PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
We’re back with more Inspire Awards finalists! Congratulations to our winners from District 2:
- Tracey Downey, Teacher of the Year finalist, history teacher, Ridge Community High
- Lisa Neeld, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, paraeducator, Boone Middle
Brief profiles of these two finalists can be found below.
PCPS is recognizing finalists from all seven districts, and the overall winners will be announced at the Inspire Awards presented by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union. The Inspire Awards will be held on Nov. 7 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. The Polk Education Foundation and PCPS’ Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships collaborate to present this annual event.
During the event, finalists will be recognized with video tributes and receive sponsored gifts. The Teacher of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year will receive a cash prize generously donated by title sponsor MIDFLORIDA Credit Union.
Tracey Downey, Ridge Community High, District 2 Teacher of the Year
A student will always remember the teacher who cheered for them — and that comes naturally for Tracey Downey. She teaches U.S. history at Ridge Community High, and also coaches the cheerleading team. But her influence doesn’t stop there. Downey leads professional development and serves as a mentor for fellow educators. She also sponsors Ridge’s Student Government Association, and helps organize the school’s prom, pep rallies and cultural celebrations.
But it all starts in the classroom, where Downey excels. She’s known for crafting engaging lessons that lead to impressive academic results for her students. She’s also been instrumental in the development of Ridge’s Civics Academy, which has brought local leaders onto campus, helping students understanding the importance of civic responsibility and public service. In addition, Downey guides students in creating charitable capstone projects that benefit their peers and local families in need. As a true RCHS Bolt, she brings energy and light to her school.
Lisa Neeld, Boone Middle, District 2 School-Related Employee of the Year
What’s the best part of being a paraeducator? For Lisa Neeld, it’s the opportunity to make connections with the students and staff at Boone Middle. She’s always happy to lend a hand in the classroom, decorate the campus for special occasions, or assist with cafeteria duty, but she also looks for opportunities to offer friendship and support to anyone who needs it. Administrators say she adds a special, positive energy to the campus.
As a paraeducator, Neeld is patient and versatile when working with students, putting them at ease so they can learn and grow. By using data and building relationships, she can identify students’ educational needs and find ways to reach them, making them feel empowered to unlock their own potential. Neeld also contributes to her school by getting involved with the SAC committee, PBIS team and family events. Her professionalism and work ethic are unmatched; she represents the best of Boone Middle.
