Recently, 7th-grade science teacher Mr. Andrew Angelo was nominated and is now the recipient of the Congressional Education Award– an award that gives congressional recognition to the outstanding school teachers, administrators, and support staff in Florida’s 16th Congressional District.
Mr. Angelo has been working as a teacher at Saint Stephen’s for five years now and has cemented himself as a hardworking, talented, and enthusiastic instructor in the middle school.
Middle School Director Dr. Erby had only positive things to say about Mr. Angelo.
“I think he is very deserving of this award,” Dr. Erby said. “He creates a middle school environment that is inviting and engaging. He truly does a great job at committing the excellence he has to his own position.”
Prior to teaching at Saint Stephens, Mr. Angelo worked at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. Since he’s started working here, Mr. Angelo’s flexibility and willingness to help others have made him stand out. He has made his classroom an environment where students can thrive by making them feel comfortable and at ease.
“I think the biggest thing I did to receive the award is to connect with my students,” Angelo said. “I wanna make sure I build a connection with them and establish a relationship so they can feel like they are in a safe place and know that I have their backs.”
Angelo clearly goes above and beyond in his role at Saint Stephen’s. While he makes a conscious effort to try and bond with all his students, he also has taken on other responsibilities, like being the 7th-grade trip class coordinator and head teacher.
“It’s such a great honor to be recognized for my service to the school,” Angelo said. “It’s also wonderful to be able to teach the seventh grade; that gift alone is amazing.”
On Thursday May 1 at 5:30 PM at Manatee Technical College, Mr. Angelo and all the other recipients will receive their Congressional Education Award. District Congressman Vern Buchanan will be in attendance and handing out the awards at the ceremony.
