FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, FL (May 8, 2026) — Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to celebrate district employees who were recognized with a 2026 Congressional Education Award, presented by Congressman Vern Buchanan to honor outstanding educators, administrators and support staff across Florida’s 16th Congressional District.
The Congressional Education Awards were established 12 years ago to spotlight school employees whose daily dedication makes a lasting difference for students and communities.
“The educators and staff in our district are the true champions of student success,” Buchanan said. “Their daily dedication to our students and community is remarkable, and I’m proud to recognize them for their truly invaluable work.”
This year’s honorees include Hillsborough County Public Schools teachers, administrators and support professionals from a wide range of elementary, middle and high schools, as well as district programs and career academies. HCPS recipients serve students across South County, Central Tampa and East Hillsborough, representing every facet of public education—from classroom instruction to transportation, student services and career acceleration.
Award Recipients:
Jerry Turner and Kimberly Wheeler - Dorothy C. York Innovation Academy
Dr. Johan von Ancken - Regional Superintendent Middles Schools
Principal Denise Savino, Lennard High School
Principal Brittney Wilhelm, Assistant Principal Ebony Robinson, Rebecca Doughtery, and Adria Reyes - Aquilla J. Morgan High School
Jennifer Stout-Ihland – Mulrennan Middle School
Brittany Avery, Katie Best, John Feely, Carin Galimore, Aaron Haygood, Erich Herrmann, Jessica Lincoln, Lisa Maiello, April McGinley, Sardis Mercado, Vernessa Neu, Nancy Ohme, Nikki Pennington, Amanda Ryan, Carolyn Sims, Kimberly Tyll and Richard Unis – Newsome High School
Analiese Cook, Kimberly Cooke and Julie Holubetz - Reddick Elementary School
Brian Adams, Taquanda Carlton, Ashley Clark, Ann Cruz, Lisa Feroben, Wancarlie Garnier, Carol Huftalen, Jeremy Murrell, Suzie Ratliff, Jessica Rodrigues, Pamela Smith, Rachal Stewart and Danielle Weigand - Riverview High School
Principal Jennifer Woods, Julia Boyett, Josephine Byers, Thomas Chapman, and Emily Johnson-Lerch - South County Career Acceleration Academy
All honorees will also be formally recognized in the Congressional Record in Washington, D.C., highlighting their contributions at the national level. Photos taken during the presentations of awards can be found here.