Transformative.
No single word can truly sum up the experience that Florida District Teachers of the Year experience during the Macy's Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year Roundtable and Gala. If I was forced to choose a word it would be transformative. I am not the same person I was five days ago. I have been honored, humbled, supported, inspired and empowered. I know what they've given me will positively impact my work with students in and out of my classroom and with a bit of luck and a lot of effort it will spread across my school district. They sent me on my way fired up and prepared to "pour my own pavement."
The week started with a Welcome Fair where district representatives meet Commissioner Pam Stewart...like, in person! That evening she hosted a Reception and Cocktail hour. Throughout the week she participated in each event, talking with teachers and inspiring us with her own stories as a Teacher, Guidance Councilor, Assistant Principal, Principal, Deputy Superintendent, Chancellor, (Comman-cellor) and Commissioner of Education. Her absolute love for the children of Florida is both evident and inspiring. Can I be Pam one day?!?!
We spent each day talking and working with Commissioner Pam Stewart, Chancellor Hershel (Walker) Lyons, Deputy Chancellor Dr. Brian Dassler, Bonita Hampton, Megan Collins, Abbey Stewart, and so many more wonderfully inspiring and dedicated individuals who work at the Florida Department of Education.Florida offers District Teachers of the Year the unique and exclusive opportunity to participate in the Florida Teacher LEAD Network. Most of our Roundtable work focused on Growth Mindset and finding our roles as leaders in our school and district. The DOE is investing in the development of leadership skills in Florida TOY's to "impact change in classrooms other than our own." Because #everychildmatters.
After a productive morning working with Michael Russo & Dr. Maria Reitano from the New Teacher Center and the DOE, we took a little time to shake our tail-feather because sometimes teachers need brain breaks too! Thanks Coach Mark Peters, Port Malabar Elementary in Brevard County!
One of the highlights of the week is the Teacher of the Year Gala where the next Florida Teacher of the Year is announced. It is truly a special evening! Macy's spares no expense making every teacher feel honored! Deborah Norville emcee's the event as families, friends, and leaders in both education and the state gather to celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of each District Teacher of the Year!
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| My mom was the best date a girl could ask for! |
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| Thank you for celebrating with me sweet friend! |
I am so impressed by each Finalist! The way they impact students each day brought joy to my heart and tears to my eyes! Students talked about the love they have for their teachers and the love they feel from their teachers everyday. All of them are truly irreplaceable!
Jessica Solano who teaches 3rd grade at Highlands Grove Elementary in Polk County was selected to represent Florida as the 2017 Florida Teacher of the Year! I've gotten to know her through the District TOY network as well as at the Roundtable and I have to say she will be an exceptional representative of all Florida educators! I couldn't be happier for her and hope she enjoys every moment of this wonderful new adventure! #JessicasRunTheWorld
We reluctantly ended our week together at an Awards Breakfast the following day with more recognitions, awards (which included a very generous gift from Governor Scott and the Department of Education), and 72 new friendships. I posted #speechless & #isthisreallife all week because this experience left me in complete shock and awe.
Teacher of the Year is so much more than a parking spot and a title. It's a unique opportunity for you to grow into and embrace your role as a teacher leader. When I was chosen to represent my district several people told me, "You have a voice in education and an opportunity to use it." For a while I wasn't sure what I was supposed to say, who I was supposed to say it to, and who would even listen. This experience helped me find my voice. It helped me figure out what I have to say. I learned that I am brave enough to pave my own path and create the change I want to see. I've been home for less then 24 hours and I've already emailed my district administration "volun-telling" them how I want to use this platform.
The truth is EVERY teacher has a voice. Every teacher has a platform outside of their classroom. Think about what you are passionate about and use your voice to effect the change you want to see in your classroom, school, district, and beyond!
I'd like to express my sincerest thanks to the Florida Department of Education, the New Teacher Center, Macy's, Eduardo Briceno, Lucas Boyce, Debbie Bowe, Diane McKee, all of the sponsors whose contributions helped make this event so transformative. Thank you for all that you do to support teachers and students in Florida. You help us effect REAL change! Most of all, thank you Clay County for allowing me to represent you! Thank you to my coworkers, family, friends, and students for supporting me, inspiring me, and challenging me to reach far enough to do my best work!
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