Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart today announced the finalists for Florida’s 2018 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership (Principal of the Year) and the Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award (Assistant Principal of the Year). The winners will be named during the Commissioner’s Summit for Principals on February 9 in Orlando.
“It is a great honor to recognize these principals and assistant principals whose hard work and commitment to Florida’s students sets them apart, and I look forward to celebrating them next month at the Commissioner’s Summit for Principals,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart.
The 2018 Principal of the Year will receive a cash prize of $5,000, and the remaining Principal of the Year finalists will receive $1,500. The 2018 Assistant Principal of the Year will receive a cash prize of $3,500, and the remaining Assistant Principal of the Year finalists will receive $1,061.
The three Principal of the Year finalists are:
Eric Fleming, West Shore Junior/Senior High School, Brevard County
For more than 23 years, Eric Fleming has served the Brevard County School District in various teaching and administrative roles. To enhance team camaraderie, Fleming instituted a “Wildcat Winner” program at faculty meetings where teachers acknowledge each other’s hard work and dedication. He is often sought upon for his leadership expertise, and he serves on various committees that are focused on improving education. He is praised for leading by example and serving as a role model for his students, staff and community.
Kenneth Savage, James Stephens International Academy, Lee County
After serving successfully as principal at Veterans Park Academy for the Arts K-8, Kenneth Savage was appointed as a turnaround principal for James Stephens International Academy. In one year, Savage helped his school improve from an F to a B (based on 2016-17 school grades). He is commended for being a self-starter and critical thinker, and he is known as a diligent data user who always focuses on the ultimate goal – student achievement. He is a member of Principal Leads in Lee County and mentors other administrators.
Traci Wilke, Lawnwood Elementary School, St. Lucie County
With more than 20 years of experience in St. Lucie Public Schools, Traci Wilke is in her second year as Lawnwood Elementary School’s principal. Prior to joining the faculty at Lawnwood Elementary, Wilke was the principal at Samuel S. Gaines Academy where she contributed to a significant improvement in the school grade. Under Wilke’s leadership, Lawnwood Elementary’s school grade improved from a D to a C (based on 2016-17 school grades). She is known by her colleagues for going above and beyond for her school community and for her consistent track record of growth.
The three Assistant Principal of the Year finalists are:
Trisha Elliott, Crystal Lake Elementary School, Martin County
With more than 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Trisha Elliott joined Martin County School District in 2008 and held various roles before becoming the assistant principal at Crystal Lake Elementary School in 2013. Her focus on data, research, collaboration, and feedback has contributed to the upward trend in her school’s data. Last year, Crystal Lake Elementary School improved its school grade from a C to an A (based on 2016-17 school grades). Elliott believes that all students can achieve at high levels and succeed when authentic relationships are in place. She is committed to fostering relationships with and among staff members, students, families and community members.
Jackie Ramsey, Carver Middle School, Orange County
As the assistant principal for instruction at Carver Middle School, Jackie Ramsey is known as a dynamic leader who provides exceptional support and motivation to teachers at several Orange County schools. Ramsey believes that all students will learn when they receive quality instruction. At Carver Middle School, students’ reading proficiency is up by three percentage points, and the bottom quartile learning gains are up by four percentage points. Under her leadership, Carver Middle School has improved its school grade from an F to a C (based on 2016-17 school grades).
Tiffany Cantwell, The Webster School, St. Johns County
Tiffany Cantwell has served as an assistant principal within the St. Johns County School District since 2013. She was recently appointed as principal of Ocean Palms Elementary School. While serving at The Webster School, she had the opportunity to interact with a diverse student population with varying needs. Because of her dedication to student and teacher success, she was instrumental in helping Webster raise its school grade from a D to a B (based on 2016-17 school grades). Her colleagues praised her for having a can-do attitude, extraordinary organizational skills and for being a tremendous educational leader.
