Meet the Leaders Driving Success: Excellence in Leadership Awards 2024-25

February 14, 2025

From left to right: Rick Rizzo, director of instruction for FLVS Flex Elementary; Kristy Smith, instructional leader for FLVS Flex; Kristina Devine, administrator of ESE and student services; Dr. Louis Algaze, president & CEO; Jake Crouch, instructional leader with FLVS Flex; Tania Clow, senior manager of communications; Amy La Grasta, senior manager of school counseling for FLVS Flex; Chad Chaney, manager of school safety and discipline

Each year Florida Virtual School (FLVS) honors seven outstanding leaders with the Excellence in Leadership Awards. These awards celebrate individuals who inspire trust and motivation, driving their teams toward success and growth. This tradition underscores the commitment of FLVS to recognize and nurture exceptional leadership within the organization.

FLVS is proud to recognize and celebrate the achievements of our leaders through these awards. These honors highlight the exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication that drive our organization forward. By acknowledging the hard work and contributions of our team members, we reinforce our commitment to our core values of Excellence, Innovation, Community, Balance, and Communication.

The 2024-25 Excellence in Leadership Awards winners are:

Achievement in Customer Excellence

Chad Chaney, manager of school safety and discipline on the Student Services team, has been honored with the Achievement in Customer Excellence award. This award recognizes leaders who demonstrate exceptional customer service. He ensures that both students and team members have a safe, supportive, and conducive environment for learning and teaching. His responsiveness and dedication to addressing any challenges with utmost care and attention highlight his deep commitment to the well-being of the entire organization.

Bright Side Award

Amy La Grasta, senior manager of school counseling for FLVS Flex, has been awarded the Bright Side Award, which recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding positivity and leadership. She is a staunch advocate for students, ensuring they receive academic and social/emotional support. She is also a strong supporter of her team, consistently showing gratitude and being present at all times. Her servant leadership and kind heart make her truly inspiring.

Culture Warrior Award

Rick Rizzo, director of instruction for FLVS Flex Elementary, has been awarded the Culture Warrior Award. This award recognizes an outstanding cultural leader dedicated to creating a supportive and collaborative environment for his team and everyone he interacts with. He has defined and showcased what it means to deliver the best and build meaningful connections both within and outside the organization.

Innovative Leadership Award

Kristy Smith, instructional leader for FLVS Flex, has been awarded the Innovative Leadership Award for exceptional innovation and creativity. This award recognizes a leader who demonstrates innovative ideas and outside-the-box thinking. She has shown outstanding creativity and forward-thinking strategies that have led to increased student achievement. By consistently analyzing data, gathering stakeholder feedback, and making observations, she has designed instructional programs that enhance efficiency and increase success.

    

Outstanding Mentor Leader Award 

Kristina Devine, administrator of Exceptional Student Education and Student Services, has been awarded the Outstanding Mentor Leader Award. This award recognizes a leader who demonstrates exceptional mentoring and talent development. She takes a genuine interest in mentoring her managers, always being approachable and eager to discuss ideas, helping them develop their unique strengths as leaders. She leads by example, proactively supporting her team when needed, recognizing the potential in others, and empowering them to succeed.

Rising Star Award 

Achievement in Leadership Excellence Award

Tania Clow, senior manager of communications, has been awarded the prestigious Achievement in Leadership Excellence award, selected by the FLVS President and CEO Dr. Louis Algaze. This honor recognizes a leader who demonstrates exceptional leadership and embodies our core values of Excellence, Innovation, Community, Balance, and Communication. Although much of her work is behind the scenes, it profoundly impacts all 3,600+ team members. Her top priority is keeping team members informed and engaged, driving unity and purpose throughout the organization. She tirelessly develops internal communications programs that energize team members, reinforce values, and foster a deeper sense of belonging and pride.

To learn more about joining the team at Florida Virtual School, visit flvs.net/careers.

About the Author: Mary Stevens, communications specialist and the student Newspaper Club sponsor at Florida Virtual School, is passionate about communications, driving cultural initiatives, and enhancing the overall team member experience.