Four Central Florida teachers have been recognized for their dedication to students and innovative approaches to education, earning them the title of Teacher of the Year for their respective counties.
Dedicated Educators Honored Across Central Florida
Osceola County: A Commitment Beyond the Classroom
Kyndall Brown, an agriculture teacher at Harmony Middle School, was named Osceola County’s Teacher of the Year. Demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond school hours, Brown recently ensured the safety of her classroom’s plants and animals during a weekend freeze, turning on heat lamps and providing shelter.
Superintendent Mark Shanoff praised Brown’s commitment to “inspiring future leaders and preserving the agricultural heritage of Osceola County.” Brown, who has been teaching for four years, describes her work as a “24/7, 365 days out of the year job” that she embraces.
Orange County: Engaging Students with a Helping Hand
Alexandra Figueroa, a teacher at Village Park Elementary School, utilizes a handmade puppet named Elma, resembling Elmo, to connect with her kindergarten students. Figueroa, who has taught in Orange County for 20 years, has seen a 40% decrease in peer conflict discipline referrals thanks to strategies like using Elma.
Figueroa prioritizes creating a fun and engaging classroom, believing that educators must “give what [they] have.”
Lake County: Modeling Positive Behavior
Michelle Deesi, a third-grade teacher at Sorrento Elementary School, received a boost of encouragement from her students on the day of the county’s award ceremony. Deesi, who has been teaching for 17 years, emphasizes the importance of treating students with kindness and respect, modeling the behavior she hopes to see in return.
Principal Nicole Brouhard noted Deesi’s “unwavering belief in the potential of every child.”
Seminole County: Championing Inclusion
Christie Rey, a teacher for students with disabilities at Geneva Elementary School, adapted her approach to meet the unique needs of her students. Rey, who previously worked as a speech language pathologist, focuses on making her students “more visible” and included in the school community, organizing events like a Special Olympics day last year.
Principal Keith Erickson highlighted Rey’s commitment to “true inclusion” and her advocacy for her students’ participation in school life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do these teachers have in common?
All four teachers were first recognized as top educators at their individual schools before being named Teacher of the Year for their respective counties.
What is next for these teachers?
The four teachers will now represent their districts at Florida’s annual teacher-of-the-year competition this summer.
How long has Alexandra Figueroa been teaching in Orange County?
Alexandra Figueroa has been a teacher in Orange County Public Schools for 20 years.
How can educators best support their students, based on the examples provided by these award winners?
