MAY 16, 2024 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC, Director of Public Relations

352.671.7734 w ◊ 352.840.3265 c

[email protected]

FORDHAM’S BECK CAPTURES

“CHILDREN’S CHAMPION” AWARD

MARION COUNTY – Longtime educator Jennifer Beck, the principal at Fordham Early Learning Academy and director of Early Learning for Marion County Public Schools, is the 2024 “Children’s Champion” for the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County (ELCMC).

The Coalition made its announcement recently during a special Early Childhood Forum in Ocala.

According to the ELCMC, this award honors “an individual who shows exemplary passion and dedication through involvement and action that directly benefits children in our community.”

Beck joined MCPS in 1994. With almost 30 years of experience, she has served children in multiple roles -- first as a classroom teacher at Emerald Shores Elementary; then as a Student Services Manager at Wyomina Park and Emerald Shores Elementary Schools; assistant principal at Sparr and Eighth Street Elementary Schools; principal at Saddlewood and Sunrise Elementary Schools; director of Elementary Curriculum, Instruction, and Digital Learning; and currently as the director of Early Learning.

Two years ago, Beck opened Fordham Early Learning Academy as its founding principal.

ELCMC’s CEO Carrie Theall said, “[Beck] is a role model of excellence in the field of early childhood education. She truly understands the importance of the first years in a child’s life.”

Theall also recognized Beck for her efforts that “engage families and encourage parents as their child’s first teacher.”

Fordham opened with just kindergarten students and now has first graders on campus. Second graders will join starting this August.

For more information, contact the Public Relations Office.

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