As May is Teacher appreciation Month, students have shown their appreciation for teachers with gifts, letters and thank you notes.
“The impacts we have on kids go unnoticed, Weiner said. “Until you give a kid the chance to express it.”
In the case of McKinney the entire school would like to show their appreciation in a bigger, more permanent way.
For 36 years, she has been the “go to” person for all things athletics. For 36 years, she has made it possible for countless students to participate in the sport that just might end up making them a superstar. For 36 years, athletic director Yvette McKinney has been making sure that Palmetto maintains its status as #1 high school athletic department in Miami-Dade: and after 36 years, Palmetto is giving her a little piece of her department that she knows will be there forever.
At the faculty meeting Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Weiner presented to Ms. McKinney with a blank sheet of paper, only then to present to her a sample of “McKinney Court”: the new name that will be printed on the gym basketball courts.
“I am completely ecstatic and surprised,” McKinney said.
Mr. Weiner alongside the Student Council commissioned the project to honor a lady who they all hold near and dear to their hearts.
“She has been the most influential person I know. This (honor) is past due and well deserved,” senior and student council president Brittany Batten said. “ I feel bad for the people who don’t get to meet her it’s a shame – she definitely stand out, she could influence anyone, big or small.”
McKinney is the longest serving member of the Faculty at Palmetto, beginning in fall 1975. Over the years, she has enjoyed seeing the various teachers she has had the pleasure of working with.
“I just love working with the kids and love that I have the opportunity to interact with young adults and athletes on a daily basis,” McKinney said.
As teachers and faculty congratulated Ms. McKinney, health trainer sponsor Michelle Benz hugged McKinney and said, “You went to your first Heat game and they won and now you have your own court!”
McKinney court will be done by Riptide Company and should be finished before the end of the year.