Winners Shine Bright at the 2025 Excellence in Education Awards

(January 23, 2025) Tampa, FL – The 2025 Excellence in Education Awards celebrated Hillsborough County’s most inspiring educators and support staff tonight as Hillsborough Education Foundation and Hillsborough County Public Schools announced this year’s winners. In a celebration themed “Mission to the Stars,” three exceptional individuals were honored in the categories of Teacher of the Year, Instructional Support Employee of the Year, and Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year.

Chosen from an impressive field of 667 nominees, these winners embody excellence in education through their commitment to student success and their ability to inspire those around them. Their work not only transforms classrooms but also helps build a stronger future for Hillsborough County.

The Winners

    TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Henry Bryson | AICE History Teacher | Leto High

Henry Bryson holds a B.A. in History from the University of Florida and a J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law. With over 13 years with Hillsborough County Public Schools, he has achieved a 100% AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) Global Perspectives pass rate and contributed to educational resources as a writer and editor for AP World History: Ways of the World and as a content creator for AP Daily. As a District PLC (Professional Learning Community) leader for AICE International History and AICE Global Perspectives, he fosters collaboration and excellence among educators. Driven by a commitment to his students and colleagues at Leto High School, Mr. Bryson describes Leto students as the kindest and hardest-working people he knows and considers it an honor to be their teacher.  
    INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Bonnie Walters | Secretary 4 | Tampa Palms Elementary  

Bonnie Walters has dedicated 27 years to Hillsborough County Public Schools, beginning as a one-on-one aide in an ESE classroom before serving as a clinic aide, Secretary 1, and Principal’s Secretary since 2012. She has been honored multiple times as Tampa Palms’ Support Employee of the Year and is now a finalist for the first time. For over a decade, Bonnie has coordinated the school’s HeartFELT program, partnering with a local church to provide food for students in need. She also organizes canned food drives, clothing drives, and the annual Turkey Trot. Bonnie treasures her daily interactions with students, cherishing cards, pictures, and notes she’s received over the years. Her passion for her job and the school community keeps her inspired every day. Bonnie has two children and three grandchildren, who are the loves of her life.  
    IDA S. BAKER DIVERSITY EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR Antonyia McCray | Success Coach | Freedom High

Antonyia McCray has served Hillsborough County Schools for over eight years, dedicating her career to Freedom High School. Starting as a math teacher, she now excels as a Student Success Coach, guiding students toward their academic goals. In addition to her role, she serves as FACE (Family and Child Education) Ambassador, Title I Liaison, and SAC (School Advisory Council) Chair. Antonyia holds a Master’s in Exceptional Student Education and gained international teaching experience through a service-learning program in Ghana, working with children at a local orphanage. Passionate about empowering students to achieve graduation success, she embraces every opportunity to make a lasting impact. Beyond her professional commitments, Antonyia enjoys family time, traveling, and frequent visits to Disney, where she continues to draw inspiration from the world around her.  


Pictures and Videos for Media Usage:
For 2025 Excellence in Education pictures and video, including school celebrations, please use this Dropbox link.


About Hillsborough Education Foundation
Every child deserves access to the best possible education — and the teachers, tools, and trusted mentors they need to succeed. But today, this fundamental right remains out of reach for too many young people in our community. Hillsborough Education Foundation works to ensure every student in Hillsborough County receives an outstanding public education that equips them for a fulfilling future. By unlocking opportunities for students, investing in teachers, and strengthening public schools, we’ll make Hillsborough County Public Schools one of the best places to learn and teach, where 100% of students graduate with the ability to pursue anything they can dream. Learn more and join us at EducationFoundation.com.

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