Tuesday, May 17, 2016Bartow Civic Center,

Bartow, FL

Present the 2016Polk County Public Schools

WelcomeLeah Lauderdale, Senior Director,

Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships

OpeningJacqueline M. Byrd,

Superintendent

InvocationKay Fields,

Board Chair, District 5

Presentation of ColorsLake Region High JROTC

National Anthem/Special PerformanceLake Gibson Audio

Outstanding School Volunteer Award WinnersThe Ledger Media Group, MIDFLORIDA

ClosingJacqueline M. Byrd

Dyan Romano makes a di�erence by o�ering solutions and helping to organize the car line at Alta Vista Elementary.

Rosa Cavazos provides incentives for students and has been instrumental in coordinating the Box Tops program at Alturas Elementary.

Judy Lott makes parents and visitors feel welcome at Auburndale Central Elementary, where she volunteers in the o�ce and models patience, compassion and humility.

Suzanne Fletcher has been a devoted PTO member for eight years, during which time she has organized school events and served students in the classrooms of Babson Park Elementary.

Phyllis King started working in the media center at the begin-ning of the school year, where she helps with book fairs, laminat-ing and checking out books at Bartow Elementary Academy.

Christina Ellis is a talented artist, baker and creative force who goes above and beyond to make the students and sta� feel special at Ben Hill Gri�n Elementary.

Ryane Redgrave collaborates with other volunteers and produces amazing results, such as the rejuvenation of the outdoor classroom at Bethune Academy and launching their essential Grant Committee.

Orpha Gonzalez is a dedicated media assistant and motivated leader who helps to make Blake Academy a more beautiful, welcoming place.

Ruby Jean Giles, reliable and caring, eases the teachers’ workloads and o�ers students personalized attention at Boswell Elementary.

Lori Gri�n works in the media center, in the classroom and at Family STEM Literacy nights; she is also instrumental in the success of Brigham Academy’s schoolwide math program.

Connie Jacobs volunteers her time at Caldwell Academy every school day, helping fourth graders learn math facts, reading skills and conduct science experiments.

Paul Parker, an Eagle Scout, serves as a role model to the stu-dents at Carlton Palmore Elementary as he helps out with the Fall Festival, Go Take a Hike Fundraiser and many other projects.

Melissa Morrison gives constantly without being asked; the teachers at Chain of Lakes Elementary can’t say enough about how much she has contributed to their school.

Rhonda Leones is an exceptional asset to Churchwell Elementary, where she has volunteered in the classroom for the last nine years.

Emily Cox works in countless ways to support the students and sta� of Cleveland Court Elementary, giving her time to help with nearly every school function.

Doris Parker, known as “Mom Parker,” tirelessly encourages the students at Combee Elementary through one-on-one tutoring and guidance.

Joelle Cockrell is always ready to step up and tackle a project, even if that means �lling in as acting PTO president at Crystal Lake Elementary.

Charlene Stamper is the kind of volunteer every school wants; from landscaping projects to PTO leadership, Mrs. Stamper contributes in countless ways to make Davenport School of the Arts a better place.

Yvonne Van Roo invests much of her time into improving Dixieland Elementary; she plans multiple fundraisers and celebrations throughout the year and even works on the school yearbook from home.

Judith Fowler is an essential resource to the Dr. N.E. Roberts Elementary media center, where she makes the job look easy on even the busiest days.

Michelle Williams never backs away from an opportunity to im-prove Dundee Elementary Academy, whether it be by pressure washing the sidewalks or heading up a school walk-a-thon.

Jenny Go� brings a can-do attitude and helpful disposition to Eagle Lake Elementary, where she lends a hand in the o�ce and the Eagle Buck Store.

Janilet Lebron volunteers at most school functions, always bringing a friendly smile and positive attitude to Eastside Elementary.

Brian Reeves works with at-risk students in his community, serving as a role model and inspiring them to think about their future at Elbert Elementary.