Candidates for these awards were nominated by the superintendent from their respective school districts. Complete lists of candidates from each district for both categories are available online: 2017-18 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership District Winners and 2017-18 Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award District Winners.
For more information about Florida’s educator recognition and recruitment programs, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit fldoe.org.
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Gov. Scott Announces $1 Million Investment to Connect Hurricane Maria Evacuees with Jobs
Also Announces FEMA Case Management Agreement and Housing Information Request
Governor Rick Scott joined a town hall in Kissimmee with Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rosselló and announced the following:
- A $1 million investment in 12 of Florida’s local workforce development boards to assist families displaced by Hurricane Maria seeking employment;
- Following Governor Scott’s request to the federal government, FEMA will now provide case management services for families displaced by Hurricane Maria now in Florida; and
- At the Governor’s direction, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) today sent letters to local housing authority officials and community leaders to identify local and federal resources so there is better coordination in the joint local, state and federal response to housing needs for Puerto Rican families in Florida. See one of the letters HERE.
Governor Scott said, “Today, I was proud to attend a town hall with Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rosselló and announce a $1 million investment for 12 of Florida’s local workforce development boards to continue to assist families displaced by Hurricane Maria seeking employment. To date, the CareerSource Florida network helped more than 7,600 Puerto Ricans find jobs in Florida and this investment will connect even more individuals with great jobs. I was also proud to announce today that following my request, FEMA has agreed to provide case management services to Puerto Rican families in Florida. These services will assist families on an individual basis with planning for their recovery needs.
“Finally, today, at my direction, DEO sent letters to local housing authority officials and community leaders to help identify resources and to help assist in coordinating a joint local, state and federal response to housing needs for families displaced by Hurricane Maria. We look forward to receiving this information and continuing this important work with our local and federal partners to find housing solutions. Florida is the most welcoming state in the nation and we will continue to do everything possible to help the Puerto Rican families recovering from Hurricane Maria in our state.”
Executive Director of DEO Cissy Proctor said, “The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and our partners continue to work diligently with communities across the state to provide assistance to displaced Puerto Rican jobseekers and families. We are currently assessing housing and employment services so that we can better meet the needs of those who came to Florida for help after the devastation of Hurricane Maria.”
CareerSource Florida President and CEO Michelle Dennard said, “The CareerSource Florida network is a resource for all Floridians seeking new or better careers, and we are here to help make those connections for Hurricane Maria survivors looking to begin new lives. Our network of dedicated workforce professionals continues to work tirelessly to assist Floridians and businesses recovering from Hurricane Irma, new arrivals fleeing the devastation of Hurricane Maria, and any individual who needs employment assistance.”
Representative Bob Cortes said, “I’d like to thank Governor Scott and our many partners across the state for their continued efforts to support Puerto Rican evacuees coming to Florida and still working to rebuild months after Hurricane Maria. I’ve seen the devastation on the island first-hand and heard directly from evacuees in communities across the state. Many of these families lost everything, and finding job opportunities is a huge step forward in rebuilding their lives. The best assistance for any family going through a tough economic time is a job for the parents. Our Florida model should serve as an example for the entire country.”
Representative Rene Plasencia said, “As fellow Americans, and now fellow Floridians, our priority is connecting displaced Puerto Ricans with every resource they need to thrive in our state. With this additional funding, CareerSource will have the capacity to help hundreds of more families. We will continue to work with Governor Scott and our federal, state and local partners to address the needs of Puerto Rican evacuees to ensure full recovery for every family.”
Representative David Santiago said, “I’m proud to join Governor Scott and leaders across the state standing united for Puerto Rico and the full recovery of its families following Hurricane Maria. With over 254,000 job openings across the state, Florida is full of opportunities for evacuees to find a job to help support their families.”
