Duval Educator Named Teacher of the Year Finalist
Governor's Press Office 850-717-9282
Duval Educator Named Teacher of the Year Finalist
Tallahassee, Fla. - Apryl D. Shackelford, an Intensive Reading teacher at Northwestern Middle School in Jacksonville, is a 2014 Department of Education/Macy's Teacher of the Year finalist. She is one of five educators from throughout the state who will compete for the title. Florida's Teacher of the Year will be named on July 11, 2013 at Hard Rock Live at Universal Studios CityWalk in Orlando.
"Florida has the best teachers in the nation and I am proud to recognize Apryl Shackelford as a Teacher of the Year finalist," said Governor Rick Scott. "Our teachers deserve to be rewarded for their great work and I am proud to have helped ensure that teachers will get a pay raise. My thanks to all Florida's educators for their exceptional dedication and commitment to student achievement."
"The ability to transform children's lives is the highest privilege any of us can aspire to," said Florida Commissioner of Education Dr. Tony Bennett. "Apryl Shackelford has demonstrated the top qualities of an education leader and I appreciate your diligence and professionalism."
Shackelford has been teaching intensive reading at Northwestern Middle School for the past three years and was previously a kindergarten teacher at Highlands Elementary School also in Jacksonville. She holds a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, has earned the Reading and ESOL endorsements to her teaching certificate, and is currently working toward her doctoral degree in Education Leadership. Shackelford is the School Advisory Council chair, serves as a teacher mentor, and is involved in the school's leadership committees.
About the Teacher of the Year Program
The Florida Department of Education/Macy's Teacher of the Year is chosen from more than 180,000 public school teachers by a selection committee comprised of teachers, principals, parents, and the business community. Florida's top educator is selected on the basis of their outstanding ability to teach and communicate knowledge of the subject taught, professional development, philosophy of teaching, and exceptional school and community service. The winner must also show a superior capacity to inspire a love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities.
About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Macy's stores and macys.com offer distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy's is known for such epic events as Macy's 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of their customers.