District employee named one of five finalists for state 2018 support employee of the year
April 20, 2018
Debra Canning, the 2017-18 Support Employee of the Year for Pinellas County Schools, was named one of the five state 2018 School-Related Employee of the Year finalists. Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart made the announcement today, April 20.
This award recognizes outstanding education support personnel for the significant contributions they make to students and families in their schools and districts. Each of the finalists will receive a $6,500 cash prize, and the statewide winner will receive $10,000 at the May 16 State Board of Education meeting in Pinellas County.
For five years, Canning has served as a 21st Century iClass Liaison. In this role, she has helped more than 500 students at seven sites develop a deeper understanding of and appreciation for literacy, math, science, technology and the arts.
Through partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, Canning has arranged for students and their families to access books and educational experiences, such as museums and theaters, at little or no cost. Her supervisor, Dr. Valerie Brimm, applauded her for creating a culture that emphasizes high academic expectations and embraces each student’s unique attributes.