2025 Stellar Awards Program

JANUARY 17, 2025 Rosen Shingle Creek

Dear Stellar Award Honorees and Guests: Welcome to the 2024–2025 Stellar Awards!

I am thrilled to celebrate alongside you as we recognize more than 500 stellar members of our Orange County Public Schools family this evening.

It’s wonderful to be back at the Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando where the legacy of Harris Rosen, founder of Rosen Hotels & Resorts, continues to be a beacon of light in our Central Florida community. We will always be grateful for his generosity.

For more than 30 years, Harris and his foundation have been partners and supporters of OCPS. His long-lasting influence is woven into the fabric of our schools and lives of our students.

The Tangelo Park Project, one of his most life-changing initiatives, provides free preschool, parenting classes, vocational training and full scholarships for college-bound high school graduates. It’s a gift with proven impact that directly contributes to brighter futures.

The OCPS Stellar Awards honors outstanding educators, administrators and district and school support personnel who exemplify the standards we strive for in supporting all our students.

This year, the Stellar Awards includes a new category recognizing professionals who are not eligible for other district awards. Ten district Administrator of the Year honorees were nominated by their OCPS division chiefs and will be celebrated alongside the other honorees this evening.

Your unwavering support of our students and belief in public education is why we are able to change lives and lead our students to success. As a school district, we provide our more than 207,000 students with the tools and strategies they need to not only graduate, but to be the successful employees, learners and citizens of the future.

Congratulations again to our 2025 Stellar Awards honorees, finalists and winners. We cannot succeed without your hard work and dedication to OCPS and our students.

Tonight is your night to shine!

Sincerely,

Maria F. Vazquez, Ed.D. Superintendent Orange County Public Schools

SCHOOL BOARD OF ORANGE COUNTY

Teresa Jacobs Chair

Melissa Byrd Vice Chair | District 7

Angie Gallo District 1

Maria Salamanca District 2

Alicia Farrant District 3

Anne Douglas District 4

Vicki-Elaine Felder District 5

Stephanie Vanos District 6

ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CABINET Michael Armbruster Deputy Superintendent Division of Learning

Tashanda Brown-Cannon Chief Academic Officer

Scott Howat Chief Communications Officer

Bridget Williams Deputy Superintendent Executive Services

Doreen Concolino Chief Financial Officer

Roberto Pacheco Chief Operations Officer

Maurice Draggon Chief Information Officer

Rory Salimbene Chief Facilities Officer

John Palmerini General Counsel

Kathryn Shuler Chief Schools Officer

Robert Bixler Chief of Staff Harold Border Division of Strategy

We salute and celebrate all the 2025 OCPS Stellar Award Honorees.

AdditionFi.com/OCPS

Federally Insured by NCUA

SPECIAL THANKS We are honored and grateful to once again have Nancy Alvarez as a part of the Stellar Awards! This year marks her seventh consecutive year of serving as the Stellar Awards’ mistress of ceremonies.

Nancy and her husband Chris are Orlando residents and proud OCPS parents with a daughter and son at Howard Middle.

Nancy has always gone the extra mile to support OCPS by serving as PTA President at Hillcrest Elementary from 2020 to 2023, supporting the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools, hosting the annual OCPS Super Scholars event, and co-hosting Mondays with Maria, Superintendent Maria Vazquez’s weekly YouTube program.

Nancy is a news anchor with Central Florida’s NBC affiliate WESH Channel 2. She was previously an anchor and reporter at WFTV Channel 9 for 11 years and the senior vice president of Community Relations and Equity Impact at Heart of Florida United Way. Thank you, Nancy, for all you do to support Orange County Public Schools!

We would like to thank our AV and Host Sponsors, AV Matters and Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando, and the following individuals who have contributed to tonight’s event: Mario Ford Evans High

Charisse Hurdle 2023-2024 Assistant Principal of the Year

Marc Kolodinsky

Becky Watson

Windermere High

2023-2024 Principal of the Year

Rina Santiago

Stewart Parker

2023-2024 Support Person of the Year

2020-2021 Teacher of the Year

CEREMONY PROGRAM Procession of Stellar Award Honorees Evans High School Guard

Welcome Remarks Nancy Alvarez WESH 2 News anchor and co-host of Mondays with Maria

Dinner Service Music performance by the Windermere High School Wolverine Jazz Band

Honoree and Finalist Recognitions and Winner Announcements Remarks by Chair Teresa Jacobs and Superintendent Maria Vazquez 2024-2025 District Administrator of the Year 2024-2025 Principal of the Year 2024-2025 Assistant Principal of the Year 2024-2025 Support Person of the Year 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year

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Together, we are stronger.

