KWHS boasts superb staff

KWHS boasts superb staff

BY LOLA FETTIS AND ELISABETH WELSH

KONK LIFE STUDENT WRITERS

This year, Key West High School (KWHS) holds the high honor of having not only the Teacher of the Year, but also the Principal of the Year for Monroe County.

“To see the school and the staff earn recognition is better than any recognition I would get,” says Principal Amber Acevedo.

Acevedo believes that it was not just her alone who deserved such an honorary title. “Some of the staff members said that I bring people together to work as a team, that we as a school have high standards and are doing excellent work, so as the leader, that’s one of the reasons I was selected, but it truly is a team effort. I think my recognition is the school’s recognition.”

To be recognized, Acevedo had to fight through the challenges of running a school, and she recognizes what she thinks makes her job special and important. “Challenges are ways of trying to help students to be their best, and meet their different needs, and doing the same thing for the staff. Bringing everyone together to work on a common goal is a challenge, but also part of the best part of the job.”

Other pivotal staff at KWHS were also recognized, such as biology teacher Jessica Wood who was named Monroe County Teacher of the Year.

Wood explains what influenced her to become a teacher, “I gave up swimming with the dolphins because I like to help people and love my topic. I get to continue my love for learning while spreading my love for science. As a biologist for the majority of my professional career, I had a steep learning curve when I moved to the classroom.  I began to explore teaching as a career after doing seminars and park activities while employed at the park service. Teaching to those who want to learn about a topic, however, is different than speaking to a mixed group of teenagers. I had to make the content engaging and applicable to real life.”

As she reflects on the honor of being named the district’s Teacher of the Year, Wood notes how this is a lifetime achievement, “especially as a five-year-only teacher.” She explains that “being awarded district Teacher of the Year was a validation from my colleagues and students for all the effort I put into my job.”

Both Acevedo and Wood have used their past experiences and ability to facilitate teamwork to achieve their goals. Acevedo says, “When I came here, I was an elementary principal, so there were a lot of new things to learn as a high school principal. I think I have grown, especially with the help of the staff around me.”

Also recognized were KWHS Inclusion Teacher of the Year Mary Swan and KWHS Beginning Teacher of the Year Justin Martin. Both were selected by their peers for excelling in their respective areas.

Photo provided

L-R: Monroe County Principal of the Year Amber Acevedo celebrates with district Teacher of the Year Jessica Wood, KWHS Beginning Teacher of Year Justin Martin, and KWHS Inclusion Teacher of the Year Mary Swan at a banquet held in their honor.

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