
Angela Rosario
Castleview Elementary
Linetta Stewart
Catalina Elementary
Carmen Gomez
Bay Meadows Elementary
Chain of Lakes Middle
Vivian Todd
Glenda Santiago
Blankner School
Charlotte Pagels
Cheney Elementary
Helena Lima
Apopka High
Bonneville Elementary
Chickasaw Elementary
Molly Valdivia
Alfredo Rebolledo Gutierrez
Debbie Puchan
Apopka Memorial Middle
Bryce Dow
Arbor Ridge K-8
Dawn Feeser
Audubon Park School
Josie Vose
Avalon Elementary
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Boone High
Patricia Lagos
Bridgewater Middle
Mildred Carpena
Brookshire Elementary
Pamela Bratter
Camelot Elementary
Citrus Elementary
Angela Naughton
Clay Springs Elementary
Orfiria Alvarez
College Park Middle
Alex Silva
Colonial 9th Grade Center
Gary Johnson Colonial High
David Martin
Columbia Elementary
Suhail Gomez Navarro Conway Elementary
Elsie Balaguer-Wicks
Cy Yates
Edgewater High
Janet Rodriguez
Endeavor Elementary
David Rosado
Jazmin Melendez Human Resources
Jim Strassburg
Hungerford Elementary
Thomas Chelekatt
Engelwood Elementary
Hunter's Creek Elementary
Evelyn Vivaldi
Abigail Armstrong
Conway Middle
ESE Policy & Procedures
Nadya Hance
Keith Kemmer ESE Transition
Independence Elementary
Angela Gonzalez
Nereida Lassus
Rachel Zucchetto
Eduardo Couzo
Rina Santiago
Barbara Fonseca
Corner Lake Middle Cypress Creek High
Cypress Springs Elementary
Pamela Fuqua
Deerwood Elementary
Jenesis Castillo
ESTEEM Academy Evans High
Yanisi Franco
Food and Nutrition Services
Noor Sabah
Hunter's Creek Middle
Wycliffe Brown
Innovation Middle
ITS Customer Care
Adam Hunt
ITS Infrastructure
Kia Williams
Dillard Street Elementary
Forsyth Woods Elementary
Ivey Lane Elementary
Fernando Virgen
George Sinquefield
Patricia Villanueva
Marcela Barber
Estevan Torres
Donna Drakes
Melton Lawes
Carmen Franco Torres
Discovery Middle District Police
Dommerich Elementary
Ana Zumztein
Frangus Elementary Freedom High
John Young Elementary Jones High
Renata Basile Pereira
Freedom Middle
Keene's Crossing Elementary
Dover Shores Elementary
Glenridge Middle
Cheryl Perez
Sandy Pinchevsky
Jennifer Abrams
Davina Chunoo
Rosemary Carsello
Wayne Gooden
Miriam Trepanier
Dr. Phillips Elementary
Raquel Dawsey Dr. Phillips High
Rosio Carpio
Dream Lake Elementary
Dianne Rydell
Eagle Creek Elementary
Danielle Hiralal
Gotha Middle
Grounds & Pest Control
Deborah Rollman
Hiawassee Elementary
Mercy Quiles
Horizon High
Miriam Colon
Horizon West Middle
Rhonda Judd
East River High
Hospital Homebound
Jacquelyn Barton
Joseph Williams
Eccleston Elementary
Edgar Garcia
Kelly Coughenour
Johnny Lai
Luz Arce
Wuanita Purcell
Lake Gem Elementary
Gerrlyn Brown
Linda Blazquez
East Lake Elementary
Lake Como School
Lake George Elementary
Hillcrest Elementary
Breon Griffith-Crenshaw
Lake Buena Vista High
Hidden Oaks Elementary
Eagle's Nest Elementary East Area Learning Community
Killarney Elementary
Howard Middle
Lake Nona High
Tracy Epstein
Lake Nona Middle
Tanja Thompson
Lake Silver Elementary
LeAnne Sullivan
Lake Sybelia Elementary
Shalonda Laster
Lake Weston Elementary Orange Peal
| 21
Belkis Escano
Lake Whitney Elementary
Marta Lugo
Lakemont Elementary
Jamie Dones Lakeview Middle
Darreyl Williams Lakeville Elementary
Heber Laracuente Lancaster Elementary
Rashun Johnson
Laureate Park Elementary
Jairo Palomar
Lawton Chiles Elementary
Anna Viera
Legacy Middle
Nelson Rivera
Ciara Collado
Millennia Elementary
Corian Hamilton
Orange Technical College
Julie Hamilton
Annmarie Cherolini
Linda Guardado
Patricia Munnerlyn
Mollie Ray Elementary Moss Park Elementary
Diane Thompson
Erica Jean-Louis
Zandra Schlumbohm
Isabel Mercado
NorthLake Park Community School
Lance Bowling
