Board of Directors Public Education Foundation of Marion County, Inc.

Lora Barrett Mindy Beegle Nicolas Blaser Community Volunteer Dimension Works BB&T Bank Cassandra Boston Allison Campbell John D. Cervellera Principal of College Jenkins Auto Group Campus USA Credit Union Park Elementary Kevin Christian Dr. Stephanie Cortes Todd Craig Marion County Public Schools College of Central FMC Wealth Management Kerry Crawford Donna Cress Sarah Dobbs Retired-Marion County Signature Brands Golden Apple Academy Sheriff ’s Offi ce Todd Duff y David Ellers Gordon Glover Ausley Construction Group Principal of Lake Weir Middle Glover Law Firm Sheryll Goedert Jennifer Hatchett Kelly King Collier, Jernigan & Community Volunteer School Board Member Goedert, P.A. Connie Larsen Dr. Heidi Maier Shanta Matthews American Panel Corporation Superintendent of Schools Daniel L. Hightower, P.A Ken McAteer Samantha Rauba Shelly Ross Principal of West Port High Schatt & Hesser, P.A. Duke Energy Duke Rountree Tania Travieso Wally Wagoner Rountree Realty 2016 Teacher of the Year TypTap Insurance Company

Marion County Golden Apple School Selection Board Members Process

Dr. Heidi Maier, Marion County Tonight’s Golden Apple teachers were Public Schools Superintendent chosen following an extensive four- month, three-step, selection process Nancy Stacy, District 1 including interviews and classroom Beth McCall, District 2 observations. Selection criteria includes both the art and science of teaching, Bobby James, District 3 focusing on eff ective communication Angie Boynton, District 4 of subject matter, deep concern for students’ needs and the ability to Kelly King, Chairwoman- District 5 inspire love of teaching. The 27th Annual Golden Apple Awards

Hosts for the Evening Kevin Christian, Marion County Public Schools Judi Zanetti, Executive Director of the Public Education Foundation

Congratulatory Remarks Dr. Heidi Maier, Superintendent of Schools

Sponsor Recognition

Introduction of the 2016-2017 School Teachers and Rookie Teachers of the Year

Performance of “Seasons of Love” & “Brave” by Th e Shady Hill Harmony directed by Sondra Collins, Music Educator at Shady Hill Elementary

Introduction of the 2016-2017 Teachers and Rookie Teachers of the Year

2017 Rookie Teacher of the Year John Liquori, Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary, introduced by Sylvia Smith

Tania Travieso, 2016 Marion County Teacher of the Year

2017 Golden Apple Teachers Jennifer Th omas, Belleview Middle School, introduced by Dylan Goodelle Annie Shepherd, Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, introduced by Luke Wilkerson Diego Fuentes, Hillcrest School, introduced by Marisa Rodriguez Smokie West, Marion Technical College, introduced by Cedriyuna Stickland Cacee Ford, , introduced by Kaylin Kleckner Announcement of 2017 Marion County Teacher of the Year

Closing Remarks Dr. Heidi Maier Superintendent of Schools Tonight, we celebrate the individuals who shape the future. People who personify the “best” of who we are. Collectively, they invest millions of hours each year to help others reach the pinnacle of public education and transition into successful, competent citizens. Tonight is also the culmination of thousands of teaching years invested by the deserving men and women who walk across the stage. We owe each of them more than we could ever put into a paycheck. Th ey deserve more than the accolades we can show them. Most importantly, they merit the utmost respect and admiration for what they do – teaching every child who enters their classroom. Th ese teachers, all “Teachers of the Year” at their respective schools, could all receive Golden Apples for their eff orts. Such honors are obviously appropriate for their successes. But more than just a Golden Apple, tonight’s event showcases ALL teachers – nearly 3,000 throughout our district who impact our children the most each and every day. While we celebrate them in this room tonight, let’s do something new -- continue the well- deserved appreciation. Continue it onto the school campus tomorrow, next week, and for months to come. Gratitude goes a long way in today’s world, so as we off er applause to these deserving educators, let’s also remember what makes them, and our classrooms, so matchless – our students. Th ey bring out the best in our teachers and make them shine, just like gold. Walt Disney once shared, “You can design and create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” I would add to this statement. I believe it takes a great teacher, like the ones here tonight, to make a child’s dream a reality. Th ank you!