Healthier futures start with strong leaders. Cigna HealthcareSM is proud to support the Orange County Public Schools and we congratulate the nominees and winners of this year’s Stellar Awards. Together, we can work to build a healthier community, body and mind.

All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group. The Cigna name, logo, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. 960227 a 12/23 © 2023 Cigna Healthcare. Some content provided under license.

WE ARE PROUD...

to have served Orange County Public Schools for more than 15 years and look forward to our continued partnership for years to come!

Fall C E L E B R AT I N G T H E L I F E A N D L E G AC Y O F

HONEST VALUE NEVER FAILS. -J.E. Strawbridge~

For over 100 years, Strawbrigde Studios has provided pictures and yearbooks to schools throughout the country.

HARRIS ROSEN

Spring

Cap & Gown

FL24250

From the children in the Tangelo Park and Rosen Parramore Preschools who grew up with hope. To the OCPS graduates earning Rosen scholarships destined to succeed.

His gift continues through us, benefiting each student, and uplifting our communities for generations to come.

With Mr. Rosen, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Tangelo Park Preschool Program. He saw us to the 7th anniversary of Rosen Parramore Preschool Program.

Seniors

In his honor, we look forward to graduating future generations of children.

Excellent Customer Service Our company knows the importance of doing what is right and what is best for the families we serve. Your parents will be taken care of with our customer first approach to service.

Harris Rosen’s legacy began with advice from his mom. Education was the way to success. From a humble childhood to success as an independent hotelier and philanthropist, the lesson grew.

Free education was Mr. Rosen’s greatest gift to us.

Class Group

We are proud to say, The legacy will continue.

DISTRICT ADMINIST

MINDI SMITH

JESSIE OUTING

With a 40-year career in OCPS, Mindi Smith has distinguished herself as a leader who empowers and inspires others to reach their full potential. Over the past decade, she has dedicated herself to mentoring and guiding principals and assistant principals, sharing her deep expertise in curriculum and instruction. Smith’s leadership is multifaceted: she spearheads professional development initiatives, equips school leaders with data-driven strategies for instructional improvement, and fosters the creation of positive and inclusive school cultures. Her impact is perhaps best captured by former Assistant Principal of the Year Rebecca Yedbovnick, principal at Ridgewood Park Elementary, who describes Smith as both a “rock” and a trusted thought partner. Yedbovnick emphasizes Smith’s ability to facilitate continuous improvement, stating, “Every time I do a learning walk with Mindi, I feel like I learn something.”

Jessie Outing is a servant leader who is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and assist her team and colleagues. She is a dedicated mentor, known for developing others into strong leaders. Outing also possesses a keen eye for innovation. For example, she spearheaded the automation of the recalculation and reappointment process, which streamlines staffing adjustments based on student enrollment.

This initiative significantly reduced the workload for the Human Resources Employment Services department and has been widely praised by principals across the district. Outing’s exceptional customer service and positive attitude have earned her a reputation as a trusted and go-to resource within the HR department.

Division of Learning Elementary Schools Office

Human Resources

RATOR OF THE YEAR Victor West

Communications

Cindy Valentin

District General Counsel

Rebecca Hunt

Division of Learning Chief Academic Office

LOU ALEXIS Operations

Loubert “Lou” Alexis has been instrumental in establishing OCPS as the standard for K-12 Emergency Management in the state of Florida and beyond. Through collaborative efforts across district departments and with public safety partners, Alexis has achieved significant accomplishments, including the StormReady Supporter recognition from the National Weather Service, the establishment of the Emergency Management Internship Program with UCF, effective and informative countywide Preparedness Days, and the completion and board adoption of the District Reunification Plan. Alexis’ strong emphasis on teamwork and his visionary leadership in K-12 emergency management have earned him the respect of emergency managers, colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.

