Dorina Sackman

2014 Florida Teacher of the Year

@2014FloridaTOY

"Believe. B.E.L.I.E.V.E. Be the Educators who Live to Inspire and Empower Via Excellence." This is Dorina's motto for all Florida teachers to live by for the 2013-2014 school year as we continue to believe in our children. For the past 15 years, Dorina has been educating and believing in English Language Learners from all around the globe. From third grade to seniors in high school, she treats her classrooms as a stage for children to celebrate their diverse backgrounds while still learning English and the necessary skills to become lifelong learners. "I create a safe environment where children, brought to a new land, are happy and free to be themselves as they flourish in the American School System."

Dorina uses her world travels, proficiency in 5 languages and "kooky" teaching style to build relationships and touch the lives of students in her ESOL classroom. Dorina is a strong proponent of the incorporation of Common Core Standards into culturally responsive teaching. Along with AVID strategies such as Socratic Circles and Philosophical Chairs, Dorina, with the utmost enthusiasm, incorporates unique and energetic instructional activities that promote positive student interaction and collaboration.

Dorina has passionately dedicated her time as a mentor and role model for at risk English Language Learners, empowering them to empower themselves, thus making more positive choices. Most importantly, with her engaging and optimistic outlook, Ms. Sackman inspires teachers, students and parents to come together and make education a first priority. "I believe in a world where every child deserves a quality education."

Miss Sackman teaches with the understanding that, "It takes a village to raise a child." and has enhanced the phrase to include today's educational challenges by saying, "It takes a village to raise a child's achievement."

Esol language arts

westridge middle school

Orange county