Learning Gate Community School Honors SIEGE Award Recipients

LUTZ, Fla. – June 5, 2024 – Learning Gate Community School is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious SIEGE Award, a distinguished honor given to one individual on each campus who embodies the spirit of the beloved school mascot, the heron.

As Tampa Bay's premier charter school, Learning Gate Community School prioritizes academic excellence, community service and environmental responsibility through the ethos of "Nature is our Best Teacher." This award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond in their dedication to education, reflecting the core values of SIEGE: Striving for Excellence, Inspiring Others, Engaging in Learning, Giving Respect and Establishing Purpose.

Kara Windish, this year's recipient for the Hanna Campus, embodies the SIEGE Award qualities through her dedication to students and love for teaching. She uses engaging methods like Socratic Seminars, Shark Tank Pitches, Mystery Historic Crime Scenes, Debates, Escape Rooms and skits, making lessons come alive and transporting students into different eras.

Ms. Windish plays a key role in The Amazing Shake program, teaching students vital communication skills and accompanying them to national competitions. She supports new teachers, organizes 6th-grade challenges and contributes to the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). Ms. Windish tirelessly supports both campuses, offering training sessions and teaching classes at the University of South Florida (USF), encouraging staff to pursue further education.

OJ Beane, this year's recipient for the Lutz Lake Fern Campus, is celebrated for his positive attitude and team spirit. Always available to staff and students, he builds healthy relationships and ensures every student has the opportunity to succeed, making him an invaluable member of our community.

Mr. Beane's dedication to self-improvement and professional growth is exemplary. His humility and kindness make him approachable and easy to work with. He proactively addresses needs before they become issues and connects with students on a personal level, supporting their academic, emotional and social growth. Colleagues admire his willingness to share knowledge and strategies, enhancing teaching quality across the school.

“At Learning Gate Community School, our entire team is committed to environmental stewardship and showcases exceptional talent and brilliance,” said Principal Michelle Mason. “It is our privilege to recognize Kara and OJ for their outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to our students and community. They are sources of inspiration, demonstrating the profound impact of education.”

About Learning Gate Community School

Learning Gate Community School is a tuition-free, A-rated public charter school that prioritizes academic excellence, community service and environmental responsibility through the ethos of "Nature is our Best Teacher." Accredited by Hillsborough County Public Schools, Learning Gate Community School serves kindergarten through 8th grade and blends classroom teachings with hands-on experiences across two campuses in Lutz, Florida. Its innovative, nationally recognized curriculum integrates environmental learning by planting the seeds of critical thinking, growing problem-solving skills and nurturing a profound sense of stewardship among students.

As the first public school nationwide to attain Platinum status through the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED for Schools Program, Learning Gate Community School has received numerous accolades, including the Rodale Institute School Garden Award, the Florida Green School Award and the Hillsborough County Planning Commission Environmental Excellence Award for three consecutive years. The school has also earned multiple recycling awards and holds the distinction of being a Project Learning Tree Green School.

For more information or to inquire about enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year, please visit LearningGate.org.