What is your role in Pasco County?

I have taken many roles in the school system over the past twenty years. I have been a Pre-k teacher and an Instructional Assistant in both Kindergarten and high school. I have also been involved in promoting and advancing an afterschool enrichment program.

What do you love about your job?

The part of my job that I love the most is to see the look in the eyes of a student the moment that they “get it”! That moment is the best!

Who or what inspires you?

My husband and my children inspire me. Knowing they are proud of me and what I do for my students makes me want to work harder.

Tell us something unique that people may not know about you.

I love classical music and the smell of fresh cut grass.

The person who nominated Ms. Derkiss shared, “Always has a smile on her face, very professional, and goes beyond what her job requires”.