2010 TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Tony Dutra
Hallandale Adult Community Center
Tony Dutra, a reading teacher at Hallandale Adult Community Center, says his teaching philosophy is inspired by the words of Mahatma Gandi, “We must be the change we wish to see in the world.” The goal of this 11-year teacher is to be the consummate 21st Century teacher for his students. After earning his a Bachelor’s Degree in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) from Florida Atlantic University (FAU), he went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, again from FAU.
Dutra has successfully merged his passion for both ESE and technology to benefit not only his students, but others across the District. As a former ESE student himself, Dutra knows how painful it can feel to be “pulled out of class” for special help. He designed and developed a project, in collaboration with Educational Technology Services, which enables ESE and ELL (English Language Learner) students to see and hear text simultaneously, through the use of a portable media player. Gifted students load software and course content on the media players, training the ESE and ELL students how to use the players and serve as mentors. The project creates a “portable classroom” for the students. By the end of the initial testing period, reading proficiency among the ESE students improved by 30 words per minute. Dutra has presented the project at various conferences and was awarded the Microsoft U.S. Innovative Teacher of the Year Award.
Dutra is known for his ability to foster a “can-do” attitude in his students and co-workers. He always goes above and beyond and thrives on learning, teaching and bettering the lives of his students.
2010 TEACHER OF THE YEAR FINALIST 