Connie Larsen President, Public Education Foundation of Marion County Th ere is a Chinese proverb that says, “Tell me, I forget. Show me, I remember. Involve me, I understand.” When our children are involved, they don’t just learn the facts they need to remember. Th ey learn how to learn, which serves them well through their entire lives. My daughter came to me when she was a freshman in high school and said, “Mom, I am so thankful that I had the teachers that I had. High school is hard, but it’s easier because the teachers I have had taught me how to learn.” Yes, Marion County is blessed with amazing teachers who are helping to shape the future of our nation, and our world, through our children. Tonight we honor the best of the best. To all the teachers here tonight—thank you for involving your students, for loving them, for sharing your time with them and for teaching them to learn. Th e skills they have learned in your classrooms will serve them well as they continue their journey into becoming successful adults. Congratulations to all of you! Golden Apple Academy

Th e Golden Apple Academy members – all Golden Apple teachers – meet to share and exchange ideas, and work for the enhancement of quality education. Th e Acade- my serves as a platform through which they guide and improve their profession.

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2015 Bethany Crawford ◆ Christina Etts Elizabeth Lazar Dwayne Molock Aisha Shaheed 2016 Tania Travieso Th omas Allison Makita Blye Jamie O’Brien Sarah Parris

Bold type indicates Marion Teacher of the Year

◆ Indicates deceased Rookie Teachers of the Year 1992 Shirley Yoder 2001 Nancy Holley 2010 Cecilla Carballo Dunn 1993 Melinda McConnaughhay 2002 Darin E. Nine 2011 Clay Griffi n 1994 Sharon Griffi ths 2003 Megan McPadden Losito 2012 Rebecca Sirolli Miller 1995 Alyson Sholar 2004 Star Scott Barganier 2013 Randalph Hauck 1996 Michelle Ausley 2005 Gay Street 2014 Sarah Linn Dobbs 1997 Kimberly Ford 2006 Christine DiSanza 2015 Matthew Binkley 1998 Corinne Turk 2007 Robert W. Ayton, Jr. 2016 Dillon Bishop 1999 Marcy Sizemore 2008 Melissa Linderman 2017 John Liquori 2000 Angela Dawn Th omas 2009 Richard B. Schultz Rookie Honorees Adeniki Leahmon Laura Edwards Patricia Stanley Alternative Programs Ft. McCoy Elementary North Marion Middle School Dawn Wilburt Alexandra Muse Ashley Aguirre Anthony Elementary Ft. McCoy Middle Oakcrest Elementary Ashley Stockel Casey Rivera Amber Fish Belleview Elementary Greenway Elementary Ocala Springs Elementary Patrick Briar Hiromi Adams Susan Mitchell Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary Osceola Middle School Alexander Rivas Kerry Blood Rainy Barton Belleview Middle School Harbour View Elementary Reddick Collier Elementary Alicia Mimbs Meredith Dukes Genoyce Cicerone Belleview-Santos Elementary Hillcrest School Romeo Elementary Patricia Gall Kavita Ramanand Stephanie Hemingway College Park Elementary Horizon Academy Saddlewood Elementary Natalia Jimenez Shari Godwin Emily Sinclair Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary Howard Middle School Shady Hill Elementary Kesha Lecouris Lori Soucey Bonnie Chen Dunnellon Elementary South Ocala Elementary Melanie Martin April Rizzo Mary Getsee Lake Weir Middle School Sparr Elementary Jamison Kirchenphad Rachel Davidsen John Liquori Dunnellon Middle School Legacy Elementary Stanton Weirsdale Elementary Christa Miller Steven Roberts Amber McGlothlin East Marion Elementary Liberty Middle School Sunrise Elementary Amy Sundheimer Susannah Counts Christina Moore Eighth Street Elementary Madison Street Academy Matthew Nereim Jennifer MacLean Kinley Yancey Emerald Shores Elementary Maplewood Elementary Ward Highlands Elementary William Marshall Betsy Eary Madeline Bottenhorn Evergreen Elementary Marion Oaks Elementary West Port High School Kristin Davis Denise Grosso Margot Martin Fessenden Elementary Marion Technical College Wyomina Park Elementary Knox Strawbridge Priscilla Garcia Forest High School MTI Sandra Welch Gloria Sed Fort King Middle School North Marion High School TV Program Schedule

