National spotlight lands on Okaloosa County for exceptional teaching and student growth
Okaloosa County, Florida – After being chosen among this year’s National 180 Award winners—an distinction reserved for individuals who have shown remarkable progress in literacy and academic achievement—two middle school teachers and one Okaloosa County student have received national attention.
The award shines a spotlight on Donna Born of Pryor Middle School and Tracy Lott of Shoal River Middle School, both chosen for the 180 Educator Award. District officials claim that the award emphasizes their ongoing work to help students to break through learning obstacles and attain new academic heights. With a love for building educational settings where growth and transformation can thrive, both teachers are said to be extremely dedicated to the progress of their students.
Joining them in the limelight is Shoal River Middle School student John Matthew Gumayao, who earned the 180 Student Award for his remarkable literacy skill development. According to school officials, John Matthew’s path has been one of perseverance and determination, finally resulting in notable changes that inspire his colleagues.
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Presented every year by learning technology company HMH, the National 180 Awards reward outstanding students and teachers from across the United States. Celebrating exceptional outcomes obtained via HMH’s Read 180® and Math 180® intervention programs, which are meant to assist struggling readers and math students, the awards are now in their ninth year. Recipients are chosen from a competitive pool of hundreds of nominations submitted nationwide.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers said he was proud of the accomplishments and pointed out how the awards show the dedication of the district to creative education and student progress.
“These recognitions reflect the hard work, dedication, and passion that defines Okaloosa County educators and students,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Born, Mrs. Lott, and John Matthew for this outstanding accomplishment. Their success highlights the effectiveness of innovative teaching and the potential of every student to thrive academically.”
Elease McDonald, who serves as Curriculum Specialist for the district, emphasized the rarity and significance of the dual teacher recognition.
“It’s remarkable and unprecedented to have two educators from one school district receive this recognition. Mrs. Born and Mrs. Lott consistently excel in nurturing and enriching our most vulnerable students, helping them realize their potential. I’m also immensely proud of our student winning an award; his teacher, Mrs. Chord, is truly exceptional,” McDonald said.
The awards and recognition for Okaloosa County go beyond just plaques or certificates; they reflect the changing influence of committed teachers and the limitless opportunities available to students ready to embrace the challenge of development. The district is honoring these successes as evidence that every student may succeed with the appropriate support and motivation.
