Inspiration Awards
Twelve inspiring teachers, administrators and community leaders will be honored for making a difference in the lives of Bridgeport students and families during the 30th Inspiration Awards on May 1st, 2024. Hosted by the Bridgeport Public Education Fund (BPEF) and Fairfield County’s Community Foundation (FCCF), the Inspiration Awards honor the good work being done in Bridgeport’s public schools.
Last year's awards brought together more than 200 supporters from throughout the region at the Trumbull Marriott Hotel to recognize and honor Bridgeport teachers, administrators and institutions who have dedicated their time and passion to helping Bridgeport students succeed.
We hope to see YOU on May 1st.
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A highlight of the ceremony is the awarding of the The Theodore and Margaret Beard Excellence in Teaching Awards. Known as The Beard Teaching Awards, it’s among the largest education awards in the country.
Recipients of this prestigious fund receive a $20,000 award for their ability to bring innovation, excitement and a love of learning to the classroom. The Beard Award prize is payable over three years as an incentive for recipients to remain in the district and provide resources to new Bridgeport teachers.
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2023-2024 Theodore & Margaret Beard Excellence in Teaching Award
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Carla Ebmeyer – Aquaculture School
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Erik Johnson – Park City Magnet School
Thank you to our Partner:
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This award was established in 1993 to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Bridgeport Public Education Fund. These teachers demonstrate leadership in the field of education and encourage other Bridgeport teachers to excel.
Teachers are nominated by a colleague who has been inspired by their candidate. Each recipient receives a crystal star and a $1,000 certificate entitling them to professional development enhancements for themselves or for the enrichment of their classroom and students.
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2023-2024 OUTSTANDING TEACHERS
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Melanie Cordeiro – Paul Laurence Dunbar School
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John Cunningham – Waltersville School
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Ashley Di lorio – Geraldine Johnson School
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Kelly Prizio – High Horizons School
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Carrie Ramanauskas – John Winthrop School
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Sarah Richard – Luis Munoz Marin School
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Jennifer Warfield – Paul Laurence Dunbar School
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Tracey Wilkins – Luis Munoz Marin School
Thank you to our Outstanding Teacher Sponsor:
Recognizing that teachers aren’t the only ones making a difference in education, the Bridgeport Public Education Fund also honors school and community leaders who work to improve Bridgeport’s schools. The George Bellinger Leadership Award was established in 2004 to honor the memory of Bridgeport Public Education Fund board member and community leader, George Bellinger. This annual award is presented to a principal in the Bridgeport Public Schools who best replicates the ability of George Bellinger to foster and recognize good leadership.
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​As a former member of BPEF's Board of Directors, Mr. George Bellinger enjoyed being “Principal for a Day.” He was founder and President of Bar-Pat Manufacturing, became a Top 100 Black-owned business in the US. Bar-Pat manufactured parts for NASA and other corporations throughout the world.
2023-2024 George Bellinger Leadership Recipient:
Francine Carbone – High Horizons School
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Named in honor of a Bridgeport philanthropist, one of the founders of the Bridgeport Public Education Fund, The Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Leadership Award recognizes community leaders who have made a long-term commitment to child advocacy and public education.
This special award is given to a recipient who best reflects visionary leadership and personal investment in the improvement of public education. The recipient receives a golden apple lapel pin symbolizing the quiet yet priceless work of Mrs. Pfriem.
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2023-2024 Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Leadership recipient:
Stephen Blume -Tango Flight/Bassick Partnership
In anticipation of the 2024 National Teacher Appreciation Week, BPEF will host it's 30th Annual INSPIRATION Awards. On May 1st, from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM, we invite you to join us at the Trumbull Marriott for a celebration of "excellence in education". This moment is to honor our educators, supporting staff, and community members who have inspired us this season!
