Today was a big day at FSPA.
I taught a session this morning about “Parkland Speaks.” I didn’t really have a plan as to what I wanted to talk about. I just knew that I wanted to be honest and speak from the heart. The session was packed, the questions were good. Unfortunately, the publicist wasn’t able to have someone on site to sell the books, but I hope that I’ve inspired the students to get a copy of their own. One of the students in the session said that she read the book; she saw it in her sister’s room, and snuck in to borrow the book.
After my session, I walked past my publisher’s table on the way to the adviser luncheon. I not only spotted by BFF, Mike Taylor, but I also spotted my book with a cool wrap around it.
At the lunch, I received a Gold Key for being an adviser for 10 years. Truth be told, I think it’s really been 12 years, but I haven’t been to FSPA since 2015.
I was also recognized for being named District 7 Teacher of the Year. I’m the director of D7, which includes Broward, Palm Beach and Martin counties. I was named D7 TOY in November, and was a finalist for the 2019 FSPA Teacher of the Year. While I didn’t win, which is totally ok. I’ve had quite a year and have won some amazing things. Forgive me for sounding cheesy, but it really was an honor to be nominated.
This evening was the award banquet. We received All-Florida for the 2018 yearbook, “As One.”
This was the first time I’ve ever come to FSPA without students. I was able to teach and work as an Executive Board Member. I was also able to relax and take some much needed down time. This trip has allowed me to recharge, which I desperately needed.