Quest Elementary School’s Terri Bagby Named District Employee of the Year
By Space Coast Daily // November 16, 2023
Bagby selected among 6 finalists
ABOVE VIDEO: Terri Bagby Named District Employee of the Year
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Employee of the Year Reception, part of the ABC (Applauding Brevard’s Champions) Awards Events, presented by Community Credit Union and hosted by Brevard Schools Foundation, was held Wednesday night (November 15) at the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa.
During the celebration, Brevard Public Schools recognized 96 Employee of the Year (EOY) honorees from across the Schools and Departments of the District.
“We eagerly anticipate the annual Employee of the Year reception, where we celebrate outstanding educational support personnel who play a crucial role in shaping the future of Brevard County. All our honorees embody the spirit of excellence and dedication that we celebrate in our education community. Their contributions showcase not only their commitment to enhancing students’ lives but also their tireless efforts in supporting the programs and initiatives of Brevard Public Schools. It’s inspiring to witness individuals who go above and beyond, making a lasting impact on our educational landscape,” said Janice Kershaw, President/CEO, Brevard Schools Foundation.
This year’s 6 finalists were:
Kelli Szymanski, Clerk, Discovery Elementary School
Valerie L. Lance, Bookkeeper, Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School
Jessica Reed, Instructional Assistant, John F. Kennedy Middle School
Terri Bagby, Before & After School Coordinator, Quest Elementary School
Timothy Cannon, Foreman, Transportation Department
Ruth TeMaat, ESOL Instructional Assistant, Westside Elementary School
District Employee of the Year Winner – Terri Bagby, Before and After School Coordinator, Quest Elementary School
Mrs. Bagby is an integral part of the Quest Elementary community, earning respect and admiration from faculty, staff, students, and district peers. Principal Karry Castillo praised Mrs. Bagby for her exceptional contributions to the school.
“Mrs. Bagby truly has a heart for children and works to prepare and provide exceptional before and after school opportunities that excite and engage our learners,” said Principal Castillo.
The school recently achieved recognition as a Superior Gold Key Site, a testament to Mrs. Bagby’s leadership and the efforts of her Before and After School team. Mrs. Bagby expressed her passion for building relationships and enhancing existing programs.
“Salutations are a part of my work love language. I happily greet our staff, students, and their grown-ups daily at arrival and departure,” she shared.
Mrs. Bagby has spearheaded various programs, including Strings, the school garden, Science Saturdays, and the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO). She also organized a successful summer program, providing valuable childcare services for working families and generating unrestricted revenue for the school.
Mrs. Bagby’s dedication extends beyond her official duties. She volunteers during school registration, parent engagement events, and supports students with challenging behaviors. Her commitment to public education and community service has been recognized with previous awards, including the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce Women of Excellence Recognition in February 2021.
Reflecting on her role and nomination, Mrs. Bagby stated, “My motto is, ‘Find something you love to do, specialize in it, and be the best you can be.’ I’m so lucky to have a job that fulfills my love daily, and I’m thankful for this honor.” Superintendent, Dr. Mark Rendell shared, “Terri Bagby, the other finalists, and all of the nominees for Employee of the Year represent the best of us. They each make valuable contributions to the educational experience for our students. Everyone’s role may be different, but each person’s impact is integral to our mission.”
The Brevard Public School’s Employee of the Year award recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in their roles, and Mrs. Terri Bagby is undoubtedly a deserving candidate, who will represent Brevard in the Florida School-Related Employee of the Year program.
All Employee of the Year honorees received a custom commemorative coin courtesy of Highland Mint.
