Samantha Miller, Sarasota Military Academy Prep teacher, Middle School Teacher of the Year
Samantha Miller was inspired to switch her planned vocation from science to teaching when interning at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.
“My heart drew me to art and history but I was majoring in biology and psychology because my father believed that I could find a good job in the science field,” Miller said.
Miller’s entire outlook changed when, halfway through college, she interacted with groups of children and families touring Mote Marine’s rehabilitation center. A passion for education took root.
“In the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, I saw groups of young adults and children excited and eager to learn,” Miller said.
“It was compelling and entertaining, and my passion for education was ignited. I decided that when I became a teacher, I would create that environment in my classroom.”