“Unflappable.” “Indispensable.” “Catalyst.” “Transformative.”
Those were among the words used by principals to describe the six Sarasota County Schools educators recently selected for Barancik Foundation’s 2026 Ripple Effect Teacher Award.
Each teacher was recognized by the Foundation and school district leaders during a series of surprise award ceremonies in early May.
The Ripple Effect Teacher Award honors outstanding public-school educators whose influence ripples throughout and beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting mark on students’ lives. Each winner receives a $5,000 award from the Foundation.
The Spring 2026 Ripple Effect Teacher Award recipients are:
- Hal Anderson, Law Academy Coordinator/Instructor, Booker High School
- Megan Ehlers, Marine Science Teacher, Sarasota High School
- Ken Hall, ACCESS Teacher (Middle School), Oak Park School
- Stacy Lenz, Math Teacher (Grades 2–3), Gulf Gate Elementary School
- Tonya Quinn, Literacy Coach/Interventionist, Phillippi Shores Elementary School
- Erin Tuttle, ESE Resource Teacher (Grades 4–5), Brentwood Elementary School
“We know that everyone remembers their favorite teacher,” said Interim President/CEO John Annis. “There’s a reason for that. Put simply, these educators make all the difference in the world.”
Hal Anderson, Booker High School
“Mr. Anderson’s influence is lasting and personal. He teaches students to think critically, speak with purpose, and carry themselves with professionalism. Many credit his classroom as the place where they discovered their voice and ambition.”
— Greg Rumph, Assistant Principal
Megan Ehlers, Sarasota High School
“Dr. Ehlers is an exceptional educator whose impact extends far beyond her own classroom. She teaches with real-world application in mind, helping students connect academic concepts to meaningful experiences and develop a passion for marine science.”
—Ryan Chase, Principal
Ken Hall, Oak Park School
“Ken Hall embodies the qualities we hope every student experiences in a teacher: patience, acceptance, dedication, and genuine care. Our students are incredibly fortunate to have him guiding them through the already adventurous journey that is middle school.”
—Sean Donovan, Principal
Stacy Lenz, Gulf Gate Elementary School
“Stacy is a true catalyst for growth at Gulf Gate. Her leadership and dedication strengthen students, empower teachers, and enrich our entire school community. I cannot think of a more deserving educator for the Ripple Effect Award.”
—Michelle Miller, Principal
Tonya Quinn, Phillippi Shores Elementary School
“Mrs. Quinn is deeply committed to ensuring every child becomes a confident reader. Her dedication creates a ripple effect that strengthens literacy instruction across our entire school.”
—Holly Staley, Principal
Erin Tuttle, Brentwood Elementary School
“Erin Tuttle embodies dedication without ego, leadership without spotlight, and service without expectation. She is one of the reasons I believe the Ripple Effect Award was created.”
—Holly Brody, Principal
To view more photos from each Ripple Effect award presentation, visit our Facebook page >>
