Oct. 27, 2023
On Thursday, Oct. 26, the district named its two emerging teachers of the year by surprising them in their classrooms.
Dr. Amanda Daniels is the secondary school winner. Dr. Daniels teaches at Palm Harbor University High School where she instructs students in the licensed practical nurse (LPN) and certified nursing assistant (CNA) programs. Dr. Daniels has a rich family tradition of educators. Her passion for teaching and nurturing young minds began to shine even brighter as she transitioned from a thriving career as a pediatric nurse practitioner to a pivotal role in the Center for Wellness & Medical Professions program at Palm Harbor University, just two short years ago. She sponsors multiple clubs and athletic programs, creating a dynamic and enriching school environment that empowers students to thrive academically and personally.
Katrina Carpenter is the elementary honoree. Ms. Carpenter is currently in her second year of teaching fourth grade at Mount Vernon Elementary School. As a former student of Pinellas County Schools and the daughter of a Pinellas County Educator, she has found her true calling in the world of teaching. She attributes her success in the classroom to the training she received during the Springboard to Success program in 2022, which has equipped her with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in her role as an educator.
The Emerging Teacher of the Year program, which launched in January 2020, recognizes exemplary new teachers in their first three years of teaching. Two teachers are selected, one from elementary schools and one from secondary schools, which are middle and high schools.
Congratulations to our emerging teachers who have demonstrated excellence by representing our district’s core values.
They will be honored at the annual Evening of Excellence in January with our nominees for Teacher of the Year.
