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From the
time he was a teenager, Juan Campbell dreamed of being a teacher. He was
inspired by his high school mathematics teacher, who made learning fun
while motivating his students. Both his dreams and inspiration led him
to pursue a degree which focused on Environmental Education and
Mathematics, from Florida International University. While he was a
student he devoted countless hours working with children in an after
school program. This experience only strengthened his desire to become
a teacher.
For the past eleven years Juan Campbell has been a teacher for the
Miami-Dade County Public School Board. For most of these years he has
had the pleasure and challenge of teaching fourth and fifth graders,
Mathematics and Science. His zeal for teaching and his firm belief that
all learning is enhanced through active hands on experiences has
benefited both his students and colleagues. He is passionate in his
belief that all students can learn. He frequently reminds his students
of his motto, "Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're
right!" Juan tirelessly teaches his students to become masters in the
use of various learning tools. These "tools" enable students to be
successful learners. Positive learning experiences help to scaffold and
build self confidence in his students.
Juan's teaching career has been punctuated with numerous highlights. The
first of these was when he was honored as Air Base Elementary's "Rookie
Teacher of the Year". Juan was also selected to be a participant in Dr.
Rosa Castro-Fienberg's ESOL initiative which studied the impact of
English immersion on ESOL students. Juan also worked in partnership with
Dr. Gilbert's C.R.O.M.E. Project, which led to many advances and reforms
in Mathematics Education in Miami-Dade County Schools. He has worked
tirelessly on countless projects which include the yearly fifth grade,
three day, out of county field trip as well as the fifth grade banquet.
Juan has also held the position of EESAC Treasurer and is currently an
active member of Air Base Elementary's Administrative Team. As Juan
nears the completion of his Masters Degree in Educational Leadership, at
Nova Southeastern University he continues to strive for excellence.
Juan's passion for teaching and his good nature has spread throughout
the community. He has served as a mentor with Big Brothers of Miami. He
has also helped homeless families and other people in the community who
are in need. He has devoted much of his time to building homes with
Habitat for Humanity. Juan also lends a helping hand to several widows
in his neighborhood. These charitable acts for the most part, go
unnoticed except by his close friends and by those recipients of his
kindness. He has also supported the community through his yearly
contributions to the United Way.
Juan Campbell is clearly a dedicated teacher, effective leader and
active, caring member of the community. Juan Campbell is an outstanding
choice for the Air Base Elementary 2007-2008, Teacher of the Year award.
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