Th e Golden Apple Gala airs live on the Marion Education Channel and replays Fridays and Saturdays at 7PM and Sundays at 2PM through February. Th e Marion Education Channel is available on numerous cable systems in our area including Brighthouse (channel 496), Comcast (channel 99) and Cox (channel 12). Th e Marion Education Channel is also available over the air on digital channel 7.1. As well, you can enjoy the Golden Apple Gala 24/7 at www.YouTube. com/MCPSmedia. 2017 Golden Apple Teachers

Jennifer Thomas Belleview Middle School

A teacher’s role is to foster a love of learning. It is critical that children of all ages be enabled to feel the wonder and pride of accomplishment, yet taught that failure does not mean defeat. It is my duty to ensure all my children experience success, whether it large or small; because success is essential for motivation. Creating an atmosphere that motivates students to question, problem solve, and develop higher level thinking skills is essential for learning. Lack of motivation can be debilitating to a student. Motivated students recognize the value of knowledge and become seekers of dreams and opportunities.

It takes a village to educate a child. Regardless of our role in society, we are all responsible for the education of the children in our community. Each day I must learn from my students in order to guide, or change my focus. Parents must act as partners with the school in the educational development of their child. Parents need to feel part of the school community so they are able to guide their children through their educational experience. Parents today are busier than ever, yet there is an increasing need for them to be present and knowledgeable regarding their student’s schooling and take an active role. We as educators have the responsibility of keeping the parents and public informed about the positive happenings in our schools in order to promote involvement. While this could be considered a daunting task, in this day and age we have an abundance of resources that makes communication within our school communities easier. We must adapt and continue to improve our involvement with those outside our school walls in order to create a sense of ownership or accountability to the children in our community.

• Total years teaching experience: 18 years • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education • Media Specialist Annie Shepherd Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary

I started my teaching career prepared and ready, or so I thought! Aft er my fi rst day, I was ready to quit. I had discovered a much tougher assignment in the real world than I had anticipated. However, as the school year progressed, so did my confi dence. In my classroom, my students were taught that consistency, compassion and patience were the keys to success. Over the years, my teaching style continued to evolve and I took my cues from my students. My students have taught me to see them each as the unique individuals they are. Th ey have taught me that encouragement and warmth can be incredible teaching tools. My students have taught me to be more than just their teacher. I am also their counselor, protector and friend and sometimes they even call me “mommy”. I no longer end my days thinking about quitting. At the end of each day, I refl ect on what went well and how tomorrow can be even better.

• Total years teaching experience: 16 years • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education & Specifi c Learning Disabilities from Florida Southern College • Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education • Teaches Kindergarten Diego Fuentes Hillcrest School

Accountability must go hand and hand with responsibility across all the players in the world of education. As a student, I took responsibility for the choices I made, but my world was so upside down that I needed help and support to get on the right track. Today, the challenge still remains for educators to see beyond the papers, past the data and through all the tests to the person beneath it all. As educators, we have the opportunity to profoundly change the lives of those in our classrooms by observing and digging a little deeper.

I teach music to students with special needs spanning a wide range of physical and developmental abilities. It is an amazing and beautiful thing to see such enthusiasm to learn, eagerness to participate and so many big smiles from young people who are working so very hard. I am blessed and privileged to be a music teacher, in that music seems to be so innately pleasurable to people in general and to the young people of this population specifi cally. Nothing could be more rewarding to me than seeing the amazing things they learn and the joy they receive when they lose themselves in music.

