Big Presentation

The School District of Manatee County is proud to announce the winners of the 2022 Excellence in Education Awards.

MANATEE COUNTY’S EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR:

Deelah Jackson, 4th Grade Teacher at Samoset Elementary School   

6 years with School District of Manatee County

Teacher getting a reward

Every day, Deelah embraces her role as an educator and leader. Math is her strong suit, but her love, dedication and resilience really add up when it comes to achieving goals. She works long hours, even tutoring students at lunch, to make sure they learn, comprehend and remember each subject. She teaches them valuable lessons, including respect, and collaborates with her classes to come up with solutions to learn from their mistakes. Deelah is a vital member of the Samoset Elementary family, supporting Kiwanis Kids and implementing essential programs as a site director after-school. This champion of diversity is definitely making her mark on our next great generation.   

 Teacher with award

SUPPORT EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR:

Kari Keech-Babcock, Guidance Secretary at Lakewood Ranch High School   

4 years with School District of Manatee County

Teacher getting reward

Kari is a strong advocate for teamwork and believes in building a strong community. She never limits herself to only performing required duties, and often lends a helping hand to colleagues who need help with gathering data or simplifying technology. She is the head coach of the eSports club, ensuring students foster digital citizenship skills, and maintains volunteer hours for teens working towards earning Bright Futures Scholarships. Kari is also praised for her exemplary customer service and creates positive relationships with families and community members. She aspires to make Lakewood Ranch High School an outstanding place.

Teacher and family Teacher getting award

Both winners receive a $5,000 cash prize, provided by Suncoast Credit Union; an all-expenses paid gathering for 24 friends and family in the Mayor’s Suite at LECOM Park in Bradenton during a Pittsburgh Pirates game, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pirates; a $2,500 scholarship to Nova Southeastern University; a two-night stay at the Courtyard/Hampton Inn by Marriott – Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch; customized spa service from Sirius Day Spa; and more.

Deelah Jackson will now advance to the Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year Program, while Kari Keech-Babcock will advance to the Florida School-Related Employee of the Year Program.

The remaining six finalists, who were also deserving of the “Educator of the Year” and “Support Employee of the Year” recognition, received a $1,000 cash award from the Manatee Education Foundation, among other prizes.

Mr. DavisMs. Jacoby Mr. BernaertMs. CauseyMr. BakerMs. Nussbaum

The Excellence in Education Awards wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of our community partners, including the Manatee Education Foundation, and a long list of event sponsors. Please visit www.ManateeSchools.net/EEA for details.