Gladys Roddenberry Graduate Fellowship for Teaching Excellence Recipients

Gilchrist Berg, founder and president of a Jacksonville investment company, named five UNF graduate scholarships to honor Gladys Roddenberry, his 6th grade teacher. He also established The Gladys Prior Awards for Career Teaching Excellence, among the largest monetary awards for teachers in the nation, to honor his 4th grade teacher at Ortega Elementary School, Gladys Prior. 

 “Teachers are one of our most important assets. We simply don’t do enough to remind ourselves of their great influence on us every day of our life. Maybe in some small way, these awards will cause others to reflect on the great contributions teachers have made to their lives and the life of their families.”
Gilchrist Berg

Learn more about the current Gladys Roddenberry Fellowship.

• Past Recipients

• 2017: Kyle Altier, Andrea Barletta, Caran Mullins, Jillian Shellard, Reeyan Staine

  Kyle Altier

  2017 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow

  Master of Education

  Major: Counselor Education, School Counseling

  Faculty Mentor: Susan Ripple, Ed.D.

  
  

  Kyle Altier grew up in Sarasota, Florida. Upon graduating from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Family and Child Sciences, Kyle moved to Jacksonville to begin her career in education. Her first role in education was a school coordinator position at a private school for students with disabilities. There she conducted school tours, organized parent and student events and monitored the John McKay Scholarship.

  
  

  Kyle then moved into the classroom as a teacher and taught pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, first grade and students with varying exceptionalities. She was passionate about teaching students, but knew there was something missing. While teaching students with varying exceptionalities at a local public school in Duval County, she began working closely with theschool counselor. From this relationship, Kyle discovered the missing piece in her education career. A school counselor can be the person in the school who can make the biggest impact on students, and she desired to be that person. With the support of her husband, Kyle decided to pursue a Master of Education in Counselor Education in School Counseling degree at the University of North Florida.

  
  

  Over the past two years, she has had the opportunity to facilitate financial aid workshops with high school juniors and seniors, mentor middle school students and develop small group and classroom guidance lessons throughout Duval County Public Schools. Most recently, Kyle was fortunate to obtain a position as an elementary school counselor at Reynolds Lane Elementary School in Duval County. Kyle enjoys her new role and aspires to make a lasting and meaningful impact on all current and future students.

   

  Andrea Barletta

  Master of Education

  Major: Educational Leadership, School Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Laura Bollini, Ph.D.

  
  

  Andrea Barletta was raised in Jacksonville and is a proud product of Duval County Public Schools. Upon graduating from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in theatre, she was accepted to Teach for America as a Jacksonville 2010 corps member. She was placed at Andrew Jackson High School, where she taught ninth and tenth grade English for four years, transitioned into a teacher coach for two years and currently serves as an English Language Arts instructional specialist for Duval County Public Schools.

  
  

  When Andrea is not supporting turnaround schools, she is a graduate student at the University of North Florida, pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership with a focus on school leadership, in which she is anticipating to graduate in the spring of 2018. Andrea’s impact has continued to expand as her role in education has evolved throughout the years, and she aspires to become an assistant principal. Ultimately, she seeks to take on a directorial role at the district level.

  
  

  Regardless of her role, Andrea’s dedication to supporting a vision for literacy that brings the marriage of reading and writing alive for all students is everlasting and is significantly impacting students each day.

   

   

  Caran Mullins

  Master of Education

  Major: Education Leadership, School Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Anne Swanson, Ph.D.

   

  Caran Mullins is a resident of Neptune Beach, who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership with ambitions of working in a leadership position in high-poverty schools in Jacksonville.

   

  In addition to being a full-time graduate student, Caran is also a first grade teacher at San Jose Elementary and a mother of two. This is her second year teaching at San Jose Elementary where she continues to maximize diverse students’ potential as critical thinkers and contributing citizens through differentiated and guided instruction, as well as discovery-based learning. Prior to this, Caran was a teacher at Lake Forest Elementary in Gainesville, Florida.

   

  Caran’s work with high ESOL populations has given her a passion for integrating culturally responsive literature across the curriculum, while maintaining rigor and high-quality standards-centered instruction.

   

   

  Jillian Shellard

  Master of Education

  Major: Education Leadership, School Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Anne Swanson, Ph.D.

   

  Jillian Shellard grew up in Orlando, Florida and moved to Jacksonville in 2008 to attend the University of North Florida. During her senior year of her undergraduate studies, Jillian interned at Kings Trail Elementary, which led to her first teaching position. Now in her fifth year of teaching, Jillian is currently a second grade math and science teacher at Hyde Grove Early Learning Center.

   

  Through her teaching experiences, Jillian realized that she aspired to learn more about the craft of teaching along with the logistics of running a school. This self-reflection led her to enroll at the University of North Florida where she began the Master of Education in Educational Leadership. Jillian is in her final year of the program.

   

   

  Reeyan Staine

  Master of Education

  Major: Elementary Education

  Mentor: Paul Parkison, Ed.D.

   

  Reeyan Staine is a dedicated, enthusiastic and goal-driven educator from the strikingly beautiful country of Belize. The value of education is something she has understood since childhood as her parents instilled in her an enduring passion for learning. Reeyan’s teaching persona has been shaped by her mother, who is an educator for students with disabilities.

   

  Reeyan always knew she would become a teacher. Reeyan’s teaching career began in 2009 as a second grade elementary teacher in Belize. After completing her studies at UNF, she continued her teaching career at DePaul School of Northeast Florida, where she has taught for the past four years. In 2013, she graduated magna cum laude from UNF with a bachelor’s degree in special education, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in elementary education.

   

  During her undergraduate studies at UNF, Reeyan had the opportunity to work with students from many schools in Jacksonville and was responsible for creating and managing positive learning environments, developing and implementing lesson plans, and tutoring students who struggled in reading and mathematics. During her tenure at DePaul, she has effectively instructed students with specific learning disabilities in all subject areas, coordinated the school’s safety patrol team and mentored student interns. She also participates in professional learning opportunities aimed at expanding her professional knowledge and practice needed to effectively meet the unique needs of her students. Recently, Reeyan had the privilege of teaching basic sign language to a group of students at Twin Lakes Academy Middle, where she serves as the vice president of the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA). Reeyan’s ultimate goal is to nurture, love and instill the love of learning in all of her students. She is committed to providing her students with a secure, caring and stimulati ng atmosphere in which they will thrive, growing socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually.

