Davenport and Mulberry High School media specialists honored for library excellence

Polk County Public Schools celebrated excellence in education at the recent School Board Meeting on April 22, 2025, highlighting the achievements of dedicated library media specialists and innovative teacher leaders.

Stacy Davis, director of library media services, opened the meeting by honoring two exceptional media specialists, Connie Hoffman from Davenport High School and Nikki Slingard from Mulberry High School. Both educators received the prestigious Florida Power Library Schools Award, a recognition that underscores their commitment to fostering literacy and creating welcoming spaces for students. The award process is rigorous, requiring a two-year evaluation that includes surveys, portfolio submissions, and interviews with state supervisors. Hoffman and Slingard will hold this designation from 2024 to 2029, with the opportunity for renewal.

Following this recognition, Carolyn Giro, Director of Recruitment and Teacher Engagement, introduced graduates from the "Leading from the Classroom" program. This initiative empowers teacher leaders to tackle campus challenges through strategic problem-solving. Giro expressed excitement about the impact these educators will have on their schools, as they implement action plans developed during the program. A total of 12 teachers were recognized for their contributions, with a call for applause to celebrate their hard work and dedication.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing student outcomes through innovative leadership and a strong focus on literacy, setting a positive tone for future educational initiatives.