Byron Valle Nieves
Oak Ridge High
Schadrac Josinville
Jason Beyer
Jessica Hooper
Ocoee High
Ocoee Middle
Elliot Cohen
Maitland Middle
OCPS Academic Center For Excellence
Christine Andujar
Dymphna Bauza Gomez
Claudia Gomez
Tammie Travis
Nelson Maldonado Meadow Woods Middle
Tammy McKenzie Meadowbrook Middle
Delmark Hunter Memorial Middle
Renee Slaibe
MetroWest Elementary
22 | Orange Peal
Pamphile Marc
Kurtis Poe
Gordon Wright
Maria Santiago
Crystal Jones
Pine Hills Elementary Pineloch Elementary
Jenna Brown
Meadow Woods Elementary
Pinar Elementary
Oakshire Elementary Ocoee Elementary
McCoy Elementary
Jennifer Heyer
Melissa Miller
Lockhart Middle
Maxey Elementary
Pershing School
Piedmont Lakes Middle
Nicole Brea Costa
Kelly Pfeiffer
Palmetto Elementary
Northwest Area Maintenance
Charlotte Nelson
Magnolia School
Neena Wilson
Carlos Santiago
Northeast Area Maintenance
Andre Petersen
Lovell Elementary
Orlo Vista Elementary
Palm Lake Elementary
Desiree Torres
Michele Freeman
Orlando Gifted Academy
North Learning Community
Oak Hill Elementary
Lockhart Elementary
Carla Crowe
Millennia Gardens Elementary
Liberty Middle
Little River Elementary
Phyllis Crittenden
Orange Technical College
Odyssey Middle Olympia High
Jasmine Salmon
Orange Center Elementary
Betty Decker
Orange County Virtual
Cynthia Kennedy
Orange Technical College
Alison McCormick
Pinewood Elementary
Jessica Perez
Phillis Wheatley Elementary
Amanda Crosby
Positive Pathways Transition Center
Eileen Sineas
Prairie Lake Elementary
Luis Diaz
Princeton Elementary
Michelle Harris
Research, Accountability and Grants
Janice Sessler
Ridgewood Park Elementary
April Shipley
Riverdale Elementary
Brittany Shore
Riverside Elementary
Yemsi De La Rosa
Orange Technical College
Roberto Clemente Middle
Cynthia Gale
Beverly Benjamin
Orange Technical College
Robinswood Middle
Anne Larsen
Rock Lake Elementary
Judith Schnitzer
Rock Springs Elementary
Genese Benitez
Rolling Hills Elementary
Ethel Harris
Rosemont Elementary
Leiam Diaz-Diaz
Veronica Melendez
Gabriel Maduro Nieves
Deandra Roberts
Yvonne Rodriguez
Benefie Jacob
Marianne Woodruff
Gricelda Wells
Adriana Coelho Flores
Sunshine Elementary
Tangelo Park Elementary Thornebrooke Elementary Three Points Elementary
Amy Mills
Sadler Elementary
Tildenville Elementary
Rowena De Guzman
Brandon Boyer
Sally Ride Elementary
Guirlene Mouche
Sand Lake Elementary
Edison Quiles Velez Shenandoah Elementary
Christina Hardy
Waterford Elementary Wedgefield School Wekiva High
West Creek Elementary
Charles Silvester
West Learning Community
Linsey Levros
Timber Creek High
West Oaks Elementary
Carla Saer
Margaret Beadle
Deborah Poole
Ruth Larissa Maldonado
Timber Lakes Elementary Timber Springs Middle
Keila Correa
West Orange High
Westbrooke Elementary
Aysia Biddle
Shingle Creek Elementary
Union Park Elementary
Westpointe Elementary
Christopher McGee
Dennis Richardson
Kellie Jackson
Lori Faulkner
Deborah Bukowski
Edwin Soler
Elvin Velazquez Ramos
Silver Pines Academy
South Area Maintenance South Creek Middle
LaToya Russ
Union Park Middle University High
Ventura Elementary
Corey Steib
Westridge Middle
Samarie Garcia
Wetherbee Elementary
Shari Hawkins
Whispering Oak Elementary
Vicky Wise
Southwest Middle
Video Services
Windermere Elementary
Daniel Ortiz Crespo
Jeremiah Robinson
Teresa Burnett
Jacqueline March
Shannese Anderson
Luis A Concepcion
Michelle Lopez-Diaz
Southwood Elementary
Tanya Droz
Spring Lake Elementary
Patty Howell
Village Park Elementary Vista Lakes Elementary
Stone Lakes Elementary
Vista Pointe Elementary
Jason Morrison
Wanda Anderson
Summerlake Elementary
India Whaley
Sun Blaze Elementary
Ada Martinez
