Don Clerveaux, a 5th-grade Science and Social Studies teacher at Phyllis Ruth
Miller Elementary has been named the 2024 Francisco R. Walker Miami-Dade County
Teacher of the Year at a ceremony held this evening at the DoubleTree by Hilton
Miami Airport & Convention Center.
Clerveaux is
inspired by his students, past and present. He connects with their
vulnerability and concerns to conquer challenges. As a science instructor, he
engages students in hands-on experiences in the Royal Palm Everglades, allowing
students to see classroom assignments come to life. These visits motivated his
fellow teachers to become certified to take their students to the Everglades.
Since bringing
his extensive teaching experience to Miami-Dade County Public Schools nine
years ago, Clerveaux has continued to task his students with being the
generation that saves our planet for future generations and is confident that
his classroom lessons will encourage them to do just that.
The runner-up is Monique Bryant Clayton,
COPE Center North.
The top rookie
teachers were also recognized at the event. The 2023 Rookie Teacher of the Year
is Franquiana
Williams a second-year teacher at Frederick
Douglass Elementary School.
She teaches 4th- and 5th-grade Reading and Language Arts.
A proud graduate
of Miami Northwestern Senior High, Williams upholds the values of citizenship
and community by cultivating an environment where students can be their
authentic selves and celebrate their diverse cultures.
Franquiana Williams,
2023 Rookie Teacher of the Year
Williams
engages parents in meaningful conversations to strengthen the teacher-parent
bond for the benefit of her students. She also personally ensures students
receive additional support and tutoring to continuously promote their progress.
Soleil Lobato
of Hialeah Middle School is the runner-up.
The
supporting sponsor is Univision 23 and the signature
sponsors include EdFed, Office Depot, United
Way of Miami-Dade and Kendall Toyota, which will present the Teacher
of the Year winner with the keys to a new car. The event
is made possible through partnerships with the Dade Association of
School Administrators, the Miami-Dade County
Council of PTAs/PTSAs and United
Teachers of Dade (UTD).
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TOP CAPTION: Don Clerveaux, 2024 Francisco R. Walker Teacher of the Year
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