A community-wide poll is now open to recognize an exceptional educator on Florida's Treasure Coast. Four teachers from St. Lucie, Martin, and Indian River counties have been nominated for the Teacher of the Week award, a program designed to highlight educators making a significant impact in their schools and on their students' lives.
The weekly initiative invites parents, students, school administrators, and community members to nominate and vote for teachers who demonstrate outstanding dedication. This week's poll runs from September 28 through October 3, offering a platform to celebrate the positive influence of local educators.
Key Takeaways
- A public poll is active to select the TCPalm Teacher of the Week for the Treasure Coast.
- Four educators from three different counties are nominated for the period of Sept. 28-Oct. 3.
- The nominees are Cory Allen, Mary Kate Jarrell, Stacy Kastner, and Tabatha Williams-Johnson.
- Voting is open to the public and concludes at noon on Friday.
Meet the Nominated Educators
The four teachers selected for this week's poll represent a diverse range of grade levels and subjects, each nominated for their unique contributions to their students' development. The nominations come from individuals who have directly witnessed their commitment and positive classroom environments.
Cory Allen, Port St. Lucie High School
Cory Allen, a teacher at Port St. Lucie High School in St. Lucie County, has been recognized for his ability to make learning an engaging and enjoyable experience. His nominator, a student, emphasized how Mr. Allen fosters a genuine desire to learn in his classroom.
The nomination highlighted his kindness and willingness to support students beyond regular school hours. A specific example was provided of his dedication, where he organized a Saturday tutoring session for a large group of students preparing for their AICE tests.
Going the Extra Mile
According to the nomination, Mr. Allen not only dedicated his personal time on a weekend to help students but also purchased nearly 20 pizzas for them during the study session, demonstrating a level of personal investment that resonates deeply with his students.
"He makes me eager to go to class, he is such a fun teacher. I genuinely find myself wanting to learn and know more in his class. He is kind and understanding, constantly going above and beyond for his students... He is AMAZING and deserves recognition."
Mary Kate Jarrell, Warfield Elementary School
From Martin County, Mary Kate Jarrell of Warfield Elementary School was nominated for creating an exceptionally positive and welcoming classroom atmosphere. Her approach to teaching is described as both inspiring and dedicated.
The person who nominated Mrs. Jarrell praised her consistent efforts to enhance student learning and her enthusiastic daily attitude. Her passion for education and unwavering support for others were cited as qualities that make her an important role model for her young students.
"Mrs. Jarrell is an inspiring and dedicated educator who creates a welcoming, positive classroom environment. She consistently goes above and beyond to enhance student learning, approaches every day with enthusiasm and kindness, and serves as a role model through her passion, motivation, and unwavering support for others."
Stacy Kastner, Citrus Elementary School
Representing Indian River County, Stacy Kastner from Citrus Elementary School is another nominee celebrated for her passion and dedication. The nomination came from a grateful parent whose child was in Mrs. Kastner's class for both kindergarten and first grade.
Long-Term Impact on Early Education
The nomination for Stacy Kastner underscores the critical role teachers play in the foundational years of a child's education. The parent specifically noted that having Mrs. Kastner for two consecutive years resulted in significant and measurable academic gains for their child, building a strong base for future learning.
The family expressed immense gratitude for her work, stating they felt blessed to have had her as their child's teacher during these crucial early years. Her ability to drive academic progress while being a passionate educator was a key theme of the nomination.
"Mrs. Kastner is a passionate teacher and goes above and beyond for her students... My child academically has made many gains. Thank you so much. We truly appreciated you with a grateful heart!!"
Tabatha Williams-Johnson, Morningside Elementary School
The final nominee, Tabatha Williams-Johnson of Morningside Elementary School in St. Lucie County, received a powerful endorsement for her ability to connect with and inspire every student, including those who may face challenges.
The nominator described her as a uniquely gifted educator capable of teaching, guiding, and loving every child who enters her classroom. The lasting impact of her teaching was illustrated by an anecdote about the nominator's own child, a current high school student set to graduate in 2025.
This student still remembers their fourth-grade year with Mrs. Williams-Johnson as the "best year of her life," a testament to the profound and enduring influence a great teacher can have on a young person's life.
"The ONLY teacher who can teach, grow, love, guide, help, and inspire EVERY student that has come her way (yes, even 'those' kids). My 2025 graduate tells me 4th grade was the 'best year of her life'."
How to Participate in the Poll
The Teacher of the Week program is an ongoing effort to publicly acknowledge the hard work and dedication of educators across the Treasure Coast. The selection process is driven entirely by the community.
Voting Details
Members of the public are encouraged to cast their vote for one of this week's four nominated teachers. The process is straightforward and designed to be accessible to everyone.
- Start Time: The poll opened at 5 a.m. on Sunday, September 28.
- End Time: Voting will close at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Friday, October 3.
- Winner Announcement: The winner will be announced on the TCPalm website shortly after the poll closes on Friday.
This initiative not only provides recognition for a single winner each week but also shines a light on the incredible stories of many teachers in the region. By sharing the nominators' words, the program aims to showcase the diverse ways educators are making a difference every day.
