I Make a Difference
Teachers of Excellence
Award Winners

In an effort to increase awareness of exemplary teaching in K-12 education, increase teacher awareness of community support and appreciation for area teachers, and improve student perception of the teaching profession as an important career option, the Education Foundation of Martin County has proudly partnered with The Palm Beach Post, The Mary and Robert Pew Public Education Fund, Wachovia, WPBT Channel 2, and the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County for the I Make a Difference Teachers of Excellence award program.

All public school teachers grades K-12 in Palm Beach or Martin counties are eligible. Each school may nominate one teacher. Winners are selected based on their attitude and exceptional performance reflecting a dedication to the profession, their commitment to instilling a sense of pride and self-worth while providing active involvement in the learning process, their selection and design of high-interest educational activities beyond the basic curriculum, and their commitment to consistently and voluntarily give of themselves and their time beyond school hours and contractual requirements.

Four of this year's eighteen winners were chosen from the Martin County School District:

· Walter Younglove, television production teacher at Martin County High School

· Tammy Nolan, guidance counselor at J.D. Parker Elementary School

· Kenneth Rickson, guidance counselor at Hobe Sound Elementary School

· Sarah Brouillet, 4th grade teacher at Pinewood Elementary School

Each winner was recognized on September 23, at the I Make a Difference Teachers of Excellence awards reception at Double Tree Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens. Each of the winners received a special memento, a $500 cash award, and a $500 classroom grant. The classroom grant for each of the Martin County winners was sponsored by the Education Foundation of Martin County and underwritten by Paul Jacquin & Sons, Inc.