VERO BEACH — Cheryl Conley of Osceola Magnet Elementary School Wednesday was chosen one of five finalists to compete for the 2011 Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year Award. Conley, who teaches fourth grade, was treated to a surprise visit by Florida Department of Education Commissioner, Eric J. Smith Wednesday morning. Also on hand was Michelle Languedoc, Vice President and General Manager of Macy’s at Vero Beach, which is helping to sponsor the award. Conley was presented with a $5,000 check and a $500 Macy’s gift card. A $1,000 check, also funded by the Macy’s Foundation, was also given to Osceola Magnet. “Each teacher of the year finalist brings with them an unwavering commitment to the success of their students,” said Commissioner Smith in a prepared statement. “They represent their colleagues in the education profession with honor and distinction and I am extremely grateful for their tireless work every day in classrooms throughout the state.” The Teacher of the Year will spend the year as the Christa McAuliffe Ambasador for Education and will tour the state promoting education issues. The winner will also receive a $10,000 grant and an all-expenses paid trip for four to New York City to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.Conley was chosen from more than 180,000 public school teachers throughout Florida by a Department of Education-appointed selection committee representing teachers, principals, parents and the business community. The winner will be announced July 8 at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando.