  
  

  
  

• 2016: Abraham Reising, Emily Bradford, Brianna Gainer, Meagan Martinez, Tarsha Watson
  Abraham Reising
  2016 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow
  Master of Education
  Major: Educational Leadership, School Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Anne Swanson
  
  Abe Reising was born in Evansville, Indiana, and moved to Florida in 2008 and Jacksonville in 2010. Abe finished his undergraduate degree at the University of North Florida, and is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Since 2012, Abe has taught World History and Advanced Placement World History at Mandarin High School. So far, in his career, he has helped over 110 students receive college credit through Advanced Placement World History. However, test scores aren’t everything. Abe believes that studying history is more than memorizing names and dates; it allows the students to develop and discover their own identities through the analysis and evaluation of events in history. Other roles Mr. Reising holds at Mandarin include the mentoring of new teachers, directing pre-interns from UNF, and acting as lead for the World History and AP World History learning communities. He also co-chairs the school History Fair for the National History Day organization, and he has helped to develop a student led African American history performance annually for the past 3 years. During his time at the University of North Florida, Abe has taken great interest in research that supports the value and need for the development of Emotional Intelligence in students, and believes this is a key to making students realize their potential, their purpose, and their path to happiness and meaning after high school. Through his coursework, Abe’s short-term ambition is to take on a leadership role in Duval County Public Schools. Ultimately, however, Abe hopes to someday take on a role that allows him to contribute to systemic educational policy reforms, resulting in a system that provides all students the means necessary to develop and actualize ambitions of their own.
  
  
  Emily Bradford
  Master of Education
  Major: Special Education, Disability Services
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kristine Webb
  
  Emily Bradford grew up in Peachtree City, GA where her father was the assistant fire chief and his father started the first police station for the county. Watching her father save many lives and fight many fires is where she learned to fearlessly pursue her dreams, goals, and ideals. Emily’s career began as a mental health and developmental disability social worker. This led her to seek how she could be more proactive and help people with disabilities better prepare for quality life experiences. She felt teaching was the best option. She knew that students needed someone to believe in them so they could believe in themselves. For six years, she has taught at Atlantic Coast High School. She has taught learning strategies, Algebra I and Geometry standard classes, and co-taught in Algebra 2 classes. She is very proud of what she has accomplished. Some accomplishments were visible and other accomplishments were deeply embedded in her students’ internal thinking. She believes and knows her students are capable of amazing things. Despite their learning differences, she tries to give them hope, so they too, can experience success and reach their dreams. Ultimately, she desires to work as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), through the Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education, in Applied Behavior Analysis. She believes understanding human behavior and implementing positive behavior supports is key to making a difference and helping families and students reach their personal, academic, and career goals. She believes being proactive is paramount to the inclusive classroom model. Outside of school, Emily enjoys playing soccer, spending time with family, visiting the Georgia Mountains, and volunteering for Special Olympics. Additionally, she enjoys reading books and new research in psychology. Emily is married to a loving and supportive man. They have four children with the oldest a freshman at UNF.
  
  
  Brianna Gainer
  Master of Education
  Major: Counselor Education, School Counseling
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sophie Maxis
  
  Brianna Gainer was born in Fernandina Beach, Florida and raised in Jacksonville, FL with her mother, Zena Gainer and her twin brother, Brandon Gainer. Brianna has an older sister, Erika and two nieces, Natasha and Jazzmyn whom she loves dearly. She recently married her college sweetheart, Arminius. Brianna is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Counselor Education with a focus on school counseling. Brianna is a proud graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in English Cum Laude and minors in Communication and Teaching. As a former Early College graduate and Valedictorian of Jean Ribault High School, she has the honor of serving the students at JRHS as an English II teacher. After graduation, she aspires to continue giving back to her community by become a high school guidance counselor in an urban area. Growing up, Brianna was always passionate about education and viewed it as her only way out of poverty so it was only natural that she pursue a career in the field of education. In the future, she also aspires to become a college professor. Brianna is a very dedicated student and is always looking for opportunities to learn and grow. During her first year of the SOAR program, she has had the opportunity to mentor students, plan and present classroom and small group guidance lessons, present at financial aid nights, participate in College Goal Sunday, and present at the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) College Fair. Brianna is currently an intern at Jean Ribault High School where she works primarily with tenth grade students. In her spare time, Brianna loves to read, shop, and travel. She is a person who aspires to inspire in everything she does.
  
  
  Meagan Martinez
  Master of Education
  Major: Counselor Education, School Counseling
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Rebecca Schumacher
  
  Meagan Martinez grew up in Oviedo, Florida. From volunteering for BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation, she found her passion for working with children and pursued a degree in Elementary Education at the University of Central Florida. She worked for 2 years in Duval County Public Schools and shifted to her current position, as a Math teacher, teaching Geometry and Math for College Readiness, at Duval Charter High School. Her contributions to her school encompass involvement at all school events, from sporting events and various other activities. She has sponsored 9th and 12th grade classes, been a part of the graduation committee, served as department chair for the Math team and worked as a Varsity cheerleading coach. Faculty and the students have commended her caring nature and dedication to her students and the culture of the school resulting in being voted Teacher of the Month by the student body. After spending years inside the classroom, Meagan found that the part of her work that brought the most joy was being that person - that educator - who her students could confide and assisting them reach their graduation and post-secondary goals. This self-reflection led her to enroll at the University of North Florida where she began her Master’s Degree in School Counseling. Her participation in the program has afforded opportunities to participate in cultural experiences, mentoring, and postsecondary planning that continually fuel her commitment to make a difference in student’s lives as a school counselor.
  
  
  Tarsha Watson
  Master of Education
  Major: Counselor Education, School Counseling
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carolyn Stone
  
  Tarsha Watson was born and raised in a traditional household in Jacksonville, FL with her parents William and Pearl Mitchell and her older brother. She has two children and a very supportive husband, Mr. Eric Watson. She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in School Counseling with ambitions of becoming a school counselor with Duval County Public Schools. Mrs. Watson has many years of experience working on several levels of public education. She has been a part-time clerk typist, educable mentally handicap paraprofessional, office assistant, data entry clerk, extended day director, and teacher. Mrs. Watson has made it a point to strive for her goals, which were nothing less than her grandest dreams. One of which was to be a teacher. Another was to be a school counselor. Mrs. Watson is a very active educator at Henry F. Kite Elementary where she dedicates countless hours to ensure that she is providing quality education for students. She is also a member of the Reading Leadership Team, the Response to Intervention Team, and other school committees. Since being enrolled in University of North Florida’s SOAR Program, Mrs. Watson has had the opportunity to mentor, develop and present small group and classroom lessons, facilitate financial aid and parent night workshops, and participate in student achievement activities such as test taking strategies, career education, and study skills. As a result, Mrs. Watson was able to help improve student classroom behavior and standardized test scores as well as increase parent understanding of post-secondary transitions processes. In her spare time, Mrs. Watson enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She also loves to travel. Mrs. Watson has been asked many times why did she chose the profession of teaching her reply is always short and simple, “to change lives for brighter futures.”
• 2015: Jaime Johnson, Mary Claire Hopkins, Taylor Josserand, Lori Levin, Bryan Susman

  Jaime Johnson
  2015 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow
  Major: Master of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Anne Swanson

