Nolan Middle teacher selected as Educator of the Year finalist

Math is in the spotlight, and Mary Ann Maginot is happy about that.

The Nolan Middle School math teacher, who has worked at the school since it opened 12 years ago, was chosen as one of four finalists for the Excellence in Education Awards.

She's the only East County instructor up for the Educator of the Year Award, which will be given at 7 p.m. March 2 at Manatee Technical College's State Road 70 campus.

Maginot also taught at Carlos E. Haile and Lincoln middle schools throughout her career.

King Middle math teacher Deborah Miele is also up for the educator award.

"It's totally amazing to be nominated," Maginot said. "I was up until 11 p.m. Friday responding to congratulatory emails. I'm excited another math teacher was recognized, too. I'm just glad math is being recognized."

Four support staff members were also nominated for an award — Support Employee of the Year.