Here at PCPS we always love celebrating our grads — including our teachers! Last week we recognized 13 teachers who are the first cohort to receive a master’s degree in reading education through a special partnership with the University of South Florida. As a USF news story explains: “The teachers were supported in this work through the USF Polk Reading Academy, a collaborative partnership between the school district and USF that provides tuition assistance and support to teachers seeking to further their education and participate in professional development opportunities.” USF professor Dr. Jenifer Jasinski Schneider had this to say: “The impact of someone with a master’s in reading (education) is significant … If you learn ways of thinking, ways of investigating and if you understand how to approach the students in front of you with research in mind, you will be a more effective teacher and one that advocates for all students.” The first cohort of grads from PCPS received their USF degrees in August and have continued serving in our schools as educators and leaders. Congratulations to our brilliant Bulls: – Peggie Bailie (Valleyview Elementary) – Tracy Butcher (Lake Gibson High) – April Cruz (Spessard Holland Elementary) – Renee Howell (Kathleen Elementary) – Karie Insua (Lake Alfred Elementary) – Cynthia Kuhlman (Highland City Elementary) – Morgan Leveille (Lakeland High) – Kelsea Matthews (Pinewood Elementary) – Nancy Murphy (Spessard Holland Elementary) – Brandi Sackett (Winter Haven High) – Lory Vanpool (R. Bruce Wagner Elementary) – Cheris Williams (Dixieland Elementary) – Arla Winslow (Highland City Elementary) Click here to read more about the initiative.

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