SunRidge Elementary
Joy Hamilton
Robert Walker
Daschicka Streeter
Nancy Trenette Dahlke
Washington Shores Elementary
Gledys Galban-Carrion
Winter Park High
Jancy Parrilla
Washington Shores Primary Learning Center
Wolf Lake Elementary
Donna Lyle
Arlene Gianetti
Hilda Chavez
Debbie Hollingsworth
Claudia Otto
Winegard Elementary
Winter Park 9th Grade Center
Water Spring Elementary
Sunset Park Elementary
Windy Ridge K-8
Walker Middle
SunRidge Middle
Sunrise Elementary
Windermere High
Water Spring Middle
Tara Lincoln
Waterbridge Elementary
Wolf Lake Middle
Haysel Villegas
Wyndham Lakes Elementary
Diana Morales
Zellwood Elementary Orange Peal
| 23
Teacher of the Jessica Roberts Corner Lake Middle
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "My biggest surprise is how much time I spend thinking about my students, co-workers, etc. I often wonder how they are doing over a break, how a sick family member is doing, how they are dealing with a personal challenge, and I genuinely miss them when we are apart. When I first started teaching, I didn't realize that you truly become a family in your classes. "The biggest challenge of my career was learning how to teach face to face and virtually at the same time during COVID. It truly challenged my skills and abilities. It definitely made me better with technology and classroom management!"
What does leading students to success mean to you? "I feel that this answer is different for each of my students. For some students, leading them to success is being a cheerleader for them when they need encouragement. For some students, it is showing them options they may not have known existed otherwise. Fostering positive relationships; modeling organization; calmness; sticking with things when it is difficult; facing challenges with a positive attitude – are all things I try to model for my students in order to lead them to success."
What one piece of work advice would you give to your fellow 24,000 employees? "You are a world changer. Every day when you step into your work location, you are doing your part in improving the lives of students."
Alexandra Pittman Innovation Middle
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "The greatest challenge was simply surviving my first year of teaching. Many people don't recognize the simple day-to-day necessities of being a teacher: Keeping up with accommodation logs; attending a variety of meetings; providing scaffolding and additional tutoring for your lower-level students; maintaining classroom management with bathroom passes and class behavior systems; grading; teaching; the list goes on and on. That first year challenged me both professionally and personally in many ways, but as all of my coworkers and mentors continued to tell me, I did see the light at the end of the tunnel. I was able to flourish in my career by going beyond the classroom, in which I sponsor both SGA and NJHS at my school, connecting with a variety of grade levels."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Success looks different to every student you ask. Some students believe that success is measured in straight As; others in perfect attendance or in top scores with the basketball team. In order to lead my students to success, whether that's through my classroom or through my club sponsorships, I make sure to get to know each and every one of my students – their goals, their experiences – and in doing so, gain their trust. Only then can I help them get to the success they want to achieve, which usually is in line with the assessment scores and learning gains that teachers, schools and districts strive for every day."
