2017-18 Tom Bishop Award | Brandon Jenkins
Director of Bands Brandon T. Jenkins has been at Heritage High in Palm Bay during his five years with BPS. Since Jenkins assumed leadership of the band program, it has more than quadrupled in size with approximately 130 current members. Jenkins received the 2017-18 Tom Bishop Award from the Florida Bandmasters Association which is awarded for taking over a poor band program and turning it into a superior program in a short period of time. He has created multiple instrumental ensembles at the school and uses technology daily to aid in teaching and enhancing the classroom experience. Under his leadership, the band actively participates in community events such as parades, school board meetings and banquets. The band was invited to perform for the Florida Classic Battle of the Bands.
Dr. John Harris, the principal of Heritage High, said, “I can count on Mr. Jenkins to arrive at school ready to impart his love for music to eager students. He has developed our Heritage High School band program into a superior-rated concert band for the past three years.”
Jenkins loves that he has the opportunity to build relationships with students from different backgrounds on a daily basis. He believes that all students, regardless of socio-economic status and physical and intellectual ability, should be offered the opportunity to discover and explore their innate potential as a musician. Jenkins says it’s his responsibility to help create the next generation of quality musicians and music educators. He states that the goal of music education is to not only form an appreciation of music, but to also encourage students to shape their own unique musical identity through academic study and performance opportunities.
Employee of the Year | Dinah Kramer, Human Resources
Senior Human Resources partner Dinah Kramer has worked for the district for 29 years and in human resources for 15 years. She manages instructional certification to ensure employees are highly qualified for teaching positions and monitors state teacher requirements and laws. She also advises school administrators on personnel matters and recruiting efforts. Kramer likes, that she’s allowed to be creative with ideas that help teachers succeed and, as a result, helps students succeed. She loves her job because she’s able “to serve every student with excellence as the standard.”
Dr. Carol Kindt, the district’s deputy superintendent and chief human resources officer said, “I am more than convinced that our children and this community have benefitted from her commitment to serve them. She has ensured for decades that Brevard Public Schools employs only the best and brightest to serve our most precious community members, our children.”
Kramer’s position requires tremendous attention to detail to ensure employees are highly qualified and properly vetted for their teaching positions. She has a profound understanding of employment law, policies, procedures and regulations. Kramer was named the employee of the year for 2008 and 2013 for her department and was the first recipient of the “You Rock” award for Human Resources 2017. She also received recognition for staffing Viera High during its opening. In her tasks, Kramer identifies out-of-field teachers and helps them in obtaining a professional certificate. She also guides college senior interns through the certification process.
Assistant Principal of the Year | Candace Jones, Hans Christian Andersen Elementary
This year was a pivotal one for Assistant Principal Candace Jones. She collaborated with Principal Denise Johnson on the Care*Connect*Coach theme, and was invited to be part of the District Level Five Leadership team. Jones is inspired and motivated by her husband Ron, and son Riley. After losing her younger brother in a plane crash four years ago, making each day count became a reality for Jones. “I know each day is my opportunity to build my evidence for the legacy I want to leave behind, which serves as motivation.”
2018 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership (Principal of the Year) | Rick Fleming
For more than 23 years, Principal Rick Fleming has served the school district in various teaching and administrative roles. To enhance team camaraderie, Fleming instituted a “Wildcat Winner” program at faculty meetings where teachers acknowledge each other’s hard work and dedication. He is often sought for his leadership expertise, and he serves on various committees that are focused on improving education. He is praised for leading by example and serving as a role model for his students, staff and community.
