Special to the Monitor
This year, Keystone Heights Jr./Sr. High School named Kay Stewart its School-Related Employee of the Year.
“I’m honored and grateful to be part of a team that believes in the potential of every student and recognizes the importance of every role in helping them succeed,” Stewart shared.
As a Title I Assistant, she spends her days working one-on-one and in small groups with students who need extra academic support, helping bridge learning gaps and giving them the confidence to keep going.
From business owner to teacher to assistant
But her journey to Keystone Heights is more than a job title; it’s a story of a lifelong calling to serve and uplift children. With over two decades of experience nurturing young minds, Stewart has devoted her career to helping students flourish, both academically and personally.
Her path began in Alabama, where she owned and operated a childcare and learning center. That hands-on experience in early childhood education laid the foundation for her future in the classroom.
“Even before I entered the education industry, I had always worked with children in some capacity—through childcare, youth programs, or volunteer work,” she said. “I’ve consistently been drawn to roles where I could support and nurture children’s growth and development.”
In 2014, Stewart relocated to Florida and spent the next seven years teaching second grade in private schools. There, she honed her instructional skills and cultivated a nurturing classroom environment that emphasized both academic excellence and character development. That love for teaching and connecting with students never left—and eventually led her to Keystone Heights Jr./Sr. High School, where she found her place making a difference behind the scenes.
Now in her third year at KHHS, Stewart’s days are filled with intentional support for students who need it most. Whether it’s helping a student understand a tricky math concept or encouraging them not to give up when things get tough, her presence is both gentle and powerful.
More than a plaque
The recognition as School-Related Employee of the Year, she said, is more than just a plaque. “It’s a powerful reminder that the work I do to support students who need extra academic help is valued and impactful.”
What makes Stewart’s influence so remarkable is not just what she does—it’s how she does it. Her work is rooted in three core values: empathy, commitment, and lifelong learning.
“Empathy allows me to connect with students and colleagues in ways that honor their experiences and identities,” she explained. “Commitment keeps me grounded in the belief that persistence and care can change lives. And lifelong learning reminds me that growth is not just for students—educators must continually evolve to meet the needs of a changing world.”
Stewart isn’t just helping students learn how to read or calculate fractions—she’s modeling what it looks like to show up with heart. Her colleagues have taken notice and so have the students who benefit from her compassion, patience, and positivity every day.
Outside of school, Stewart finds joy in the little things.
“I really value moments spent with my family—that’s what brings me the most joy,” she said.
Whether it’s walking through quaint towns, browsing antique shops, or discovering cozy coffee spots, she appreciates the beauty of quiet, peaceful places. And when she’s ready to unwind, a good book is her go-to escape.
Family, it turns out, is the thread that runs through everything Stewart does.
Thank you for believing in me
“I’m incredibly grateful for the love and support of my family,” she said. “Coming from a large family, I’ve always known the value of standing by one another. My husband and children are my greatest motivators—they lift me up, especially on the hard days, and remind me why I do what I do.”
Her five grandchildren—and one more on the way—are her pride and joy. “They make everything sweeter and inspire me to keep growing, learning, and giving my best.”
Though humble in nature, Stewart is quick to extend her thanks to those around her. “I want to sincerely thank my principal, assistant principals, and my fellow employees for believing in me. Their support and encouragement have meant so much, and I am truly grateful to work with such caring people and dedicated leaders.”
It’s clear Stewart views her work not as a job, but a calling—and one she fulfills with grace and gratitude. “Their belief in me helped me grow, stay motivated, and feel valued every day. It’s a privilege to be part of a team that leads with both heart and purpose.”
At Keystone Heights Jr./Sr. High School, where every student’s story matters, Kay Stewart is helping write a chapter of hope, encouragement, and possibility, one small group at a time.
Her legacy isn’t about being in the spotlight. It’s about showing up, day in and day out, for the kids who need her most. And this year, the school community returned that love tenfold, with a well-deserved title that says what her actions already have: You make a difference. And we see you.