24 | Orange Peal
e Year Finalists Nancy Welch
Orange Technical College When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "Classroom teaching actually came as a surprise to me! As we know, education doesn't only occur in a traditional classroom but in many forms. "... It wasn't until after I had the opportunity to volunteer in Barbara Smith's classroom, who was a Patient Care assistant instructor at Orange Technical College, that I caught the teaching bug. That's where I fell in love with the idea of bringing my knowledge, experience and passion to the classroom setting."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "Leading students to success means working diligently to provide each student with the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills and heart necessary to provide excellent patient care to all members of our community. Student success means my students are well prepared to pass the NCLEX, the national licensure examination for practical nurses. And vis-à-vis the COVID-19 pandemic, student success means helping students get jobs in the health care industry, thus easing the burden of overworked and exhausted nurses currently serving our community."
What person has been the most instrumental in leading you to success? "The person most instrumental in leading me to success as an educator is the late Dr. Sandra Harwell. She was an insightful and passionate educator, author and health care professional who facilitated workshops all over the country. Dr. Harwell was my administrator for only two years but impacted me significantly. Her passion for developing excellent and well-rounded curriculum was contagious, as was her positive and encouraging spirit."
Corin Metz
Thornebrooke Elementary When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "I am a product of Orange County Public Schools, and [I was] a student who grew up with a learning disability. I have a personal connection with students who struggle with making academic progress. I understand how much harder they have to work to do what their classmates seem to be able to do so easily."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "The greatest challenge in being an ESE teacher is the diversity of my students. Even though my students have the same disability, they are all incredibly different. I often have to present the same information in several different ways."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "I want my students to learn and be better scholars, but what I love to see the most is the nonacademic growth my students show. When my student sees me and is happy to see me, that is success. When a student who typically does not engage with others sees a friend and says 'Hi,' that is success. Even a student feeding himself without my help, that is success. Playing a silly board game and laughing with my students, that is success."
Orange Peal
| 25
Maribel Lopez
Timber Springs Middle When or how did you know you wanted to work in education? "I knew I wanted to work in education in kindergarten. I vividly remember my teacher, Ms. Lozito, asking students to write down what they wanted to be when they grew up. I confidently wrote down that I wanted to be a teacher. But not for the same reasons as my classmates; [They wanted] to write on the chalkboard. I wanted to be a teacher because I wanted to make a difference just like Ms. Lozito was making. I looked up to her and wanted to be the same positive role model."
During your career in education so far, what has been your biggest surprise or greatest challenge/experience? "Teaching offers many surprises on any given day, so choosing one is nearly impossible for me. However, my biggest challenge so far has been finding a fair and equal way of balancing teaching to the standards, grading and testing while providing the opportunity for students to create authentic work and increasing students' self-efficacy."
What does leading students to success mean to you? "To me, leading students to success means helping students become the best leaders they can be. Leaders have the vision to see an issue or problem and find a way to solve it. They are open-minded and empathetic to others. Leaders are also confident and energizing. I want my students to be leaders in their own lives. I want them to leave my class feeling that they can succeed in anything they choose as long as they are willing to put in the hard work."
Teacher of the Year Honorees Kimberly Dipasquale
