Lakewood Ranch teacher honored for "Excellence in Education"

Dakota Wernet- Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – LRHS anatomy and physiology teacher Kelly Smith-Williams is a Manatee County Excellence in Education teacher of the year finalist.

LRHS and Manatee County School District Officials came together to celebrate her award Tuesday.
Guests included –

• Manatee County Superintendent Cynthia Saunders
• Manatee County Communications Specialist Melissa Parker
• Manatee County Executive Director of Secondary Schools Willie Clark
• Executive Director of Administration Kevin Chapman

Smith-Williams was presented with an official award with balloons.

“Getting this award makes me feel beyond honored and excited. Everyone walked into my classroom and all the good feelings went through my body, it’s a bit overwhelming,” Smith-Williams said.

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Saunders said Smith-Williams “represents what all of our students are able to receive in Manatee County, I am so proud of her.”

All LRHS assistant principals were present at the event.

The Educator of the Year will be announced on Feb. 9 at Parrish Community High School at 7 p.m.