The finalists are:
Elisa Concepcion, ESE Secretary
Pines Lakes Elementary
Although Elisa Concepcion’s position at Pines Lakes Elementary is that of ESE Secretary, her influence can be felt far beyond that role. She consistently supports the school goals and initiatives, and is a very active member of the school’s PTA. She acts as the school bus liaison, supervising and organizing arrival and dismissal for many county and private buses daily. In this capacity, she also deals with student, parent and community members regarding concerns and scheduling. Elisa is also called upon daily for translating services in classrooms, meetings and the office.

During Concepcion’s years with Broward County Public Schools, she has contributed countless hours as a volunteer. Even though her children have graduated, she continues to tirelessly donate hours to the PTA. She has served as Hispanic Outreach Liaison, Fundraising Chair, Second Vice-President and helps at evening functions, Saturday carnivals and bike rodeos. Elisa is an asset to the staff, students and community of Pines Lakes Elementary.

Christopher Gates, Community Liaison
Arthur Ashe Middle
As the Community Liaison for Arthur Ashe Middle, Christopher Gates’ personal goal is to make sure students have the necessary tools to succeed in school, their classroom and in the community. In order to do this, Gates believes emphasis should be placed on creative thinking to solve real world problems. Through his job, he has built greater parental involvement to improve student achievement and promote societal values. He has taken the lead role in learning about and incorporating many of the District’s technology initiatives at the school and has also used marketing, advertising and promotion to help save the school money and generate funds for school-based activities, such as a parent newsletter and DVD and print yearbooks.

“To make a list of Chris’ responsibilities and tasks he has undertaken at Arthur Ashe would take forever; however, if it happens at school, Chris can do it,” said Principal Andrew Luciani. “Everything from assisting teachers to planning full community events is done in excellent fashion. He is one of those people who has the ability to make everyone who comes into contact with him a better person.”

Sean Russell, Micro-Tech Computer Specialist
Silver Ridge Elementary
Starting out as a substitute teacher, Sean Russell made such an impression at Silver Ridge Elementary that he became a full-time employee at the school. He went from being a teacher’s assistant for physical education, to teaching the first technology special class as a teacher’s assistant under the Media Specialist. From there, he jumped into the position of Micro-Tech Computer Specialist. In that role, he is responsible for facilitating all aspects of technology for the schools’ faculty, students and members of the community.

In addition to his regular duties, Sean established the school’s Technology Club and serves as the school’s Technology Liaison Contact. As if that isn’t enough, he also serves as one of the supervisors of the aftercare program and has managed to obtain his Bachelor’s degree by attending college in the evening. He is an individual that goes above and beyond and demonstrates every characteristic of excellence.

Jannette Thompson-Irwin, Confidential Office Manager
Pompano Beach Middle
As office manager, Jannette Thompson-Irwin works with eleven office support personnel members, schedules meetings, implements action plans, handles the payroll, and trains her department on effective work practices, organization and hospitality to the school community - but her job doesn’t stop there.

She believes that students come first and spends her lunch hour tutoring several students in reading. She also monitors visitors on campus to help ensure the safety of the school. Thompson-Irwin is a nurse when students need their medicine or band-aid and is a counselor when they need a listening ear. She also regularly communicates with the PTSA and serves on the School Advisory Council. Recognizing that the employees of the school also have needs, she assists them by reminding them of upcoming testing dates and classes they need to take for certification. Thompson-Irwin extends herself to the school community with a warmth and compassion that is noticed by everyone.

Brigitte Ziegler, BRACE Advisor
McFatter Technical High
Brigitte Ziegler is the BRACE Advisor (Broward Advisors for Continuing Education) at McFatter Technical High School. In that role, she deals effectively and successfully with students planning their post-secondary education. She also provides timely guidance and direction related to the application process for scholarship awards.

In addition to her duties as BRACE advisor, Ziegler serves the students and staff as the Textbook Coordinator, Human Relations Council Advisor and Women of Tomorrow School Coordinator. She is an active Junior Experience Committee member and voluntarily serves as an expert in the area of horticulture and landscaping for the school. With these added responsibilities, Ziegler enhances student learning by focusing on positive values and community. She has the ability to deal with diverse groups of people and the initiative needed to expand and improve any project she is confronted with. She is energetic, enthusiastic and always rises to any occasion that presents itself.