Six Sarasota teachers honored for making a difference

Barancik Foundation's Ripple Awards aim to make note of those who leave 'a lasting mark.'

By Observer Staff
| 5:00 a.m. May 27, 2026

Stacy Lenz, a teacher at Gulf Gate Elementary, was surprised by the honor during a ceremony at school, alongside principal Michelle Miller, who nominated her.

Sarasota
Schools

“Exceptional.’’

“The qualities we hope every student experiences in a teacher.’’

“A true catalyst for growth.

With those words, and plenty more like them, six Sarasota County educators were recently honored as the latest recipients of the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation’s Ripple Effect Teacher Award.

Awarded twice a year, marked by the birthdates of the late founders of the philanthropic organization, the honors are meant to be emblematic of teachers whose “influence extends beyond the classroom and leaves a lasting mark on students’ lives,’’ the Foundation says. Winners receive a $5,000 award.

Hal Anderson, an educator at Booker High and the coordinator of the school's Law Academy, accepts congratulations from Sarasota Superintendent of Schools Terry Connor.

The spring 2026 Ripple Effect Teacher Award recipients are:

Hal Anderson, Law Academy coordinator/instructor, Booker High School;
Megan Ehlers, marine science teacher, Sarasota High School;
Ken Hall, ACCESS teacher (middle school), Oak Park School;
Stacy Lenz, math teacher (Grades 2–3), Gulf Gate Elementary School;
Tonya Quinn, literacy Coach/interventionist, Phillippi Shores Elementary School;
Erin Tuttle, ESE resource teacher (Grades 4–5), Brentwood Elementary School.

“It is an honor to celebrate these outstanding teachers,” said Superintendent of Schools Terry Connor. “Their commitment to the success and well-being of their students is inspiring, and we are grateful to have them in our school district family.”

Nominations from school administrators sang the praises of the eventual winners. “Stacy is a true catalyst for growth at Gulf Gate,’’ wrote principal Michelle Miller of Lenz. “Her leadership and dedication strengthen students, empower teachers, and enrich our entire school community. I cannot think of a more deserving educator for the Ripple Effect Award.”

A total of 10 Ripple Effect awards have been presented annually since 2022, divided between May and September.

“We know that everyone remembers their favorite teacher,” said Barancik Foundation Interim President/CEO John Annis. “There’s a reason for that. Put simply, these educators make all the difference in the world.”