LaVilla School of the Arts – Dance department honors milestone with American Ballet Theater member 

Shared by Michelle Ottley-Fisher, dance department director: LaVilla School of the Arts is 25 years old! In honor of the quarter-century milestone, the dance department recently welcomed school alum Joseph Markey, a corps de ballet member with the American Ballet Theater. During his visit, Markey taught classes and participated in a photoshoot with students. Dance Department Director Michelle Ottley-Fisher says Markey is one of many alumni who have been invited to participate in the 25th anniversary celebrations by sharing through master classes, lectures, choreography, and performances. Congratulations on 25 years! 

San Jose ES – Gratitude for Principal Jasmin Gomez 

Shared by Lori Frank, a paraprofessional: For today’s shoutout, San Jose Elementary paraprofessional Lori Frank shares her appreciation for Principal Jasmin Gomez: “We love our Principal, Mrs. Gomez, so much! Every day she brings all of us Pandas (students and staff alike) beautiful smiles, heaping cups of love, sprinkles of joy, and endless amounts of care, support, and compassion. She has created a positive school climate by making San Jose Elementary a wonderful place to be.  She has made it her life mission to make sure EVERY child feels safe at school and that they belong.  She engages the school community by bringing together the students, their families, staff at school, neighbors, businesses, and organizations with a shared vision of how best to support our panda cubs.  From the moment she sets foot on campus, to the end of the day and beyond, she has boundless energy and love.  We appreciate her so much!” Thank you, Principal Gomez!  

Love Grove ES - Celebrating Principal Kendall Parris

Shared by Ekaterina Porter, a teacher: Today's shoutout is in appreciation of the hard work and dedication of Love Grove Elementary School Principal Kendall Parris. Teacher Ekaterina Porter says this about the school leader: "He is a dedicated and inspirational leader who supports his students, their families, and the school staff. Mr. Parris is always kind and respectful to everyone. He works daily to ensure that the children are getting the best education. He and the school team organize great events for the community and strive to make sure all the ELL (English Language Learner) and ESE (Exceptional Student Education) students are successful." Thank you, Principal Parris!

Parent grateful for district Speech-Language Pathologist

Shared by Kelly Stoneberger, a parent: One Team Duval parent is praising Meredith Walker, a Speech-Language Pathologist with Seabreeze and Jacksonville Beach elementary schools, for her passion for students.

Parent Kelly Stoneberger says this about Walker's interactions with her son: "Meredith Walker is always ready for him with creative, new, fun speech exercises and games every session! She is passionate, experienced, energetic and so patient. We couldn't possibly get better speech therapy even if I paid a private practitioner!" In this photograph, Walker is helping Stoneberger's son improve his skills by playing a game of "I Spy." We can definitely feel the excitement - way to go, Ms. Walker!

Lakeshore MS - Coach goes above and beyond to sponsor Special Olympics team

Shared by Heather Dixon, an employee: Today's Team Duval Shoutout highlights Lake Shore Middle School's Chadwick Wells, a coach praised for supporting students participating in the Special Olympics program.

Heather Dixon says this about the educator: "Coach Wells goes above and beyond for the CSS students of Lake Shore Middle School. Coach Wells is not a CSS teacher, yet he graciously took on the role of sponsoring a Special Olympics team for our school. He gave up his planning period and weekends to coach our athletics in flag football and track." Thank you for going the extra mile!

Sabal Palm ES - Teacher Amy Lynch presented with grant at state conference

Shared by Stephanie McCarthy, an employee: Congratulations are in order for Sabal Palm Elementary School teacher Amy Lynch! She was one of three teachers to win a Tom Denmark Teacher Enhancement grant while attending a recent conference of the Florida Council of Teachers of Mathematics (FCTM). According to employee Stephanie McCarthy, the third grade math and science teacher "attended the FCTM conference to continue encouraging girls to reach their highest potential with math." Great work, Ms. Lynch!

Seabreeze ES - Parents express gratitude for Lauren Crockett

Shared by Natalie Brewster and Megan Weigel, parents: Today's shoutout comes from Seabreeze Elementary School parents thankful for first grade teacher Lauren Crockett! Parent Megan Weigel says Crokett, "sees and encourages the spirits of our kids and brings fun into elevating their learning and school experience!