Donna Wingard spends time mentoring students one-on-one and encouraging their academic growth at Floral Avenue Elementary.

Richard Cobb makes an impact at Frostproof Elementary, assisting in the cafeteria every morning and serving as a positive role model for the students.

Mary Sue Burry brings a wealth of experience to the Garden Grove Elementary media center, where she helps to check out books and has even organized their collection by reading level for the students.

Laron Rodriguez Adams arrives before most teachers and stays late mentoring fourth and �fth grade students at Garner Elementary.

April Taylor started out as a Reading Pal, but now she sponsors classroom events and even planted a vegetable garden to help teach life science at Gibbons Street Elementary.

Mary Clarke makes a di�erence at Gri�n Elementary by helping teachers with their paperwork and giving students the personalized attention they need to be successful.

Lacey Sherrouse has served on the Highland City Elementary PTA for three years; she is always willing to jump in where she is needed and brings a smile to each person she meets.

Esther Ott, PTO Vice President and SAC committee chairperson, helps to lead Highlands Grove Elementary while also helping out in the o�ce every Friday.

James Watkins can be found greeting students as they arrive on campus, teaching math skills and American Sign Language and escorting hearing impaired students to various classes at Horizons Elementary.

Shirley Covarrubias doesn’t know the word “no;” instead, she actively worked to establish a PTO at Inwood Elementary and has caused parent involvement to increase substantially.

Carolyn Barnhardt, a retired teacher, brings her enthusiasm into the �rst and fourth grade classrooms at Janie Howard Wilson Elementary, where she tutors students and encourages them to try their best.

Jessica Boyd strives to pitch in wherever she is needed, whether that be in the media center, cafeteria or front o�ce of Jesse Keen Elementary.

Lenny Wheaton has become an irreplaceable �xture at Jewett School of the Arts, where she has spent countless hours organizing the yearbook, school pictures and book fairs.

Jeanette Wright enthusiastically supports Kathleen Elementary by spearheading fundraisers to help disadvantaged students and running many other school events.

Jennifer Staggs often helps students complete classroom projects, but has also recruited parents and community members to form a PTA at Kingsford Elementary.

Connie Barron, or “Aunt Connie,” bakes legendary cookies for sta� members, manages the aftercare program and also �nds the time to serve on the PTO at Lake Alfred Elementary.

Debra Cook encourages �fth grade students to achieve their goals while participating in a program that awards funding for new books to Lake Shipp Elementary.

Nancy Mooney serves as volunteer liason to her community but also works in several classrooms, helping to tutor children in reading and math at Laurel Elementary.

Sarita Boyd wears a contagious smile as she assists teachers making copies, collecting Box Tops and planning special events for the students of Lena Vista Elementary.

Katherine Albritton shares her love of music with the fourth and �fth grade chorus at Lewis Anna Woodbury Elementary by helping with rehearsals and performances throughout the year.

Jil Bevis touches the lives of almost every student and sta� member at Lincoln Avenue Academy by enthusiastically giving her time as a crossing guard, substitute teacher and PTO leader.

Chelsea Carrero can most often be found in the media center, but also pitches in at book fairs, Picture Day and many other events; she has become an invaluable asset to Loughman Oaks Elementary.

Carol Grimsley graces Medulla Elementary with her beautiful murals, decorations and bulletin boards while inspiring students to embrace their own creativity.

Melissa Shank o�ers her time as a chaperone and classroom assistant, but also �lls in wherever needed at North Lakeland Elementary.

Bryan Cummings translates information for Spanish-speaking families during Parent Involvement Nights and in the front o�ce, providing an invaluable service to the sta� and families at Oscar J. Pope Elementary.

Robert Delaney goes above and beyond for the students of Padgett Elementary, donating uniforms and mentoring students in need of support.

Stephen Perez has played the role of tutor, photographer, PTO President, crossing guard and even Santa Claus at Palmetto Elementary.