The funds, allocated by CareerSource Florida and distributed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, are designated for employment services to assist evacuees in the five counties served by CareerSource Central Florida: Orange, Osceola, Lake, Sumter and Seminole counties. CareerSource North Central Florida, CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, CareerSource Flagler Volusia, CareerSource Brevard, CareerSource Tampa Bay, CareerSource Pinellas, CareerSource Research Coast, CareerSource Palm Beach County, CareerSource Broward, CareerSource South Florida and CareerSource Southwest Florida also received funds to provide career assistance to evacuees. More than 7,600 individuals displaced by Hurricane Maria have sought services through the CareerSource Florida network’s local career centers thus far, primarily in the Orlando area, Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
The types of services for individuals displaced by Hurricane Maria that will be provided by the 12 local workforce development boards through this additional funding may include some or all of the following:
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- Individual career consulting services
- The creation of a Specialized Job Development Team
- Extended hours at our Career Services Centers
- Increase access to English for Speakers of Other Language services
- Hiring events
- Increased partnerships with community-based organizations
- Surveys to assess employment needs
- Social media and/or direct email and/or texting and/or paid outreach
Governor Scott’s announcement follows two recent roundtables to discuss Puerto Rico relief efforts held in Doral and Orlando. CareerSource Central Florida and CareerSource South Florida are providing employment services at Multi-Agency Resource Centers in the Orlando area and Miami International Airport to Puerto Rican families displaced by Hurricane Maria. Several local workforce development boards have held recruiting fairs and workshops to assist Floridians and others impacted by Irma and Maria. For additional information about employment opportunities, please visit employflorida.com, available in English and Spanish.
State Board of Education to Meet in Tallahassee
MEDIA ADVISORY
The State Board of Education will meet next week in Tallahassee.
The agenda is available at State Board Meeting.
WHAT: State Board of Education Meeting
WHEN: 9:00 am
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
WHERE: The Capitol, Room LL03
400 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, Florida
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit fldoe.org.
CFO Patronis Sponsors Resolution Recognizing Florida Thrift Week

Payday Lenders Score Swift Banking Committee Hearing On Predatory Product
Consumer, Faith and Civil Rights Groups Strongly Oppose Bad Bill
Despite strong and vocal opposition to predatory payday lending from consumer, faith, seniors, civil rights, veterans, and community organizations, Florida senators are considering allowing payday lenders to introduce a new predatory product to a state already flooded with harmful, debt trap loans.
Senate Banking and Insurance Committee has scheduled a hearing for 4 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16, the day following the MLK holiday, on SB 920, a bill that would authorize up to 208% annual interest rates for loans that are larger and have longer terms than the payday loans Florida law currently allows. Senator Anitere Flores (R-39) chairs the Committee, and the bill is co-sponsored by Senator Rob Bradley (R-5) and Senator Oscar Braynon (D-35).
The Florida AARP, UnidosUS, the 11th Episcopal District of African Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Florida, are among the many groups who oppose legalizing a product that would snare borrowers in a debt trap even deeper and more damaging than traditional payday loans.
“The payday lenders believe they can sneak this one in, but we’re not having it,” said Alice Vickers, of the Florida Alliance for Consumer Protection. “Loans that are designed to trap people in long-term debt at triple-digit interest rates are counter to what any person or group wants if they have the best interests of Floridians at heart. Payday lenders, unfortunately, are not among those groups.”
SB 920, and its companion bill HB 857, would allow payday lenders to make loans up to $1,000 with terms of 60 to 90 days. Research documents that these longer-term loans create the same cycle of repeat loans that traditional payday loans create, making borrowers worse off than when they took the first loan. Payday borrowers often experience multiple overdraft fees that end in closed bank accounts and even bankruptcy. They are often unable to keep up with other bills once caught in the costly cycle of debt.
Floridians for Responsible Lending supports a bill that would stop the cycle of harmful debt through a rate cap of 30%. Reform passed in 2001 failed to stop the cycle of debt that payday lending intentionally creates. Payday lenders obtain 75% of their revenue from customers caught in 10 loans per year. Over 83% of loans go to people with seven or more loans per year, and the payday lenders suck $311 million annually out of our state’s economy – from those who need those dollars the most.
