TAMPA ADVENTIST ACADEMY TEACHER HONORED
by Garla Johnson
Merili Wyatte, vice principal, kindergarten teacher, and special needs coordinator at Tampa Adventist Academy (TAA), was presented the Shine Award at a recognition ceremony held August 6 during Florida Governor Rick Scott’s Cabinet Meeting. The award was created by the Governor to highlight teachers who go above and beyond the call of duty in pursuit of educational excellence.
“I am very proud that Merili Wyatte was the recipient of this prestigious award,” says Glen Baker, TAA principal. “Mrs. Wyatte epitomizes the very best of Adventist education in the classroom where her love for children, commitment to excellence, and caring Christian example touch the lives of many students each day.”
Carol Thomas, Ph.D., from the Step Up For Students Program in Tampa, nominated Wyatte for the Shine Award because of her outstanding commitment to elevating the educational experience for each and every child.
Wyatte has taught at Tampa Adventist Academy for 13 years with a total of 17 years in education.