Crockett's Rockets had the best year ever at the Breeze!" Parent Natalie Brewster adds the following: "My son and his classmates are incredibly lucky to have her as their teacher. Mrs. Crockett makes every child feel seen.

She exudes joy, compassion, and excitement every day."

Loretto ES - Praises for Coach, CSS Team for Special Olympics

Shared by Kathy Whitely, an employee: Today's shoutout recognizes the staff behind a successful Special Olympics at Loretto Elementary School! Here's what Kathy Whitely shares: "Shout out to Coach Schoonmaker and the incredible CSS team who worked tirelessly to organize Loretto Elementary's Special Olympics. Your hard work, meticulous planning, and unwavering commitment have made this event possible and ensured every student had the opportunity to excel in the activities!" Great work to all!

Jacksonville Beach ES - Teacher leading students to good behavior

Shared by Mel Piasecki, a parent: A Jacksonville Beach Elementary School parent is praising second grade teacher Pam Farrell for her impact on student behavior. Here's what the pleased parent says: "Ms. Farrell deserves a shout out from the 2024-2025 second grade class. Because of her dedication and support and being a part of the school-wide behavior program, her class is recognized for good behavior throughout the school year by hall monitors, resource teachers, other teachers, and administration." Thank you, Ms. Farrell!

Loretto ES - Music teacher impacting students

Shared by Kim Harris, a parent: One parent is singing praises for Loretto Elementary School music teacher David Johns! Kim Harris says the impact on her son has been significant: "Mr. Johns, the music teacher at Loretto, pours into students in all the grade levels & helps build their passion toward music. Our son was part of the Orff Owls this year and the time, energy, and effort that Mr. Johns put into making this an outstanding group with different opportunities has been amazing!"

Seabreeze ES - Thankful for teacher April McFalls

Shared by Ashley Davis, parent: Today we find one Seabreeze Elementary School parent sharing her gratitude for second grade teacher April McFalls. The parent, Ashley Davis, says the school is fortunate to have her.

Davis writes, "Every child in her class loves her, and I think it's because she believes in each and every one of them. They know she's always in their corner cheering them on! It's been a great year with her leading the way!" Thank you, Mrs. McFalls, for your commitment to our students!

San Pablo ES - Parent celebrates teacher Morgan Jones

Shared by Caitlin, a parent: This Teacher Appreciation week finds a San Pablo Elementary School Parent grateful for her son's teacher, Morgan Jones. Here's what Caitlin says about the second-grade teacher: "Ms. Jones is a wonderful teacher! We have really enjoyed every minute of my son's second grade year in LARGE part to Ms. Jones. She's smart, organized, fair, prompt, nice but not too nice :) and she's truly invested in each student/their success. She's got it all. I wish we could clone Ms. Jones!" Caitlin also shares that Jones regularly attends her students' extracurricular activities, including this basketball game in which Jones is pictured with Caitlin's son. Thanks for all you do, Ms. Jones!

Mandarin Oaks ES - Expressing Gratitude for Principal Leigh Butterfield

Shared by Ana Andenmatten, a teacher: The praise is going all the way to the top at Mandarin Oaks Elementary, as school principal Leigh Butterfield is being recognized for her commitment to students and staff. First-grade teacher Ana Andenmatten shares this about Butterfield's impact: "We have the best leader with our inspiring principal, Mrs. Leigh Butterfield! She always does what is right for the kids. She respects and supports her staff. She allows teachers to be their unique selves. She encouraged me to start new clubs at the school like Lego club and 4H club." Way to go!

Dinsmore ES - Parent expresses gratitude toward exceptional teacher

Dinsmore Elementary teacher Carol Thomas is being praised for the special connections she makes with her students. Here's what one parent, Keri Kroger, says about the first-grade teacher: "Mrs. Thomas has a way of getting on the level of each child in her class and meeting them where they are. Not only does Mrs. Thomas meet them academically, she also makes learning fun. I truly can't express with words how thankful l am and will forever be for Mrs. Thomas."

