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Fort Walton Beach High School Teacher named as finalist for prestigious state award

On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, Okaloosa Superintendent of Schools Marcus Chambers announced that a local educator, Mrs. Jacqueline Sheffield, has been named one of three finalists for the State of Florida’s Presidential […]

Jared Williams

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On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, Okaloosa Superintendent of Schools Marcus Chambers announced that a local educator, Mrs. Jacqueline Sheffield, has been named one of three finalists for the State of Florida’s Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

This prestigious award is the highest national honor for teachers in the fields of mathematics, science, and computer science.

Since 1983, more than 4,700 educators have been recognized for their outstanding contributions in the classroom and to their profession. Awardees serve as role models for their colleagues, inspirations to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.

Mrs. Sheffield, a Fort Walton Beach High School (FWBHS) alumna, has been teaching at her alma mater for over twenty years. Known for her dedication to student success, she continually pushes her students to excel and serves as an outstanding mentor to her fellow teachers.

Superintendent Chambers made a surprise visit to Mrs. Sheffield’s classroom to recognize her achievement and present her with a District Challenge Coin. In his statement, Chambers expressed his pride in Mrs. Sheffield’s accomplishments and highlighted the importance of the award, which honors teachers who possess deep subject matter knowledge and the ability to inspire and enable their students to succeed.

“She has always been an excellent educator and mentor to fellow teachers, and I’m proud that she is a finalist for this award,” he said.

The winners of the PAEMST award will be announced later this summer by the state. If Mrs. Sheffield claims the top honor, she will represent Florida on the national stage, joining an esteemed group of teachers recognized for their excellence in mathematics and science education.

“It is a great honor, and I know Mrs. Sheffield is a great candidate to represent the state nationally,” added Chambers.

Side note: Mrs. Sheffield was my homeroom teacher during my time at Fort Walton Beach High School. As someone who struggled with math, she was always willing to look at the assignments and offer help during homeroom, after school or even study hall. Congrats to Mrs. Sheffield!!

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