Broward Education Foundation Hosted Annual Hootenanny to Celebrate Innovative Educators

Broward Education Foundation rolled out the hay bales and hospitality at its annual Hootenanny, presented by the Broward Teachers Union to honor more than 250 Broward County Public Schools teachers recognized for their exceptional creativity and innovation in the classroom.

Coco Burns, program director, Broward Education Foundation;  James A. Knapp, president & CEO, Broward Education Foundation; Anna Fusco, president Broward Teachers Union and Lilliana Ruido, Secretary Broward Teachers Union

Dustin Jacobs, Board Chair, Broward Education Foundation and James A. Knapp, president & CEO, Broward Education Foundation

Held on April 3, 2025, at Marando Farms & Ranch in Davie, the western-themed celebration brought together educators, administrators, and community supporters for an evening of live entertainment, line dancing, an authentic cookout, interactive games, and a lively raffle.

Debbi Hixon, Chair, Broward County School Board

Michael Cardona, Gregory Cassamajor, Sara Mayorand, and Dustin Jacobs, Board Chair, Broward Education Foundation

The “invitation-only” event celebrated educators who developed and implemented inspiring curriculum that energized students and elevated academic achievement. Each honoree received a monetary classroom grant through Broward Education Foundation to continue their impactful work and help fellow teachers replicate their successful programs.

Dr. Lisa V. Milenkovic, STEM Curriculum Supervisor, Broward County Public Schools and Tara Dukanauskas

Dr. Shashu Taylor and Joanna Flaster

Monique Andrews, Te'anka Pinder, Julia Burger, Lesia DeFelice, Bernard Golden

“These dedicated educators go above and beyond every day to make learning engaging and meaningful,” said James A. Knapp, president and CEO of Broward Education Foundation. “The Hootenanny is our way of celebrating their passion, creativity, and the real difference they’re making in the lives of their students.”

Principal Janet Williams and Massia Bailey

Sophia Smart and Principal Teanka Pinder

The evening not only saluted these outstanding professionals but also spotlighted the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and excellence across Broward’s public schools.

Paula Fijalkowski, Maritza Suarez and Allison Unger-Fink

 

Broward Education Foundation staff and board members

By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Downtown Photography