By Betty Reed
mail@floridanewsline.com
James Schmitt’s journey started simply. He was requested to speak as the keynote speaker at the annual Constitution Luncheon held by the Daughters of the American Revolution in September 2023. His presentation impressed the audience. Following, members of Jacksonville Chapter DAR, voted to award Schmitt their certification as DAR Outstanding American History Teacher of the Year 2023. This is the local level and his first win. Schmitt was submitted as Jacksonville’s Chapter DAR candidate and received the Outstanding American History Teacher 2024 by the Regents Council of Northeast Florida, Area 4, consisting of eight chapters and more than 1,000 daughters. This secured his regional award. With this recognition, Schmitt was immediately submitted as the candidate for the State of Florida award. He nailed that competition as well and now advances to compete for the national award which will be awarded in July of this year.
The ceremony for the State of Florida award was held March 8, 2024 at the Omni Hotel, Championsgate in Orlando. Schmitt was presented the certificate award and monetary recognition by Florida State Regent, Cindy Addison and Florida State Historian, Lynne Cason. He was accompanied by his wife, Debbie, who is also an educator and retired principal. Schmitt stated he was proud to represent the 11,000 plus Daughters of the American Revolution in the state of Florida.
This victory has brought Schmitt into the spotlight, showcasing his exceptional talent in the field of American history. To secure these accolades, letters from his principal, his students, his recommending chapters, himself, and additional community service along with a resume must be considered by judges outside the DAR organization. This packet combines to secure the recognition. Schmitt is a veteran as well as a coach and participant in other community services.
Photo courtesy Betty Reed
Betty Reed, Regents Council president; Cindy Addison, Florida State Regent; Jim Schmitt, Florida Outstanding America History Teacher; Lynn Cason, Florida State Historian; and Connie Taylor, Jacksonville Chapter Regent.