  
  Jaime Johnson is a native of Jacksonville, FL who is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. In addition to being a full-time graduate student, she is also a full-time teacher and mother. Jaime is a very active educator at North Shore Elementary, where she dedicates countless hours to ensure that she is providing quality education for students. Other roles she holds at North Shore include Academic Liaison for TEAM UP afterschool program, grade level chairperson, mentor, and directing teacher for interns.
  Since being enrolled in University of North Florida’s Educational Leadership Program, Jaime has had the opportunity to conduct a pre-experimental action research project studying the impact of explicit reading instruction on struggling readers. As a result of the action research, she was able to increase improve reading instruction, raise 5th grade student achievement in reading, and share her findings with colleagues. Other projects Jaime has also developed as a part of her graduate studies include the development of a school wide action plan to raise overall student achievement and a statewide recruitment plan to attract and retain highly qualified teachers.
  Outside of the classroom, Jaime continues to find opportunities to impact student learning and make decisions that are in the best interest of students. She has shown her dedication to the well-being of students by being a former Guardian Ad Litem, a 21st Century Grant Reviewer for the Florida Department of Education, and a course developer for i-Tunes University. Often time she is asked why she became an educator, her answer is quite simple: “to make a difference.” Jaime is dedicated to the commitment of providing quality education to students and making a difference.
  
  Mary Claire Hopkins
  Major: Masters of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Katrina Hall

  
  Mary Claire Hopkins is currently in the UNF Master's program for Educational Leadership and working with Seaside Community Charter School. She has taught in Jacksonville for 6 years, working at Windy Hill Elementary in Kindergarten, 1st, and 4th grades, as well as Seaside as a 1st grade teacher. She has taken a leave of absence from the classroom for this academic year due to pregnancy and impending maternity leave, but continues to work in education as an assistant to Seaside’s administrator Ms. Sharon Sanders and as a graduate assistant in the College of Education and Human Services at UNF. She looks forward to a return to the classroom next fall.
  Several years ago, Mary Claire took a year off to travel the world with her husband, visiting 28 countries and learning about the world and herself. This trip prompted her to go back to school to pursue a master’s degree so that she is able to work in International Education and help students of all cultural backgrounds attain a high quality education.
  Mary Claire’s favorite year of teaching so far has been working as an ESOL teacher, and she thoroughly enjoys working with students of diverse backgrounds. In the future, she hopes to have the opportunity to teach internationally.
  Mary Claire and her husband are excited to welcome their first child in December.
  
  Taylor Josserand
  Major: Master of Education, Elementary Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Nile Stanley

  
  Two years ago, Taylor Josserand could not have predicted that she would be a teacher and almost two-thirds of the way through her Master’s degree in Elementary Education. She graduated from the University of South Carolina in May 2014, with a degree in marketing which led to a position at a sports marketing company in Tampa.
  After working in the field, Taylor quickly learned that this was not where she was supposed to be. With a long background of working with children through coaching, church involvement, and children’s organizations, Taylor realized she had developed a passion for working with children. It was something that truly made her happy and feel like the work she was doing was important, impactful, and necessary.
  When Taylor realized that she wanted a teaching positon where she could influence and educate children in essential areas that would carry with them for the rest of their life, she dropped everything and found her way into teaching. She is currently in her second year of teaching Pre-K at St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School, and about to begin volunteering and working with the reading specialist to assist children who have reading disabilities. She couldn’t be happier that her days are filled with so much joy and love.
  Taylor sees herself entering K-6th grade next fall, with the possibility of teaching solely reading or working specifically with children who have reading disabilities. She believes that there is no greater joy than a child’s, and being able to help educate all children doesn’t make teaching a “job” but instead, a true blessing!
  
  Lori Levin
  Major: Master of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Anne Swanson

  
  Upon graduation from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science and a minor in Pathways to Teaching, Lori Levin began a career as a full-time teacher in 2011. She is currently a 7th and 8th grade Advanced Science teacher for the Honors Academy and the Gifted at Mandarin Middle School.
  Lori holds many leadership roles at Mandarin Middle as their Science Department Chair, Science Fair Coordinator, mentor, National Junior Honor Society Sponsor, and AVID Site Team Representative for Science. She was also nominated by her faculty as a Teacher of the Year finalist this school year.
  Lori began pursuing a Master’s of Education in School Leadership last year and is aiming to complete her degree this summer. She became drawn to education and chose to pursue it as an undergraduate minor after her experience working with interns in her dental program. Lori is pursuing further studies to continue to develop her knowledge and craft as an educator.
  Lori believes that the completion of her graduate degree will help her accomplish her purpose of teaching, reinforcing her efforts to work on student instruction, serving her community and achieving a leadership position within the school at some point in the future.
  Lori states that Lincoln’s quote “I do the very best I know how, the very best I can, and I mean to keep on doing so until the end…” serves as the foundation of her teaching philosophy.
  
  Bryan Susman
  Major: Master of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Chris Janson

  
  Bryan Susman graduated from the Los Angeles County High School in the Arts, where he specialized in Jazz Saxophone, and the University of Southern California, where he specialized in Comparative Literature and Neuroscience.
  Currently, Bryan works for Bayview Elementary school in Duval County. At Bayview, Bryan teaches K-5 general music and directs an Honors Choir that performs socially conscious soul music all over Jacksonville.
  Education runs in Bryan’s family. Both of his parents work in education in South Florida and played an integral part in shaping his career and passions. Bryan’s brother is also a music teacher in Jacksonville.
  As a student at UNF, Bryan has been actively involved in several organizations on campus including the Center for Urban Education and Policy as well as the Spinnaker radio station. Upon completing his master’s degree, his aspirations include earning his Ph.D. in Multicultural Education.
  When he’s not in the classroom, Bryan also works as a professional musician. Since high school, he has played in a number of bands and recently collaborated with a local band called “The Team.” He’s played at many local venues and has enjoyed exploring the vibrant music scene here in Jacksonville.

• 2014: Ashley Payanis, Artrice Johnson, Jennifer McCormick, Joshua Nelson, Tytianna Reid

  Ashley Payanis

  2014 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow

  Major:  Master of Elementary Education

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Nile Stanley

   

  Ashley knew she wanted to be a teacher early on in life. At the age of 10 she began babysitting for children in the neighborhood. When Ashley saw how rewarding it was to see children learn and grow, she knew that teaching would be her career. For the past four years, Ashley has taught Kindergarten at West Jacksonville Elementary school and most recently has moved into a reading interventionist position at R.V. Daniels Elementary School. She enjoys working with new and struggling readers because she can share her love of reading with them.

  Last year presented many professional opportunities for Ashley. She helped write the first grade reading curriculum guides and assessments for Duval County Public School. She was featured in a Wells Fargo professional development video series and was named one of the top 15 teachers in Duval County. 

