UA Teacher of the Year 2007-2008

Kathie Goldstein

     Ms. Goldstein is a fifth generation native Floridian.  She was schooled by Polk Co.’s finest and blossomed into her role as a student with reading, writing, public speaking and drama as her strengths. Miss Haley, her English teacher at Lakeland High School, not only modeled for her the writing skills she needed to succeed at Florida State (cum laude graduate), but Miss Haley served as Ms. Goldstein’s example for how to motivate students to learn by sincerely caring for them personally and communicating that care openly.

   In college Ms. Goldstein studied psychology and almost chose that career field until she realized she could have a positive influence over more young people if she chose teaching. She often serves as the students’ bridge between lonely, confused adolescence and stable, caring adulthood.  She believes outstanding teachers should be outstanding students themselves who continue to build on their knowledge of their content area, remain open to learning new strategies and techniques to teach, exhibit an interest in their students and be energetic and enthusiastic about their subject. She truly loves to educate, and her vision for success travels beyond the classroom to the child’s home, neighborhood and town. As a parent of teenagers, Ms. Goldstein realizes the great obligation she has to the parents who entrust their children to her. her desire is to communicate effectively to parents and assure them that their child is receiving her best effort every day to mold and prepare all her students for a successful future.

Union Academy

SCHOOL-RELATED EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR 

of the Year 2007-2008

Mrs. Deborah Milligan

     Mrs. Milligan works in the clinic as a Licensed Practical Nurse.  This is her third year at Union Academy.  Besides giving medical attention to the students when needed, she also serves as the Volunteer Coordinator and Chess Advisor here at the school.

     Mrs. Milligan is a true blue Floridian—born in Winter Haven.   She is married and has four children.  She attended Central Florida Community College in Ocala, Florida where she earned her degree in nursing.  Helping people has always been her desire.  She has worked in the medical field for twenty years and has extensive knowledge in pediatrics.  She is returning to school in January to pursue a career in Chiropractic Medicine.  “I love kids and have the most wonderful job in the world.  I couldn’t ask for a better staff or group of students to work with everyday.  I am very blessed to be part of the team here at Union Academy.”

Mrs. Milligan sponsoring the Union Academy Chess Club.