May 20, 2021
Jaquelyn Schirmer, a Pinellas Park High School senior, received a two-year Florida Prepaid Scholarship from Florida TaxWatch. Jaquelyn is 16 years old, an early college admissions student and is legally blind due to macular degeneration. Although she has had many challenges, including having to learn brail in her teens, the school’s Principal Brett Patterson said she hasn’t allowed anything to get in the way of her studies or dreams. Jaquelyn will be attending the University of Florida.
Also, Florida TaxWatch selected Principal Patterson to receive the Principal Leadership Award. This unique initiative identifies principals around the state who have had the greatest impact on their students. Principal Patterson is one of only three high school principals selected in the state and will receive his award June 3 at an event in Orlando.
Florida TaxWatch is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit taxpayer research institute and government watchdog organization that works to improve the productivity and accountability of Florida government. Their work is supported by voluntary, tax-deductible donations and private grants, and no government funding is accepted. Florida TaxWatch has served Floridians since 1979.
Jaquelyn Schirmer
Principal Brett Patterson