  Ashley has a passion for working with students in the inner city. She hopes that by earning her Master’s degree she can help close the existing achievement gap within these schools and spread the importance of literacy in our lives

   

  Artrice Johnson

  Major:  Doctorate of Education, Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Francis Godwyll

   

  Artrice Johnson has valued education since the beginning of her own schooling experiences in Duval County Public Schools. Her parents helped nurture her deep humanitarian values while encouraging her focus on school. After receiving a degree in Marketing and Communications from UCF and moving back home to Jacksonville, Artrice knew that her passion was rooted in being an advocate for a system that helped to cultivate her own morals and values as an educator. As an apprentice in an urban school, Artrice immediately begin to notice disparities in the classrooms and knew the only way to truly advocate for change was to become a classroom teacher. For the past three years, Artrice has taught 4th grade English Language Arts at Woodland Acres Elementary.  This year, her role changed and she became a Visual Arts teacher. She is eager to cultivate students’ minds by integrating art, reading and literacy, and social studies.  

   

  During her time working in urban schools, Artrice has developed a passion working with and learning about students and teachers in multicultural classrooms. She is currently seeking knowledge of multicultural curriculum policies and the anticipated effect on social justice and equity in K-12 schools.  Artrice has a master’s degree in Public Administration, also from UNF, and hopes to be a change agent in education by working in public policy using her valued knowledge and experiences. She is a life–long learner, and strives to instill the same value of education within her students.

   

  Jennifer McCormick

  Major:  Master of Education, Professional Education

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Katrina Hall

   

  Jennifer McCormick received her Bachelor’s Degree from UNF in Psychology/Social Work several years ago.  After discovering her love for teaching, she became certified in Pre K-6 (Primary and Elementary Education), Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and Exceptional Student Education.  She is currently in her 5th year of teaching kindergarten at Mandarin Oaks Elementary. 

  Marjorie Bodin, a Reading Coach at Mandarin Oaks Elementary School, said of Jennifer, “Instilling a love of learning and inspiring students can be a challenge for any teacher, but for Jennifer McCormick… this is no challenge.  Being ambitious and willing to go above and beyond for all students, she is an inspiration and driven to learn…  She is willing to go above and beyond to ensure her students’ success and works tirelessly to find what she needs to make this happen.”

  Jennifer is dedicated to developing her professional growth as an educator.  In addition to holding multiple certifications, she is constantly seeking other learning opportunities to improve her classroom skills.  Jennifer finds every year a challenge and privilege to instill the love of learning at such an important time in a child’s life.  She considers kindergarten to be the foundation of one’s learning and is honored to be able to increase her knowledge in this field.

   

  Joshua Nelson

  Major: Master of Education, Educational Counseling (SOAR)

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sophie Maxis

   

  Josh Nelson has a passion to share his knowledge with the next generation and make learning engaging, practical, and applicable to all students. Josh graduated from the University of North Florida with his Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 2009.  In his first 5 years in the classroom, he was nominated by his colleagues to be Annie R. Morgan’s Teacher of the Year, named a semifinalist in the Duval County Public Schools Teacher of the Year, mentioned as one of the top 15 teachers in Duval County Public Schools, and was honored as a distinguished teacher at the district’s Transformation Quality Education For All School’s for his students’ stellar performance based on the state’s Value Added Measure scores of Excellence in 2014.

  Throughout his career, Josh has learned what it means to be a family in the classroom and what it takes to have students believe in themselves and succeed. The best lessons Josh has learned have not been found in text books, but have been from real life experiences and seeing students who others have thought could not be successful rise to the top. Josh will often say, “You are the best of the best”, because he believes in the power of words and he speaks this to his students on a daily basis.  He wants his students take this ideology and learn to quote it, but better yet, regularly live it out. It is these inspirations that have led Josh to set a goal to become a School Counselor.

   

  Tytianna Reid

  Major:  Master of Education, Elementary Education,

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Wanda Hedrick

   

  Tytianna Reid was born to be a teacher. With her mother and other family members in the field of education, it was a natural process to turn her dream of studying elementary education into a reality.  As a product of Duval County Public Schools, she felt that this was the only career choice for her. By becoming a teacher, she could give back to a school system that gave her so much. She also decided that she wanted to teach in urban schools. For the past three years, Tytianna has taught second grade at Annie R. Morgan Elementary School.  She finds it a privilege to lead children into finding the value of education. She believes that all students can and will learn if they first believe in themselves and most importantly, she believes in them.

  As a second grade teacher, Tytianna is charged with making sure that each student is prepared to excel in the intermediate grades and beyond, so she’s developed a strong passion for literacy.  In the past, working with the Boys and Girls Club of North Florida’s Team Up program gave her the opportunity to reach children on a different level and helped her to understand how and why some readers struggle with reading. It is her goal that students not only read but develop a passion for reading. She is thankful for every day that she is able to work with children, watching them emerge from their own cocoons and become fluent readers.
• 2013: Crishana Benton, Kristen Ballentine, Sabrina Concepcion, Tamara Gibson, Dora Underwood

  Crishana Benton
  2013 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow
  Major: Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jeffrey Cornett

  
  Crishana Benton has been in the field of education, in a variety of roles, for 14 years. Currently, she works as a 3rd grade teacher at Brookview Elementary School.
  Crishana holds a high expectation for behavior and academics in her students and never lets them buy into the concept that they “can’t read”. Her former principal Dean Ledford says “Mrs. Benton is always willing to put in extra time to make sure our students are being provided the instruction they need to be successful. Crishana has worked extensively helping students and her fellow colleagues”.
  In addition to teaching, Crishana has served as a district literacy coach, a 9th grade A.V.I.D. Elective Teacher and a Multi-tiered Support System Specialist.
  Upon completion of her Master’s degree, she desires to be a professor and work within the Disabled Student Services to help those students who need to receive academic accommodations whereby they can achieve success. Those who have been labeled “remedial” or “disabled” have educated her on what learning should look like and the significance of the role of teacher.
  
  Kristen Ballentine
  Major: Master of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. John Kemppainen

  
  Kristen Ballentine was born with the heart of a teacher. With parents holding positions at the school board and as an assistant principal, it was a natural process to turn her dream of studying early childhood development, learning theories, and behavior modification into a reality. For the past four years, Kristen has taught third grade at Oceanway Elementary School and most recently has moved into a Math Coach position at Oak Hill Elementary School. She finds it a privilege to lead children into finding the value of education.
  As a third grade teacher charged with preparing students to take the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, better known as the FCAT, Kristen has developed a passion in assessment creation and analysis. During the summers, Kristen works closely with the Duval County Public School’s Data and Assessment Team to write mathematics learning schedule assessments for grades 3-5. Most recently she has worked with Florida’s Curriculum Planning and Learning Management System (CPALMS) on a variety of initiatives allowing her to share her research and passion at grade level meetings and school-wide early release trainings.
  Kristen continues to work with CPALMS and assessment teams with the goal of finding a position in assessment creation and evaluation.
  
