The Westside Gazette

Broward Education Foundation Hosts Annual Hootenanny to Celebrate Innovative Educators

Event Supports Broward County Public Schools’ Most Creative and Impactful Teachers

Coco Burns, program director, Broward Education Foundation; James A. Knapp, president & CEO, Broward Education Foundation; Anna Fusco, president Broward Teachers Union and Lilliana Ruido, Secretary Broward Teachers Union (Photo credit: Downtown Photography)

 

Debbi Hixon, Chair, Broward County School Board

      Broward Education Foundation rolled out the hay bales and hospitality at its annual Hootenanny, presented by the Broward Teachers Union to honor more than 250 Broward County Public Schools teachers recognized for their exceptional creativity and innovation in the classroom.

 

Michael Cardona, Gregory Cassamajor, Sara Mayorand, and Dustin Jacobs, Board Chair, Broward Education Foundation
Dr. Lisa V. Milenkovic, STEM Curriculum Supervisor, Broward County Public Schools and Tara Dukanauskas

Held on April 3, 2025, at Marando Farms & Ranch in Davie, the western-themed celebration brought together educators, administrators, and community supporters for an evening of live entertainment, line dancing, an authentic cookout, interactive games, and a lively raffle.

Dr. Shashu Taylor and Joanna Flaster
Monique Andrews, Te’anka Pinder, Julia Burger, Lesia DeFelice, Bernard Golden

The “invitation-only” event celebrated educators who developed and implemented inspiring curriculum that energized students and elevated academic achievement. Each honoree received a monetary classroom grant through Broward Education Foundation to continue their impactful work and help fellow teachers replicate their successful programs.

 

Principal Janet Williams and Massia Bailey

 

9. Sophia Smart and Principal Teanka Pinder
Paula Fijalkowski, Maritza Suarez and Allison Unger-Fink

“These dedicated educators go above and beyond every day to make learning engaging and meaningful,” said James A. Knapp, president and CEO of Broward Education Foundation. “The Hootenanny is our way of celebrating their passion, creativity, and the real difference they’re making in the lives of their students.”

 

Broward Education Foundation staff and board members

 

Dustin Jacobs, Board Chair, Broward Education Foundation and James A. Knapp, president & CEO, Broward Education Foundation

The evening not only saluted these outstanding professionals but also spotlighted the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and excellence across Broward’s public schools.

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