Mindi Smith

Division of Learning Elementary Schools Office

Carlos Maffuz Facilities

Tyler Show

Fiscal Services

Jessie Outing

Human Resources

Luis Figueroa O’Neill

Information Technology Services

Lou Alexis Operations

Xiaogeng Sun

Research, Measurement and Strategy

PR I N C I PAL O F

BRANDI GURLEY

LISA SUGGS

Orange County Virtual School

Vista Pointe Elementary

Brandi Gurley’s focus on student wellbeing, academic improvement and parent partnerships at Orange County Virtual School set her apart. Gurley fosters a collaborative, data-driven environment that includes virtual learning labs, personalized learning models and wellness check-ins.

She tapped task forces of teachers, coaches and specialists to identify best practices in multiple subjects. That led to significant academic improvements, including a 5 percentage point increase in Algebra 1 scores and an 8 percentage point increase in Biology proficiency. Gurley’s compassionate approach is exemplified by her support for a student facing personal hardship, ensuring that his terminally ill mother got to see him graduate. In her 24 years as an educator, Gurley’s transformative leadership and unwavering belief in every student have made a difference for Orange County’s virtual students.

Lisa Suggs, a veteran educator with 35 years of experience, is known for fostering a collaborative and supportive school environment. She opened Vista Pointe Elementary during the pandemic and established an open-practice culture that allows teachers to learn from each other’s classrooms. Collaborative data teams helped lead to student proficiency gains of 13 percentage points in reading and 16 percentage points in math. Her focus on resilience and safety has led to a reduction in behavioral incidents and high satisfaction ratings from parents and staff. Her dean of students said Suggs “thrives in ensuring her staff is happy, feels as if they belong, and are ready to tackle every day with a positive attitude.”

T H E Y E AR

Toni Duke

Apopka Elementary

Joann Dorries

Bay Meadows Elementary

Marisol Mendez Cypress Creek High

Tiffany Smid

Dillard Street Elementary

Suzanne Knight Hamlin Middle

Charles Jackson Lakeville Elementary

Suzanne Workum

Laureate Park Elementary

MYRLENE JACKSON-KIMBLE Washington Shores Elementary Tangelo Park Elementary

Myrlene Jackson-Kimble is a 30-year veteran educator with a proven track record of turning around underperforming schools.

A master principal for both Washington Shores and Tangelo Park elementary schools, Ms. Jackson-Kimble’s approach of collaboration across both schools has fostered a culture of shared responsibility and continuous improvement. Under her leadership, Washington Shores improved from an F school grade to a B. Tangelo Park moved from a D to one point below a B. Jackson-Kimble actively works towards instilling strong and loving values in her students and leaving a positive impact on their lives. As one parent volunteer noted, “One of Mrs. Kimble’s greatest strengths is the ability to foster a positive school culture with high expectations for ALL.”

Melissa Sarasty Lovell Elementary

Sean S. Brown

Maxey Elementary

Eric Unger

McCoy Elementary

Brandi Gurley

Orange County Virtual School

Sean Maguire

Orlando Gifted Academy

Patty Harrelson

Orlo Vista Elementary

LaTonya Smothers Pine Hills Elementary

Alfaye Floyd

Robinswood Middle

Agustin Damers

Silver Pines Academy

Diana Greer

SunRidge Elementary

Lisa Suggs

Vista Pointe Elementary

Myrlene Jackson-Kimble Washington Shores Elementary Tangelo Park Elementary

Matthew Turner West Orange High

Andrew Leftakis Windermere High

Cynthia Haupt Wolf Lake Middle

ASSISTANT PRINCI TAYLER BOYER

ESTHER KUSNER

Tayler Boyer is the dedicated senior assistant principal over Colonial High School’s Ninth Grade Campus. With 11 years of experience as an educator, Boyer is passionate about fostering a culture of collaboration, respect and inclusivity among teachers. Her commitment to data-driven instruction and continuous improvement helped to generate an increase of 15 percentage points in reading proficiency among the bottom quartile of ninth graders. She also has focused on creating a safe and supportive learning environment, promoting wellbeing and improving classroom behavior.

These efforts culminate in a student reward program taking place during “Fun Friday” lunchtime events. She is also a mentor to students, and has helped set former students on a path to success in college and beyond.

