Keynote Speakers
Aaron Kuntz, Ph.D
Dean, School of Education and Human Development
Dr. Aaron M. Kuntz is Dean of the School of Education and Human Development and also holds the Frost Professorship of Education and Human Development at Florida International University. Before becoming Dean, Dr. Kuntz served for three years as Chair of the Department of Counseling, Recreation, and School Psychology. Previous to FIU, Dr. Kuntz was a faculty member at the University of Alabama where he was awarded the prestigious President’s Research Award in 2017 and served as Chair of the Department of Educational Studies from 2014-2020. As a professor of research methodology, Dr. Kuntz has published over 50 peer-reviewed publications, including five books. His most recent book, Qualitative Inquiry, Cartography, & the Promise of Material Change, was awarded the 2020 Outstanding Book Award from the Qualitative SIG of the American Educational Research Association.
A strong advocate for public schooling, Dr. Kuntz grounds his research in empirical questions about the effect of research and teaching practices in the K-16 arena, faculty work in postsecondary institutions, and the impact of the built environment on learning. Dr. Kuntz’s scholarly and administrative activities have been recognized through a Service Award (FIU CASE), Community Engagement Award (University of Alabama), and award for Faculty Excellence in Teaching (University of Alabama).
Jaime Suarez
2025 Florida Teacher of the Year
Jaime Suarez is a High Impact 6th – 8th grade math teacher at the Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics in Hernando County. Jaime was selected as the 2025 Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year, standing out among nearly 185,000 Florida public school teachers across the state. Her exceptional instructional skills are evidenced by her remarkable 100% pass rate among her 2022-23 Algebra students on the end-of-course assessment!
As the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education, Mrs. Suarez passionately advocates for the teaching profession, elevating, celebrating and showcasing the invaluable contributions of Florida’s educators.
Jaime earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Troy University. Throughout her career, she has had multiple leadership roles, including grade level team lead, new teacher mentor, the Math Field Day coordinator and district’s science textbook selection committee member. She strongly believes in the importance of extracurricular activities for building relationships. This belief is reflected in the varying clubs she has initiated, such as the Video Productions Club in Clay County and the Rubrik’s Cube Club at Challenger K-8, in Hernando County. Additionally, Jaime brings her enthusiasm and energy to her role as the Cheerleading coach at Challenger K-8.
Jaime is a proud mom of two, a 15-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter. She and her husband, Neil, have just celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary, marking two decades of partnership and shared joy.
Jaime’s dedication to fostering a love of learning is evident in her belief that every child has the potential to succeed.
Guest Speakers
Melissa Abril-Dotel
2025 Francisco R. Walker Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year
Melissa Abril-Dotel is a passionate educator and Miami native with a deep-rooted love for teaching. From childhood games with her sister, where she naturally assumed the role of the teacher, her path was clear. A proud product of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Melissa attended Coral Way Elementary, Carver Middle School, and Coral Gables Senior High School. She earned her Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Florida State University and later returned to Miami to pursue a Master’s in TESOL and Urban Education from Florida International University.
Melissa began her teaching career at Coral Way K-8 Center before dedicating seven years to teaching 3rd grade at Christina M. Eve Elementary School. She then transitioned to North Beach Elementary, where she has spent the past several years guiding 2nd-grade students. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom as an active participant in the Sunshine State Young Readers Award program and the Gardening Committee. In 2020, she led her school to victory in the Carton2Garden program, securing a $1,000 prize. As a DonorsChoose ambassador, she has successfully funded 54 projects, totaling $20,954 for classroom and garden supplies. With endorsements in ESOL and gifted education, along with clinical supervising teacher certification, Melissa’s 18-year career culminated in her recognition as the 2025 MDCPS Teacher of the Year.
Claudia Singkornrat
2025 Broward County Teacher of the Year
Dr. Claudia Singkornrat is a passionate educator with a distinguished 21-year career at Pompano Beach High School in Broward County Public Schools. Her unique journey to the classroom began with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. After a successful decade in the chiropractic field, Dr. Singkornrat followed her true calling in inspiring young minds.
A dedicated advocate for student success, Dr. Singkornrat has been instrumental in enhancing the educational experience at her school. She has collaborated with the University of Florida to introduce cutting-edge biotechnology to her students, cultivated international connections through a cultural exchange with a Swiss school, and actively participated in the school’s International Symposium. Her commitment to professional growth is evident in her roles on district and school committees, as well as her Clinical Educator Certification.
Dr. Singkornrat’s classroom is a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration, open dialogue, and critical thinking. Her ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds is rooted in her own multicultural upbringing. Born in Colombia to German parents, Dr. Singkornrat is fluent in Spanish, German, and English, and possesses a deep appreciation for different cultures.
Recognized for her exceptional teaching, Dr. Singkornrat was honored as the 2025 Broward Teacher of the Year and received the 2025 FEA Award for Teaching Excellence. Her inspiring dedication and innovative approach to education make her a true leader in the field.
Juan Martin
2025 Miami-Dade County Rookie Teacher of the Year
A dynamic and innovative educator, Juan Martin brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to the realm of elementary music education. He weaves narrative into his lessons, using technology, AI, and Disney Imagineering principles to bring stories to life for his students. His approach extends beyond traditional teaching, embracing a holistic and immersive educational experience. Co-founder of the Compositum Musicae Novae arts organization, Juan also holds the distinction of being named the MDCPS 2024 District Rookie Teacher of the Year. With experience directing interdisciplinary art events and a strong background as a pianist, composer, and arranger, he crafts enriching musical landscapes that inspire both children and adults alike.