  Sabrina Concepcion
  Major: Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jeffrey Cornett

  
  Sabrina Concepcion is an English teacher at Bishop Kenny High School. Prior to becoming an English teacher, Sabrina taught as an English of Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher.
  Sabrina has taught students from places she barely knew how to find on a map, let alone pronounce. Her life was forever changed when she had to stand in front of these students and not only teach them how to pass a standardized test that was mandated by the state, but also teach them the English language, its conventions, American mannerisms and American ways of life.
  Her former Assistant Principal, Matt Kirk says “she is easily one of the brightest, most resourceful and selfless teachers…she is master teacher that excels at forming lasting and meaningful rapport with students who achieve because of and for her.”
  Sabrina would like to eventually teach on a collegiate level, focusing on education courses to future teachers. Sabrina simply states “My biggest achievement is the fact that I am creating thousands of biggest achievements”.
  
  Tamara Gibson
  Major: Doctorate, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Elinor Scheirer

  
  Tamara Gibson has a heartfelt desire to pay it forward; she loves learning and teaching. As a former middle school science teacher embarking upon her sixth year in education, Tamara finds it critical to insist that students witness the modeling and reinforcement of the power of learning, claiming your ground, and legitimate achievement.
  Personal tragedy struck Tamara in eighth grade and she lost herself in science, perhaps this is why she has taught science with such a passion.
  She has served as a member of the Principal’s Leadership Team, Science Department Chairperson, National Junior Honor Society Advisor, School Advisory Council teacher representative and Teacher of the Year. Her former Instruction Supervisor, Daniela Simic, said of Tamara “Tamara is flexible and never afraid to take on new tasks. We are lucky to have someone as driven and intelligent as Tamara working to improve our schools”. Through effective educational leadership, Tamara is committed to doing all that she can to improve the quality of education.
  
  Dora Underwood
  Major: Master of Education, Elementary Education: TESOL
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Nile Stanley

  
  Dora Underwood is an immigrant to the United States, who only spoke Spanish. Through her experiences, she was inspired to become an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher and currently teaches ESOL and Spanish at Fletcher Middle School. Knowing first-hand how difficult it is to transition to a new country, part of her approach with her students is to not only teach them English, but to teach her students about American culture as a way to help them adapt to their new lives in the United States.
  Dora recently made a trip back to her home in Colombia, South America. This visit wasn’t to visit family or friends but to extend herself as a teacher and help an extremely poor school using the tools she has gained as a teacher and UNF student. The school lacks basic school materials and therefore, Dora began collecting school supplies and other materials to take with her, including a donated NEC projector.
  Anne McConnell, School Counselor at Fletcher Middle School comments that Dora is “constantly finding new and innovative ways to deliver information in a manner that reaches each and every student”. Upon completion of her Master’s in Education, Dora would like to design and administer ESOL programs countywide for Duval County Public Schools.
  Dora was recently selected as the 2013-2014 Teacher of the Year from Fletcher Middle School.

• 2012: Stephanie C. Cugini, Erica D. Dobson, Katheryne Heller, Marla Hollan, Kelli Rennert, Kristin A. Schad

  Stephanie C. Cugini
  2012 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow
  Major: Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jeffrey Cornett
  
  Stephanie Cugini is a teacher at Sandalwood High School where she has taught Algebra, Geometry and Pre-Calculus. Serving as Sandalwood’s Math Department Chair, Stephanie has played a key role in developing strategies to facilitate learning in the classroom. In addition to her role as Math Chair, Stephanie serves as the Early College Club sponsor, secretary on the Shared Decision Making Committee, leads one of the Professional Learning Communities and commits herself to being an after-school tutor.
  Last year, most of Stephanie’s students improved one or two levels on the FCAT Math 2.0 and all of her Early College students demonstrated college-readiness in mathematics by the end of the school year. She believes that, “Our students’ performance in math classes today directly affects their future academic and career success, and it is our responsibility to empower them to become independent, critical thinkers and problem solvers.”
  Sandalwood’s Assistant Principal Wayne Chandler, says that Stephanie, “. . . has distinguished herself as one of the most valuable members of the Sandalwood faculty . . . I have no doubt Mrs. Cugini will continue to excel in our profession and be a model for students and teachers alike.”

  
  Erica D. Dobson
  Major: Master of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sandra Gupton
  
  Erica Dobson is beginning her ninth year teaching in Duval County Public Schools. She currently serves as the Math Coach at Henry F. Kite Elementary School. In this role, Erica conducts model lessons for new and veteran teachers, guides weekly grade-level trainings and actively participates with weekly Leadership Team meetings. In her spare time, Erica serves as an after-school tutor and works closely with The United Way, IMPACTJax and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
  Deirdra Johnson, principal at Kite Elementary, describes Erica as, “an intuitive instructional leader who bridges the gap between teaching children and leads her colleagues with poise and consideration”. She continues by saying, “She is a model teacher who has had an incredible impact on the rigorous instructional focus for teachers and students.”
  Erica’s commitment to teaching and improving her community comes from many of her life’s experiences. “I believe that I can continue to make a difference through my teaching and through community service projects that focus on serving the indigent and the youth of our communities.” After graduation, Erica plans to become a principal, which she hopes will allow her to, “share my passion and love for education with students, teachers and parents alike”.
  
  Katheryne Heller
  Major: Master of Education, Counselor Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carolyn Stone
  
  Katie Heller’s mother and father are educators, so she has been immersed in teaching her entire life. For the past seven years, Katie has taught eighth grade American History at Oceanway Middle School.
  She considers the subject of history to be important in the development of society because it helps students understand the present and how the present impacts the future. Katie believes in hands-on learning and encourages cooperation between parents, educators and administrators to ensure the success of her students.
  Katie understands that even as a teacher, she never stops learning and truly enjoys the process. “As a teacher you have the ability to inspire and mold young minds. It’s an amazing job, and not one that should be taken lightly.” She regularly participates in professional development training and workshops centered on reading competency. She has coached volleyball for five years and enjoyed making an impact on students both on and off the court.
  Wendy Dunlap a Guidance Specialist at Duval County Public Schools says, “Katie is not afraid to accept challenge and is receptive to learning new ideas. She is an asset in everything she is involved in.”
  
  Marla Hollan
  Major: Master of Education, Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Judy Poppell
  
  Marla Hollan is entering her fifth year as an educator in Duval County. She is an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher for kindergarten to fifth grade students at Mandarin Oaks Elementary School.
  She has also served as the School Technology Coordinator (STC) for three years at Mandarin Oaks. In her role as the STC, she instructed other teachers and maintained all of the technology used. Marla continues to assist teachers with technology, however she has focused more time on her own education and family life at home. Her experiences working with technology in schools, have given her the desire to educate herself further in the ever-changing world of technology in the classroom. “I want to have an influence in making education better through the use of technology.”
  Rebecca Mackin, fellow teacher at Mandarin Oaks Elementary, says of Marla, “She loves to teach others how to integrate technology into the classroom, thus expressing her love for technology and children. She has been an inspiration to anyone who knows her and her willingness to share knowledge is very valuable to our school.”
  Marla believes that the Roddenberry Fellowship will allow her “the opportunity to advance in life and use that advancement to better the education of students and the future of our country”. After earning her master’s degree, Marla hopes to become a technology leader in a school.
  