When Esther Kusner saw that a group of Discovery Middle students were struggling with attendance, behavior and grades, she started a mentoring program that included intensive tutoring. At the end of the school year, only nine of the 94 students needed summer school. As an assistant principal with 18 years of education experience, Kusner uses data and personal relationships to drive success. Kusner “meets challenges with a cool, calm demeanor and responds to proverbial curveballs with professionalism and an opportunity mindset,” said Principal Alexander Stubenbort. Kusner has also prioritized transitioning students with disabilities into general education classrooms, expanding a tutoring partnership with UCF students and mentoring students personally.

Colonial High

Discovery Middle

PAL OF THE YEAR

Tara Popovich

Avalon Elementary

Tayler Boyer Colonial High

Katie Hyser

Corner Lake Middle

Esther Kusner Discovery Middle

Janet Martin

Dommerich Elementary

Michael Byrne

Eagle Creek Elementary

Frederick Corn Jones High

JANET MARTIN Dommerich Elementary

Janet Martin is an exemplary leader known for stepping in to address parent concerns and solving problems at Dommerich Elementary. The 21-year educator helped increase ELA scores from 30% to 57% proficiency among African-American students through targeted interventions, mentoring and family partnerships. This initiative included helping teachers find incentives each student would work for, such as sending a positive note home to parents. She brings leadership training to her colleagues, recently helped address parent concerns about transportation and even drove an employee experiencing car trouble to work. Martin, who oversees school safety, uses patience and finds common ground to build positive relationships with students, staff and parents.

Rose Apollon Simon Lake Gem Elementary

Cristina Mrozek

Lakeville Elementary

Kathleen Ramsey

Laureate Park Elementary

Lauren Smith

Meadowbrook Middle

Heather Rodriguez Memorial Middle

Rob Vetter

Moss Park Elementary

Michelle Meirinho Cardoso Oakshire Elementary

Wesley Thomas Ocoee Elementary

Renee Green Ocoee High

Amy Lerman

Orange County Virtual School

Mike Martucci

Silver Pines Academy

Altamont Coley III

Washington Shores Elementary

Christine Markley Wedgefield School

Jennifer Aprea

Westpointe Elementary

Cecelia Ward

Zellwood Elementary

SU PPORT PERS

VALERIE LOPEZ

LISA HARDEMAN

A beloved member of the Edgewater High family for 36 years, Valerie Lopez embodies the school’s spirit and values. Her unwavering belief in treating everyone with respect and equality has endeared her to students and staff. Lopez’s Eagle pride shines through in her tireless efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive campus environment. Motivated by compassion, she spearheaded impactful programs, including the Eagle Exchange Clothing, E-Boutique and Food Pantry. The E-Boutique, which began in her office closet, now boasts racks of clothes and a dressing room, providing affordable formal wear. She also transformed the Food Pantry into a fully-stocked resource. Lopez’s commitment to the school’s legacy led her to establish the Memory Room, celebrating Edgewater High’s history.

Lisa Hardeman, the dedicated parent engagement liaison at Hiawassee Elementary, has made a significant impact on countless families. Understanding community challenges, she helps homeless parents by connecting them with essential resources like employment, housing, and even gift cards. Drawing from her own experiences, she demonstrates deep compassion for families in need. Hardeman is passionate about strengthening school-family connections and has doubled attendance at monthly family-engagement activities. She also manages the school’s food pantry in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, ensuring families have access to nutritious food. A tireless advocate, Hardeman encourages parent volunteerism, provides students with books, and ensures parents receive regular updates on their children’s successes.

Edgewater High

Hiawassee Elementary

ON OF THE YEAR

ANA SALEH PICON

DANIELLE MACKAY

JOSEPHINE BUNCH

Ana Saleh Picon is a dedicated School Clerk at Lake Nona Middle School, where her flexibility and willingness to help eases the challenging transition from elementary to middle school for sixth graders. She is particularly passionate about supporting ESE students, developing creative strategies that cater to their unique academic and social needs. Through close observation and attentiveness, she has helped two ESE students achieve independence during transition times and lunch. The positive impact of her efforts is evident in the success and confidence of these students. Picon’s overall commitment to building strong relationships creates a positive school environment.

For nine years, Danielle MacKay has been a dedicated advocate for deaf students at Lake Sybelia Elementary, compassionately bridging communication gaps using sign language and her voice. Described as a natural teacher, she excels in leading small groups, fostering language development, and guiding parents.