Faith groups marched for an end to payday lending abuse last October in a prayer walk in St. Petersburg and Jacksonville.
“This is an economic assault on the poor by the payday lending industry and there is an absence of meaningful legislation protecting the most vulnerable among us. The faith community has been called to stem the tide of heartbreak, despair, and hopelessness caused by payday lending,” said Rt. Rev. Adam Jefferson Richardson, Presiding Prelate, The 11th Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Church at a prayer walk around payday loan stores this summer.
“We are faith leaders who have seen up close and personal how payday loans trap people in our congregations and communities in a cycle of never-ending debt,” said Rachel Gunter Shapard, Associate Coordinator for Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Florida.
Legal aid offices and credit unions also oppose predatory payday lending in Florida.
“Payday loans are extremely high-cost loans for which the lender holds the borrower’s bank account captive. These loans tend to trap borrowers in a never-ending cycle of debt,” said Lynn Drysdale, Division Chief, Consumer Advocacy and Litigation Unit, Jacksonville Area Legal Aid.
For more information about payday loans in Florida, click here.
Florida Workers’ Advocates Statement on Passage of Workers' Comp Bill
Mark Touby, President of Florida Workers’ Advocates, issued the following statement today:
“The Florida House has once again struck out on an important opportunity to bring meaningful rate reform and transparency to the many businesses required to pay workers’ compensation insurance in Florida. After hearing doom-and-gloom warnings from the insurance industry last year that the sky was falling and rates needed a double-digit increase, those misleading claims have now been proven to be false and we are whiplashed by a nearly double-digit decrease in rates. This rollercoaster ride of rates is indisputably bad for Florida’s businesses, and the legislation approved by the Florida House today turns the workers’ compensation grand bargain into a grand illusion.”
“This bill will ultimately hurt Florida’s businesses by delaying and denying the care their injured workers receive, while lining the pockets of the insurance industry. We will continue to advocate for policies that bring rate stability for businesses, increase transparency and competition in the ratemaking process, and enhance benefits for injured workers so they can return to productivity as quickly as possible.”
Florida Workers’ Advocates Statement on Passage of Workers’ Comp Bill
Mark Touby, President of Florida Workers’ Advocates, issued the following statement today:
“The Florida House has once again struck out on an important opportunity to bring meaningful rate reform and transparency to the many businesses required to pay workers’ compensation insurance in Florida. After hearing doom-and-gloom warnings from the insurance industry last year that the sky was falling and rates needed a double-digit increase, those misleading claims have now been proven to be false and we are whiplashed by a nearly double-digit decrease in rates. This rollercoaster ride of rates is indisputably bad for Florida’s businesses, and the legislation approved by the Florida House today turns the workers’ compensation grand bargain into a grand illusion.”
“This bill will ultimately hurt Florida’s businesses by delaying and denying the care their injured workers receive, while lining the pockets of the insurance industry. We will continue to advocate for policies that bring rate stability for businesses, increase transparency and competition in the ratemaking process, and enhance benefits for injured workers so they can return to productivity as quickly as possible.”
Florida Leaders Applaud Governor Scott’s Fight to Protect Florida’s Coastline
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING
This week, following Governor Rick Scott’s meeting with United States Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke, the Department of the Interior announced that Florida’s coastline has been removed from consideration for future oil drilling. Last week, Governor Scott requested to immediately meet with Secretary Zinke to discuss his concerns with the federal oil drilling plan and the crucial need to remove Florida from consideration. Here’s what Florida leaders are saying:
Mayor of Tampa Bob Buckhorn said, “Protecting Florida’s world class beaches that help bring in millions of visitors every year is not a partisan issue. It is an issue that touches every Floridian in a uniquely personal way. I am proud to join Governor Scott and all of our elected officials who joined hands to ensure our states shoreline remains pristine and our natural environment protected.”