• Total years teaching experience: 18 years • Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Illinois • Teaches music 6th – 12th Smokie West Marion Technical College

My philosophy of teaching is that every child can and will learn, when taught in a caring, nurturing, encouraging, and nonjudgmental environment. Public education is the gift that keeps the world civilized and all children deserve the opportunity to learn. Unfortunately, many impoverished children, children with exceptionalities, and teen parents live in homes where their families perceive a quality education as an unnecessary or unattainable novelty for their child. Families that do not prioritize education place their children at an automatic disadvantage because they do not have the basic tools in place to ensure academic success and a prosperous future. Outstanding teachers live for those “a-ha” moments when the diffi cult student suddenly understands. Th ey give every ounce of their heart and soul each and every day, even when the news is not good or the students see their situation as hopeless. Outstanding teachers move mountains, one bucket at a time, to help their students see beyond the curriculum, relishing each accomplishment, no matter how small it seems. • Total years teaching experience: 7 years • Bachelor’s degree in Applied Management from Grand Canyon University • Master’s in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Management from Grand Canyon University • Doctorate of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Leadership from Grand Canyon Univeristy • Teaches Young Parent Program 6th - 12th Cacee Ford West Port High

During my fi rst visit to the Library of Congress in our nation’s capital, inscribed on one of the interior wall plaques were the words, “Th e foundation of every nation is the education of its youth.” From those words I learned that the role American public education plays in the lives of our students is just that, a foundation, a beginning in which a child develops the capacity to learn and grow. No two children have the same goals or dreams beyond their high school graduation and it is critical that their formal education has prepared them with the necessary skills and attributes to make them successful for the rest of their lives. My role as a teacher is to provide a meaningful learning environment, where children feel safe to learn even when they make mistakes in their learning. Part of my role also is to share wisdom with my students, helping set goals in regards to their grades and leadership even while the challenges of daily life surround them. Skilled workers are critical in today’s competitive, global job market. I work to connect students to real job skill development and servant leadership skill development. By shaping their capacity for learning, I help fulfi ll the mission of public education.

• Total years teaching experience: 5 years • Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education & Communication from the University of Florida • Teaches Agriculture grades 9th – 12th 2017 Rookie Teacher of the Year

John Liquori Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary

I believe that in this new millennium, teaching is much more diffi cult than it was in the past. In 2016, teachers are in constant competition with television, video games, computers, and smartphones. Traditionally, students are expected to come into school, sit and face the front of the classroom, and listen to a teacher lecture the entire class. Teachers can no longer teach this way and expect positive results. I believe, like anything, education should evolve. Instead of using traditional methods such as lecture and worksheet, teachers should use Google Apps for Education to off er new methods of thinking and working. For example, rather than assigning an essay on the American Revolution, a teacher may assign students a project using Google Tourbuilder to map famous landmarks and attach a video to explain the importance to each landmark. Th is is a perfect way to teach content, as well as teambuilding and digital literacy.

I feel outstanding educators are those who connect with students and challenge them to be the best scholar possible. Outstanding teachers are constantly looking for ways to relate education to student’s lives and off er authentic learning. Th is way, teachers can prepare students for a changing world that continues to be more reliant on digital literacy and teamwork skills. Further, outstanding educators are lifelong learners. Teachers should be in tune with current culture and use that to relate and communicate with students. When students know a teacher truly cares about them, they feel loved and safe, which produces a harder working student. In many ways, the qualities of an outstanding educator have not changed. We just live in a changing world and outstanding teachers need to be able to prepare students for a 21st century global environment.

• Total years teaching experience: 3 years • Bachelor’s degree in History from the State University at Potsdam • Master’s degree in Childhood Education from the State University at Potsdam • Teaches 5th Grade Recognition Awards

Each school based Rookie Teacher of the Year will receive: • A certifi cate of recognition • $100.00 courtesy of the Public Education Foundation • A Coupons for Education book • A goodie bag fi lled with prizes

In 2017, the Rookie Teacher of the Year will receive: • A certifi cate of recognition • Blazer from Greiner’s Clothing • A gift certifi cate to Brooklyn’s Backyard • A gift certifi cate to Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille • A gift certifi cate to Zone Fitness • A golden apple lapel pin & ring from Jostens • $400.00 courtesy of the Public Education Foundation • A Coupons for Education book • A goodie bag fi lled with prizes

