“The Pride Of Caloosa Starts With Me”

PRIDE CANDLE “The Pride Of Caloosa Starts With Me”

Ann Tikka The Admin would like to nominate Ann Tikka for the first Pride Candle. Ms. Tikka is responsible for CMS getting their first group of IT classes. Ms. Tikka worked diligently to ensure we had several students obtain Microsoft certifications last year, several of whom received more than one certification. We appreciate all Ms. Tikka does to update not only students, but the staff of CMS on best practices in technology and college and career readiness! - CMS Administration

Brooke DeCarlo “Brooke was displaced from a job she loved last year as the District did away with Health at the middle school level. Brooke remained positive as she took on a new role as the lead for AVID, E20/20, and Credit Retrieval. Brooke attended training this summer and has embraced the AVID program in full force. Brooke has been helping work through scheduling to guarantee that the right students are in the proper classes. Brooke is excited about the AVID program and will make a difference in the lives of our students as she truly cares about our future leaders.” - Ann Tikka

Chris Fanno “I would like to pass on the candle to Chris Fanno. She has been supporting me and the entire staff with AVID and coming by to help on her planning time. Chris is always happy and here early ready to go every day. She is adjusting to all of the schedule changes with smiles for the kids and staff around her  Staying positive and helping everywhere she can. She is a big deal!!” - Brooke DeCarlo

Pat Brewer “My students have commented that she is all business, has high expectations, is patient, interesting, and they have to work hard to get good grades in her class, and they LOVE it. BRAVO PAT! Isn’t this why we are here??? When I asked if they feel they will learn a lot….Their reply: How could you NOT learn a lot in her class!!” - Chris Fanno

Brandon Drew “All the old social studies books had to be removed from the bookrooms, the new books had to be unpacked, checked in and moved to the book room. Brandon gave up part of his summer to help even though he is not in the social studies department. So as a big thank-you - I gave the candle to Mr. Drew.” - Pat Brewer

Lana Harris “I would like to pass the PRIDE candle on to Mrs. Harris. She has been such a wonderful help to me professionally. She reminds me to take it day by day, stay patient and things will work out. She has lesson planned with me, given me worksheets to use for more practice and most importantly, she listens to me when I ask for help and has great insight! She has just been a great help so far. Thanks for all that you do!” - Brandon Drew

Mary Parker “Mary Parker takes care of all of us physically and emotionally. She encourages us to exercise and she knows when we need a hug, a massage, or a chocolate strawberry. Mary is one of the kindest people I know. She never says a discouraging work – even when she’s packing FCAT boxes and running scantrons for the entire school. I appreciate Mary very much!” - Lana Harris

Tony Orlando “Coach has allowed me the opportunity to try something new. He has taken time to explain things and make suggestions based on his knowledge and expertise. Who knew that counting jumping jacks is an acquired skill? Perhaps most significantly, he has demonstrated the true essence of coaching--caring for kids, providing a safe place for them to learn, grow, and develop important skills both physically and socially. This is especially evident in the way he interacts with our life skills kids, incorporating them into play, or providing options for them that are more appropriate when needed. Coach does more than teach a class--he influences kids. Those kids become adults who send their kids to Caloosa and invariably, those kids report that their dad or mom remembers Coach Orlando. Thanks Coach!” - Mary Parker

Fran Agrusti “The person that I would like to give the candle to is someone that I have known about 25 years. As a matter of fact I taught both of her children years ago. She greets each one of you every morning with a smile on her face even when she’s under the weather. In my 35 years of teaching no one single person has helped me more than Fran Agrusti!” - Tony Orlando

Jennifer Kraff “Brian asked me to call this person to come in for an interview. When I called her of course I woke her up. But when I heard her voice I said to Brian OMG I think I have grandchildren older then her. I sit at my desk and I see how she is with her kids and it is unbelievable the love & patience that she has and she is always smiling. I know that I could never do what she does. She has big shoes to fill.” - Fran Agrusti

Ms. Tina “The person that I chose for this candle is someone that I consider one of the hardest working people I know. She arrives early every morning to make sure our students are fed, and closes the office every night by saying ‘last call for the activity bus…’ Even though she works long hours, she has never failed to make me laugh and always takes the time to meet the needs of all of my students.” - Jennifer Kraff

Victoria Scheller “I gave the candle to Ms. Scheller for all of her services above and beyond to our students.” - Ms. Tina

