IDS-CC Middle School Teacher Michael J. Vokoun
Named 2011 Teacher of the Year

Michael J. Vokoun, a 15-year veteran English teacher at Independent Day School-Corbett Campus, received the 2011 Teacher of the Year Award from The Florida Council of English Teachers.

Oct. 20, 2011 (TAMPA, Fla.) –Michael J. Vokoun, an eighth-grade English teacher at Independent Day School-Corbett Campus (IDS-CC) who has taught at the school for 15 years, has been named the 2011 Teacher of the Year by the Florida Council of Teachers of English (FCTE). He received the award from the council's president, Susan Houser, at the annual FCTE conference held earlier this month.

An affiliate of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), FCTE presents the award annually to the outstanding classroom teacher of English in the state for excellence in teaching. Recipients are widely recognized as English teachers who challenge students to meet goals, design programs that are scholarly and creative, and demonstrate a deep commitment to students and the teaching profession.

IDS-CC Headmaster Dr. Joyce Burick Swarzman said that Mr. Vokoun brings enthusiasm for learning English to his classroom. "He challenges students to take their learning to new levels, to develop critical thinking skills, and to engage in inquiry in an environment that encourages risk-taking and creative thinking. We are all celebrating the honor of his receiving this statewide recognition."

"My students, administration, and middle school team all create a perfect environment for me to be creative and thrive, and I thank all of them for allowing me to learn and grow during my fifteen years here at IDS," said Mr. Vokoun. "IDS has helped cultivate the teacher who I am today, and I thank everyone for that daily honor."

According to Mr. Vokoun, middle school years are a critical time of self-discovery for students that helps them prepare for the rigors of high school and life. "The difference between a student in sixth grade and a student in eighth grade is monumental," he said. "Middle school students are making so many decisions about who they are and what's important to them, and I find that exciting. I believe that reading and writing can help them through that process. For example, even though 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'The Odyssey' were written 400 and 3,200 years ago, their messages are timeless and can help students learn about themselves, relationships, and other cultures. To see examples of how others have acted helps them to decide what may be important to them."

Mr. Vokoun joined IDS-CC in 1997. He earned National Board Certification in 2006, is a State of Florida Gifted Certified teacher, and has received the state's Professional Educator's Certificate in English. Mr. Vokoun co-authored the textbook, "What Choice Do I Have? Reading, Writing, and Speaking Activities to Engage Students," and is a highly respected and active presenter at FCTE and NCTE conferences.