2024 to 2026
2026 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year – National Center for Families Learning and Toyota (2026)
Selected from six national finalists as the 2026 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year, a national honor recognizing educators who engage families as partners in learning. The award includes a $20,000 grant for family learning work. The ceremony takes place in San Antonio on November 9, 2026. Source: National Center for Families Learning announcement.
Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Instruction – University of Central Florida (2024)
Ed.D. completed in 2024 with a K-8 mathematics specialization, the culmination of the Noyce Master Teaching Fellowship. Source: UCF News.
Order of Pegasus – University of Central Florida (2024)
UCF’s highest student honor, awarded for academic achievement, leadership and community service. Source: UCF News.
Partners in Education Coordinator of the Year – Orange County Public Schools (2024-2025)
District recognition for building the school, business and nonprofit partnerships that support Pinewood Elementary students and families.
Pinewood Elementary Teacher of the Year – Orange County Public Schools (2019-2020 and 2024-2025)
Named Teacher of the Year by her school in 2019-2020 and again in 2024-2025, when she was listed among the district’s Stellar Award Teacher of the Year honorees. Sources: UCF College of Community Innovation and Education, OCPS Stellar Award honorees.
CommUNITY Champion – WESH 2 News (January 2025)
Featured by WESH 2 for her work connecting Pinewood Elementary students and families with community support. Source: WESH 2.
First Runner-Up, Three Minute Thesis – International Consortium for Research in Science and Mathematics Education (2024)
Source: ICRSME results.
Local Awards
Noyce Master Teaching Fellowship – University of Central Florida (2020 – 2025)
A five-year initiative funded by the National Science Foundation, emphasizing the development of K-12 STEM teacher-leaders for high-need districts. In partnership with Orange County Public Schools and City Year Orlando, the program aims to enhance fellows’ knowledge, leadership, and commitment to social justice, culminating in a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (K-8 Mathematics specialization.
Teacher of the Week – FOX 35 News (April 2022)
FOX 35 News recognized outstanding educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment, creativity, and passion in the classroom. This recognition celebrates teachers who impart knowledge, inspire, and positively influence the lives of their students by making a lasting impact on the community at large.
Everyday Hero from Spectrum News 13 (April 2021)
Spectrum News 13 commends individuals who dedicate their time, talents, and resources to support the Orlando community. The award recognizes people who embody community service and strive to make a positive difference
National Awards
Iris Carl Grant (August 2023)
An esteemed grant specifically aimed at supporting mathematics educators and aspiring leaders in the field. This grant facilitates attendance at the NCSM Annual Conference, aligning with NCSM’s vision to cultivate a group of proficient, well-informed, and insightful leaders in mathematics education across all educational tiers.
Tom Denmark Educator Enhancement Grant (June 2022)
A grant awarded to educators who demonstrate innovative teaching methods and a commitment to enhancing the classroom experience. The grant reimburses teachers for registration, transportation, and lodging during the conference.
Live with Kelly and Ryan Top Ten Teacher (April 2021)
Recognition by the “Live with Kelly and Ryan” show to honor educators who excel inside and outside the classroom. This award celebrates teachers who have significantly impacted their students and their broader community through their dedication and commitment to uplifting others.