Her commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the classroom; she runs a free ASL class for OCPS staff and families, empowering parents to connect with their children. These efforts have reduced frustration and behavioral concerns among students, fostering a positive learning environment. MacKay also tutors and mentors students in and outside of school.

Josephine Bunch consistently goes above and beyond to improve the lives of those around her. When her school needed targeted support for foundational math concepts, she led a small-group math project that improved student performance and fostered greater enthusiasm for math. A trusted mentor and confidante to students, Bunch also has a heart for students with special needs. In her previous role as School Health Assistant, she collaborated with stakeholders to create individualized care plans for students with Type-1 Diabetes, minimizing disruptions to their academic experience.

Through her compassion and dedication, Bunch has created a more inclusive and supportive school environment for all.

Lake Nona Middle

Lake Sybelia Elementary

Wedgefield School

SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR HONOREES Rosa-El Cordero

Teresa Geyer

Helena Lima

Violeta Ramirez

Wendy Warren

Amarilis Malave-Acosta

JoAnn Strauss

Carmen Mendez

Stephanie Edmiston

Waleska Martins

Wendy Pitts

Geraldine Torres

Cristina Villa Olivares

Peggy Boyett

Rebecca Vilsaint

Ana Villalobos Gaviria

Simeon Way

Karen Seguel

Patricia Gonzalez

Dannerys Sanchez

Jamien Beluso

Michael Gantt

Ashley Hermina

Migdalia Aponte

Rachel Ward

Lavonia Hall

Kristin Michalski

Kelly Baloun

Marisol Gordon

Jocelyn Brumby

Jamie Soleimani

Gabriela Rodriguez

Tonya Pringle

Stephanie Hoppe

Migdalia Natali

Danielle Hiralal

Harriet Fayson

Keith Rodriguez

Inocencia Ramos

Milanie Rodriguez

Breily Garcia

Jacquelyn Bogle

Barbara Seebeck

Amy Evans

Gretel Perez

Emmanuelle Vasconcelos de Freitas

Jane Lopez

Ryan Pascall

AnnMarie Hubschman

Valerie Lopez

Marion Sabedra

Jose Ortega

Brandy Taylor

Gloria Fandino

Melissa St. George

Nereida Deleon

Acceleration East

Acceleration West Accounts Payable

Aloma Elementary

Alternative Education Andover Elementary Apopka Elementary Apopka High

Apopka Memorial Middle Arbor Ridge K-8

Asset Protection

Atwater Bay Elementary

Baldwin Park Elementary Bay Lake Elementary

Bay Meadows Elementary Blankner School

Bonneville Elementary Boone High

Bridgewater Middle Brookshire Elementary Camelot Elementary Carver Middle

Castle Creek Elementary

Duane Walton

Castleview Elementary

Barbara Miranda

Catalina Elementary

Stephanie Alfano

Chain of Lakes Middle

Brenda Liz De la Rosa

Cheney Elementary

Audubon Park School Avalon Elementary Avalon Middle

Azalea Park Elementary

Patrice Upshaw Sonya Plummer Wen-Chi Cheng

Chickasaw Elementary Citrus Elementary

Clay Springs Elementary College Park Middle

Colonial 9th Grade Center Colonial High

Columbia Elementary Conway Elementary Conway Middle

Corner Lake Middle

