In a celebration of educational excellence, 16 Nassau County teachers have been nominated for the prestigious 2024-25 Teacher of the Year award, representing every school in the district.
The nominees span all grade levels and subjects, from kindergarten to high school, showcasing the district's diverse educational talent.
"These exceptional educators were selected by their peers for their leadership, innovative teaching strategies, and commitment to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment," the district announced in a statement.
The ultimate district winner will be chosen through a rigorous selection process that examines each teacher's impact on student achievement, teaching practices, and leadership within their school community. Nominees must submit comprehensive applications including lesson videos, teaching materials, and recommendation letters.
The district's final selection will be announced at the Nassau Education Foundation's annual Teacher of the Year Gala Jan. 31, 2025. The winner will advance to represent Nassau County in the state-level competition.
The district nominee will join educators from across Florida in the state's Teacher of the Year program, which aims to celebrate teaching excellence and highlight educators' transformative impact on students' lives.
· Amanda Stroup — Yulee Primary School, kindergarten support facilitation
· Amanda Walker — Wildlight Elementary School, kindergarten
· Caitlin Miller-Stroh — Yulee Elementary School, fourth grade math and science
· Colleen Watts — Bryceville Elementary School, third grade, all subjects
· Dana Smith — Hilliard Elementary School, kindergarten, all subjects
· Jennie Jenkins — Fernandina Beach High School, high school digital media
· Jenni Smith — Emma Love Hardee Elementary School, fifth grade math
· Kayla Hooper — Callahan Intermediate School, fourth grade English language arts
· Latoya Anika Patterson — Yulee High School, 12th grade government and economics, 10th-11th grade leadership
· Lindsay R. Veloz — Callahan Elementary School, second grade exceptional student education
· MacKenzie Washington — West Nassau High School, grades 9-12
· Patrick Schinella — Callahan Middle School, eighth grade math and Algebra I, general education and ESE support facilitation
· Peg McKee Granger — Southside Elementary School, exceptional student education, self-contained, grades K-2
· Samantha Kistler — Yulee Middle School, sixth grade English language arts
· Stephanie Fortier — Hilliard Middle-Senior High School, sixth grade English language arts
· Wendy Tumolo — Fernandina Beach Middle School, eighth grade Algebra I
For additional information on the Teacher of the Year program and the upcoming gala, please contact the Nassau County School District.
tdishman@fbnewsleader.com