Polk County Educator Named 2014 Teacher of the Year
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Polk County Educator Named 2014 Teacher of the Year
~ Winner chosen from among more than 70 District Teachers of the Year ~Tallahassee, Fla., July 11, 2014 - Last night, Christie Bassett, a K-12 Art Teacher at Highlands Grove Elementary School in Polk County, was named the 2015 Florida Department of Education/Macy's Teacher of the Year. First Lady Ann Scott and Macy's President Mike Krauter joined Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart to make the announcement at an awards gala honoring the state's top teachers.
"Congratulations to Christie Bassett for earning this prestigious honor," said First Lady Ann Scott. "Florida's teachers are fortunate to have such a dedicated and inspiring ambassador to the profession."
Also in attendance at the gala were District Teachers of the Year, Education Commissioner Pam Stewart, Macy's President and Regional Director of Stores Mike Krauter and Macy's Executive Vice President and Regional Director of Stores Darlene Hanes.
"I am so honored to recognize Christie Bassett as the 2015 Florida Department of Education Macy's Teacher of the Year," said Commissioner Stewart. "I am confident she will serve as an excellent Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education, motivating and inspiring teachers across the state as they work to ensure our students are prepared for success in college, career and life. I look forward to working closely with Christie in the upcoming year."
Macy's presented Bassett with a check totaling $10,000, a $1,000 wardrobe, a $1,000 check for her school, and an all-expense paid trip for four to New York City to attend the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In addition, the winner will serve for one year as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education, touring the state to spread the word about educational opportunities and challenges in the Sunshine State.
Three additional awards were presented at the gala. The Magic of Leadership award was presented to Danielle Clark from Holley-Navarre Intermediate School in Santa Rosa County for being a teacher who leads by example; the Magic of Teaching award was presented to Kristen Iannuzzi from West Orange High School in Orange County for being a teacher who goes beyond the basic job description to continue positive growth in their students; and the Magic of Giving award was presented to Myrna Betancourt from South Dade Educational Center in Miami-Dade County for being a teacher with a unique ability to create positive change in the community. Each recipient was honored with the award and a $1,000 Macy's gift card.
About the Teacher of the Year Program The Florida Department of Education/Macy's Teacher of the Year is chosen from Florida's 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. For more information about the winner and the Teacher of the Year program, visit 2015 Florida Department of Education/Macy's Teacher of the Year.
About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy's offers 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. Macy's flagship stores -- including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California -- are known internationally and leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers, employees and Macy's Foundation, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $70 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.