By: Sharon Aron Baron
Broward County Public Schools to announces their 2014 Caliber Awards winners. Each year, the Caliber Awards program recognizes the exceptional leadership, hard work and dedication of Broward’s outstanding teachers, principals, assistant principals and school-related employees. This year, Principal of the Year goes to Coral Park Elementary’s Camille Pontillo, which will please many of her students and parents. Congratulations to all of the winners.
Teacher of the Year
Dr. Daniel Shapiro, Bennett Elementary School
1755 NE 14th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Dr. Daniel Shapiro has a passion for promoting academic achievement, emotional and social growth, character development and leadership in his students. “Educators need to remember those initial sparks that inspire them to love teaching and learning,” said Shapiro. He gives his best every day as a professional, going above and beyond to make a change for the advancement of students, parents, staff and the community. He is a committed leader in his school and community.
Camille Pontillo, Coral Park Elementary School
8401 Westview Dr, Coral Springs, FL 33067
Camille Pontillo is relentless in her pursuit of educational excellence for her students. As an educator for 30 years, including 10 years as principal, she believes that a principal’s responsibility is student achievement – no matter what. While focused on faculty development, she is committed to the success of all students. “As I learn and grow, I believe it is my fundamental responsibility to share the knowledge with teachers,” said Pontillo, who fosters an environment where teacher leadership flourishes. She is enthusiastic about the changes she has brought to Coral Park Elementary and looks to continue to achieve the highest quality of excellence.
Assistant Principal of the Year
Gina Montagnino, Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED
1901 NW 49th Avenue Lauderhill, FL 33313
As an educator for the last 14 years, Gina Montagnino is a proven leader. In her eight years as an Assistant Principal, she has had the exceptional opportunity to impact the academic environment of four schools and has demonstrated her ability to be an extraordinary leader. She has effected positive change in many departments and personnel under her leadership. With a solid track record of increased student learning and academic performance, she was recruited to open Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED. Her natural abilities to lead and cultivate partnerships and relationships have earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and students.
School-Related Employee of the Year
Christopher Gates, Micro-Computer Technical Specialist, Broward Virtual School
6600 Nova Dr, Davie, FL 33317
Christopher Gates is described as a kind and considerate person who is always willing to help. Although his job responsibilities include ensuring the continuous availability of microcomputer access, he serves in many capacities at Broward Virtual School. Through his leadership, students have been involved in numerous community service initiatives, leading to local and national recognition, such as President Obama’s Service Award. Broward Virtual Principal Christopher McGuire is most impressed by the pride Gates takes in everything he does. “He’s an exemplary employee who represents the best that Broward County Public Schools has to offer our students,” said McGuire.
Author Profile
- Editor of Talk Media and writer for Coral Springs Talk. CST was created in 2012 to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Coral Springs and the rest of South Florida.
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