So many reasons to celebrate Manatee County teachers this summer! Here's a few of the accolades they have earned.
Sugg Middle School teacher, Kimberley Lough, received the Jane L. Taylor Award from The American Horticultural Society. She was recognized at the National Children & Youth Garden Symposium held July 13-15 in Richmond, Virginia. The award is given to an individual, organization or program that has inspired and nurtured future horticulturists through youth gardening. Ms. Lough is celebrating her 20th year in education and leads the urban agriculture and Future Farmers of America programs at Sugg. Her students are learning about aquaculture, hydroponics, gardening, ornamental nursery production and animal care. Ms. Lough speaks passionately about the power of plants to transform lives, and the bright future of careers in agricultural sciences.
Allyson Varnadore, a business technology teacher at Palmetto High School, was named FACTE Teacher of the Year in Community Service. FACTE stands for the Florida Association for Career and Technical Education. Ms. Varnadore was honored during the 56th annual conference, held July 18-20 in Ponte Vedra Beach. She’s seen here accepting her award (left) with FACTE President Kelli Kennedy, who is the School District of Manatee County’s Assistant Director of Career & Technical Education. Ms. Varnadore looks forward to finding new ways to support our community this year, especially F.E.L.T. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies).
Southeast High School television production teacher, Amanda Clark, was also celebrating at the FACTE Conference. She hosted a signing of the book she co-authored, “Video, Digital Communication and Production,” which was published by Goodheart-Wilcox. The book is the fifth edition and covers all aspects of video production, from technology to equipment, media law and ethics to editing digital content. Ms. Clark leads the award-winning SETV program at her alma mater. She also serves as a TSA (Technology Student Association) advisor for Southeast High – and she participates on the Florida Department of Education committee which oversees the standards for Digital Video Production and Television Production courses across the state.
Congratulations to Tommy Jomisko, another Southeast High School graduate, who currently serves as the Director of Choral Activities at Manatee High School. He received the Florida Vocal Association (FVA) John Rose Mentorship Award this month. It recognizes teachers who have continuously served as mentors, in an effort to ensure that the profession continues to thrive with qualified and passionate teachers. Mr. Jomisko has a record of growing successful school choirs, including the Hurricanes, which doubled in size under his leadership. According to FVA, his five choral groups consistently receive superior ratings in competitions.
Congratulations to everyone!