Each school based Teacher of the Year will receive: • A certifi cate of recognition • $125.00 courtesy of the Public Education Foundation • 8x10 personal photograph from LifeTouch Studios • A Coupons for Education book • A goodie bag fi lled with prizes

Th e Golden Apple Teachers will receive: • A certifi cate of recognition • Blazer from Greiner’s Clothing • A gift certifi cate to Brooklyn’s Backyard • A gift certifi cate to Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille • A gift certifi cate to Zone Fitness • 8x10 personal photo from LifeTouch Studios • A golden apple lapel pin from Jostens • $500.00 courtesy of the Public Education Foundation • A Coupons for Education book • A goodie bag fi lled with prizes

Th e 2017 Marion County Teacher of the Year will receive: • All of the Golden Apple Teacher awards • A golden apple lapel pin & ring from Jostens • $1,000.00 courtesy of the Public Education Foundation • A 3 year lease on a 2016 Kia Soul compliments of Jenkins Auto Group Teacher Honorees

Lee Snyder Melissa Novoa Michelle Maurice Ellen Mullinix Alternative Anthony Belleview Belleview High Programs Elementary Elementary School

Jennifer Th omas Joyce Guilfoil Loukeitha Daymon Annie Shepherd Belleview Middle Belleview Santos College Park Dr. N. H. Jones School Elementary Elementary Elementary

Michel Yeuell Erin Darmody Alden Cooper Anne McLucas Dunnellon Dunnellon High Dunnellon East Marion Elementary School Middle School Elementary

Yvette Robles Margaret Fortner Frankie Roberts Courtney Lopez Eighth Street Emerald Shores Evergreen Fessenden Elementary Elementary Elementary Elementary

Brian Deriso Melissa Martin Mary Rivera Misty Greene Forest High Fort King Middle Fort McCoy Middle Greenway School School Elementary Teacher Honorees

Elizabeth Wallace Lisa Decker Diego Fuentes Tabatha Bensonhaver Hammett Bowen Harbour View Hillcrest School Horizon Academy Jr. Elementary Elementary at Marion Oaks

Amy Mulvey Joann Matthews Fallon Driver Sharon Anderson Howard Middle Lake Weir High Lake Weir Legacy School School Middle School Elementary

Cari Lamperski Julie Abbruzzi Alicia Tingler Christi Dunning Madison Street Maplewood Marion Oaks Marion E-Learning Academy Elementary Elementary

Smokie West Kim Burt Karen Mackey Dylan Jones Marion Technical MTI North Marion North Marion College High School Middle School

Timothy Goodman Stephanie Prisciandaro Tonya Hill Jennifer Viverito Ocala Springs Osceola Middle Reddick Collier Romeo Elementary School Elementary Elementary Teacher Honorees

Vicki Embry Sondra Collins David Hartley Deborah Walker-Tannehill Saddlewood Shady Hill Sparr Stanton Weirsdale Elementary Elementary Elementary Elementary

Melissa Hodul Beth Davis Amy Rose Cacee Ford Sunrise Vanguard High Ward Highlands West Port High School Elementary School Elementary

Michael Stephens Wyomina Park Elementary Duke Energy is proud to partner with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County in support of the Golden Apple Awards. Supporting eff ective education programs and initiatives are priorities for Duke Energy. We believe focusing on exceptional teaching and programs that emphasize science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and aim to increase childhood literacy are critical for community vitality and growth. Teachers commit their lives to educating our children. Exceptional teachers, like those who are honored during the Golden Apple Awards, produce students who are innovative thinkers creating an abundance of new ideas that will support our communities’ growth and prosperity. Our children are the future leaders of our communities, and it is imperative that we work together to contribute to their success. Duke Energy is honored to help recognize the teaching excellence exhibited by to this year’s nominees.

