JUNE 20, 2023 – Every year, the Florida Charter School Alliance recognizes individuals whose actions have strengthened the charter school movement in our state. The FCSA Charter School Heroes Awards — held at the National Charter Schools Conference — is our way of thanking and highlighting the principals, governing board members, teachers, or advocates for their leadership and dedication to their community and the families of Florida who depend on quality charter schools. Click here to watch the Awards reception video.
The 2023 Charter School Heroes are:
Ken Haiko – 2023 Man of Steel
Ken Haiko is the Board Chair of the Renaissance Charter School, Inc. Foundation. A steadfast charter school advocate and volunteer board member, he has tirelessly supported the growth of quality educational programs that raise student achievement and also fearlessly pushed for equitable treatment of charter schools and the students they serve.
Ana Diaz – 2023 Dynamic Leader
Ana Diaz is a Somerset Academy governing board member and the Principal of Pinecrest Preparatory Academy in Miami — a high-performing school that’s also received Gold STEM Designation from its authorizer. Ms. Diaz tirelessly gives to the movement by mentoring and supporting colleagues and future school leaders. Ms. Diaz was a guest presenter for the FCSA School Leaders Fellowship program, Cohort 2.
Ileana Melian, 2023 Steadfast Leader
Ileana Melian is a veteran educator and principal who has raised student achievement and created dynamic partnerships with the families she’s served. As a charter school principal at Doral Academy, Mater Academy of International Studies, and Mater International Preparatory, she’s been a vocal advocate for her families and students — speaking before the school board and local government meetings advocating for the continued support and expansion of quality charter schools in high-need areas.
“The Charter School Movement and families of Florida are lucky to have the 2023 Charter School Heroes on their side,” explains Lynn Norman-Teck, FCSA Executive Director. “This year’s Charter School Heroes have fought tirelessly to protect and expand the availability of quality charter schools in our state and have raised the bar on what it means to give it all you got for the communities they serve.
Thank you to FCSA Marketplace partners TechnologyLab for donating an iPad to our raffle and DDRepo Printing for donating gift certificates to 20 lucky reception attendees.
