Polk County Public Schools, Community
The Polk County School Board has many events and programs celebrating the accomplishments and hard work of our staff, community partners and students from both the present and the past. The following recognition events are coordinated by the Community Relations Department.
Congratulations to Danny Whittenton of Lakeland's Kathleen High and Acela Lumpuy of Lakeland’s Southwest Middle, 2008 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
The About Face Award recognizes secondary students who have made a significant turn around in their behavior, academic achievement and attendance in school. One student from each middle and high school in the district receive the award annually at the Awards Program. Students are nominated by their school and receive a medallion for their success.
The extraordinary efforts that teachers of exceptional students make to help them achieve their maximum potential. They award the Master Key award to four exceptional education teachers who have demonstrated excellence, perseverance and longevity in their careers.
This event is made possible through the sponsorship of TECO Energy.
For more information, contact Community Involvement.
The Polk County Schools Hall of Fame was created in 1985 to recognize former students of Polk County public schools who have gone on to distinguish themselves in their careers or communities. Since its inception, the Hall of Fame has inducted 83 former students. Hall of Fame members are from the arts, business, clergy, education, entertainment, government, law, military, medicine, sports or other fields.
Congratulations to Dr. J. Larry Durrence, Major Steven Flett, Dr. Mark Jaroszeski and Dr. Sanford Meeks as 2008 inductees.
Click here for a complete list of inductees.
The 2008 Premiere Sponsor for Hall of Fame is Progress Energy.
Other sponsors include Publix Super Markets Charities and the Polk Education Foundation.
Download the 2008 Nomination Form to nominate someone you know.
Volunteer of the Year honors outstanding volunteers in our schools. Each school nominates a volunteer who has provided exceptional service to students and teachers throughout the year. There are three categories of winners, youth (up to 21), adult (22-60) and senior (61+). Twelve outstanding volunteers are selected each year as finalists, four in each category.
Volunteer of the Year is sponsored by The Ledger.
For more information, contact Community Involvement.