On the recordFebruary 26, 2020
Today I rise to congratulate Mrs. Miranda Harwood on becoming Hillsborough County's Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Harwood is a fourth-grade math teacher at Brooker Elementary School in Brandon, Florida. Mrs. Harwood embodies everything that educators should be--a kind heart, dedication to her profession, and a commitment to her pupils. On Monday she hosts a math club for her excelling students, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays she stays late for those needing additional help and encouragement. Not only does she create a learning environment conducive to academic achievement, but she also strives to promote safety and security for those with difficult home lives. She really, truly cares. A former student described the impact that she left on him and his classmates as ``making every student feel like they are her own child.'' Wow. Praise like this is both commendable and rare. As Mrs. Harwood moves forward to the State competition for Teacher of the Year, I wish her the best of luck. More importantly, I am honored to have her passion and dedication in my district and to have her instill these characteristics into our next generation. ____________________
