On Tuesday morning, Destin Elementary School 4th grade teacher Lisa Brown was surprised with the “Thank a Teacher” recognition, a monthly program highlighting outstanding local educators.
- Superintendent of Schools Marcus Chambers and CEO of HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital Zach McCluskey walked across the Destin Elementary campus around 9:20 a.m. to surprise Brown with the honor.
Brown was nominated by the parent of one of her students, who wrote a heartfelt submission emphasizing Brown’s dedication to providing both academic and personal support.
“I just want to say congratulations,” Chambers told Brown as he presented her with a plaque. “We have HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and one of the things that they wanted to do this year was partner with us and they wanted to give back and thank a teacher each month.”
Out of over 115 nominations submitted so far since November, Brown was chosen as the January recipient and third overall this school year.
McCluskey noted the heartfelt nomination submitted by one of Brown’s students’ mothers that clinched her selection for the recognition.
- “We received an amazing nomination. It is really sweet, and very thoughtful, and I think it embodies why you’re such a special teacher,” McCluskey said. “Again, many nominations, and this one really goes to the top.”
In the nomination, the parent highlighted Brown’s dedication to finding customized solutions to support each student’s academic and personal growth. This includes tutoring struggling students in reading, as well as taking time to listen and collaborate with both students and parents.
“Teaching is more than academics, and Mrs. Brown is the standard when it comes to providing a holistic approach to learning,” the nomination stated. “She thinks outside of the box and she is constantly researching ways to improve her teaching/approach to provide the most effective learning environment for those she is teaching.”
The “Thank a Teacher” program was created by HCA Florida Healthcare to show appreciation for outstanding Okaloosa County teachers making a difference. One teacher is recognized every month during the school year.
