A Great Big Mahalo to Broward Teachers

SCHOOL NEWS A Great Big Mahalo to Broward Teachers

By Beverly Perkins

Since this past school year was not exactly “another day in paradise”, the Broward Education Foundation (BEF) wanted their annual signature-themed event to be just that. They pulled out all the stops along with BrightStar Credit Union to show their gratitude to all the teachers, faculty, and staff who went above and beyond with all the challenges they faced teaching while navigating the pandemic.

BrightStar Credit Union’s “Escape to Tropical Paradise” benefited the BEF as they hosted the grand evening at the Harbor Beach Marriott in Fort Lauderdale. Embracing the theme, guests donned their best resort wear and enjoyed a sunset reception that featured fire and hula dancers, live island music, tropical flora, and cuisine with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop.

“A heartfelt ‘mahalo’ to our loyal corporate partners, business leaders, and community donors who continue to support the vital role that we play in shaping the future of our students,” said Shea Ciriago, CEO of Broward Education Foundation.

Many teachers could not wait to ‘escape’ and celebrate the end of an extremely difficult year including Central Park Elementary teacher Monika Moorman. The 23-year veteran educator was recently named the district’s “Teacher of the Year” at the annual Caliber Awards ceremony.

“I am full of gratitude to Broward Education Foundation as it has provided generous funds for at least four adapter grants for my students in the last few years. As a result, I was able to bring exciting, authentic, and hands-on learning experiences to my students that I continue to duplicate each year. These included robots to incorporate computer science in all areas of the curriculum, current children’s literature, equipment to improve the virtual learning experience, and gardening supplies. BEF’s adapter grants are gifts that keep on giving,” exclaimed Moorman.

Lured by the “call of the conch,” guests enjoyed tropical themed photo stations throughout the spacious ballroom which included larger than life Tiki statues and surfboards, all to raise awareness of and funds for the only 501(c)3 organization solely dedicated to helping students and teachers in Broward County Public Schools.

“I cannot thank enough the generous donors who continue to support Broward Education Foundation during such events as the BEF’s Escape to Tropical Paradise for making it all possible,” added Moorman.

Central Park Elementary Teacher of the Year Monika Moorman and her husband Robert

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