Curriculum and Digital Learning Custodial Services Cypress Creek High

Cypress Springs Elementary Deerwood Elementary Dillard Street Elementary

Discovery Middle

Foundation for OCPS

Dommerich Elementary

Dover Shores Elementary Dr. Phillips Elementary Dr. Phillips High

Dream Lake Elementary Eagle Creek Elementary

Eagle’s Nest Elementary East Lake Elementary East River High

Eccleston Elementary Edgewater High

Endeavor Elementary Engelwood Elementary ESE Policy & Procedures

SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR HONOREES Beverly Ligon

Lisa Hardeman

Denise Hardwick-Irvin

Brenda Rosado

Tomeke Bouier

Ariana Quiles

Georgina Soliman

Teresa Burnett

Maria Castillo

Vanessa Roman

Margaret Harris

Teneshia Thomas

Anesta West

Martha Nadal

Kettelie Salomon

Yannette Sanchez

Pamela King

Tiffany DeLury

David Gervin

Laura Shroder

Myriam Rodriguez

Marinelly Andujar

Lauren Folkes

Enid Pabon

Carmen MaldonadoFigueroa

Marti Leath

Peggy Jackson

Robin Bastin

Linda Valentine

Amber Jones

Clinton Delaney II

Marquita Carter-Etienne

Pouchy Jean

Edgar Mendez Torres

Michelle Boyd

Rosa Zarama

Charlotte Nelson

Diane LaRouche

Melissa Bennett

Calyx Walls

Ariane Florencio

Ana Saleh Picon

Sarah Miranda

Joan Franco-Miranda

Libby Euchner

David Reussow

Brittany Locasto

Danielle MacKay

Kristie Graham

Mary Tonchuk

Ruth Walker

Justine Mojica

Beverly Shaw

Danette Havard

Astrin Luke

ESE Supplemental Services ESE Transition

ESTEEM Academy Evans High

Exceptional Student Services Facilities Maintenance

Forsyth Woods Elementary

Colita Smith

Frangus Elementary

Bonnie Vargas Freedom High

Diego Galeano Freedom Middle

Alfredo Sanchez Glenridge Middle

Fred Zanegood Gotha Middle

Everton Jarvis

Grounds, Landscaping & Pest Control

Ana Fischer Ramos Hamlin Elementary

Tanama Sanchez Burgos Hamlin Middle

Hiawassee Elementary Hidden Oaks Elementary Hillcrest Elementary Horizon High

Horizon West Middle

Hospital Homebound Howard Middle

Human Resources

Hungerford Elementary

Hunter’s Creek Elementary Hunter’s Creek Middle

Independence Elementary Innovation High

Innovation Middle

ITS Business Operations ITS Infrastructure

Ivey Lane Elementary

John Young Elementary Jones High

Keene’s Crossing Elementary Kelly Park School

Killarney Elementary Lake Buena Vista High Lake Como School

Lake Gem Elementary Lake George Elementary Lake Nona High

Lake Nona Middle

Lake Silver Elementary Lake Sybelia Elementary Lake Weston Elementary Lake Whitney Elementary

Lakemont Elementary Lakeview Middle

Lakeville Elementary

Lancaster Elementary

Laureate Park Elementary Lawton Chiles Elementary Legacy Middle

Liberty Middle

Little River Elementary Lockhart Elementary Lockhart Middle Lovell Elementary Luminary Middle Magnolia School Maitland Middle

Maxey Elementary

SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR HONOREES Claudia Gomez

Nijolu Clavier Herrera

Edgar Ospino

Carolina Rosales Vargas

McCoy Elementary

Meadow Woods Elementary

Marella Leon Ferreira Meadow Woods Middle

Dedira Johnson Meadowbrook Middle

Don Busby, Jr.

