Rotary Club of Florence Honors Four Outstanding Educators as 2025 Teachers of the Year
Written By: Julie Pile, ParentCamp
Florence, KY — The Rotary Club of Florence (@FlorenceRotary) proudly announces the 2025 recipients of its prestigious Teacher of the Year Awards: Rachalle Brandt from Ryle High School, Kelly Eibel from St. Paul School, Blaire Sullivan from Ockerman Middle School, and Jennifer McEachern from Steeplechase Elementary School. These exceptional educators demonstrate remarkable dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to their students and communities.
Rachalle Brandt, a Special Education teacher at Ryle High School, profoundly impacts her students by supporting them academically, socially, and emotionally. She has notably helped students overcome significant barriers to achieve higher education and enriched their experiences through cultural outings. Brandt’s extensive community involvement includes volunteering at her local church’s food pantry and international mission trips.
Kelly Eibel, Middle School Math teacher and Technology Coordinator at St. Paul School, has provided more than three decades of service, significantly influencing the lives of countless students. Known as the “technology mastermind,” she skillfully managed the school’s transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also coordinates the school’s yearbook, graduation slideshows, and serves actively with Special Olympics and school committees. Students and colleagues alike celebrate her compassionate tutoring, selfless attitude, and profound ability to inspire success.
Blaire Sullivan, a U.S. History teacher at Ockerman Middle School, is recognized for his innovative and engaging teaching methods and deep personal connections with students. Known for developing immersive learning experiences, such as the “Road to Revolution” and “Colonial Artifact Museum,” Sullivan effectively makes history relevant and memorable. Additionally, he created the popular Cadet Corps leadership and skills-building program at Jones Middle School, significantly boosting students’ academic performance and confidence. Sullivan is highly respected by colleagues, parents, and students for his compassionate approach, consistent positivity, and proactive community involvement, including coaching girls’ basketball, fostering a displaced student, and volunteering through the Kentucky National Guard.
Jennifer McEachern, an Autism Special Education teacher at Steeplechase Elementary, is affectionately known as Ms. Jen for her dedication, patience, and deep personal connections with students and families. She customizes learning experiences through innovative strategies, such as the “Giddy Cart,” empowering students to practice essential life skills and communication. Her empathetic nature and proactive communication have profoundly impacted her students’ academic and social growth, gaining the heartfelt appreciation of families and staff.
The Rotary Club of Florence invites the community to join in celebrating these exceptional educators at a special luncheon:
Date: Monday, April 21, 2025
Meeting Hosts: Team #1
Location: Florence Nature Event Center, 7200 Nature Park Drive, Florence, Kentucky 41042
11:45 am – Lunch Buffet $13/person
12:00 pm – Meeting Begins, Greeting, Prayer-Reflection-Inspiration, Pledge & 4-Way Test
12:15 pm – Program Begins
1:00 pm – Meeting Adjourned
The celebration will be live-streamed to the club’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@rotaryclubofflorenceky
Event details: https://www.florencerotary.org/2025-toy-1
Please help us plan for seating and food by RSVPing at: https://tinyurl.com/rcofky-rsvp.
Congratulations to Rachalle Brandt, Kelly Eibel, Blair Sullivan, and Jennifer McEachern. They truly embody the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self,” enriching the lives of countless students and the community at large.
#FloRo #Rotary #ServiceAboveSelf #PeopleofAction #TOY #TeacherOfTheYear
#BooneCounty #Teachers #BooneNation #StPaulSchool #EngageStudents #CelebrateEducation
