Excellence in
Education Awards

Empowering teachers and school personnel with the support they need to be effective is crucial.

Our annual Excellence in Education (EIE) Awards is a premier event that celebrates more than 600 outstanding educators and school personnel who consistently bring forth their best efforts and utilize their talents to ensure all students benefit from a high-quality education.

Every day, more than 24,000 teachers and staff in our district make a difference in students’ lives. They play a critical role in providing a welcoming academic environment where every student can thrive and reach their fullest potential in school and in life—and deserve this recognition.


Nominees from each school are selected across three categories:

Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year

Ida S. Baker was the first African-American to serve as Deputy Superintendent in the Florida Department of Education. She was known for her efforts to support underserved students and encourage academic success. In her honor, each school site may nominate an individual who embodies the pioneering spirit of Ida S. Baker by going above and beyond to meet the needs of our diverse student population.

Instructional Support Employee of the Year

Instructional support personnel are recognized for ensuring students and schools have the proper care and services available to promote an enriched and safe environment. Each school may nominate a person who supports the district through administration, transportation or health services. The winner of the award will go on to compete for the title at the state, and potentially, national levels.

Teacher of the Year

The Teacher of the Year award recognizes outstanding teachers who have been nominated by their school site for their dedication to the academic achievement of their students. The winner goes on to compete for Florida State Teacher of the Year honors, and potentially the national Teacher of the Year.


2024 Excellence in Education Award Winners

  • Dr. Clayton Nylund

    Teacher of the Year

  • Dr. Ilfaut Joseph

    Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year

  • Maria Ortiz

    Instructional Support Employee of the Year

2024 Teacher of the Year Finalists

  • Barbara Zimmer

    Bay Crest Elementary

    English, Arts, and Social Studies Teacher

  • Jaime Beulah

    Corr Elementary

    Access Points K-2

  • Dr. Kimberly Feroli

    Gaither High

    Reading Teacher/Teacher Talent Developer

  • Milca Lebron

    Woodbridge Elementary

    5th Grade Math Teacher

2024 Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Finalists

  • Angela Roberts

    Farnell Middle

    School Counselor

  • Cheryl Flohr

    Hospital/Homebound Program

    ESE Teacher

  • Suzy Tkacik

    Pride Elementary

    Media Specialist

2024 Instructional Support Employee of the Year Finalists

  • Billie Jo Nelson

    Collins PK-8

    Community School Officer

  • Bridget Wells

    Robinson Elementary

    ESE Paraprofessional

  • Joshua Fuentes

    Sumner High

    Head Custodian

Now’s the time to

GET INVOLVED

Stay ConnectED with us.