Oakshire Elementary Ocoee Elementary

Sheree Patrick Ocoee High

Carla Harden Ocoee Middle

Paulo da Silva

Jessica Briones

Orange Technical College West Campus

Annmarie Cherolini Orlando Gifted Academy

Jacob Irby

Orlo Vista Elementary

Gloria Castro

Palm Lake Elementary

OCPS Academic Center for Excellence

Matthew Hardy

Michele Dergosits

MetroWest Elementary

Odyssey Middle

Taise Camargo

Keith Canterbury

Carol Rayborn

Millennia Elementary

Office of Management and Budget

Rodney Francis

Corian Hamilton

Joshua Norton

Millennia Gardens Elementary

Olympia High

Juan Orengo

Stacy Harris-King

Belouty Pierre

Mollie Ray Elementary

Orange Center Elementary

Gail Shephard

Jorge Bulnes Guardado

Keirah Madden

Moss Park Elementary

Orange County Virtual School

Herminio Alvarado

Wei-Feng Xu

Nelly Hetherington

Latoya Beauford

Memorial Middle

Dalyane Rose Franca de Oliveira

Northeast Maintenance

Williams Nunez Sanchez NorthLake Park Community School

Norbert Barrios

Northwest Area Maintenance

Jean Johnson

Orange Technical College Avalon Campus

Angela Rico

Orange Technical College East Campus

David Nelson

Oak Hill Elementary

Orange Technical College Main Campus

Clara Molina

Jerel Tomlinson

Oak Ridge High

Orange Technical College South Campus

Palmetto Elementary

Panther Lake Elementary Pershing School

Phillis Wheatley Elementary Piedmont Lakes Middle Pinar Elementary

Pine Hills Elementary

Roquanda Manuel Pineloch Elementary

Madonia Jadusingh Pinewood Elementary

Tammie Davis

Positive Pathways Transition Center

Mary Kay Scarlata Prairie Lake Elementary

Elvin A. Velazquez Ramos Princeton Elementary

Mark Bunker

RBELC Building Management

Anna Emilien

Ridgewood Park Elementary

Beth Palmer

Risk Management

Katrina Walker

Riverdale Elementary

Danielle Escott Riverside Elementary

Colombia Ordonez Roberto Clemente Middle

Valerie Blair

Robinswood Middle

Tamara Clark

Rock Lake Elementary

Marisha Bedasie

Rock Springs Elementary

Tishell Davis

Rolling Hills Elementary

Charlotte Beckford Rosemont Elementary

Victoria Marshall Sadler Elementary

Carmelo Pantoja Sally Ride Elementary

Shamori Bernard Sand Lake Elementary

Carmella Pascall

Shenandoah Elementary

SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR HONOREES Leidy Quintero

Linerys Rosario Barreiro

Kimberley Fasnacht

Mary Simmons

Monica Watson

Veronica Melendez

Lashawn Harris

David Jackson

Breslyn Rosado Miro

Jennifer Ludd

Linetta Stewart

Jessica Rivera

Lysandra Toyens

Giada Evangelista

Cynthia Jackson

Tracy Goodwin

Kayla Rivers

Ananda Andraus Serrano

Shingle Creek Elementary Silver Pines Academy

South Area Maintenance South Creek Middle Southwest Middle

Michelle Ramos

Southwood Elementary

Martine Louis

Spring Lake Elementary

Susan Janz

State Reporting

Yesenia Rivera

Stone Lakes Elementary

Normita Rodriguez Roman Stonewyck Elementary

Malisa Robinson Student Services

Tami Stueve

Summerlake Elementary

Maria Peraza

Sun Blaze Elementary

Sunset Park Elementary Sunshine Elementary

Tangelo Park Elementary Thornebrooke Elementary Three Points Elementary

Rosemary Pierce Tildenville Elementary

Joseph Huggins Timber Creek High

Sharri Antoniazzi

Timber Lakes Elementary

Jessica Febus

Timber Springs Middle

Pamela Johnson Transportation Services

Magda L. Garay

Union Park Elementary

Yamilka De Jesus Sanchez Union Park Middle

Cindy Gordon University High

Rose Dorsey

Santa Santana

Sandra Chico

Kimberly Kopinski

Regina Martinez

Carlos Cepeda

SunRidge Elementary SunRidge Middle

Sunrise Elementary

Ventura Elementary

Village Park Elementary Vista Lakes Elementary

Vista Pointe Elementary Walker Middle

Washington Shores Elementary Washington Shores Primary Learning Center

Amy Skornia

Water Spring Elementary

Karen Bukowski Water Spring Middle

Debbie Rosado

Waterbridge Elementary

Maria Bassmaji Waterford Elementary

Josephine Bunch Wedgefield School

Gabriel Sosa Wekiva High

Soraya Missi

West Creek Elementary

Terrell Taylor

West Oaks Elementary

Jillian Groover West Orange High

Nardeen Barsoum Westbrooke Elementary

Daniella Sirino Palin Westpointe Elementary

Westridge Middle

Wetherbee Elementary Whispering Oak Elementary Windermere Elementary

Wendy Cooper Windermere High

Achraf El Badaai Windy Ridge K-8

Alex Hernandez Winegard Elementary

Dawn Breckenridge

Winter Park 9th Grade Center

Paul Engelbert Winter Park High

Jovanska Diaz Alicea Wolf Lake Elementary

Sharon Mathieux Wolf Lake Middle

Aleisha Starken

Wyndham Lakes Elementary

Allison Graham Zellwood Elementary

TEACH ER OF

DANIELLE SMITH

SUVANI RODRIGUEZ

A dedicated teacher leader with eight years of experience, Danielle Smith fosters a nurturing and empowering classroom environment where students thrive. Committed to professional growth, Smith pursued advanced training in reading and STEM, leading to remarkable results. Her kindergarten students two years ago increased proficiency on the Star Early Literacy test from 6% to 82%. She then looped with them to first grade, ensuring ongoing support.

