Vanessa Radice
Vanessa Radice, a twenty-year teaching veteran, from Miami, FL, has dedicated her entire profession to helping students with special needs and/or diagnosed with mental health disorder/s. Her passion has taken her to pursue a Specialist in Exceptional Student Education with an Endorsement in Autism. She holds a second master's in psychology and received the credentials necessary to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. With loved ones, struggling with mental health, and working in the classroom post covid, where mental health disorders are prevalent, has been interesting for her.
Sharing best practices and connecting others with resources that set them up for success is her daily goal. Her focus is to support students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the community by making herself accessible and creating a safe space to communicate needs and wants accordingly. Having volunteered/worked with the at-risk population, both in a classroom and clinical setting, has given her the inspiration needed to impact our nation at a greater magnitude.
Her mission is not only to educate our youth and their families but also to reduce the stigma and stereotypes that many students face. Being able to voice, represent, and create moments of learning opportunities is her “WHY.”
The Educator of the Year Awards are presented annually to exemplary educators who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to preparing students for success in college and in life. These awardees model best practices in teaching or administration inside and outside of the classroom, are peer role models, and demonstrate outstanding leadership and excellence in education. Any NSHSS Educator teaching high school has the opportunity to apply.