CLEARWATER, Fla. — The Teacher of the Year title doesn't even begin to describe this week's A+ Teacher and all the hard work she puts in.
Sarah Painter, a 5th grade teacher at Eisenhower Elementary in Clearwater, said the work is all worth it just to give her kids the brightest future possible.
This school year has presented challenges many never imagined but she helped her kids persevere and find joy in every moment.
What You Need To Know
- Sarah Painter is this week's Teacher of the Year
- Painter is a 5th grade teacher at Eisenhower Elementary in Clearwater
- Painter also is a finalists for Teacher of the Year
- Want to nominate an A+ Teacher? Click here for more, and to view previous stories
And Painter has been recognized among the five finalists for Teacher of the Year for the State of Florida. That came after she was honored as the Pinellas County Schools Teacher of the Year.
The award winner will be named this summer.
“I feel like I was made to do this,” Painter said of the recognition. “I love connecting. I love families.”
The state’s education chief recognized her as well.
“We know in Pinellas County we have so many good teachers, but I also want to say to Mrs. Painter that she is an exceptional,” said Florida Department of Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran. “Not only teacher, but human being.”
Painter said she feels a calling to serve others.