Smith’s passion for education extends beyond the core curriculum; she founded a Science Club and spearheaded a school-wide composting program. As a mentor, Smith generously shares her expertise with new teachers.

As a reading and ESOL teacher at Lake Buena Vista High School, Suvani Rodriguez has dedicated the last seven years to supporting seniors as they work to pass English Language Arts state assessments and meet graduation requirements. Her students, who often enter her classroom below proficiency and at risk for not graduating, benefit from Rodriguez’s impactful teaching methods. By the end of the 2023-2024 school year, 85% of her students, many of whom had previously been in the bottom 25% in reading performance, achieved proficiency scores, enabling their graduation.

Rodriguez also ensured that 95% of the seniors who were English-language learners successfully completed all of their graduation requirements. She also sponsors the school’s Latinos in Action program, increasing student participation from under 20 students to over 150.

Dillard Street Elementary

Lake Buena Vista High

TH E YEAR

KYLE DENNIS

JACQUELINE LAWRENCE

CHERESE FUSSNER

A 16-year teaching veteran, Kyle Dennis is a beloved educator and student advocate at Orlando Gifted Academy, where he has taught sixth-grade math and research electives for the past two years. He also coaches the Science Olympiad and FIRST LEGO League teams. Dennis fosters an inclusive learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves. His impact extends beyond the classroom, inspiring a former student to establish a STEM program at the high school level. Last year, 83% of his Level 2 math students graduated sixth grade with a Level 3 or higher, and 100% of his alreadyproficient math students either maintained or improved their achievement levels.

With 12 years of experience, Jacqueline Lawrence empowers students below grade level to build confidence and achieve academic success. Through innovative teaching practices, like Kagan Mind Mapping and hands-on labs, she transforms struggling learners into successful students. Her classroom, which previously struggled with reading, achieved a 97% pass rate on the state science assessment. Lawrence also founded the Rock Lake Girls Running Club, a debate team, a dance group, and the school’s first yearbook. As a mentor and team leader, she actively supports her colleagues. Former student Kambria Chambers summarizes Lawrence’s impact: “Ms. Lawrence believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”

A passionate teacher leader with 16 years of experience, Cherese Fussner inspires students to discover a love for math. Her innovative and engaging approach to teaching geometry has transformed the learning experience for her students. Through creative lesson plans, hands-on activities, and a genuine enthusiasm for the subject, Fussner creates a dynamic and supportive learning environment. Last year, 86% of her students who began the year below grade level achieved proficiency on the B.E.S.T. Geometry End-of-Course Assessment. Fussner’s contributions have played a key role in Winter Park High’s impressive 97% pass rate on the Geometry EOC over the past two years.

Orlando Gifted Academy

Rock Lake Elementary

Winter Park 9th Grade Center

TEACHER OF THE YEAR HONOREES Angela Youtz

Chris Rubiano

Rachael Wilson

Kim Sondel

Stephanie Mueller

Ashley Spero

Paige Coffee

Anthony Strickland

Joyce Nichols

George Carson

Robin Bolden

Lisa Golub

Ronda Lewis

Meesha Davis

Edwin Ramos

Nora Hogan

Stephanie Acevedo

Monica Strange

Regan Stapleton

Michelle Fisher

Adelia Chambers

Cynthia Myers

Tricia Trippe

Tiffany Johnson

Holly Bowman

Bianca Siqueira

Parris Hodges

Kelsey Heyne

Ann Richbourg

Erica Parris

Nicholas Altensee

Andrew Browne

Erin Grace

Renee Lester

Jennifer Hatfield

Angela Murphy

Amy Farwell

Laura Zika

Amorette Rantanen

Jacklyn Steward-Garcia

Maia Smith

Barbara Perez-Fernandez

Amy Contogonas

Connie Weeks

April Kennedy

Nanci Alpert-Loria

Crystal Carrasquillo

Lauren Stackenwalt

Erin Pearson

Marie Casion

Danielle Smith

Lauren Bryant

Valeria Castaneda

Megan Sinisi

Ann Holman

Sean Paino

Debra Taylor

Brett Steffen

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Alexandria Olivier

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Kiara Suarez

Nicole McBride

Caroline Shaw

Christine Ayers

Dyionna Dierks

Ximena Martin Quiroz

Donald Cary

Alba Franco

Timothy Casler

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