2024-25 Support Person of the Year Finalists

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The Support Person of the Year award honors educational support personnel for the contributions they make to their schools, district-level sections, units, and departments. The district's Support Person of the Year represents Orange County to compete at the state level to be named at the annual Florida School-Related Employee of the Year.

Congratulations to the 2024-25 Support Person of the Year Finalists!

Josephine Bunch

Josephine Bunch
Program Assistant, Wedgefield School
Josephine Bunch consistently goes above and beyond to improve the lives of those around her. When her school recently needed targeted support for foundational math concepts, she stepped up to lead a small-group math project that not only improved student performance but also fostered a greater enthusiasm for math among her students. A trusted mentor and confidante to students, Bunch also has a heart for students with special needs. In her previous role as School Health Assistant at Wedgefield School, she recognized the daily challenges faced by students with
Type-1 Diabetes. Collaborating with parents, teachers, and district nurses, she created individualized care plans to minimize emergency procedures and reduce disruptions to academic activities, ensuring these students felt supported and included. Through her compassion and dedication, Bunch has created a more inclusive and supportive school environment for all.

Lisa Hardeman
Parent Engagement Liaison, Hiawassee Elementary
Lisa Hardeman is the dedicated parent engagement liaison at Hiawassee Elementary, where she has made a significant impact on the lives of countless families. Understanding the challenges faced by many in the community, Hardeman has been instrumental in helping homeless parents get back on their feet by connecting them with essential resources such as employment opportunities, housing options, and even restaurant gift cards. Drawing from her own experiences, she demonstrates a deep compassion for families in need. Hardeman is passionate about strengthening school-family connections and has made remarkable strides in this area, doubling attendance at monthly family-engagement activities. She also plays a vital role in managing the school's food pantry in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, ensuring Hiawassee families have access to fresh, nutritious food. A tireless advocate for the school community, Hardeman encourages parent volunteerism, provides students with books, and makes sure parents receive regular updates on their children's successes. Her unwavering positivity and commitment to fostering strong relationships have made her an invaluable asset to Hiawassee Elementary.

Valerie Lopez
School Secretary, Edgewater High School
A beloved member of the Edgewater High family for 36 years, Valerie Lopez embodies the school's spirit and values. Her unwavering belief in treating every individual with respect and equality has endeared her to students and staff alike. Lopez's Eagle pride shines through in her tireless efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive campus environment. Motivated by compassion for students in need, she spearheaded the creation of several impactful programs, including the Eagle Exchange Clothing, the E-Boutique, and the Food Pantry. The E-Boutique, which began as a humble collection in her office closet, now boasts racks of clothes and a dressing room, providing students with access to affordable formal wear for special occasions. Similarly, she transformed the Food Pantry from a small bookshelf into a fully-stocked resource for those facing food insecurity. Lopez's commitment to preserving the school's legacy is evident in her leadership in establishing the Memory Room, a space dedicated to celebrating Edgewater High's history. Her exceptional dedication and unwavering support truly help EHS Eagles soar!

Danielle MacKay
Educational Interpreter, Lake Sybelia Elementary
Danielle MacKay has been empowering deaf or hard of hearing students at Lake Sybelia Elementary for nine years. MacKay compassionately bridges communication gaps using sign language and her voice. She formerly worked in the classroom of 2018 Teacher of the Year Christina Arenth, who said MacKay is a natural teacher who excels at leading small groups, focusing on language development and guiding parents. MacKay runs a free ASL class for OCPS staff and families. Through that effort and others, she encourages parents to learn sign language to communicate with their children. That helps students experience less frustration and have fewer behavioral concerns. She also spends time tutoring and mentoring students in and outside school, and has seen students blossom with her support.

Ana Saleh Picon
School Clerk, Lake Nona Middle
Ana Saleh Picon is a dedicated 6th-grade School Clerk at Lake Nona Middle School, where her flexibility helps students make the challenging transition from elementary to middle school. She is always willing to help out in classrooms and at events. She is particularly passionate about supporting ESE students. She has developed creative strategies that cater to their unique academic and social needs by closely observing their likes and dislikes. She helped two ESE students become independent during transition times and lunch within only a few weeks. One of those students is successful and confident today because of Saleh Picon, his parents said. Saleh Picon’s commitment to building strong relationships with students, staff, and parents fosters a positive and supportive environment.

The winning teacher will be submitted for 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year and the winning support person will be submitted for the 2026 Florida School-Related Employee of the Year.