Cynthia Zimmerman loves to bake and craft homemade decorations to improve the atmosphere at Philip O’Brien Elementary.

Mary Holman brings innovative ideas to her role as PTO President, which resulted in new business partnerships, improved school programs and increased student success at Pinewood Elementary.

Martha Bair instills a love of reading in her students and brings stories to life by dressing up as storybook characters at Polk Avenue Elementary.

Johanna Cobb goes above and beyond, orchestrating the Great American Teach-In and completing tasks at home to help the teachers and sta� of Polk City Elementary.

Casey Jones is praised as the best library volunteer ever at Purcell Elementary, where she stocks shelves and assists students with a cheerful smile.

Heather Kessler coordinates monthly spirit nights and the end-of-year carnival at R. Bruce Wagner Elementary, showcasing her amazing creative ability and leadership skills.

Nina Hutton shares her green thumb with the students and sta� of Rochelle School of the Arts by establishing vegetable and �ower gardens as well as decorative landscaping around campus.

Ladonna Teti frequently helps out in the media center, but also organizes three book fairs a year at Sandhill Elementary.

Linda Tarleton volunteers several days a week in the classroom, cafeteria and media center where she helps students improve their reading and math skills at Scott Lake Elementary.

Melissa Shelley serves Sikes Elementary by organizing exciting recognition programs, coordinating fundraisers and celebrating the accomplishments of students and sta�.

Carlton Pickett started out assisting in the overloaded car line at Sleepy Hill Elementary, but now he serves as PTO president and is heavily involved in the after school tutoring program.

Susan Dantzler shares her passion for literature by organizing fundraisers to send new books home with students twice a year at Snively Elementary.

Mikyong Bratton spends most of her time in the media center at Socrum Elementary, but is always willing to lend a hand to other school programs or projects.

Emily Paul possesses an exceptional dedication to her school and serves as a faithful assistant to the students and teachers of Southwest Elementary.

Ti�any Bilbrey runs several fundraising activities and even �lls in as a substitute teacher at Spessard Holland Elementary, where the teachers are incredibly grateful for her support.

Stacie L. Gibb has been volunteering at Spook Hill Elementary for ten years as a chaperone, homeroom mom and coordinator of special projects.

ConSheryl Adams, an advocate of literacy, works with kinder-garten students to adopt a “Yes I Can” attitude and helps them become independent readers at Stephens Elementary.

Margarita Alvarado works behind the scenes at Valleyview Elementary to support teachers while also tutoring students to help them prepare for their Accelerated Reader tests.

Jannet Rojas comes to Wahneta Elementary to help students with their homework, teach parents English and attend special events.

Jennifer Bath exempli�es service by lending a hand inside and outside the classroom and making the teachers and sta� of Wendell Watson Elementary feel appreciated.

Julie Roberts gives her time and energy without asking for anything in return; the students and sta� of Winston Academy of Engineering are very appreciative of her fundraising e�orts as PTA president.

Kevin Dunn assists students with testing and college preparation while inspiring them to be involved in the community at Auburndale High.

James Thompson, a retired electronic technician, passes on his experience by helping students complete special projects during technical education classes at Bartow High.

Carol Burdette helps the school resource o�cer and the media specialists at Daniel Jenkins Academy by coordinating programs such as S.A.F.E. and the Book Fair.

Dr. Susan Phillips brings her caring, calming demeanor to the Sunshine State Young Readers groups at Dundee Ridge Middle Academy as she assists them with projects for the Book Festival.

Stephen Abney patiently tutors students struggling with advanced math concepts as they prepare for their GED test at East Area Adult School.

Lorenzo McCutchen volunteers as a football coach at Fort Meade Middle-Senior and assists with other programs that help guide, direct and support male students.

Rachel Pooley aids the students and sta� at Frostproof Middle-Senior by raising money for sporting and academic events and by serving the teachers an appreciation luncheon every year.

