Dec. 8, 2023 – It was a day full of hugs, tears, smiles, and even drumlines!
Friday morning, five stellar Team Duval educators received the surprise announcement that they were selected as a finalist for the 2024 VyStar Teacher of the Year!
The finalists are:
- Ana Andenmatten, Mandarin Oaks Elementary
- Jazline Clark, Arlington Middle School
- Gustavo Guzman, Terry Parker High School
- Katrice Shorter, Atlantic Coast High School
- Jenifer Straley, Lake Lucina Elementary School
School leaders and community partners went from school to school to deliver the good news. Each school had their own unique way of delivering the news.
At Atlantic Coast, the group charged into Shorter’s classroom with a marching band drumline in tow. At Lake Lucina, Principal Michelle Walsh Middle jumped into Straley’s classroom with a boombox to announce the news.
The reactions were just as varied. Tears streamed down Clark’s face. Guzman was speechless. And Straley began hopping.
Superintendent Dr. Dana Kriznar was among the entourage of school and community leaders. She said it was great fun to witness how much these teachers are loved by their students and peers.
“They have an impact on the entire school,” said Kriznar. “Not only do their students do well, but that excellence spreads beyond their classroom and lifts the entire school. I believe each of these educators see this recognition not as their own personal victory, but as a victory for their whole school community.”