Danielle Lang
Acceleration East
Avalon Elementary
Nicki Daniels
Shana Wax
Acceleration West
Lauren Lufkin
Aloma Elementary
Brenda Jesse
Alternative Education
Judy Lindquist
Andover Elementary
Deborah Blakeslee
Camelot Elementary
Karen Pope
Rosie Williams
Azalea Park Elementary
Sarah Del Rio
Nicole Givens
John "Steve" Czerniejewski
Bay Lake Elementary
Sarah Klunk
Michelle Hines Blankner School
Heba Itani
Apopka Memorial Middle
Bonneville Elementary
Rebecca Durham
Stephanie Schields
Candice Behl
Audubon Park School
26 | Orange Peal
Michelle Sullivan
Castle Creek Elementary
Heather Grove
Arbor Ridge K-8
Carver Middle
Baldwin Park Elementary
Bay Meadows Elementary
Lissette Gentile
Jodie Schmid
Avalon Middle
Apopka Elementary Apopka High
Megan Adams
Brookshire Elementary
Castleview Elementary
Abigail Hayes
Catalina Elementary
Farrah Ridgeway
Chain of Lakes Middle
Anna Feldman
Cheney Elementary
Bhavya Maharaja
Boone High
Chickasaw Elementary
Kellie Wade
Jennifer Linehan
Bridgewater Middle
Citrus Elementary
Karen Hall
Natalia Henry
Christie DePriest
Clay Springs Elementary
Eccleston Elementary
Hunter's Creek Elementary
Angella Thompson
William Vebert
Edna Cotto Lopez
Michael Mason
Maritza Blechinger
College Park Middle
Colonial 9th Grade Center
Zachery Hoeth Colonial High
Juliana DiVito
Edgewater High
Hunter's Creek Middle
Brandi Anderson
Endeavor Elementary
Independence Elementary
Catherine Lane
Alexandra Pittman
Yvonne Ramsaran
Dahlia Matthews
Engelwood Elementary
Innovation Middle
Columbia Elementary
ESE Supplemental Services
Cynthia Knight
Melissa Trujillo ESE Transition
John Young Elementary
Amanda Morehead
Colleen Roberts
Natalie Branin
Jessica Roberts
Lauren Williams
Conway Elementary Conway Middle
Corner Lake Middle
Krystin Roviaro
Cypress Creek High
Allison Adkins
ESTEEM Academy Evans High
Prudence Mutuma
Forsyth Woods Elementary
Ashley Glover
Cypress Springs Elementary
Frangus Elementary
Celia Fletcher
Matthew Panzano
Nataly Mora
Meredith Williams
Tania Courtney
Richard Childs
Theresa Doerfler
Kimiko Cavanaugh
Deerwood Elementary Dillard Street Elementary Discovery Middle
Dommerich Elementary
Patrick Randle
Dover Shores Elementary
Malorie O'Hara
Freedom High
Freedom Middle
Glenridge Middle
Genevieve Estrada
Esteban Caro
Heather Zoller
Hillcrest Elementary Horizon High
Brittany Miller
Eagle Creek Elementary
Horizon West Middle
Claudette Monroe
Nykecia Joseph-Bowen
Caitlin Morris
Susie Quillin
East Lake Elementary
Nicole Fernquist-Hertz East River High
Adair Ziebarth
Killarney Elementary
William Connell
Lake Buena Vista High
Vanessa Knoll
Lake Como School
Brandon Hodges
Lake Gem Elementary
Chanelle Huff
Lake George Elementary
Jiae Dy
Catelynn Cecere
Cheryl Langhorst
Eagle's Nest Elementary
Eileen Linkous
Keene's Crossing Elementary
Charonn Mesidor
Hiawassee Elementary
Mary Ballerino
Catherine Kolinski
Jones High
Lake Nona High
Hidden Oaks Elementary
Dream Lake Elementary
Mylan Nguyen
Gotha Middle
Dr. Phillips Elementary Dr. Phillips High
Ivey Lane Elementary
Hospital Homebound Howard Middle
Sheila Jones
Hungerford Elementary
Lake Nona Middle
Kristin Welch
Lake Silver Elementary
Kathrene Conner
Lake Sybelia Elementary
Karla Gatdula
Lake Weston Elementary
Jeneen Cuccinello
Lake Whitney Elementary
Diana Vidot
Lakemont Elementary
Sam Morel
Lakeview Middle
Jamie Jacoby
Lakeville Elementary Orange Peal
| 27
Nicole Rosenberger Lancaster Elementary
Maria Okraska
Renee Booth
Karen Redel
NorthLake Park Community School
Phillis Wheatley Elementary
Laureate Park Elementary
Oak Hill Elementary
Zachary Barr
Andrea Stevenson
Abigail Vazquez
Carlos Chinea-Bonet
Mary Gangwisch
Lawton Chiles Elementary
Jasmine Perez Legacy Middle
Oniel Tobias
Oak Ridge High
Olga Bernal
Francis Allen
Savannah Stephenson
Sharon Woods
Tanya Carpenter
Holly Watts
Karin Vorheis
Keshell Ryan
Ocoee High
Ocoee Middle
Peta-Gay Davey
Lockhart Middle
OCPS Academic Center For Excellence
Daisy Diaz
Miriam Hixon
Jennifer MacAllister
Jaime Clancy
Lovell Elementary Magnolia School
Rennie Ashcraft Maitland Middle
Dian Woolfolk
Maxey Elementary
Lynn Sellers
McCoy Elementary
Glenda Cordero
Meadow Woods Elementary
Jennifer LaSanta
Meadow Woods Middle
Zsh'Kara Graybill Meadowbrook Middle
Tiffany Pickett Memorial Middle
Chamaris Delgado Baerga
Odyssey Middle Olympia High
Tamara Preston
Orange Center Elementary
Jason Caperton
Peter Schmidt
Orange Technical College
Nancy Welch
Orange Technical College
Suzanne Kerr
Orange Technical College