Praise for the district's Title I Department

Shared by Principal Dr. Wayman Graham:

Positive energy and great customer service. They're two of many reasons Long Branch Elementary Principal Dr. Graham is praising the district's Title I Department! He says Dr. Niki Micheau, Camille Hillsamer, Priscilla Gurganious, and the rest of the team helped him dissect his budget to add programs and staff needed to help students. This includes the addition of a third-grade math teacher to support students just like the third-grader pictured. Dr. Graham says, "I have been helped tremendously by all of the representatives in Title I that are assigned to Long Branch...and we are just grateful!"

Danielle Moskowitz — Celebrating A Real "Hear-o!"

Shared by Sivana Villacreses, an employee:

District colleagues are celebrating DCPS Lead Interpreter Danielle Moskowitz for going above and beyond in her duties to serve as an American Sign Language interpreter for students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Colleagues say Moskowitz has been pulling double duty as lead interpreter by not only scheduling, supporting, and coordinating interpreters districtwide, but by also filling in at multiple schools with high-needs vacancies and challenges. To quote coworker Sivana Villacreses, "She truly is an exemplary DCPS Hear-o!"

Atlantic Beach ES - Celebrating School Psychologist Melissa Grunthal

From Brenda Haga, a school counselor:

Melissa Grunthal, a school psychologist at Atlantic Beach ES, is being highlighted for her kindness, expertise, and dedication to helping students. Colleagues say Grunthal has a knack for turning what could be "anxiety-provoking" tasks into fun experiences for students. According to Haga, "She develops a rapport with our students and makes them feel comfortable when they are pulled out of class with her. She is always available and willing to share her vast knowledge of school psychology and her many years of experience." They are thrilled Grunthal is part of the ABE family!

Arlington Heights ES - Praise for a "picture perfect" job

From Jade Paredes, a teacher: A new, colorful photo wall is up at Arlington Heights Elementary, thanks to the hard work of teacher Rachel Shuert. The wall follows the theme "Best Things We've Seen at AHE" and is full of photographs capturing special moments such as dress-up days, experiments, class participation, and more.

Shuert painted the wall and put up the pictures to students another reason to smile and celebrate their memories.

Recognizing a Team Duval employee for being "a blessing"

Shared by Shatavia Hurt, a parent: Randall Quisenberry, a district ESE Supervisor, is being praised for going the extra mile in assisting a parent. She writes, "He has been such a blessing in navigating school issues and getting information. He always answered his phone when I reached out (and) followed up with me to make sure my problems were resolved... I really appreciate his help and I wanted (to) highlight his efforts."

A. Philip Randolph - Engaging morning announcements

Shared by Deirdre Clayton, School Counselor:

"Peyton Timmons is an amazing student at A.P.R and is a part of our awesome E-Sports academy. Peyton is responsible for the production of our school's video announcements every morning (and has) inspired several of our students to volunteer to make morning announcements. Her peer-to-peer interaction encourages students to become more involved with campus life. The entire media production is student led. Peyton will research technology that provides our students with graphics and animation that makes announcements exciting to tune into. Dr. Graves (our E-Sports Instructor) is amazed by the way Peyton is able to keep the students engaged."

Landon MS - Assistant Principals builds bonds with friendships bracelets

Shared by Stacie Dern, educator at Landon MS:

"Our new AP [assistant principall, Alexandrea Knoll, has been an inspiration to our faculty and students. She has personally made over 200 friendship bracelets for the students and provided the tools so students can make bracelets for others. She has inspired students and staff."

Landon MS - Assistant Principals builds bonds with friendships bracelets

Shared by Kimberly, parent:

"Coach Ciatrick Fason is an inspirational leader for our athletes! He is encouraging, consistent, and dedicated!

The time he spends with our athletes is monumental because he demonstrates the can do attitude to ensure our athletes understand that-they can do anything with hard work and dedication!"

Andrew Jackson HS - Leading with care

Shared by Kaira Edwards-Warren, parent:

"Life happens to children and often times they are unsure how to react. Ms. Evans helped my daughter cope with grief, difficulty in school and she was always a positive role model. Kiryana graduated C/O 2023 and I'm thankful for inspiring and caring individuals like Mrs. Evans in our schools.