  Kelli Rennert
  Major: Master of Education, Counselor Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carolyn Stone
  
  Kelli Rennert teaches third grade at Richard L. Brown Elementary School and is committed to modeling best teaching practices. For her, this means creating effective planning and classroom management; building a solid relationship with the community by attending neighborhood events and being available to parents.
  Kelli also serves students outside of the classroom. She tutors before and after school, makes home visits whenever necessary, hosts a monthly family math night, serves on the guidance advisory committee, is the grade level chairperson and is an active member of the Parent Teacher Organization. By the end of her first year as a teacher, she had visited every child’s home and developed friendships with moms who continue to volunteer in her classroom.
  Melody Campbell, Guidance Counselor at R. L. Brown Elementary, says that Kelli is, “extremely passionate about increasing student achievement and closing the achievement gap . . . Ms. Rennert motivates students towards reaching their potential and reaching their goals”.
  After earning her graduate degree, Kelli would like to become a professional school counselor and “uphold the position as one of advocate, change agent and social justice leader”.
  
  Kristin A. Schad
  Major: Master of Education, Elementary Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Katrina Hall
  
  Kristin Schad has taught both first and third grades at Greenland Pines Elementary School and first grade ESOL at Kings Trail Elementary School. She participates in activities aimed at improving her teaching skills that will ultimately benefit her students. These activities include professional development workshops and taking graduate classes in order to pursue a higher education degree. In addition, she also helps her students by traveling to the Jacksonville Public Library on a bi-weekly basis to check-out books for her students to read.
  Chiquita Rivers, former principal at Greenland Pines Elementary School, describes Kristin as, “an incredible teacher and a true asset to our school . . . Miss Schad’s conscientious and hardworking spirit has enabled her to do a phenomenal job in modeling best practices, collaborating with colleagues, and differentiating instruction to enhance teacher and student effectiveness”. She notes that Kristin has a special way of connecting with students and parents. “Her ability to build small learning communities within her classroom is amazing!”
  Kristin hopes to become a reading specialist in the future, giving her a chance to work with struggling readers that need individualized assistance in the classroom. Kristin believes becoming a reading specialist will help her “instill a love of reading in her students”.

• 2011: Jonathan K. Greene, Laura A. Hyde, Amy L. Smith, Cicely J. Tyson, Kristin V. Shannon

  Jonathan K. Greene

  Major:  Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Elinor Scheirer

   

  Jonathan Greene has been an educator with Duval County Public Schools for eight years.  He currently teaches eleventh grade American history at Atlantic Coast High School and has taught eighth-grade history at J.E.B Stuart Middle School.  He has served as the Social Studies Department Chair and worked with the school’s Professional Leadership Committee. Jonathan has recently finished his third-year of study in the Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership at the University of North Florida and is working on writing his dissertation.

  Gregory D. Bostic, principal at J.E.B Stuart Middle School, describes Jonathan as having, “mastered the art of engaging his students to achieve at their highest level.” He continues by saying, “He shows compassion and understanding yet provides rigorous classroom activities to help the students maximize their potential.”

  Along with strongly embracing a diverse classroom, Jonathan sums up his primary academic goal as attempting to “ensure all students leave the class with a better understanding of the subject matter presented that will help them throughout their academic and professional lives.”

   

  Laura A. Hyde

  Major:  Master of Education, Childhood Education

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Nile Stanley

   

  Laura Hydeis a fourth grade teacher at Kings Trail Elementary, where she is responsible for a culturally diverse classroom and implements technology as an important learning tool. At Kings Trail, Laura has volunteered her free time after school to tutor students in the lowest quartile. She is a member of her school’s leadership team for Response to Intervention techniques that target the lowest performing students.

  Diane Clark, principal at Kings Trail Elementary, states that Laura is a “consummate professional in all of her dealings.” Linda Dacks, Resident Clinical Faculty member at UNF said of Laura, “Her limitless time, effort, compassion and enthusiasm are a true testament to her level of commitment to the teaching profession.”

  One of Laura’s biggest challenges as a teacher is keeping her students interested in school rather than simply “plugging in” to technology. Laura believes that, “If technology is a motivation for lower quartile students, should I not have technology as a tool at my disposal?”  By continuing her studies toward a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, Laura hopes to gain the expertise needed to reach every student, even those at risk of failure, by attracting them to learn through their medium of choice.

   

  Amy L. Smith

  Major:  Master of Education, Special Education

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Sarah Robinson

   

  Amy Smith has been teaching for six years, five of which have been at Loretto Elementary as a self-contained, communications and social skills teacher. In her time at Loretto, she has mentored pre-interns and interns; has written and implemented Positive Behavior Support Plans, Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans. Amy has received her K-6 Elementary Education and K-12 Exceptional Student Education certifications and has earned endorsements for both Autism and English for Speakers of Other Languages.

  Iris Latman, a Loretto faculty member, describes Amy by saying, “Amy has done an incredible job of creating a meaningful life skills classroom to meet her student’s specific needs.” Loretto Assistant Principal, Lani Derby also commented, “If you walk into her classroom, you are immediately struck by all of the evidence of learning that is taking place.” 

  As Amy continues her graduate studies, she plans to “put my heart and soul into working towards this next big step in my life.  Learning and understanding behaviors in individuals with exceptionalities is something I am very passionate about and feel it is an important part of who they are as an individual.” 

   
  

  Cicely J. Tyson

  Doctor of Education: Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kathe Kasten

   

  Cicely Tyson completed her first three years of teaching in English/language at her alma mater, Wolfson High School.  During those three years, she served in many leadership roles including Senior Class Advisor, Assistant Student Activities Director and Graduation Assistant. This school year, Cicely began teaching at Sandalwood High School.  In May 2011, Cicely completed a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership at UNF.

  Wolfson High School Assistant Principal, Aletha Ruffin, says that Cicely “exemplifies professionalism, dedication, and the leadership ability necessary to influence others positively. She is a genuine educator in pursuit of making a difference in the lives of young persons.”  David Garner, Wolfson’s Principal, remarked that “Ms. Tyson clearly demonstrates to her students how successful one can be by pursuing life-long education.”

  Cicely’s “Master Plan”, as she affectionately refers to her life’s professional plan, is dedicated to the advancement of education for America’s students. In her near future, her goals are to be accepted into Duval County’s Aspiring Leaders Academy, obtain an Assistant Principal position at a local high school and eventually earn a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership.

   

  Kristin V. Shannon

  2011 Outstanding Roddenberry Fellow

  Major:  Master of Education, Childhood Education

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Candice Carter

   

  Kristin Shannon is a fifth-grade science teacher at Chets Creek Elementary, where she began her career in education as a volunteer in 2001. Kristin’s first paid teaching job was a part-time music and English position, which later evolved into a full-time position teaching English. After receiving her National Board Certification in 2008, she began teaching science classes at Chets Creek. Kristin recently participated in the summer PROMiSE Science Institute program in conjunction with the University of Florida and the Duval County School System and earned her certification in Middle School Science.  By enrolling in a Master’s Degree program at UNF, Kristin is following her dream of obtaining a graduate degree while continuing to be an important influence as a teacher.