Terseca Narcisse
Orange Technical College
Charity Cross
Orlo Vista Elementary
Gigi Puglisi
Palm Lake Elementary
Erica Murphy
Mollie Ray Elementary
Palmetto Elementary
Nick Langosch
Heather Febres
Moss Park Elementary
28 | Orange Peal
Michelle Ishmail
Prairie Lake Elementary
Zara Edwards
Princeton Elementary
Alexis Stearns
Ridgewood Park Elementary
Donna Cosio
Riverdale Elementary
Vanessa Crain
Christopher Conniff
Julie Chardavoyne
Lisa Roper
Tanya Burns
Positive Pathways Transition Center
Gina Emery
Orange Technical College
Elizabeth Zarrilli Sterling Smith
Melissa Armel
Pinewood Elementary
Riverside Elementary
Orlando Gifted Academy
Millennia Gardens Elementary
Pineloch Elementary
Orange County Virtual
MetroWest Elementary Millennia Elementary
Keiaron Jackson
Pine Hills Elementary
Ocoee Elementary
Lockhart Elementary
Pinar Elementary
Oakshire Elementary
Liberty Middle
Little River Elementary
Piedmont Lakes Middle
Pershing School
Roberto Clemente Middle
Sofia Betancur
Robinswood Middle
Ronald Williams
Rock Lake Elementary
Lori Heers
Rock Springs Elementary
Tyrashawn Kelly
Rolling Hills Elementary
Ariana Kline
Rosemont Elementary
Dayami Prieto
Sadler Elementary
Marissa Zucker
Sally Ride Elementary
Wendy Lawhorn
Sand Lake Elementary
Alison Asbury
Shenandoah Elementary
Shemaiah Henderson Shingle Creek Elementary
Edwin Torres
Silver Pines Academy
Gianvito Fagiolino South Creek Middle
Brian Leacock
Suzanne Roth
Timber Creek High
Christy San Martin
Timber Lakes Elementary
Maribel Lopez
Timber Springs Middle
Shermeka Scott
Mercedes Rodriguez West Creek Elementary
Steven Franklin
West Oaks Elementary
Tyler Hedrick
West Orange High
Jody Silvester
Southwest Middle
Union Park Elementary
Westbrooke Elementary
Stephanie McClure
Glorianne Cuevas
Sedonnie Raynor Cowans
Lauren George
Cindy Schmitt
Betsey Carreras
Christine Scott
Dalma Rosa Ramos
Luna Excellent Campbell
Dawn Orlando
Randolyn Freiberger
Dana Christopher-Muench
Southwood Elementary
Spring Lake Elementary Stone Lakes Elementary Summerlake Elementary
Kimberly Chichinski Sun Blaze Elementary
Allisha Douglas
SunRidge Elementary
Ann Mansier
SunRidge Middle
Ann Torres
Sunrise Elementary
Megan Althouse
Sunset Park Elementary
Carolina Ocampo
Union Park Middle University High
Ventura Elementary
Village Park Elementary
Victoria Conaway
Julia Davis
Mary Beth Smoot
Walker Middle
Jill Robbins
Washington Shores Elementary
Roxanne Bracy
Washington Shores Primary Learning Center
Dana Samuel
Windermere High Windy Ridge K-8
Julie Adams
Winegard Elementary
Heather Parker
Winter Park 9th Grade Center
Lisa Nix
Winter Park High
Ashley Seal
Water Spring Middle
Wolf Lake Elementary
Megan Roy
Christopher Flor
Waterbridge Elementary
Tayman Barnett
Three Points Elementary
Waterford Elementary
Bryan Dolfi
Casey Broadaway
Tildenville Elementary
Jacquelyn Greene Hillary Church
Sharyn Stieglitz
Geydis Guadalupe
Whispering Oak Elementary
Gemma Dimery
Vista Pointe Elementary
Kenyetta Boddie Corin Metz
Wetherbee Elementary
Windermere Elementary
Water Spring Elementary
Thornebrooke Elementary
Westridge Middle
Vista Lakes Elementary
Sunshine Elementary
Tangelo Park Elementary
Westpointe Elementary
Wedgefield School
Wolf Lake Middle
Jasmin De La Rosa
Wyndham Lakes Elementary
Megan Venning
Zellwood Elementary
Keith Dickerson Wekiva High
Orange Peal
| 29
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Retiree: Tasmaria Brown-Harris Years with OCPS: 33 OCPS Retirement date: Jan. 3 As the new year begins, Tasmaria Brown-Harris will fully embrace the next chapter in her life, one filled with her favorite pastime of cruising, volunteer work and doting on her infant grandson. For more than 33 years, she led thousands of Orange County students to greater academic success. The Winter Park native and Edgewater High graduate was influenced to enter the field of education, following in the footsteps of her late godfather, Ernest White, and godmother, Rutha White, both former OCPS educators. "Watching both their passions and workloads during their years of education persuaded my educational views and direction toward becoming an educator," said Brown-Harris, who earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from Nova Southeastern University. Her OPCS career started in 1988 as an aide and tutor before spending a decade as a first- and second-grade teacher at Brookshire Elementary. Next she moved to Apopka Middle for another 10 years, leaving as an administrative dean.
