In a world where great teachers often go unnoticed, Tonya Russell is getting the recognition she deserves. The dedicated educator from Ross Prairie Elementary School has been named the Ocala Star-Banner/Florida Credit Union Amazing Teacher of the Month, celebrating her unwavering commitment to some of Marion County's most exceptional students.

Russell teaches a modified curriculum class of 13 kindergarten through fifth-grade students with diverse educational needs. Her classroom includes children who are developmentally delayed, on the autism spectrum, intellectually disabled, and part of the English Language Learners program.

"The greatest challenges in the classroom involve designing lessons that meet a wide range of needs," Russell explained. Her approach combines state standards with engaging, hands-on activities that keep students active, curious, and focused.

What makes Russell truly remarkable is her calm, collected approach to sensitive situations. Her paraprofessional, Hailey Ittner, noted that Russell's demeanor is perfectly suited to her assignment. "Tonya is the best Exceptional Student Education teacher because of her approach and how she handles sensitive situations in a calm and collected manner," Ittner said.

Russell's dedication hasn't gone unnoticed by school leadership either. She was selected as the first Teacher of the Year at Ross Prairie Elementary School, which opened its doors to welcome students just this past school year.

"That's the reason (Russell) is awesome. She is 110% up to the task," said Principal LeAnn McEarchern.

A Marion County native who moved here at age 6, Russell has deep roots in the community. She attended local public schools, graduated from Lake Weir High School, and earned her bachelor's degree from Saint Leo University and her master's in exceptional student education from Grand Canyon University.

Russell began her career with Marion County Public Schools in 2000 and continues to make a profound difference in the lives of her students every single day.

The Amazing Teacher program, sponsored by Florida Credit Union in partnership with the Ocala Star-Banner, celebrates educators whose compassion, creativity and dedication inspire us all. Know an amazing teacher? Nominate them at ocala.gannettcontests.com/Florida-Credit-Union-Amazing-Teachers

Source: Ocala Star-Banner