Jeff Dutrow, November Teacher of the Month for Wakulla County has dedicated more than 14 years to teaching, either in a public school or at FSU. Dutrow exemplifies science as a teacher.  He shared, “To learn, students must negotiate the meaning of concepts by participating in authentic and engaging opportunities relevant to their lives.”  He not only teaches science to students, he teaches science to teachers, he facilitates the school science fair and has been the program coordinator for the FSU Marine Lab for twelve years.  Mr. Dutrow pays attention to his students and follows through.  That effort has made a positive difference in their lives.

Dutrow grew up in the Washington D.C. suburbs of Maryland but graduated from Gulf Coast Community College and later from FSU with a Master’s degree in Science Education.  While in Florida he applied for a teaching position in Wakulla County and was hired in 2006.

RMS Principal Dod Walker adds, “Mr. Dutrow is an outstanding science teacher.  His passion is his greatest asset along with his desire to be the best and to have his students be their best.  He has served as the leader of the 8th grade as well as mentor to many new teachers over the years.  His energy and leadership with the LIFE Program has created an invaluable partnership with Wakulla Springs and several state environmental agencies.  He is respected by his students, his peers and his principal.”

Heather Hatfield, Crawfordville Elementary School fourth grade teacher, is also a Wakulla County School District Teacher of the Month for November.  Prior to teaching at Crawfordville Elementary School she taught third grade in Leon County.

Hatfield became a part of the Wakulla School System in 1987 as a student.  She grew up in Havana, FL and later moved to Wakulla County and attended school at Sopchoppy Elementary, Wakulla Middle School and Wakulla High School.  She is a graduate of TCC and Flagler College.

Hatfield adds, “What I find most enjoyable about teaching is working with the children and seeing their expressions when they finally get a concept that has caused them to struggle.  It is the sparkle in their eyes and the grin on their face that says, “I get it,” that is so rewarding.  Each time I see the 'light bulb' brighten, my day gets ten times better.”

Crawfordville Principal Angie Walker shares, “Mrs. Hatfield is a soft spoken, kind hearted, enthusiastic and devoted teacher.  When I walk into Mrs. Hatfield’s classroom, I see 22 students move from center to center with a purpose, listening for Mrs. Hatfield’s quiet words to direct them to the next activity and eagerly attack their assignments with the same enthusiasm that she exhibits while instructing.  She inspires others with her constant approach:  Let the students know you love them.  Let them know that you care.  Let them know that school is important.  Let them know that learning can be fun.  Her communication skills are excellent.  Mrs. Hatfield is also on our on-site technology rep, dealing with endless issues and constant 'emergencies'.”
                          
The November Employee of the Month is the transportation department’s bus attendant, Ronald Pumphrey.  He began his education in Tampa and later moved to North Florida, graduating from Carrabelle High School.

It did not take long for the District to learn the value of Mr. Pumphrey as a bus attendant.  He has only been with the District since 2007.  Pumphrey notes, “Working in this school system is like being part of a big family and the students always come first.  Our school system is really concerned about each child’s education and their safety.”

Transportation Coordinator Pat Jones adds, “To know Mr. Pumphrey is to like Mr. Pumphrey.  He is such a delightful person with an attitude of I will do whatever you need me to do when it comes to our students and their needs.  He always wears a smile and has a kind word to say to all those he encounters.  His work ethics are superb.  Mr. Pumphrey does a wonderful job keeping his van clean and believes that his students deserve a nice clean van.”

Superintendent David Miller and the Wakulla County School Board applaud the experience and expertise these employees bring to the District as well as the positive attitude they display on behalf of the students, schools, the profession of education and communities they serve.

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