Upcoming Virtual Workshops: Jan. 5, 5-6:30 p.m. Nearing Retirement in the FRS https://orangepeal.pub/NearingFRS Jan. 12, 5-6:30 p.m. Understanding the FRS Investment Plan https://orangepeal.pub/frsinvestmentplan
A favorite memory of hers at Apopka Middle was "watching this new dean arrive on campus, then matriculate from dean to assistant principal, then becoming my principal," she said. Brown-Harris worked alongside this principal, Rolando Bailey, next at Liberty Middle, where she was a reading coach; moved with him to Freedom High as an Multi-Tiered System of Supports coach; and lastly worked with him at Evans High, where she served as an MTSS coach before becoming the school's Title 1 Business Operations manager, two years ago. Focused on nurturing the whole child, she called it her mission to help struggling students. "Not only did they need strategies," she said," but [they needed] consistency, structure, compassion and lots of love."
Jan. 19, 5-6:30 p.m. Using the FRS to Plan for Your Retirement https://orangepeal.pub/planforretirement Jan. 19, 5-6:30 p.m.: Income Tax Planning: Smart Planning for Your Taxes https://orangepeal.pub/incometaxplanning Go to the MyFRS workshop flyer link to register for the particular course. Go to Canvas to get more information about the course. For additional information, email retirement.services@ocps.net or call 407.317.3227.
Orange Peal
| 31
Be a Stronger and Healthier You in 2022
Break a Sweat, not the Bank
The OCPS Employee Wellness program and Cigna invite you to walk, bike or bench press your way to the top of the Orange County Public Schools Fitness Challenge leaderboard. Keep motivated by competing individually or joining a team.
OCPS Cigna members who are age 18 or older are eligible to take advantage of the Active&Fit™ program that is part of Cigna Healthy Rewards. With Active&Fit, you get to choose from a list of participating gyms for just $25 a month (plus a $25 enrollment fee and applicable taxes). Whether you want to go to the YMCA®, LA Fitness® or another participating gym, you can join at a low rate with no long-term contracts.
Registration: Jan. 10-30 Challenge: Jan. 24-March 6 Here's how it works: • • • • • •
Join as part of a team or participate on your own. Log your activity minutes on the fitness challenge website or app and sync your fitness app to track your minutes automatically. Track your progress against others on our leaderboards. Chat with and cheer on your teammates on the interactive message board. Earn badges to mark your achievements and help your team succeed. Remember, every little bit counts.
Employees who register by Monday, Jan. 24 will be entered to win one of 500 LCD Smart Jump ropes, which are suitable for all fitness levels with the option to use with or without the rope. Register starting Jan. 10*, by visiting: http://orangecountypublicschools. globalfitnesschallenge.com *You cannot register prior to Jan. 10.
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Where can you find more information? Start by logging in to myCigna.com and follow these steps. 1. From the menu, choose "Wellness." 2. Click on "Wellness & Incentives." 3. Scroll down to "Total Wellness" and click on "Exercise." 4. Scroll down to "Healthy Rewards®" to "Gym Memberships & Digital Workouts" and click "Start Saving." 5. You will be redirected to the Active&Fit Direct™ website to join. *This is a discount program and is NOT insurance. This program is separate from your medical plan benefits. You are required to pay the entire discounted charge. Terms and conditions apply. The Active&Fit Direct program is provided by American Specialty Health Fitness, Inc., a subsidiary of American Specialty Health Incorporated. ASH and its subsidiaries are solely responsible for this program and are not affiliated with Cigna. Always consult your doctor prior to beginning a new exercise program. Your participation in this program may be subject to program terms and conditions and is at your sole risk.