Mark Fitzpatrick “Mr. Fitzpatrick wears so many hats and no matter how overwhelmed he may be with t.v. and computer equipment.. He always has a smile, coffee, and something humorous to share! He stays late ALWAYS and never complains or asks for anything in return! He is an amazing co-teacher and I am so lucky to have the chance to teach with him!” - Victoria Scheller

Susan Knox “Mrs. Knox has graciously taken on the role of ESE dept. head and ESOL coordinator. She works long hours and never complains. She has gone above and beyond her job description to make sure everything is completed in a timely manner! She is an amazing leader and co-worker, and I am fortunate to work with her!” - Victoria Scheller

Darrell Braman “I thought you to be most deserving of the Pride Candle because: Well, allow me to quote a phrase because you like quoting movies “ How do I love thee, let me count the ways.” Here are just a few examples of your ways which you show true love to your students. You are the conduit for their enthusiasm to be better and do more. To explore all possibilities. Through your passion, they have developed intrinsic desire. Your enthusiasm keeps the groups motivated . Years of experience from you teaches practice makes perfect. There are no short cuts! Do it right, or don’t do it! Truly, thank you for your investment of passion, time and your own resources!” - Mark Fitzpatrick & Susan Knox

Mary Graham “I am passing the “torch” to Mary Graham. She not only is an excellent art teacher, she is also very accomplished with the computer. Need a certificate printed? Ask Mary. Need a cake for a very special occasion? Ask Mary. Need help with the achievement series? Yep, ask Mary. She also works the after school program, and in the past has had an active art club entering things like the Edison House Festival of Lights and Sand Sculptures on the Beach. She is a true Renaissance person.” - Darrell Braman

Jenn Brewer “I chose Jenn Brewer-Dano as Pride Candle recipient because of her "Above & Beyond" commitment to various activities outside her job description. There are few things I couldn’t have accomplished without her help; Renaissance, Open House brochures, ordering classroom supplies, etc.” - Mary Graham

Denise McKiernan “She is always there for the students and the staff. She teaches 8 periods a day and is always willing to tutor students. She always goes above and beyond.” - Jenn Brewer

Pat Seif “She is very dedicated to her kids. She does whatever she can to make them successful. She was here all summer helping to do stuff.” - Denise McKiernan

Juan Torres “The first time I met Juan was when he came to my room to fix my printer. He asked if I had turned it on. I said yes, but it still didn’t work. He came all the way up to my room even though he had so much to do that first day. He just looked at the printer, smiled at me, and plugged it in. I was so embarrassed, but he put me at ease by saying “ it happens all the time.” Whenever I need something technical, all I have to do is call him. Juan keeps me informed about all the new technology. During the summer when we had to clean, move, and set up the computers I got to know Juan. He is a very caring person that wants to help everyone.” - Pat Seif

Dixie Jackson “I would like to nominate Dixie Jackson for taking care of me every time I get sick and for forcing me to see a doctor. I’m grateful to have her by my side when I need her the most.” - Juan Torres

Maureen Kissinger “My reason for choosing Mrs. Kissinger is from my personal experience with my son Corey. He was/is an ESE student who hated for anyone to know. He felt everyone would think he was stupid. She worked with him to understand his learning disability had nothing to do with his intelligence. He just needed to learn things in a different manner. Our goal for Corey was to be his own advocate for when he went to High School.” - Dixie Jackson

EleazarCano “Mr. Cano is diligent about his job. He does whatever is asked of him and does it with a “can do” attitude. He is wonderful with the students, and we are seeing changes in both academics and behavior due to his influence. He talks to the students about not only what is going on in school, but what is going on at home and tries to help them in any way he can. He is always willing to translate when we have a parent that speaks only Spanish. He is strict with the students, but they come to realize that it is because he cares and wants them to be successful not just in school, but in life. I have the utmost respect for Mr. Cano and his positive influence on students.” - Maureen Kissinger

Jenniffer Pierson “This special persons qualities as a teacher are very obvious when you walk into her classroom. She has a great smile on her face, being an ex-Navy person she maintains great control in class and also explains her lessons very well. Ms. Pierson also has the ability to publicly recognize her students achievements which in my opinion enables her students to strive to do their best. She is without a doubt a very special teacher at Caloosa Middle School.” - Eleazar Cano

