25-02-2025
Bay County administrator has dedicated her life to teaching
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – When it comes to Bay District Schools there is no truer professional than Janice Salares.
Over her 55-plus-year career as a teacher and administrator, Salares has gathered plenty of valuable knowledge.
'We consider everybody to be a teacher,' said Salares. 'Our bus drivers, our paras, our support people, our families, our community. School is where everybody comes together and it becomes a great equalizer.'
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Salares is also the founding principal of two prominent schools in Bay County, those being Patronis Elementary and Arnold High School.
She states that although it was a challenging task it was made possible due to community support.
'There are no books for opening brand new schools,' Salares went on to say. 'Everybody in your district gets to be involved and again, I celebrate the support of this district and being progressive and the support of community people who were eager to share their generosity and their good fortune.'
Salares is the longest-employed administrator in the district so it's fair to say a lot has changed from her first year teaching in 1968 to now.
'The lunch rooms didn't have air conditioning, nor did the cafeterias,' Salares added. 'No technology, we had a globe, we had a yardstick, and we had some books. No concept of technology at all, but it was a community in the classroom.'
When looking back on her career Janice is thankful for all the opportunities she's had, but she knows her determination and work ethic are what afforded her those same opportunities.
'I've had blessed opportunities, but I also know I was reliable, I would show up and if I told you I was going to do something, I would die trying,' Salares said.
That is what makes Janice Salares a Class Act.
If there is someone out there who you think is a Class Act make sure you nominate them today.
Everyone who works in a school system is eligible for this award.
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