Kanagy Named as District Management Employee of the Year

Catherine Kanagy, Program Specialist with the Exceptional Education Department, has been recognized as the District Management Employee of the Year for the Monroe County School District.  Kanagy demonstrates an outstanding dedication to ensuring that students with exceptionalities get the services and support they need to be successful. 

“Catherine Kanagy is the woman who always helps with anything and everything to do with ESE,” stated Axford.   “Her ability to multitask is legendary. On top of this, she shows genuine care and concern for students and staff. I am so pleased she is being recognized this year. She truly deserves it.”For almost thirty years, she has developed a rapport with teachers across the district and is known for her vast knowledge along with a hands-on approach to building a strong parent-student-teacher connection.  Congratulations to Ms. Kanagy!

Hillman is School Counselor of the Year

Hillman, from Plantation Key School, was nominated for her positive attitude, strong relationships and the many activities she oversees to ensure students are supported for success.   Her days include morning greetings, small and large group counseling, and meeting individual student needs.  She facilitates teacher/parent meetings where her expertise is valued because she builds relationships with all of the families she supports.   

The Panther Community benefits from the amazing activities she plans for Kindness Week, Start with Hello Week and Career Week, as well as the extra hours she puts in at holiday times to bring holiday cheer to families.  The staff also benefits from her can-do mindset as she assists with the attendance committee and the Multi-Tier Support System. 

Krista is a shining light at PKS and we congratulate her on her well-deserved honor.

Dawn Cooper is the IT Technician at Plantation Key School.  When Dawn’s not assisting staff, students or administration and is ready to take some downtime she says her top 5 favorite things are: spending time with her grandchildren, helping others and giving back to the community. Bravo!  Her hobbies include creating new and unique items with her daughter for their small business, walking, boating, cooking and fishing with her husband James.  She loves having a great time laughing and relaxing with friends.  How about her favorite food?  It’s a tie!  Soup or mashed potatoes with gravy. Lastly, we asked Dawn what she likes about working for MCSD and she told us, “Having the pleasure of seeing, playing with and hopefully making a difference in our students’ lives.”

Congratulations to Stephanie Horvat, a paraprofessional at Marathon Middle/High School, who was named the MCSD School Related Personnel of the Year in the Teacher Support category. Her fellow paras gave her lots of cheers when the announcement was made.

Congratulations to Eddie Diaz who was selected as the MCSD School Related Personnel of the Year for the Maintenance Department! Executive Director of Operation Pat Lefere, Janene Sawyer and Mike Skrodinsky were on hand for the announcement.