Mayor of Jacksonville Lenny Curry said, “I am grateful to Governor Scott for his work with federal officials to protect Florida’s beaches and natural treasures. One need only study the economic impact of our beaches and coastal communities to understand that we cannot afford to change this policy at this time.”
Mayor of Pensacola Ashton Hayward said, “Thank you to Governor Scott and the Department of the Interior for opposing oil drilling in Florida. Tourism is a driving factor for our local economy and provides hundreds of jobs to our families- this news ensures our continued economic growth and success.”
Congressman Bill Posey said, “The Trump Administration made the right call in protecting and preserving Florida’s coastline and beaches. Central Florida is home to some of the world’s greatest environmental treasures, from our beaches to the Indian River Lagoon, and so much of our economy, wildlife and livelihoods depend on our ability to maintain the natural beauty of our communities. I commend President Trump, Secretary Zinke, Governor Scott and all our state’s leaders for their efforts to ensure that all of Florida’s natural resources are protected and preserved,” said Congressman Bill Posey, lead sponsor of legislation to place a moratorium on seismic testing off of Florida’s shoreline.”
Congressman Dennis A. Ross said, “Governor Scott has taken an important step in protecting Florida’s vital tourism industry and our natural resources. I’m thankful for his constructive efforts with the administration.”
Congressman Daniel Webster said, “I thank Secretary Zinke for hearing and responding to the calls by Governor Scott and the Florida congressional delegation to protect Florida’s coast from offshore drilling. His decision to remove Florida from consideration is a positive step in the right direction. I look forward to continuing to work with the administration, Governor Scott and my colleagues in Florida Delegation to extend the Eastern Gulf of Mexico moratorium and protect Florida’s unique ecosystem.”
Congressman Ted S. Yoho said, “I applaud the decision of Secretary Ryan Zinke and President Trump to exempt the state of Florida from the expansion of any offshore drilling of oil and natural gas. Florida’s economy relies heavily on the health of the waters off our beautiful coast. I stand with Governor Rick Scott and the Florida delegation, in his efforts to keep them pristine for future generations.”
Mayor of Bonita Springs Peter Simmons said, “I applaud Governor Scott for opposing drilling along our beaches and fighting for environmental preservation across the state of Florida. Bonita Springs prides itself on our beautiful shorelines that we work to protect every day.”
Mayor of Clearwater George Cretekos said, “From the time I was a member of Congressman Bill Young’s staff, I recognized that Pinellas County residents have opposed offshore oil drilling, and families, businesses, and visitors to the sugar-sand beaches of Clearwater appreciate the efforts of Governor Scott to protect our shorelines from that environmental threat.”
Mayor of Key West Craig Cates said, “After the oil spill in 2010, we all know what damage offshore drilling can cause to our beautiful coast. Governor Scott and Florida leaders sent a clear message that we do not support offshore drilling. Thank you, Governor, for your leadership.”
Mayor of Mexico Beach City of Mexico Beach Mayor Al Cathey said, “After the oil spill in 2010, we all know what damage offshore drilling can cause to our beautiful coast. Governor Scott and Florida leaders sent a clear message that we do not support offshore drilling. Thank you, Governor, for your leadership.”
Mayor of Naples Bill Barnett said, “I want to thank Governor Scott for aggressively fighting to protect our world-class beaches by meeting with Secretary Zinke and securing Florida’s removal from consideration for future oil drilling. This decision will help protect the millions of families and businesses that depend on visitors from across the globe continuing to come to Florida.”
Mayor of New Port Richey Rob Marlowe said, “I am proud that the concerns of our state were heard and that through Governor Scott’s leadership, Florida has been removed from consideration for future offshore oil drilling. Florida’s incredible natural treasures and tourism industry are entirely unique, and I am glad that they will remain protected thanks to this announcement.”
Mayor of Panama City Greg Brudnicki said, “This announcement comes with a great relief to the families and businesses of our community. I’m grateful for the Governor’s actions to defend our coastlines and protect our environment.”
