Western High School Assistant Principal Derek Gordon Named Assistant Principal of the Year

Derek Gordon Named Assistant Principal of the Year

By Terry Jaillet

Western High School Assistant Principal Derek Gordon was named Assistant Principal of the year by Broward County Public Schools (BCPS). He joined Principal of the Year, Heilange Porcena from North Side Elementary School, Assistant Principal of the Year, Eagle Ridge Elementary School Teacher Seema Naik and SchoolRelated Employee of the Year, Kimberly Kummler from Manatee Elementary School in receiving honors at BCPS’s annual Caliber Awards.

Each Year, BCPS recognizes the very best teachers, administrators, and employees at its Caliber Awards. The school district is the largest employer in the county, employing more than 34,000 people, making the recognition truly an honor. Derek Gordon, Assistant Principal of the Year

Assistant Principal of the year, Derek Gordon is one of only two assistant principals in BCPS who started his career as a visual arts teacher. A strong believer in personalizing the learning experience, Gordon’s educational philosophy includes a partnership with his students. Overseeing the Exceptional Student Education Department at Western High School, he ensures that his most vulnerable students are learning and succeeding. “The next generation needs to have the ability to adapt to new situations and master new tools and technologies quickly.” Seema Naik, Teacher of the Year

Teacher of the year, Seema Naik started her career in education 16 years ago – first as a volunteer so she could be involved in her daughters’ education. She then applied to become a cafeteria aide and teacher assistant before becoming a primary grade teacher.

“Anyone can take money from your hands, but not your education.” These powerful words spoken by Naik’s parents many years ago shaped her philosophy on education. Naik believes all children have the right to quality education to empower them with critical thinking skills, collaboration strategies and self-confidencw to reach their goals. “The next generation requires teachers to foster a desire for lifelong learning because of the current technology-dominated era,” said Naik. As part of a family of musicianyous from India, Naik uses her passion for music to enhance her instruction to create songs and chants with lyrics that incorporate lesson content for her students.

“In my experience as a school leader, there are only a few teachers I would consider to be a pioneer. It is clear-cut in my mind that Mrs. Naik is a STEM pioneer in the education world,” said Eagle Ridge Elementary Principal Lindsey Sierra. “She has led Eagle Ridge in creating new STEM opportunities for our students.” Heilange Porcena, Principal of the Year

Heilange, a 26-year veteran at BCPS, commented, “We have the power to change a life.” Born in Haiti, Porcena migrated to the United States at the age of six, unable to speak English. This did not deter her from fulfilling her dreams and aspirations. Through her leadership in education, Porcena enjoys the privilege of being able to give back to her community and show that dreams do become reality.

“Ms. Porcena passionately pursues excellence to ensure the academic and social emotional needs for each one of her scholars,” said her director Jacquelyn Haywood. “She inspires her staff, serves as a mentor, and encourages teachers and students to become leaders.” Kimberly Kummler, School-Related Employee of the Year

“Children are like snowflakes, each one unique in their own way of learning,” said Kimberly Kummler, school nurse at Manatee Bay Elementary School for the last four years. Kummler embraces uniqueness and focuses on their individual strengths when educating the next generation. Knowing the importance of mental health in the growth and development of students, she is humbled to work with students to provide the best learning opportunity for each student.

“Nurse Kim quickly earned a reputation of being extremely flexible, caring and fun, but also very thorough,” said Manatee Bay Elementary Principal Heather Hedman-DeVaughn. “When COVID-19 presented itself, she rose to a new level of support and was extremely knowledgeable.” ▸ The Broward County Schools Caliber Awards are presented annually to employees who represent the very best of the teaching profession.

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