JWB Recognizes Christine Powell, Third KidsFirst Winner of 2026

JWB’s mission of strengthening Pinellas County children and families simply could not be accomplished without those who work directly with families, so, for more than 30 years, JWB has recognized outstanding “boots on the ground” professionals each year with the KidsFirst Cooperman-Bogue Awards 

On June 29, JWB Interim CEO Karen Boggess Recognized Christine Powell as JWB’s third KidsFirst Award Winner of 2026! Christine was always recognized publicly at JWB’s July Board Meeting.

Christine “Grandma” Powell has spent the past seven years volunteering as a Foster Grandparent with Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay. For three years, she has been the “heart and soul” of kindergarten teacher Laura Nordstrom’s classroom at Maximo Elementary School.

Known simply as “Grandma Powell” to students, she provides one-on-one literacy support, encouragement, and a caring presence that helps children thrive both academically and emotionally. Last year, every kindergartner in the classroom she supported mastered letters and sounds, with most reading at a first-grade level by the end of the school year. 

Christine’s influence doesn’t stop in the classroom. She serves on the School Advisory Council, where her insights help shape school-wide initiatives. And her work was previously recognized when she received a Certificate of Recognition as a 2024-2025 Outstanding School Volunteer Nominee from Pinellas Schools! 

Christine reminds us that one caring adult can change a child’s confidence, a classroom’s culture, and a community’s future.

Click below to view a video highlighting her work.