District Volunteer Recognized as Florida’s 2025-2026 Outstanding School Volunteer

Jimey Moad started volunteering at North Fort Myers High School in 2016 when his daughters were in the marching band. Even though his girls graduated, Jimey stayed on to continue supporting the band. He’s put in about 8,500 volunteer hours and was just named the Florida Department of Education’s 2025-2026 Outstanding School Volunteer.

“I’m very proud and very thankful,” Jimey said about his award. “ With this group of band parents that I'm with, we don't do it to be recognized. It's just what we do. And we enjoy doing it. We enjoy giving back. I tell all the new band parents that we are like wallpaper. We get out there, we do what they need us to do, and then we go into the background and just disappear because the spotlight should be on the kids.”

Jimey’s volunteer service addresses critical operational and logistical needs within the North Fort Myers High School arts band program. He ensures students have the necessary equipment, safety, and support to succeed. His work directly tackles challenges ranging from complex logistics and equipment failures to student safety and fundraising efforts.

“Jimey Moad is the backbone of our logistics and the heart of our band family,” said North Fort Myers High School Director of Bands Michael Flores-Perez. “His tireless dedication ensures that our students can focus entirely on their musicianship and art, knowing that everything behind the scenes is handled with care. He is a testament to the countless hours he spends making sure our program doesn't just function but thrives.”

Jimey spends between five and thirty-five hours volunteering every week. Since 2016, he has supported nearly 2,000 students across the marching band, concert and jazz ensembles, competitive indoor percussion, and guard ensembles. His impact has helped increase student achievement and decrease chronic absenteeism.

“Jimey Moad has demonstrated an extraordinary breadth of volunteer contribution over a decade of service to the NFMHS band program,” said North Fort Myers High School Principal Debbie Diggs. “ The commitment made by Jimey and other parent/alumni volunteers is a big part of what instills a sense of 'family' and teamwork that builds student resiliency and a positive school climate. Our North family is so very thankful to Jimey and all our volunteers, and we couldn’t be happier that he has been chosen as the Volunteer of the Year by the Florida Department of Education.”

The Florida Department of Education Outstanding School Volunteer Award is presented annually to volunteers who have shown outstanding dedication and commitment to quality education in Florida’s K-12 Public Schools. This recognition serves to highlight and inspire strong school and community relationships, including innovative approaches to improving the academic performance and resiliency of students. Honorees are awarded in one of three categories: Volunteer, Youth Volunteer, or Senior Volunteer. Jimey will be recognized by the School Board of Lee County at their June 9th meeting.