2025 Flaeyc
Member Awards
Annually, FLAEYC members put forth nominations for their peers to receive our prestigious awards. These distinguished individuals will be honored and celebrated at the FLAEYC Member Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 17th, at the Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate.
Congratulations to this year's winners!
Nominated by Norma Schwartz, FLAEYC President
Lift Orlando
Children’s Champion
The Children's Champion Award is selected by the FLAEYC president and is awarded to an individual from across the state who advances and supports children's issues. This prestigious recognition honors their exceptional contribution to advocating for and improving the lives of children throughout Florida.
“Given the incredible impact Lift Orlando has had on the community, particularly through its holistic approach to neighborhood revitalization and early learning initiatives, and recalling the lasting impression my visit a few years ago left on me during our visit to West Lakes ELC, it became clear that Lift Orlando is the perfect recipient for this award.”
-Norma Schwartz
Nominated by Dawn Montecalvo
Heather Siskind
Barbara Fink Leadership Award
This honor is awarded to members who have demonstrated superior and outstanding leadership over their career. This award honors the excellent leadership of Mrs. Barbara Fink who served as the first President of FACUS in 1956 and as President of SACUS in 1960-62.
“Heather Siskind has demonstrated a deep and sustained commitment to enhancing the well-being of young children, families, and early childhood educators throughout her distinguished career spanning more than 25 years. Her leadership in early childhood education is evident in both direct service and executive roles, where she has championed high-quality care and innovative support systems for children and their families.”
-Dawn Montecalvo
Nominated by Camille Mendez
Michelle Gelfert
Advocate of the Year
This honor is given to a member dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for young children and their families, as well as advocating for their support at local, state, or national levels.
"Michelle has emerged as a strong voice for children and families through her active participation in advocacy efforts at all levels. She is a dedicated member of FLAEYC's One Voice Coalition and a graduate of the Advocacy Leadership Training Program, where she gained hands-on experience in policy engagement and grassroots organizing. From meeting with Florida legislators to discuss FLAEYC's policy priorities to traveling to Washington, D.C. for NAEYC's Public Policy Forum, Michelle has shown both courage and growth as an advocate. Her actions reflect a long-term commitment to influencing systems that impact early childhood education."
—Camille Mendez
Nominated by Julie Bauer
Natalie Snodgrass
Local Leaders
The recipients of this award are chapter leaders dedicated to their work and who inspire others to excel in the field of early childhood education.
“Natalie is a catalyst for connection and advocacy in Central Florida. Through her leadership and facilitation in creating the Central Florida Chapter, her service on the board, and her dedication to bringing Learning Hubs to families, she has inspired collaboration, strengthened community outreach, and championed the voices of children and families across our state.”
-Julie Bauer
Educator of the Year Awards
FLAEYC and The Children’s Movement are proud to honor excellence in early childhood education through the Educator of the Year Awards. What began as a single recognition has now expanded to celebrate the diverse roles and leadership that shape the lives of Florida’s youngest learners.
Each award honors an educator who demonstrates exceptional practice, passion, and impact in early childhood education. From nurturing infants to leading entire centers, these honorees embody the very best of Florida’s early learning community and remind us that the future begins in their hands.
Adriana Antonio-Lopez
Nominated by Katie Valentin
Infant Toddler Educator of the Year
“Ms. Adriana creates wonderful learning opportunities for the children in her class. This spring, she has involved them in planting and caring for a garden. Ramona comes home each week excited to tell us about the tomatoes and carrots that were harvested and how delicious the tomatoes are. Ramona is excited to go to school each day and talks about Ms. Adriana constantly (she has even named [one] of her dolls Ms. Adriana). We will forever be thankful for Ramona’s time with Ms. Adriana and the impact she has had on her early education. I could not of asked for a better start to her school experience.”
-Jennifer Wise, Parent
Kerstin Teutonico
Nominated by Natalia Fisher
Preschool Educator of the Year
“With over 30 years of experience in education, Kerstin brings a depth of understanding and a steady wisdom to her work with young children. Her intention and thoughtful approach is evident in every aspect of her classroom practice, from the intentional way she sets up the environment to the thoughtful provocations she creates in response to children’s thinking. She holds high expectations for herself and her students, and she meets both with warmth, insight, and grace.” -Natalia Fisher, Director of Early Childhood
Michael Serantes
Nominated by Michelle Toral
VPK Educator of the Year
Mr. Serantes is a committed and enthusiastic educator who went above and beyond to create an engaging and supportive learning environment. He ensured that my children were both challenged and encouraged, tailoring his approach to meet their individual learning styles and needs. He took the time to truly understand my children on a personal level, which fostered a strong connection and mutual respect in the classroom.
—Daibel Buzzi, Parent
Heather Monteleone
Nominated by Dr. Teresa McKay
K-3 Educator of the Year
“Heather’s teaching goes beyond academics. She builds meaningful relationships with every child, including those who may be the most challenging to reach. Her ability to connect, encourage, and inspire demonstrates the heart of what it means to be an exceptional educator. She exemplifies resilience, compassion, and dedication, making her not only a gifted teacher but also a powerful force for good in the lives of her students.”
Alba Gomez
Nominated by Carrie Allen
Family Child Care Home Educator of the Year
“Alba Gomez creates a welcoming, nurturing home where children thrive and families feel supported. Through her creativity, commitment to professional growth, and dedication to connecting families with community resources, Alba embodies the heart of early childhood education—lifting up every child, teacher, and family she serves.”
Allison Gregg-Toussaint
Nominated by Darci Trachtenberg