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Changes to Prescription Drug Formularly effective Jan. 1 Changes in the prescription drug formulary are occurring this month. Members will be notified by letter if their maintenance prescription is affected and no longer covered. You can see charts with the more common drugs that have been impacted by this change, along with suggested formulary options, at http://Insurance.ocps.net. Select the Employee Wellness page on the left, and charts can be found under Pharmacy News. Remember, generic medications are preferred and are placed on the first or lowest copay tier ($18 for a 90-day supply at a CVS retail store or mail).
Get Your Tests! Regular primary care and preventive screenings are essential to your health, and early detection can prolong your life. Members covered by one of the OCPS medical plans have preventive screenings* covered at 100%, prior to a deductible. Ask your primary care physician which preventive screenings are right for you.
Receiving an HPV vaccine protects against the types of viruses that most often cause cervical cancer.
Breast Cancer Screening Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Women age 40 and older should talk to their doctor about when to start and how often to get a mammogram.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Lung Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer can be prevented by finding and removing a polyp before it becomes cancer. Regular screening beginning at age 45 is the key to preventing colorectal cancer and finding it early.
People ages 50-80 who smoke or used to smoke within the last 15 years are at higher risk for lung cancer. The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography. If you are thinking about getting screened, talk to your doctor.
Cervical Cancer Screening The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend cervical cancer screening for women age 21 and older. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may tell you that you can wait three years until your next test.
*Information provided in this article was obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American Cancer Society. Colorectal, cervical and breast cancer screenings may be applied to MotivateMe. To be eligible for the MotivateMe health incentives, first you must complete your health assessment on https://myCigna. com and get your annual physical.
The human papillomavirus vaccine is recommended for everyone ages 11-26. Orange Peal
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Cancer Navigator Program All OCPS Cigna members who have a cancer diagnosis, are currently going through treatment for cancer, have received treatment for cancer in the last six months or will begin treatment in the next 60 days have access to the Cancer Navigator Program. This program can help you understand your benefits, locate financial assistance, understand employment protections and assist with community-based resources. For more information or to request a Cancer Navigator, visit www.mybenefitnavigator.org or call 1.888.720.6899.
Pet Care: Employee Assistance Program can help with that, too We recognize that pets are a part of your family. From boarding to pet insurance, you can get a referral to a variety of resources. Best of all, the Employee Assistance Program is free for all OCPS employees. Take advantage of support with the following pet-care needs: • Veterinarians. • Insurance. • Pet-sitting resources. • Obedience training. • Groomers. • Nutrition hotlines. • Emergency animal clinics. • And more. Call 1.877.622.4327 or log in to https://myCigna.com (Employer ID: ocps) and discover how the Employee Assistance Program can support you.
Benefits Bulletin is designed to keep OCPS employees and their families informed about available benefit programs. This information is not intended to replace professional health care. See your health care professional for information relevant to your medical history.
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January Healthy Hero "Educate your mind first. Don't listen to stigmas or gimmicks. Make the choice to change your lifestyle. And if you make a mistake, don't give up – move on!" This is the advice of January's Healthy Hero, Joanie Cruz, Title I program coordinator at Roberto Clemente Middle. Cruz's motto of moving on led to her success to lose 40 pounds and keep it off for more than a year. She learned by reading publications from life coaches and nutritionists, watching YouTube videos and even hiring a personal trainer from Instagram.
maintaining a diet primarily of lean proteins and vegetables. On occasion, when she has a meal outside of her usual guidelines, she makes accommodations to her remaining meals during the day. Cruz was nominated by coworker Kenneth Kuczer. He and fellow Roberto Clemente Middle School staff and students want Cruz to know they are proud of her dedication to a healthy lifestyle. Said Kuczer: "The Jaguar family is rooting for you!"
Her long-term strategy has led to a disciplined approach to portion control and
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445 W. Amelia St., Orlando, FL 32801 | 407.317.3200 www.ocps.net
