OCALA, Fla. — Tonya Russell, a dedicated kindergarten through fifth-grade teacher at Ross Prairie Elementary School, has been honored as the Ocala Star-Banner/Florida Credit Union Amazing Teacher of the Month. This recognition celebrates educators whose compassion, creativity, and dedication inspire the entire community.

Russell teaches a modified curriculum to 13 students with exceptional educational needs at Ocala newest elementary school. Her classroom includes students who are developmentally delayed, on the autism spectrum, and English Language Learners — many of whom are nonverbal.

"The greatest challenges in the classroom involve designing lessons that meet a wide range of needs," Russell explained. "Instruction must align with state standards while also incorporating ACCESS standards for those who take alternate assessments."

Despite these challenges, Russell has found her calling. Her lessons include engaging, hands-on activities designed to keep students active, curious, and focused. She praised the support of the school staff, including Shereen Rodriguez and Kim Walters, who work full-time in the classroom, and paraprofessional Hailey Ittner.

"The behavior team also plays an essential role, stepping in during more significant disruptions and providing support from trained professionals equipped to handle these situations safely," Russell said. "Maintaining a calm, neutral tone when speaking with students is key to effectively de-escalating situations and supporting positive behavior."

Each morning, students begin their day with a personalized Morning Book that includes important information they need to know, such as their address, parents names, and important phone numbers — all tailored to each child specific needs.

Russell dedication has not gone unnoticed. She was also selected as the first Teacher of the Year at Ross Prairie Elementary School, which opened its doors to approximately 920 pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students.

"Tonya is the best Exceptional Student Education teacher because of her approach and how she handles sensitive situations in a calm and collected manner," said paraprofessional Hailey Ittner.

Principal LeAnn McEarchern agreed, saying, "That the reason Russell is awesome. She is 110% up to the task."

Russell, a native of Erie, Pennsylvania, moved to Marion County when she was 6 years old. She attended Marion County Public Schools from first through eighth grades, graduated from Lake Weir High School, and earned her bachelor degree in elementary education from Saint Leo University. She holds a master degree in exceptional student education from Grand Canyon University.

Russell began her career with Marion County Public Schools in 2000 as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher at Belleview High School. After 25 years of service, she left at the close of the 2025 school year for "new adventures" teaching at the newly opened Ross Prairie Elementary School.

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. Local teachers are selected monthly and are eligible for national-level recognition and prizes.

Know an amazing teacher? Nominate them at ocala.gannettcontests.com/Florida-Credit-Union-Amazing-Teachers

Source: Ocala Star-Banner