Mayor of Panama City Beach Mike Thomas said, “The impacts of oil drilling could have devastated the millions of Floridians who depend on the success of our tourism industry. Thank you to Governor Scott, Secretary Zinke and leaders across the state who fought to remove Florida from consideration of possible drilling sites.”
Mayor of Palm Coast Milissa Holland said, “Governor Scott ensured the protection of Florida’s most valuable natural resources by taking Florida out of consideration for offshore drilling projects. I want to thank Governor Scott for his steadfast leadership and commitment to the preservation of our environment.”
Mayor of the City of Sarasota Shelli Freeland Eddie said, “Drilling off the coast of Florida could have a significant impact on our economy. Thank you, Governor Scott, for your swift action to protect our beautiful coasts.”
Mayor of St. Augustine Nancy Shaver said, “I applaud Governor Scott for working with the Secretary Zinke to exclude Florida from the offshore drilling project. Our gorgeous beaches are what draws millions of tourists to our state every year and we cannot afford to let them be harmed by offshore drilling.”
Ed Kelley, Volusia County Commission Chair said, “Each year, millions of visitors flock to our state and our community to enjoy our one-of-a-kind natural treasures, including our world-class beaches and unmatched coastline. The commitment of no offshore oil drilling is a major victory for our state and our families and I am grateful to Governor Scott for his leadership on this critical issue.”
Esteban L. Bovo, Jr., Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners Chairman, said, “Our beautiful beaches help bring millions of visitors from all over the world to Miami-Dade County each year, supporting our local economy and providing new opportunities for our residents and their families. We are thankful to Governor Scott for ensuring the risk of offshore oil drilling will not be a concern for Floridians throughout our great State.”
Jimmy Johns, St. Johns County Commissioner District 1, said, “Our elected officials on all levels took a stand against offshore drilling. I could not be more proud of Governor Scott’s efforts to protect our most valuable natural resources. We will continue to work with local, state and federal partners to ensure that Florida’s beaches remain untouched.”
Miami woman wins $1 million prize playing $10,000,000 WORLD CLASS CASH Scratch-Off game
The Florida Lottery announces that Anabel Porras Crespo, 48, of Miami, claimed a $1 million prize in the $10,000,000 WORLD CLASS CASH Scratch-Off game at Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. She chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $748,000.00.
Porras Crespo purchased her winning ticket from Publix Sabor, located at 121 Southwest 22ndAvenue in Miami. The retailer will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning Scratch-Off ticket.
The $25 game, $10,000,000 WORLD CLASS CASH, features more than $549 million in total cash prizes, including two top prizes of $10 million and 46 prizes of $1 million! Overall odds of winning are one-in-2.89.
Scratch-Off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 68 percent of ticket sales and generating more than $784 million for the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF) in fiscal year 2016-17.
PSC Observes Dr. King Holiday as a National Day of Utility Service
In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is joining Commissions across the country to encourage a “Day of Utility Service” on Monday, January 15. The initiative is part of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners’ (NARUC) “Anybody Can Serve, So Let’s Conserve” campaign to highlight Dr. King’s public service legacy.
“In observing Dr. King’s birthday, consumers can honor his legacy in their communities by helping others to conserve energy and lower utility bills,” said PSC Chairman Art Graham. “We encourage Florida residents to turn down their thermostats, install LEDs, and weatherize their homes, and to inspire their neighbors to do the same, following Dr. King’s legacy of service to others.”
Efficiency, demand response, conservation, and affordability are practices that NARUC has emphasized repeatedly as it continues to advance the spirit of its 2008 resolution designating MLK Day as a Day of Utility Service.
About NARUC
NARUC is a non-profit organization founded in 1889 whose members include the governmental agencies that are engaged in the regulation of utilities and carriers in the fifty States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. NARUC’s member agencies regulate telecommunications, energy, and water utilities. NARUC represents the interests of State public utility commissions before the three branches of the Federal government.