Jamaican national Dr. Jacqueline Smith of Hollywood Hills High School in Broward County, Florida, has been named as a finalist for 2017’s Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award (Assistant Principal of the Year).

Dr. Smith’s inclusion in the group of six finalists was announced by Pam Stewart, Florida’s Commissioner of Education. The award is given to honor assistant principals for their outstanding contributions to their students and schools. Dr. Smith won the award last year.

Winners will be announced on June 21, 2017.  For 19 years, Dr. Smith has been devoted to serving her students and their families by linking academics and extracurricular activities. Examples of her approach include the Book Club, which allows students to practice reading skills during the lunch period, and the Spartan Academy, which offers tutoring and encourages parents to become more involved in helping their children complete their assignments and expand their knowledge. Dr. Smith is known for going the extra mile to help her students succeed. The winner of the 2017 Assistant Principal of the Year award will receive a prize totaling $2,500, plus $500 for their school. Candidates for the award were chosen by the superintendent of their school district.