Long-time Lake Forest Elementary staffer to be honored as district’s School-Related Employee of the Year

Press release from Alachua County Public Schools

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – No one knows Lake Forest Elementary School better than Sabrina Cook.

Cook, who is Lake Forest’s executive assistant, started at the school as a paraprofessional in an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) classroom, supporting students with a wide range of needs. She later became a behavioral paraprofessional, then started working in the school’s head start program. Later she was selected as the school’s database clerk, a complex role requiring strong organizational skills, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with families and staff.

As the executive assistant, Cook is responsible for managing budgets and payroll, maintaining records and calendars, coordinating special projects, and responding in many other ways to the needs of the school community.

“I learned a lot from each job I had,” said Cook. “I learned how to deal with all sorts of kids, all sorts of families, and all sorts of situations. It was a challenge, but a good challenge, and I’m still learning every day. You never stop learning when you’re in a school.”

Cook was selected as Alachua County Public Schools’ 2026 School-Related Employee of the Year. She will be recognized at the annual School-Related Employee of the Year celebration later this month, along with nominees from every school and most district departments. Cook is also representing the district in the statewide recognition program.

Lake Forest Elementary School’s current principal Karla Hutchinson says Cook’s commitment to the school extends well beyond her job description.

“When we need help, she’s the first to volunteer,” said Hutchinson. “She truly cares and is dedicated to the students, families, and staff of Lake Forest. She doesn’t just talk about her commitment to the school—she demonstrates it with her actions.”

As she nears retirement, Cook’s tenure at the school is coming to a close. But she says she still plans to remain involved at Lake Forest.

“I’m so proud to have been able to work here for so many years,” she said. “I have such love for these kids, and I’m going to miss them.”

“It will be a challenge to replace her when she decides to retire,” Hutchinson said. “She’s been a staple here for so long. I don’t think there’s anyone who knows the families, the staff, and the workings of Lake Forest better than Sabrina. She will leave very big shoes to fill.”