Stephanie Smith supports the �ne arts programs at George Jenkins High by tirelessly giving her time to the band program and the Booster Organization.

Racheal Kirkland takes a personal interest in the students at Haines City High/IB, where she enthusiastically works to keep the media center running smoothly.

Punam Saxena serves as the school advisory board chairperson, volunteer coordinator and “team mom” for the tennis team at Harrison School for the Arts.

Anita Cox willingly steps in to assist with fundraisers, community service projects and the PTA at Jewett Middle Academy.

Emily Gray is a devoted volunteer and an exceptional positive in�uence to the students and sta� of Kathleen Middle.

Alysa Nolen temporarily took over as the network manager at Lake Alfred-Addair Middle where she single-handedly kept much of their equipment running until a replacement could be found.

Bernard Liebrecht dedicates many hours to the athletic program at Lake Gibson High by coaching junior varsity football, girls’ weightlifting and softball.

Jane Hill is the co-treasurer for the band at Lake Region High; she also helps grade papers, make copies and answer phones at the front o�ce.

David Dunn runs the concession stand during sporting events to support the marching band program at Lakeland High.

Olivia Bechtol brightens the day of everyone she meets while working in the front o�ce and helping teachers at Lakeland Highlands Middle.

Melissa Alessandroni consistently serves in the media center at Lawton Chiles Middle Academy, where she works hard and even stays late to ensure that every task is completed.

Nellie Priola spends countless hours planning school events and encouraging parents to become more involved in their children’s education at McLaughlin Middle.

Larry Rankin mentors students at Mulberry High every week and encourages them to meet their graduation requirements.

Cherise Rose serves with the PTSA and the School Advisory Committee, manages the school store twice a week and assists with a variety of events at Mulberry Middle.

Doris McCallister has volunteered with the Sigma Alpha Sigma organization for ten years; she organizes school events and provides one-on-one mentorship at Ridge Community High.

Elana Coulter supports the students and sta� of Sleepy Hill Middle by making copies for teachers and escorting students to their parents’ cars in the afternoons.

Susan Lynch has been named the uno�cial “band mom” at Southwest Middle because of all the hours she spends mak-ing travel arrangements, maintaining the band’s uniforms and facilitating successful fundraisers.

Leona Blackmon is an integral member of the Stambaugh Middle PTSO and School Advisory Council and has even taken ownership of managing the school’s t-shirt room.

�e School Board of Polk County, Florida, prohibits any and all forms of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, age, genetic information, homelessness, disability or other basis prohibited by law in any of its programs, services, activities or employment. To �le concerns, you may contact the Equity & Compliance Analyst in the Human Resource Services Division at (863) 534-0513 or P.O. Box 391 Bartow, Florida 33831.

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Polk County Public Schools News:

William Pfa� holds high expectations for the students on his lacrosse team and helps each player become successful on and o� the �eld at Summerlin Academy.

Vicky Jenkins, Vice President of Fundraising, has been instrumental in the success of multiple fundraisers and school events at Union Academy.

Richard Smith possesses a special ability to relate to the students he mentors, investing time and positive energy into their lives and encouraging them to succeed at West Area Adult School.

Ana Sanchez sel�essly devotes her time to supporting students in the band and agriculture departments at Westwood Middle.

William Alexander assists students and sta� at Winter Haven High by manning the front desk during the summer, supervising the cafeteria and greeting visitors.

Produced by the Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships, Polk County Public Schools

To view/download event photos, please visit: http://tinyurl.com/voty2016

The Honorable Kay Fields,Board Chair, District 5

The Honorable Hunt Berryman,Board Vice-Chair, District 1

The Honorable Lori CunninghamDistrict 2

The Honorable Hazel SellersDistrict 3

The Honorable Dick MullenaxDistrict 4

The Honorable Lynn WilsonDistrict 6

The Honorable Tim HarrisDistrict 7

Jacqueline M. Byrd, Superintendent