  UNF Associate Professor, Dr. Warren A. Hodge, describes Kristin’s work as “exemplary.”  He also calls her contributions “superb” and says that “her motivation and willingness to take on new challenges speak well for her.”

  Kristin’s goal is to inspire a love of learning in students and in her own children. This educator’s passion for learning and teaching are best reflected in her own words, “Being a life-long learner sets an example that simple words can never accomplish.” With the Gladys Roddenberry Fellowship, Kristin hopes to double her class load at UNF and complete her degree within the next two years.

• 2010: Latoya Bell, Rebecca Emert, Cassandra Fisher, Jennifer Grimes, Jonathan Hinke

  Latoya Bell

  Major:  Master of Education, Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Warren Hodge

   

  Latoya Bell has been an educator with Duval County Public Schools for eight years.  She currently teaches fourth-grade at S.P. Livingston Elementary School.  She also serves as a mentor to a beginning teacher and is a member of the Discipline Team. 

  Crystal Lewis, principal at Biscayne Elementary School (Ms. Bell’s previous school), writes that Ms. Bell works diligently to ensure the success of all her students.  She maintains open lines of communication with both students and parents, and has a wonderful rapport with people of all ages. 

  Ms. Bell believes that by pursuing this next level of education, she is “achieving my goal of establishing relevance in my classroom”.  She writes that “I truly believe that all children are capable of learning.  You have to believe and children have to know that you believe in them.”

   

   Rebecca Emert

  Major:  Master of Education, Counselor Education

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Sejal Parikh

   

  Rebecca Emertis a ninth and tenth grade teacher at Englewood High School this year, making the move from fifth grade at Greenfield Elementary.  At Greenfield, she mentored a new teacher on how to work effectively with students and plan/present effective lessons.  She volunteered to take the ESE and autistic students into her general education classes so those students could get the special help and understanding they required along with the rest of her students.

  Maren Firment, principal at Greenfield Elementary, said, “Rebecca is an excellent teacher, respected by her peers and her students.  She inspires her students to excel academically and as a person by her example.  She is always here to support student activities in the afternoons and evenings, even on the weekends.  She is an amazing young lady.”

  Ms. Emert said that when presented with a challenge, she faces it head on and puts forth her best effort.  She sees herself as a role model, and encourages her students to set their goals high and achieve their dreams.

   

   Cassandra Fisher

  Major:  Master of Education, Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Marcia Lamkin

   

  Cassandra Fisher is a third-grade teacher at Neptune Beach Elementary School where she serves as the school’s Technology Coordinator.  In her fourth year of teaching in Duval County Public Schools, she created and maintains the school’s website, leads the Technology Committee team of teachers in monthly meetings and designs workshops to train teachers.

  Neptune Beach Elementary’s retired principal, Stephanie Manabat, says Ms. Fisher demonstrates a balance between the demands of the curriculum and the needs of her students.  She has willingly attended training and has quickly implemented many of the best practices in her classroom.  Ms. Manabat writes, “Since I have known Ms. Fisher, I have found her to be a caring, dedicated, and highly skilled educator.”

  Ms. Fisher believes “a student’s education should help the student become a successful and contributing member of society.”  In the future, she would like to be a technology specialist, administrator or principal of an elementary school.  She hopes to be remembered “as a teacher who helps students to grow and experience life in new ways that teach them valuable lessons.”

   

   

   Jennifer Grimes

   Major:  Master of Education, Special Education

   Faculty Mentor:  Dr. Kris Webb

   

  Jennifer Grimes began her 7^th year as an educator in Duval County Public Schools teaching third grade at Hyde Park Elementary.  Last year, she was assigned the inclusion math class, which prompted her to begin the pursuit of a degree in special education.

  Angela B. Kasper, principal at Hyde Park writes, “Jennifer is self-motivated and a lifelong learner.  She has many strengths but one in particular is how she connects with students and especially our special needs and at-risk students.  I have been impressed by her passion for teaching and her willingness to do whatever it takes for the benefit of her students.”

  Ms. Grimes’ assignment to the math inclusion class helped her develop a passion for assisting special education students and she wants to work more with children with various disabilities.  Her top priority is to ensure her students grasp each concept and get the assistance they need. 

     

   Jonathan Hinke

  Master of Education: Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. LaTara Osborne-Lampkin

   

  Jonathan Hinke is a second grade teacher at Cedar Hills Elementary, and has been there for the past three years.  Last year, he was chosen as his school’s Teacher of the Year, and one was of 15 finalists for Duval County Public Schools Teacher of the Year.  He has attended the 2009 Duval County Public Schools Urban Institute, and has participated in over 124 hours of professional development through the Schultz Center.

  Cedar Hills Elementary’s former principal, La Verne Hamilton, writes, “Mr. Hinke makes learning authentic fun.  He has earned the respect of students, parents, staff and administration for consistently modeling teaching excellence.  His extraordinary instruction skills result from his personal dedication to continuous professional development.  Not only does Mr. Hinke lead, he models team work in supporting school wide initiatives and duties that simply require someone who cares.”

  Mr. Hinke’s philosophy of teaching revolves around a central ideal of instilling a love of learning in each of his students.  “If my students have learned to be independent thinkers and problem solvers, along with mastering their academic goals, then I know I have fulfilled my duty as a teacher.”

• 2009: Theresa M. Cardillo, Marisa L. Guerrero, John Jordi, Alice B. Larson, Adrienne C. Wakefield

  Theresa M. Cardillo

  Master of Education: Special Education

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Karen Patterson

   

  Marisa L. Guerrero

  Master of Education: Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. LaTara Osborne-Lampkin

   

  John Jordi

  Master of Education: Eduactional Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Walter Hodge

   

  Alice B. Larson

  Master of Education: Educational Leadership

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Marcia Lamkin

   

  Adrienne C. Wakefield

  Master of Education: Counselor Education

  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sejal Parikh

• 2008: Keonnia Adair-Summers, Apryl Pelkey-Kokocki, Victoria Felix, Rose-Marie Green-Hanson, and Shannon Rose-Hamann

  Keonnia Adair-Summers

  Master of Education: Secondary Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Otilia Salmon
  Keonnia Adair-Summers teaches Spanish at Terry Parker High School. Earlier in life, Mrs. Adair-Summers intentionally avoided a career in teaching. She came from a family of teachers and was determined that she would do something different. She majored in international business and language. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, she worked in special events and development for a time. When Mrs. Adair-Summers interviewed for a development job with the Duval County Public Schools, they approached her about being a Spanish teacher instead. Much to her surprise, she fell in love with teaching. “It’s different every year because no student is the same. Teaching is like leaving a piece of you with someone else.” After spending five years as an ESOL teacher at Raines High School, she was asked to move to Terry Parker this year. Her educational goals are to complete a master’s degree in secondary education (ESOL track) and then pursue a doctorate in educational leadership. She strives to be a role model and better herself for the sake of her students. Many of them don’t have the money to go to college. She tells them, “I got a scholarship. If you work hard, you can get a scholarship and go to college, too.”

