Tampa, Fl. (October 26, 2026) – Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to announce that two district teachers have been recognized among Florida’s top science teachers by the Florida Association of Science Teachers (F.A.S.T.).

Tiffany Brown, a Science District Resource Teacher, was named the 2026 Outstanding Elementary Teacher, while Chamberlain High School’s Matthew Cohen was named the 2026 Outstanding High School Teacher.

Brown and Cohen are two of just five educators from across Florida recognized with 2026 F.A.S.T. Teacher Awards. The statewide honorees represent Hillsborough, Duval, Collier and Broward counties and were recognized for excellence in science education and their dedication to student learning.

“Having two Hillsborough County Public School’s educators recognized among the best science teachers in Florida is an incredible honor for our district,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “Tiffany and Matthew are creating opportunities for students to demonstrate inquiry, think critically, solve problems and connect what they are learning in the classroom to the world around them. Their recognition speaks to the outstanding science and STEM education happening each day across our schools, and we are extremely proud of them.”

Cohen incorporates engineering, mechatronics and systems design into his classroom at Chamberlain High School, giving students opportunities to connect science and engineering concepts with real-world applications. 

Brown spent much of her 19-year career teaching elementary math and science, most recently at Kenly Elementary, where more than 86% of her fifth-grade students achieved proficiency on the Statewide Science Assessment. Brown now supports elementary science teachers districtwide by developing curriculum, coaching educators and strengthening science instruction and assessment strategies.

Each F.A.S.T. Teacher Award recipient will receive $700 from the Florida Association of Science Teachers and an additional $100 from the Florida Science Education Leadership Association (FLSELA), for a total award of $800.

Learn more about the STEM programs at Hillsborough County Public Schools at hillsboroughschools.org/stem.