AFTERSCHOOL EVENTS ENGAGE LEARNERS - Congratulations to Jessica Fernandez from Mayport Coastal Sciences Middle School, who is receiving today’s Team Duval Shoutout. A beloved vocational technical teacher, her passion for organizing successful school events is celebrated by students and staff alike – especially the 8th Grade week which featured many fun events including a game truck and foam party. Mrs. Fernandez, we appreciate you for all the planning, preparation, and execution involved in coordinating these events. Thank you for all that you do to make the middle school experience fun and engaging!

PRINCIPAL LEADS WITH PURPOSE - Today’s Team Duval Shoutout goes to Principal Tamara Feagins at J. Allen Axson Elementary for her leadership. As one nominating staff member shared, “Through patience, consistency, and determination, Principal Feagins creates positive change and shows us what strong leadership truly looks like.” By remaining committed to the students, staff, and the school’s vision, Principal Feagins has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the entire school community. Thank you for leading with purpose, professionalism, and heart!

MARINE SCIENCE MURAL AMAZES - Our Team Duval Shoutout for today goes to Donna Westrich, a marine science teacher at Fletcher High School, for creating hands-on learning experiences that bring creativity and community to campus. This year, students collaborated on Lenny the Whale Shark, painting individual cardboard tiles inspired by the theme, “What I love about the ocean or any marine ecosystem.” When assembled, the tiles form a stunning mural measuring more than 28 feet long and 9 feet tall. As the nominating staff member shared, “The giant mural is a physical manifestation of the dedication Ms. Westrich has to her students and to teaching.” Way to go, Ms. Westrich – thank you for helping students to see that they are part of something bigger!

PARENT PRAISE FOR CROWN POINT – Our Team Duval Shoutout for today comes from a Crown Point Elementary School parent, who is celebrating Miss Gore’s impact on her son in the classroom. A kindergarten teacher, she is credited with making his first year at school a great one: “Special shoutout to Miss Gore for being such a wonderful teacher. Jacob has been so happy in her class. He’s grown and learned so much this year!” Thank you, Miss Gore, for making a classroom connection worth celebrating!

SCHOOL COUNSELORS ENSURE ESOL SUCCESS - Today we are recognizing three school counselors as the 2026 ESOL Contacts of the Year. This award recognizes a school counselor who demonstrates exceptional dedication to supporting English Learners by ensuring full ESOL compliance and completing all required state monitoring with fidelity. The recipient provides equitable access to academic guidance, social-emotional support, and college and career readiness opportunities, while advocating for students and collaborating with staff to promote student success.

Congratulations to Mr. Christopher Dillinger of Joseph Stillwell Middle School, Ms. Carmen Sasan of Duncan Fletcher High School, and Ms. Chamaira Hankin of Beauclerc Elementary School for receiving this special honor!

GRATITUDE FOR BE GLAD PROGAM - A huge Team Duval Shoutout to Ms. Rosa Mercado, Ms. Karina Montes-Santiago, Ms. Keisha Rodriguez, and Ms. Monika Lopez for their outstanding leadership and impact through the BE GLAD program this year! From supporting World and Dual Language teachers to leading professional learning, conducting BE GLAD follow-ups, and working with Latinos in Action, each has played a vital role in strengthening instruction and collaboration across our schools. Their advocacy for multilingual learners and dedication to empowering educators and students continue to make a meaningful difference. Thank you for your passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment. Our schools are stronger because of you!

JBE EDUCATORS MAKE A LASTING IMPACT – Today’s Team Duval Shoutout celebrates the incredible team at Jacksonville Beach Elementary who go above and beyond for students every day. Ms. Johnson is known for her high standards and compassionate approach, helping students feel safe, supported, and valued—whether in the classroom or checking in on everyone during a recent field trip. Mrs. Heather DeSpain brings creativity and heart to the school community as an art teacher who leads beloved events like the Cultural Night of the Arts, supports school productions, and creates inspiring experiences that make students feel seen and celebrated. Adding to the joy, the school’s PE coach made this year’s fundraiser unforgettable by jumping into the dunk tank over 300 times—all while encouraging students and creating lasting memories in his very first year. Together, these educators create a positive, vibrant environment where students thrive.

STUDENT COUNCIL STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY – Congratulations to the student council at Mamie Agnes Jones Elementary School, who have earned a Team Duval Shoutout for their outstanding leadership and strong commitment to community service. Student council sponsor Mr. Parker shared that he is truly blown away by the students’ heart for giving back and their dedication to making a positive impact. Recently, members of the student council organized a meaningful initiative to donate food and supplies to the Jacksonville Humane Society. During their visit, students not only contributed essential items, but also had the opportunity to learn more about the organization’s mission and the important work it does within the community. They spent time interacting with the animals and even reading to them, helping to provide comfort and calm. This experience prepared students to become active and responsible citizens in their local community, while emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and service. The Mamie Agnes Jones Student Council has set an excellent example of compassion, leadership, and community involvement—great job!

CARING COMMUNITY AT CROWN POINT – Let’s give a big Team Duval Shoutout to Mrs. Houpert at Crown Point Elementary! Nominated by a classroom parent for the connection she builds with students, her kindness, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment leaves a lasting impression on her students and their families. “Over the past two years,” writes one parent, “I have truly come to appreciate not only her dedication as an educator, but also the genuine care she shows for each of her students. I am especially grateful for the way she has supported my son. The growth we have seen in him this year is a direct reflection of her care and guidance.” Here’s to you, Mrs. Houpert, for going above and beyond for your students every single day!