PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
Congratulations to our next group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!
From District 4:
- Mia Holden, Teacher of the Year finalist, ESE inclusion teacher, Brigham Academy
- Ervie Louis, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, paraeducator, Jewett School of the Arts
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. 8 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.
Mia Holden, Brigham Academy, District 4 Teacher of the Year
Mia Holden believes that anyone can make significant accomplishments. Drawing on her own experience with dyslexia, she teaches with compassion and selflessness, and helps other educators use different strategies to assist students who are struggling. Ultimately, Holden wants all children to feel safe and encouraged at school.
Administrators say Holden has been a “guiding light” at Brigham Academy. She has a deep knowledge of curriculum, and excels at dealing with learning gaps and classroom management. She also has a passion for butterflies, which has led to the creation of an educational butterfly habitat at school. In addition, her knack for building relationships with parents and community members has greatly benefitted the campus. Holden is more than an educator, she’s a catalyst for positive change.
Ervie Louis, Jewett School of the Arts, District 4 School-Related Employee of the Year
Ervie Louis has spent a remarkable 40-plus years working in education at Jewett School of the Arts. As a result, she has served multiple generations of families, and has deep bonds within the school and community. She feels honored to be part of JSA, and wants all students to know they are loved and valued.
Louis is proud to serve wherever she’s needed, whether it’s in the classroom, helping with everyday tasks, or lending a hand for school activities and events. She takes the lead in welcoming new students and staff to campus, and has a positive energy noticed by all. She also uses her community connections to create special learning opportunities for JSA students, especially during Black History Month. Louis is beloved by students, parents and staff — she treats them like family, and that makes a big difference.
