School District of Palm Beach County Announces Principal, Assistant Principal, Teacher, and School-Related Employee of the Year
The School District of Palm Beach County, along with the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, honored the 2025 Principal, Assistant Principal, Teacher, and School-Related Employee of the Year at the fourth annual Celebrate the Great awards ceremony.
Congratulations to this year’s winners:
- Principal of the Year – Shauntay King, Pine Grove Elementary School
- Assistant Principal of the Year – Guy Tabuteau, Pahokee Middle-Senior High School
- Teacher of the Year – Kimberly Stalker, Polo Park Middle School
- School-Related Employee of the Year – Yasmin Balaguer, Allamanda Elementary School
Winners were announced on January 30 during a ceremony at the new Center for Public School Excellence and Innovation. The winners will represent the District as they go on to compete at the state level as part of the Florida Department of Education recognition programs.
“We are ‘A’ rated, thanks to all of you and your hard work,” Superintendent Michael J. Burke told the audience at the awards ceremony. “The principals, their vision, leadership and unwavering dedication on their campuses forms that school community. Assistant principals, they are the quiet architects of student success. Our teachers are the heart and soul of the District who shape not just minds, but futures. Our school-related employees of the year are unsung heroes who ensure that every day runs smoothly.”
Principal of the Year – Shauntay King, Pine Grove Elementary School
Shauntay King has led the school to significant academic gains. Under her leadership, student reading proficiency has improved, with third grade reading scores increasing from 16% to 56%. Pine Grove has also earned multiple Model School Awards.
King worked to implement the Accelerated Math Program in 2021. Thanks to her efforts, all students in the school’s first AMP class passed sixth grade advanced math and scored at least a level three or higher on the FAST assessment.
“I love my staff. I love my students,” King said. “Our entire school proudly repeats our mission statement every day, which ends with: I expect nothing less of myself but greatness, because I am great. Good better best, I will never let it rest until my good becomes better and my better becomes my best.”
Learn more about Shauntay King in this video.
Assistant Principal of the Year – Guy Tabuteau, Pahokee Middle-Senior High School
Guy Tabuteau significantly improved student achievement by a comprehensive overhaul of the math department. This led to a 100% passing rate in advanced math courses and 100% of sixth graders scoring at Levels 4 and 5 on their accelerated math exams.
He has also fostered a positive learning environment by mentoring teachers, providing guidance, and modeling effective lesson plans. Additionally, he implements strategies that support student success across all academic areas.
“This award for me celebrates something truly special, the students at Pahokee Middle-Senior High School,” Tabuteau said. “Our students are continuously exceeding expectations and proving that greatness is not defined by circumstances. I believe in the greatness of our students every single day.”
Learn more about Guy Tabuteau in this video.
Teacher of the Year – Kimberly Stalker, Polo Park Middle School
As a passionate STEM educator, Kimberly Stalker ignites a love for learning in her students. Ms. Stalker fosters a supportive and creative classroom environment where students can innovate and collaborate through project-based learning.
Her dedication to providing hands-on activities for students allows them to connect science and engineering to real-world applications, boosting their engagement and achievement. Her approach as a creative and enthusiastic educator extends beyond the classroom as she inspires girls to pursue STEM fields and mentors new teachers.
“Standing up here representing all teachers in the School District of Palm Beach County is truly a ‘pinch me’ moment, especially as someone who grew up attending Palm Beach County Schools,” Stalker said. “[It’s important to] see the potential in each student while reminding them that they matter beyond the classroom. I truly love that I get to be a teacher.”
Learn more about Kimberly Stalker in this video.
School-Related Employee of the Year – Yasmin Balaguer, Administrative Assistant at Allamanda Elementary School
Yasmin Balaguer is described by her principal as the “heartbeat of the school.” With 25 years of experience and numerous commendations, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence.
Her ability to connect with students, staff, and parents creates a welcoming and inclusive environment. She actively participates in school events and initiatives, often going above and beyond her assigned duties. Her positive attitude and proactive approach have made a significant impact on Allamanda Elementary.
“When I say this is my life calling, it is my life calling,” Balaguer said. “Every day I walk into my job and I am trying to lift everyone’s spirits up because we’re here for a reason, for a purpose. I’m very humbled and honored for this award.”
Learn more about Yasmin Balaguer in this video.