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School Zone

Top Teachers in Duval County Named  

Six Duval County Public Schools teachers have been selected as finalists for Duval County Teacher of the Year.  These six educators were chosen from 160 school representatives.  The original group of 160 candidates was narrowed to 17 semi-finalists based upon the individuals’ professional development, classroom practices and knowledge of current educational topics.  The district selection committee then interviewed the 17 semi-finalists and narrowed the list to six finalists.

The six finalists, representing one teacher from each cluster, include: Maria DeMaio, a kindergarten teacher at North Shore Elementary; Cynthia Fitch, a fifth grade math and reading teacher at John Stockton Elementary; Leonore Gualano, a fourth grade teacher at Sabal Palm Elementary; April Laymon, a music teacher at Beauclerc Elementary; Suzanne Magish, a reading coach at Jefferson Davis Middle; and Michelle Stinson, a first grade teacher at Henry F. Kite Elementary.

“These individuals are extraordinary educators with phenomenal talents.  Their exemplary dedication and service to our students are among their outstanding qualities.  It is an honor to recognize them as the district’s regional Teachers of the Year,” said Duval County Superintendent of Schools Joseph Wise.

All 160 of the Duval County Teachers of the Year will be honored at the EDDY Awards on April 12.  The event is hosted by the Alliance for World Class Education and is in its 16^th year.  During the celebration, the top teacher will be named, and this teacher will represent Duval County at the state level for Florida Teacher of the Year.

“Once again, the Alliance is pleased and privileged to honor the selected Teacher of the Year finalists from the Duval County Public Schools,” said Lynn Pappas, chairman of the Alliance for World Class Education.  “These individuals are an inspiration to our students and to all of the citizens of Duval County.  Every day their efforts improve the quality of education of public school students throughout our county.  We are truly fortunate to be the beneficiaries of their professional dedication.”

The Alliance for World Class Education is a nonprofit organization with the sole purpose of improving public education in Duval County.  As an advocate for students in Duval County Public Schools, the Alliance for World Class Education complements the work of the Duval County School Board and Superintendent by leveraging resources and influence in areas where they can provide the greatest impact to create a world-class education system.  For more information, please visit The Alliance for World Class Education’s web site.  For EDDY Awards ticket or sponsorship information, call Nikki Glynn at 237-9303.

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