Amber Schullstrom
Art Teacher
The Greene School
Described by peers as a remarkable educator who inspires her students to embrace their inner artist, Amber Schullstrom prioritizes making sure that each student is fulfilled no matter their ability.
“Giving them confidence to be who they are provides a foundation for their entire life,” says the Florida native who began teaching in 1998 and joined The Greene School in 2016.
“Students flock to our art studio in between classes because it’s where their soul goes to be fulfilled,” she says of the West Palm Beach school. “It’s a magical little space.”
Among her many accomplishments, in 2005 Schullstrom founded Pixie Picassos—an innovative local art studio for children aged 3 to 12—before closing its doors in 2008 and teaching remotely at various schools and community centers.
“Even if a child isn’t strong in making art, I always encourage self expression because that’s the foundation of creativity,” Schullstrom says. “Next comes the confidence, then the knowledge, and who knows where that will lead?”
Marcus Grant
Graphic Design Teacher
The Batt School
“Marcus Grant is a shining light in the lives of his students,” say colleagues at The Batt School in North Palm Beach where he teaches graphic design as a springboard to higher learning.
“Understanding the mechanics of how something is made is a great way to segue kids into critical thinking, which inspires unlimited opportunities,” says Grant, who joined the school in 2016 with a mission to tap students’ highest potential. “I know what these kids are capable of doing, which is why I set the bar very high.”
To celebrate his students’ hard work, Grant stages an annual art exhibit for parents and the local community. “It’s important for families to see their child’s accomplishments in a professional setting,” says Grant.
“In all honesty, it’s about creating small wins for these kids,” he says. “If they know what it feels like to be successful, they’ll see the ultimate goal. When they win, we all win.”
Leslee Scruggs
Science Engineering Lab Teacher
American Heritage School
Using innovative teaching practices to make learning fun and engaging is the driving force behind Leslee Scruggs’ success as a science teacher at American Heritage School in Delray Beach.
“I’m not a file folder teacher,” says Scruggs, who engages her students in hands-on activities that range from setting up experiments to increasing biodiversity in the school’s outdoor butterfly garden and pond where students also learn composting and gardening.
“I don’t teach at them,” she says. “I give them the ‘why’ and the tools to explore. If you understand science, you’re learning how to solve problems and to care about the planet.”
For the sixth consecutive year, Scruggs led American Heritage to be recognized as an Everglades Champion during an annual program that teaches students about the Everglades.
“Science changes every day, which is why I love to get my students talking and thinking and making discoveries through hands-on activities,” says Scruggs. “That’s the greatest moment in my day.”
Rebecca Reid
Education Director
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
Rebecca Reid was passionate about Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, where she leads a team of environmental educators and volunteers, long before becoming its education director more than eight years ago.
“When I discovered Bush Wildlife I couldn’t wait to introduce family and friends to this amazing showcase of Florida’s indigenous flora and fauna,” says Reid of the 20-acre Jupiter sanctuary that opened in 1983 and features hundreds of native plants and more than 200 indigenous animals.
“I always enjoyed being outdoors and knew this would be my career,” says the natural-born environmentalist who thrives on inspiring others. Reid brings a wealth of expertise to her role that includes overseeing educational programs, private tours, summer camps, and after-school naturalist programs for children aged 5 to 14.
“We welcomed nearly 12,000 school children to the sanctuary last year, which is so exciting,” says Reid. “Getting outside and being in touch with nature is good for everyone’s soul and mental health.”
Dr. Andrew Johnson
Physics and Math Teacher
Oxbridge Academy
Demystifying the complexities of physics and inspiring a love for learning is key for Dr. Andrew Johnson, the Oxbridge Academy high school physics and math teacher who creates a fun and engaging atmosphere for students at the West Palm Beach campus.
“I make everything hands-on and relevant to expose them to the world through physics and science,” says Johnson, an accomplished theoretical and computational physicist who worked in research labs for more than 20 years before tapping his love for teaching. He joined Oxbridge in 2017, developing original curricula for physics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
“My goal is to make the concepts of matter, motion, and energy a positive learning experience,” says Johnson. “My favorite moment is when students have heated debates with each other over the material they are learning. That’s when I know my job is done because we’ve given them the tools and the confidence to think for themselves.”
Vonda Rushing
Fifth-Grade Math Teacher
Pioneer Park Elementary School
Pioneer Park Elementary School teacher Vonda Rushing is known for her winning spirit and the encouragement that she provides to her fifth-grade math students who routinely score at the highest level.
“I believe in having a positive attitude, which is contagious,” says the Clewiston native who was nominated last year for the Dwyer Award in STEM, which recognizes outstanding educators. “Kids do better when they are encouraged to believe in themselves.”
Now in her thirty-first year of teaching, Rushing has a unique approach to ensuring that every student is successful. “I coordinate with the other teachers so that students aren’t overwhelmed with testing and homework,” she says.
In addition, her students begin each school day with the mantra: “I can do all things. I am smart. I am a great thinker. I am a problem solver. I am the best,” Rushing says. “That’s what my mother, who was also a teacher, instilled in me.”
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