Mary Krieger Inspires Through Psychology at Stanton - At Stanton College Preparatory School, psychology teacher Mary Krieger has spent 24 years helping students understand not just how they learn—but who they are. As the first and longtime lead instructor in her department, she’s helped grow the program while keeping her focus on student well-being, academic growth, and real-world relevance. “They really understand stress and how it impacts their body,” Krieger said. Her lessons leave a lasting mark, and for her, the real success comes in the form of thank-you notes from former students who credit her with helping them turn their lives around.
Marilyn White Makes an Impact at Grand Park - At Grand Park Educational Center, alternative education teacher Marilyn White is helping students turn setbacks into second chances. In less than two years, she’s become a trusted mentor, building strong relationships and offering the structure and encouragement students need to succeed. “Everyone in life has a misstep,” White said. From personalized support to celebrating student milestones with photos, her hands-on approach has earned deep respect. “She just keeps it positive,” said junior Danley Daly. “She’ll probably be the first teacher I invite to my graduation.”
Student Ownership at Greenland Pines - At Greenland Pines Elementary, third-grade teacher Kelly Watts is helping students take charge of their learning through team-based collaboration and student-created questions. Since starting as an intern in 2013, she’s built a classroom where students work in groups, take on roles, and actively engage with academic goals. “They want to figure out the benchmarks and how they can learn them,” Watts said. The approach has led to stronger engagement, higher accountability, and growing confidence. As one student put it, “It’s better than working by yourself.”
Coach Heath Matz Brings Energy to Abess Park Elementary - At Abess Park Elementary, PE teacher Heath Matz turns every 45-minute class into a high-energy experience filled with movement, teamwork, and life lessons. Inspired by his own childhood teachers, Matz has spent the last 12 years creating structured, fun-filled activities—from tag and soccer to imaginative games like Frogger—all designed to keep kids active and engaged. “Any movement is good movement,” he said. Beyond sports, he’s focused on building healthy habits, confidence, and social skills. “Building healthy habits and social skills now can make the world a better place,” Matz said. To his students, he’s more than a coach—he’s the spark that makes physical education unforgettable.
Hannah Tzamaras Builds Early Bonds at Loretto Elementary - In just her second year at Loretto Elementary, kindergarten teacher Hannah Tzamaras is already making a lasting impact through creativity, connection, and a deep love for her students. Whether leading small groups or crafting lessons around student interests, she focuses on building trust and joy in the classroom. “They see me as a third parent,” Tzamaras said. “It’s amazing to be part of their lives.” From sending uplifting emails to celebrating early reading milestones, she’s helping students see that learning is personal—and powerful. For Tzamaras, the bond doesn't end with kindergarten. “The journey isn’t done—it’s really only just begun,” she said.
Giovanna Odom Nears Retirement After 43 Years in the Classroom - After 43 years in education, including 36 at Hidden Oaks Elementary, fifth-grade teacher Giovanna Odom is preparing for retirement while continuing to inspire students through her love of reading and connection in the classroom. A former Teacher of the Year, Odom has taught generations of families, including the children of her former students. Her students say her read-aloud style helps them better understand stories and keeps them engaged. “It helps get a picture in your mind,” said fifth grader Camille Flowers. “Out loud, it helps a lot more,” added classmate Annabelle Dettman. Odom says the most rewarding part of her career is knowing the lessons she’s shared will stay with her students long after they leave her classroom.
Honoring History, Shaping Leaders at JSMAL - At Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership, discipline starts at dawn, but one recent leadership class shifted focus from routine to legacy. As part of Black History Month, students in Dewayne Howard’s classroom studied the life of Jesse L. Brown—the first African American naval aviator—exploring the barriers he broke and the courage he displayed in combat during the Korean War. “A lot of these kids probably don’t know about Jesse Brown,” said Howard. “It makes me feel good to teach them about people of color, to help them learn about their own race and history.” Seventh grader Jahri Raines said the class discussions helped him reflect on sacrifice and leadership, adding, “They risked their life for us and their families.” A military veteran himself, Howard has spent eight years helping students grow as leaders and says the greatest reward comes when former students return to thank him. For cadets at JSMAL, the story of Jesse L. Brown is more than history—it’s a reminder that leadership and courage go hand in hand.
Brenda Harwood Sparks Engagement at Frank H. Peterson - English I teacher Brenda Harwood is creating a dynamic learning environment at Frank H. Peterson by combining hands-on activities, student voice, and real-world content. In her third year at the school, she encourages participation through interactive methods—like tossing a ball to keep discussions moving—and models every assignment she gives. “Any way I can engage them—taking part in the activity itself—it’s wildly important when I’m teaching,” Harwood said. Focused on helping students think critically and connect lessons to their lives, she’s building more than academic skills—she’s shaping thoughtful, future-ready citizens.
More Than Clean - At Pickett Elementary, Lead Custodian Francina Mueller sees her role as more than maintaining a clean campus—it’s about instilling pride in students and creating a welcoming environment. With 19 years in Duval County Public Schools and the last year and a half at Pickett, she’s built lasting connections with students by showing them that their school is a reflection of themselves. “You keep your school clean because you never know who’s coming in to see it,” Mueller said. Nominated three times for Employee of the Year, she says the real reward is seeing students take ownership of their space and knowing that a fresh, cared-for atmosphere can brighten even the toughest days.
Career Dreams Start Here - At Oceanway Middle School, students are exploring new career paths through the support of 5000 Role Models, Generation WOW, and the STE2AM2 Club. Over the past two years, these programs have brought in speakers from a wide range of fields—including the mayor, an ambassador, CEOs, athletes, engineers, and first responders—to share their journeys and inspire students. Behind the scenes, staff members like Mr. Lee, Ms. Jones, Ms. Amos, Mr. Sori, Mr. Monroe, Ms. Herbert, and Ms. Conarton have worked to make these opportunities possible. For Oceanway Middle, preparing students for the future is more than a goal—it’s a movement.