   

   Apryl Pelkey-Kokocki

  Master of Education: Elementary Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Katrina Hall
  Apryl Pelkey-Kokocki is currently teaching kindergarten at Gregory Drive Elementary School on the Westside. Gregory Drive is a Title 1 school and most of the students are on free or reduced lunch. Her students are very diverse in ethnicity, socio-economic status, family background, disabilities and learning styles. Mrs. Pelkey-Kokocki demonstrates her commitment to her students by spending many hours in preparation so that she can give her students the individualized instruction they need. In the coming years, she would like to develop a website for parents and students that would include content from all subject areas, homework assignments, links to FCAT and future lesson plans. She would also like to write children’s literature. Mrs. Pelkey-Kokocki received a B.A.E. in Elementary Education from UNF in 2003 and will complete her ESOL certification (300 hours) by 2010. She would like to begin a doctorate program in education within the next 5-10 years.

   

  Victoria Felix

  Master of Education: Counselor Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carolyn Stone
  Victoria Felix has been a freshman and sophomore math teacher at Samuel W. Wolfson for the past five years. In high school, Ms. Felix wanted to be a systems analyst. She began taking college courses in information technology, but realized that she wasn’t happy. She re-evaluated her career options and decided to find out where her heart really was. She remembered that she enjoyed playing school as a child. As a teenager, she always looked for opportunities to tutor children. So, she enrolled in several education classes, hoping that teaching would be a good fit. She enjoyed the classes immediately and decided that teaching “just felt right”. During Ms. Felix’s third year at Wolfson, students began to seek her advice about emotional issues and problems they were having at home. Ms. Felix realized that she needed more training in order to really help these students. She set a goal to pursue a master’s degree in counselor education. As a future school counselor, she hopes to be able to provide individual support so that more students will complete high school and will go on to pursue a college degree.

   

  Rose-Marie L. Green-Hanson

  Master of Education: Special Education
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sue Syverud
  Rose-Marie Green-Hanson teaches in a K-3 ESE Inclusion classroom at Hendricks Avenue Elementary. She was born in Jamaica and has always wanted to be a teacher, but didn’t have the opportunity until later in life. Mrs. Green-Hanson came to America when she was 30 years old and worked a variety of low-end jobs to make ends meet. About five years after she arrived in the U. S., she was able to begin school at FCCJ. She continued her education and earned a B.A.E. in Special Education from UNF in 2004. Finally, after many years of hard work, she had achieved her dream. She was a teacher! In her current teaching position, Mrs. Green-Hanson focuses on reading. The more she works with children, the more she wants to learn how to teach troubled children to read. Receiving the Roddenberry Fellowship has given Mrs. Green-Hanson the renewed hope that one day she will earn her master’s degree and become a reading specialist. In the future, she would also like to hone her public speaking abilities and use what she has learned through her personal experiences and studies to empower younger teachers.

   

  Shannon Rose-Hamann

  Master of Education: Educational Leadership
  Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kathe Kasten
  Shannon Rose-Hamann is a 5th grade teacher at Twin Lakes Academy Elementary. Her area of concentration is reading, writing, spelling, etc. She recently earned the English Language Learner endorsement by completing more than 300 credit hours of coursework. In 2007-08 her peers at Twin Lakes Academy selected her to be their Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Rose-Hamann became a teacher because she has always loved children. As a child, she looked forward to school every day and enjoyed and respected her teachers. Her former principal at Twin Lakes has been an outstanding role model. After working for principal Debbie Menard, Mrs. Rose-Hamann has come to realize how fabulous it would be to work with many teachers. She has always enjoyed being “in charge”. Ultimately, Mrs. Rose-Hamann would like to become an elementary school principal. She is very grateful for the Roddenberry Fellowship and says that, even though she has been saving for years, she wouldn’t be able to pursue her master’s degree without the help the fellowship provides. “Being a teacher is the best job in the world. It doesn’t even feel like work. You are doing what you enjoy and are surrounded by people you love.”

• 2007: Kristen Geiger, Stephanie Edinger, Joshua Freeman, Melissa Herrera, and Jerry Hulshult
  Kristen Geiger
  Kristen Geiger is a fourth grade English/Language Arts teacher at West Jacksonville Elementary. Ms. Eckert is certified in Elementary Education. She has taught 4th grade, including mainstreamed exceptional students in a departmentalized setting. Ms. Eckert also serves as a teacher mentor for University of North Florida pre-interns and interns from the college of education.
  
  Stephanie Edinger
  Stephanie Edinger is a Pre-Kindergarten Special Education teacher at Cedar Hills Elementary School. Mrs. Edinger has chaired the Sunshine Committee and Safety Committee for School Improvement. Mrs. Edinger has worked in a self-contained pre-kindergarten setting and has worked as a support facilitator in first grade. She has served as a mentor teacher and support system for fellow teachers making a huge impact on students and faculty alike.
  
  Joshua Freeman
  Joshua Freeman is an English teacher and team member of the 9th Grade Learning Community at Terry Parker High School. Mr. Freeman facilitated the implementation of Keystone, a program designed to help students achieve success and chart a direction for their high school career and beyond. Keystone is a key component to the Duval County Public Schools High School Redesign.
  
  Melissa Herrera
  Melissa Herrera teaches Music and Spanish at Christ the King Catholic School. Melissa demonstrates passion for learning, enthusiasm for teaching, and a deep regard for her students; she constantly evaluates herself and her students to ensure performance is at the highest level possible. Melissa’s educational plan is to become a school principle and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership.
  
  Jerry Hulshult
  Jerry Hulshult has been working on his certification through the alternative teaching program. With many hours in the field he loves to teach math, and science, as well as the teaching methodology courses he took at the Galloway School. Standardized test scores have improved under Mr. Hulshult’s classroom instruction by several percentage points. The standardized test scores at his grade level have been recognized in the top 10% of the country.
• 2006: Timothy Kenney, Karen Van Dyke Anthes, La’Sha Carter, Cheryl Fink, and Zachary Champagne

   Award Recipients (front row, from left)

  • Timothy Kenney, West Jacksonville Elementary School
  • Karen Van Dyke Anthes, Neptune Beach Elementary School
  • La'Sha Carter, Matthew Gilbert Middle School
  • Cheryl Fink, Lone Star Elementary School
  • Zachary Champagne, West Jacksonville Elementary School

  Presented with (back row)

  • John Delaney, UNF President
  • Gilchrist Berg, Benefactor
  • Dr. Larry Daniel, Dean of the College of Education & Human Services