Success of 2026 Ladies Fore Education
The Education Foundation of Lake County proudly celebrates the continued success of its annual Ladies for Education Golf Tournament, bringing together community leaders, business partners, and passionate supporters for a day on the golf course raising funds for the schools, students, and teachers of Lake County. This year’s tournament welcomed 14 participating teams to Continental Country Club on April 17. The presenting sponsor, Marian S. Shuck Scholarship Trust, was joined by Eagle sponsors Citizens First Bank, CPPI, and Style Magazine. Collectively, attendees raised more than $30,000 to support programs that directly benefit Lake County students and educators. From scholarships and classroom grants to innovative educational initiatives, the funds generated will make a meaningful and lasting impact across the community. “The Ladies Fore Education Golf Tournament is more than just a fun day on the course. These teams, sponsors, and community partners show up and proudly invest in the community’s students & teachers,” said Dr. Elizabeth M. Johnson, Executive Director of the Education Foundation. “It was extra special this year because we heard remarks from this year’s Linda Kohlmeyer Scholarship Recipient, Ryan Thompson of Leesburg High School.” Participants enjoyed a day filled with friendly competition, themed team spirit, and memorable moments, all while rallying behind a shared mission. The event also highlighted the generosity of local sponsors and volunteers whose support continues to elevate the tournament year after year. The Education Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to all sponsors, players, volunteers, and partners who made this event a success. Their investment is helping build a stronger future for Lake County. Mark your calendars for next year’s event: April 16, 2027 at Continental Country Club. Additional photos are available on Facebook. For more information about the Education Foundation and ways to support its mission, visit https://edfoundationlake.com/giving/.
Education Foundation of Lake County Selected as New Recipient for Tax Collector’s “Round Up Your Transaction” Initiative
TAVARES, FL – The Education Foundation of Lake County is proud to announce a new partnership with the Lake County Tax Collector’s Office as the latest beneficiary of the “Round Up Your Transaction” charitable initiative. This community-driven program invites customers to voluntarily round up their transaction totals to the nearest dollar, with 100% of the proceeds supporting Lake County students and educators through the Education Foundation of Lake County. The “Round Up” program, spearheaded by Lake County Tax Collector David W. Jordan, has already proven to be a powerful tool for local philanthropy. In its previous cycle, the initiative raised over $20,075.62 for the Lake County Sheriff’s Charities. This success demonstrates how small, optional contributions at checkout can collectively create a significant impact on the community. “We are honored to be the newest recipient of the Lake County Tax Collector’s Round Up program,” said Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, Executive Director of the Education Foundation of Lake County. “Every cent raised stays right here in Lake County, helping us remove barriers to learning and provide essential resources for our classrooms. We are incredibly grateful to David W. Jordan and his team for providing this easy, accessible way for residents to support public education.” When customers visit any Lake County Tax Collector office to process a transaction—such as renewing a tag or paying property taxes—the representative will confirm the total and ask if they would like to round up to the next dollar to donate to the Education Foundation. While the program focuses on rounding up, customers also have the option to donate any specific amount they choose. “We are grateful to our customers for stepping up and making a difference,” said Lake County Tax Collector, David W. Jordan, “By partnering with the Education Foundation of Lake County, every dollar stays right here in our community, impacting the lives of our students and teachers.” Funds raised through this initiative will support the Education Foundation’s mission to serve as the connection between the community and Lake County Schools, funding programs that include teacher grants, student scholarships, and supplies for students. Learn more about the Round Up program for 2026 here. The Education Foundation of Lake County also encourages Lake County residents to turn their daily drive into a force for good. Up to $25 from every Support Education, University of Georgia, University of Alabama, and Auburn University specialty plate goes directly to the Education Foundation of Lake County. Learn more here. Your investment helps fund essential programs and classroom resources not covered by traditional funding—making a lasting difference right here in our community. About the Education Foundation of Lake County The Education Foundation of Lake County is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to determining and meeting the needs of Lake County Schools. Established in 1987, the Foundation works to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed by providing direct support to teachers and students through various programs and community partnerships. About the Lake County Tax Collector: The Lake County Tax Collector’s Office is committed to providing exceptional customer service while efficiently collecting and distributing tax revenue. Under the leadership of David W. Jordan, the office actively engages in community outreach and charitable initiatives to improve the quality of life for all Lake County residents.
Deesi of Sorrento Elementary named 2027 Lake County Teacher of the Year
Michelle Deesi, a teacher at Sorrento Elementary School, has been named Lake County’s 2027 Teacher of the Year. The honor was announced at the Celebration InspirED by Excellence hosted by the Education Foundation of Lake County on Thursday, January 29. Deesi is recognized for her dedication to her students and her commitment to creating a supportive, engaging learning environment where all children feel valued and encouraged to succeed. Her work reflects a deep belief in the power of education to shape not only academic growth, but confidence, character, and a love of learning. Colleagues describe Deesi as a teacher who consistently goes above and beyond for her students and school community. She is known for building strong relationships with students and families, collaborating with fellow educators, and creating a classroom culture rooted in kindness. In her Teacher of the Year application, Deesi shared her passion for education and her belief in meeting students where they are, while inspiring them to reach their fullest potential. She wrote, “I strive to empower students to believe in themselves, to see that they are capable of achieving more than they imagined.” Deesi teaches 3rd grade and brings 17 years of teaching experience to her classroom. Sorrento Elementary School Principal, Nicole Brouhard, shared “She models what it means to work collectively toward shared goals, contributing to the success of our entire school.” As Lake County’s 2027 Teacher of the Year, Deesi received prizes made possible through the generous support of community partners. She will now represent Lake County at the state level in the competition for Florida Teacher of the Year. Also, at the Celebration InspirED by Excellence, Lake County’s Rookie Teacher of the Year was announced. Trevor Misegades, of Lake Technical College, received this district-wide honor. As a manufacturing instructor, his most notable classroom project focused on using LEGO blocks to apply concepts related to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. Misegades shared in his application that he would remind future Rookie Teachers to hold onto their “why,” because the challenges are often the most rewarding experiences. Deesi pictured left with car from Jenkins Automotive Group, center Deesi is with Sorrento Elementary Principal, Nicole Brouhard, and far right is Rookie Teacher of the Year, Trevor Misegades.
Lifetime Resident Continues Support for Eustis Schools with New Gift
Eustis resident and retired physician, Dr. William Zeller, has donated $30,000 to four local Eustis schools, benefiting more than 5,000 students at Eustis High School, Eustis Heights Elementary, Eustis Elementary, and Eustis Middle School. School principals accepted the donations on December 15, 2025 at a small gathering with Dr. Zeller. Dr. Zeller, who practiced family medicine in Eustis for over 40 years, requested that funds support financial literacy initiatives in addition to school-identified priorities. Some of their funding needs included classroom manipulatives, a student ambassador program, civic experiences, positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) resources, and weight room enhancements. Lake Technical College students, Hailey Burke (Cosmetology) and Devon Wright (HVAC), were present for the recognition as recipients of this year’s Zeller scholarship. A longtime advocate for education, Dr. Zeller also endowed the William V. and Mary L. Penny Zeller Scholarship in 2022 to benefit students attending Lake Technical College. Seven scholarships have been awarded to date. The donation was made through a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), allowing Dr. Zeller to support local schools while meeting retirement withdrawal requirements. Learn more about leaving a legacy through various giving strategies.