The School District of Manatee County has announced the winners of the 2018 Excellence in Education Awards. Heather Anderson, language arts teacher with King Middle School, has been named Educator of the Year, and Marie Mueller, lab manager/tech support for Oneco Elementary, has been named Support Employee of the Year. Both winners received a $5,000 cash prize provided by Suncoast Credit Union; an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Pittsburgh for a Pirates game, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pirates; a gift card from The Mall at University Town Center; a custom-engraved ring designed by Jostens and Rhodes Graduation Services; and more.

Runners-up received $500 cash award from the Manatee Education Foundation. Educator of the Year finalists include: Richard Daenell, Business Education Teacher at Lee Middle; Carrie Ling, 4th Grade Teacher at Braden River Elementary; and Mallorie Ray, 5th Grade Teacher at Mills Elementary. Support Employee of the Year finalists include:  Colette Matthews, Junior Accountant, Food & Nutrition Services; Pam Miller, Office Manager, Construction Services; and Aaron Weicht, Student Support Specialist, Palmetto Elementary.

School District of Manatee County