McNeal Elementary School was proud to welcome Florida’s Teacher of the Year, Mark Harrison from Union County, located south of Jacksonville.
A dedicated educator for 21 years, Mr. Harrison connected with students and staff to learn about all the amazing things that make McNeal such a special place to be.
From hearing a heartfelt salute to veterans, to creating art in the classroom, to driving a VEX robot, and even sharing lunch with the school’s team leaders—his visit was filled with memorable moments.
The news crew captured it all, interviewing Mr. Harrison in a live special report. During the student council meeting, members were inspired by his warm words of wisdom.
Mr. Harrison greeted every student he met in hallways and classrooms with his signature fist bumps. Married to a fellow teacher, he has taught everything from elementary education to social studies and economics at Union County’s lone high school, where he also serves as a school bus driver.
As this year’s Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education, Mr. Harrison travels across Florida visiting schools. He was deeply impressed by Manatee County’s educators and students, as well as McNeal’s innovative classrooms and strong “Leader in Me” culture.
He was also inspired by Manatee County’s Teacher of the Year, Stacy Freeman, who acted as ambassador during this special visit. They visited her third grade classroom for a group photo before leaving, and leaving his mark, on this Lakewood Ranch school.