At the Jenkins Auto Group, we know teachers are some of the most important infl uencers to our children. We appreciate the impact the exemplary educators in Marion County have on young minds in our community, inspiring excellence every day. Every Golden Apple nominee is a winner to us! We are honored and privileged to award this year’s Teacher of the Year with a brand new 2016 Kia Soul, courtesy of the Jenkins Auto Group in Ocala. Th ank you to the Public Education Foundation and all Marion County teachers for your dedication and determination to better our children. Welcome to the Family!

“We bring family and friends together to enjoy and celebrate life’s big and small events”

Signature Brands, LLC is proud to be the Diamond Apple Reception Sponsor of the 27th Golden Apple Teacher of the Year Gala. We are appreciative for the dedication and passion our teachers of Marion County deliver each day to the children in our community. You shape and mold our students today to become the leaders and citizens of tomorrow.

Tonight’s event is one way in which Signature Brands, LLC applauds all of your eff orts. We are honored to continue to partner with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County to support the children and their amazing teachers. May this evening inspire you, continue to motivate you, and recognize you for all that you do to make every day special throughout our schools. Golden Apple Sponsors Presenting Sponsor

Diamond Apple Sponsor

Community Sponsor

Silver Apple Sponsor

Bronze Apple Sponsor

Recognition & Awards Sponsor Business Partner List

Kevyn Terry Enterprises Lockheed Martin Corp. Belleview United Methodist Dr. Jones Orthodontics College of Central Florida Regions Bank Dr. S. Ivan, Infectious Diseases Associates of NCF Century Link Siva MD, PA Cullison-Wright Construction Corp. Reed Orthodontics Seminole Stores Dr. Quinn Family Dentistry Jenkins Auto Group Foresight Construction Group, Inc. OTOW 100 Grandparents Club Collier, Jernigan & Goedert, PA Signature Brands, LLC St. Leo University Triple Crown Trailers Closetmaid Ford Orthodontics, PA Allstate Construction, Inc. Sparr Building & Farm Supply Zaxby’s O.F. Cannon, MD-Ocala Orthopaedic Group Adena Springs South Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken/Stilwell Ent.,Inc. InLine Orthodontics Munroe Regional Medical Center Cox Communications E-ONE, Inc.

Thank You Golden Apple Academy Television Media Productions Kevin Christian Brooklyn’s Backyard Pizza Marion County School Board Tools 4 Teaching Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille Zone Fitness Special thanks to the Ocala Star Banner for their pictorial contributions

Selection Committees Rookie Selection Committee Rus Adams, Th e Ranch Fitness Center & Spa, Director Tania Travieso, 2016 Teacher of the Year Wally Wagoner, TypTap Insurance Elaine Whiteaker, Foundation Volunteer

Golden Apple Selection Committee Dillon Bishop, 2016 Rookie Teacher of the Year Donna Cress, Signature Brands, Human Resource Director Donna DiSclafani, Fine Arts for Ocala, President Jennifer Hatchett, Community Volunteer Julie Shealy, Fine Arts for Ocala, President The Golden Apple Sculpture

At the Golden Apple awards dinner at the Ocala Hilton on March 14, 1992, this tribute to the Golden Apple teachers was unveiled. Th e six-foot, 125 pound sculpture of an apple on a pedestal was designed by Mari O’Donnell, Dancing Dog Design, Inc.; produced by JoAnn and Angelique Jancik; and craft ed by Tim Guinn and Robert Wolff of Jancik Metal Artistry, Inc.

Th e sculpture was donated to the Public Education Foundation by sponsors Cox Communications, Inc.; Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute, Norman Anderson, MD; Joyce & Paul Urban, MD; Diane and Whit Palmer; and Jancik Metal Artistry.

Describing the monument, JoAnn Jancik explained that various shapes of solid brass rods were hand-twined and welded into the shape of the abstract apple. Th e base is steel and hand painted a verdigris fi nish. Th e nameplate boards have been stained a rich mahogany and brass plaques have been attached for Golden Apple teacher’s names. Five names are added each year representing the Teacher of the year and the four fi nalists.

Aft er the event, the sculpture travels to the schools of each of the new Golden Apple teachers. Businesses may also reserve the sculpture for display.