Northwest Florida’s local McDonald’s organization, Costa Enterprises McDonald’s, visited Bluewater Bay Elementary on Tuesday, October 12 to recognize three local educators including the school’s 2021 “Teacher of the Year.”
In addition, the Costa team served the entire staff a complimentary breakfast, handed out Teacher Appreciation Cards, and surprised the school with a $3,000 donation.
The Costa team honored two local teachers, Carla Edwards and Shawn Grigsby, for their outstanding work and dedication to their students since the inception of Bluewater Bay Elementary in 1990.
- In addition, they recognized the school’s 2021 “Teacher of the Year” recipient, Dianne Goldstein.
- They also handed out Teacher Appreciation Cards to all the educators in attendance which are valid for one free coffee or soft drink at any of the Costa’s 21 stores until the summer of 2022.
To end the celebration, Costa Enterprises McDonald’s presented a surprise check to Principal Amy Klugh and her staff for $3,000. This money will be used to replace carpet in several of the classrooms and add new screens to those classrooms facing Range Road.
Costa Enterprises McDonald’s has strong personal ties to Bluewater Bay Elementary. Two of their owner operators, David Costa Jr., and Amy Costa Killebrew, attended the school the year it opened in 1990.
- Killebrew and her mother, Helen Costa, were also elementary school teachers before joining the family business.
- Costa Enterprises’ mission includes “Costa Cares” which gives back to the community and honors local heroes, including educators.
The celebration comes as all McDonald’s locations are making school day mornings a little brighter for educators across the country with a free breakfast “Thank You Meal” from Mon., Oct. 11 through Fri., Oct. 15.
- All educators – such as teachers, administrators, and school staff – simply need to head to their local participating McDonald’s during breakfast hours, and show a valid work ID, for a free meal.
- Educators will receive a Happy Meal box filled with an entrée breakfast sandwich, hash brown, and a beverage.