Local Teacher Wins State Honor

Michael J. Vokoun, an eighth-grade English teacher at Independent Day School-Corbett Campus, has been named the 2011 Teacher of the Year by the Florida Council of Teachers of English (FCTE). Vokoun received the award from the council's president, Susan Houser, at the annual FCTE conference held earlier this month. 

An affiliate of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), FCTE presents the award annually to the outstanding classroom teacher of English in the state for excellence in teaching. Recipients are widely recognized as English teachers who challenge students to meet goals, design programs that are scholarly and creative, and demonstrate a deep commitment to students and the teaching profession.

IDS-CC Headmaster Dr. Joyce Burick Swarzman said Vokoun brings enthusiasm for learning English to his classroom.

"He challenges students to take their learning to new levels, to develop critical thinking skills, and to engage in inquiry in an environment that encourages risk-taking and creative thinking," Swarzman said. "We are all celebrating the honor of his receiving this statewide recognition."

Vokoun joined IDS-CC in 1997. He earned National Board Certification in 2006, is a State of Florida Gifted Certified teacher, and has received the state's Professional Educator's Certificate in English. Vokoun also co-authored the textbook, "What Choice Do I Have? Reading, Writing, and Speaking Activities to Engage Students."

Vokoun thanked school officials for supporting his educational goals.

"My students, administration, and middle school team all create a perfect environment for me to be creative and thrive, and I thank all of them for allowing me to learn and grow during my 15 years here at IDS," said Vokoun. "IDS has helped cultivate the teacher who I am today, and I thank everyone for that daily honor."