Mayport MS - Counselors make a difference

Shared by Jacob Pederson, parent:

"I want to shoutout Ms. Fabeulah Pierre. She is the newest counselor at Mayport Middle, but you couldn't tell.

She has done such an amazing [job] in her first year and deserves to be recognized. She's a counselor who genuinely cares about all who come into her office. She is truly making a difference!!!"

Frank H. Peterson - Recognizing Ms. Jazmine Jerome

Shared by Jan Kerr, educator:

I cannot let Mental Health Awareness Month end without acknowledging Jazmine Jerome, School Social Worker for hosting our 1st Annual Mental Health Expo at Frank H. Peterson Academies. Students had the opportunity to visit the Expo during their lunch period and explore various stations to include a "I Am Enough Banner" to sign, a "Take What You Need Board", as well as Affirmation and Sensory Stations.

Recognizing Community First Credit Union

Shared by Tyra Key, staff:

Kenyon Sutton and Archelle Sorrell from Community First Credit Union are a bright light and helpful partners to DCPS. They always accommodate teachers and staff and will answer any questions asked. They go above and beyond the call of duty to help support the partnership between DCPS and CFCU.

Thomas Jefferson ES - Recognizing Ms. Hull

Shared by Chloe, a parent:

I would like to give a shout out to Mrs. Hull at Thomas Jefferson elementary school she is a amazing kindergarten teacher that has been at the same school the past 30+ years. She is a little bright light. We love and appreciate you

John Stockton ES - Recognizing Ms. Watkins

Shared by Jillian Cortez, a parent:

Ms. Watkins, second grade teacher at JSE, has gone above and beyond to help her students thrive this year.

Over half of her students are military children who face unique challenges, many are first time Florida students - Ms. Watkins has skillfully helped them adjust and thrive in her classroom.

Spring Park ES - Celebrating Ms. Rios!

Shared by Alejandra Snell, Parent:

"I want to shout out to a very special person in my daughter's daily life. Ms. Rios! We are lucky to have her as our kindergarten teacher. She is an inspiration. Someone my daughter looks up to and trusts. When my daughter, mentions Ms. Rios at home, it's always in a positive light. Rating: A++"

John Stockton ES - Military Child of the Year

Shared by Emily Howe, Military Liaison:

Ruby Cortez, a second grader at John Stockton Elementary School was chosen as the Marine Corps Elementary School Military Child of the Year. Out of over 4000 nominees she was selected for her exemplary character, selfless volunteer work and unwavering support of her military community.

Merrill Road ES - Celebrating Ms. Linda Williams

Shared by Carrie Whitsell, school employee:

"I want to recognize Ms. Linda Williams as an inspirational person and uplifting educator. Ms. Williams is a Pre-K Disabilities Paraprofessional and has a true spirit for the love of learning and the whole child. She has inspired our children to believe in their abilities and to excel beyond all that we had hoped for this year. Ms.

Williams works one on one with our children in writing their name, fine motor skills, and social and emotional learning. With her help, our children believe they can do anything and our Class has become a true Class Family that uplifts each other every day."

Teacher Leadership Academy - Agents of Change!

Shared by Kayla Devenburg, Recertification Supervisor:

This school year, two cohorts of teachers participated in Teacher Leadership Academy. They further developed their skills as leaders and implemented projects to make a positive impact at their schools. They are recognized for their hard work and dedication to being agents of change for DCPS.

Hidden Oaks ES - Buying clothes, shoes for child in need

Shared by Principal Lawanda Polydore:

"Michelle, a TD Bank representative, heard about a student in need. Michelle went above and beyond to purchase clothing, shoes, jewelry and other essential items for the student! This made the student's day."

Mandarin Oaks ES - Celebrating Coach Butler

Shared by Principal Butterfield:

"Coach Carol Butler arrives early every day, but Tuesdays and Thursdays are special! 170 Mandarin Oaks students have been braving the chilly weather at 7:30 AM twice per week to train for the Gate River Run. Every Tuesday and Thursday until March 4th, the students arrive and show their special Gate River Run pass to the door attendant and then they head out to the basketball court to start their training! Coach has never turned down a student who wants to participate, and she even recruited teacher volunteers"