Katie Vescovo “I would like to pass the Pride Candle to Katie Vescovo. She has helped me tremendously with Yearbook this year and for that, I thank her. For example, she has stayed late after school for sports pictures, worked one-on-one with students requiring extra assistance, learned another "new" online program this year, and has tirelessly worked to set appointments with teachers so that our students can get the pictures needed. I don't think that many people understand what the demands of being the yearbook advisor require and it has been nice "sharing" some of the stress with her. I think we make a great yearbook "team." So, thank you Katie!!!!!! ” - Jennifer Pierson

Leisa Schirmer “I gave it to Leisa Schirmer for stepping up when Renee got sick and she was most needed. She is a first year staff member who has taken on a lot of responsibility and handled the stress like a pro. I know that if I have a question or an issue that needs tending to Leisa will help in any way she can, and always with a smile on her face. I truly appreciate what Leisa has done not just for me, but for Caloosa. She is truly a part of the Cougar Family.” - Katie Vescovo

Jody Chilton “The person receiving this candle this week is a WARRIOR for her students. She’s a tough teacher and to succeed in her class means that you better be succeeding in all of your classes! She cares about their academics and their well-being. I have witnessed the caring, “go to bat for a kid kind of teacher” she is. She thinks it’s a well-kept secret and we will let her continue to think that but in our hearts we know different. This teacher will drop everything at a moment’s notice to help you do whatever you need---AND complain about it the whole time! Congratulations and much love!!” - Leisa Schirmer

Ryan Klemm “I pass that “dang candle” on to Randy (Ryan) Klemm as its Randy who knows my deepest, darkest secrets on way too many levels. We can rarely pass by each other during the school day without shaking our heads and knowing what the other is thinking! Like me, Randy will jokingly gripe about every extra outside volunteer duty he is asked to perform in school, but seriously never hesitates to go that extra mile to be a team player. Trust me, he is one guy that is definitely worth having on your good side! He prides himself on cleanliness for our school and I want to make sure I get that award at the end of the year for the cleanest room!” - Jody Chilton

Janet Durda “Please give the candle to Janet Durda, she is in the kitchen. Every day she stands in front of 6 ovens and prepares food for the kids and staff and often complains that it is hot. Janet always ensures every one is taken care of, and every morning I pass through the kitchen I am greeted with a smile and sometimes a cookie or banana bread . Janet is truly a dedicated employee.” - Ryan Klemm

Kim Sherron “I pass the PRIDE candle to Kim Sherrron, she is the kitchen manager and takes pride in taking care of all the students and staff of CMS. Kim is dedicated to making sure we are all taken care of with our nutritional needs but more importantly she makes sure we are all a part of a team. Kim is a wonderful leader and understands the importance of leading by example. Her mission is to make everyone feel valued, worthy, and that their option counts. Thanks for all you do!” -Janet Durda

Belkis Castellon “She is one of the hardest workers I know. She is very good to all of the ladies in the kitchen and I am sure to others as well. She is a kind, caring and dedicated person. She always has a smile on her face. It is a pleasure to work with and know her.” - Kimberly Sherron

Carmen Morales “Mrs. Carmen is a very nice person. Every morning I see her I am greeted with a big smile and “Hola!”” She always goes the extra mile to help kids and to also help us. I can’t think of anyone else who deserves this more. Thanks for all you do for us Mrs. Carmen.” - Belkis Castellon

Norma Garcia “The person I’ve chosen is one that no matter the circumstances, she always has a smile on her face. She is a dedicated employee, and a hard worker. I don’t know how she deals with more than 900 records, school attendance, reports, phone calls, etc….and yet still completing other tasks. She has a lot of patience and time to print out students’ profiles for me (ESOL has many different codes, that for me is easy to make mistakes). Who prints out the new profiles? Mrs. Garcia. Oh, another good thing is that you would not have a chance to forget about FTE weeks, because she would remind you about those weeks like a month ahead. Mrs. Norma Garcia; thank you for all you do for the Caloosa family!” - Carmen Morales

Melanie Legros “The person of my choosing has been an inspiration for me in these two years. I believe our students are very lucky to have her as a teacher. She is very professional, highly positive, her kindness is contagious, she is highly positive, and an example of leadership. She is always willing to help when we need help; she is ready to give and advice if we ask; and she is a good example to follow. I am passing the pride candle to Mrs. Legros.” - Gretel Matos

“The Pride Of Caloosa Starts With Me”