Excitement filled schools across Hillsborough County on Monday, December 1, 2025, as the finalists for the 2026 Excellence in Education Awards were announced. A Surprise Patrol, made up of representatives from Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF), Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS), and various sponsors, personally delivered the surprise announcements to each finalist.
This annual tradition shines a spotlight on the educators and support staff selected as finalists for Teacher of the Year, Instructional Support Employee of the Year, and Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year awards.
These finalists represent the best of the best in the seventh-largest school district in the nation, rising to the top from a pool of more than 690 nominees across all categories.
Teacher of the Year Finalists
Christi Atkinson –
AICE Marine Science Teacher,
Wharton High School
Melissa Degusipe —
Math Teacher,
Davidson Middle School
Francesca Doran —
Third Grade Teacher,
Westchase Elementary School
Tracy Moore —
Math Teacher,
Hill Middle School
Rochelle Phillips —
Kindergarten Teacher,
Kenly Elementary School
Instructional Support Employee of the Year Finalists
Julie Holubetz —
Lunchroom Aide,
Reddick Elementary School
Shakiera Scott —
Secretary IV,
Palm River Elementary School
Mary Torres-Cerezo —
LPN,
Willis Peters Exceptional Center
Daniel Webb —
Security Officer,
Westchase Elementary School
Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Finalists
April Campbell —
Community Resource Teacher,
Jennings Middle School
Che Counce —
Access Points Teacher,
Symmes Elementary School
Adrian Sarmiento —
Workforce Program Advisor,
Morgan High School
Jennifer Giannone —
AVID Academic Teacher,
Newsome High School
About Excellence in Education
The Surprise Patrol serves as the exciting kickoff to the annual Excellence in Education Awards, Hillsborough County Public Schools’ most prestigious celebration of exceptional talent. Hosted by HEF in partnership with HCPS, the awards ceremony will take place on January 22, 2026, at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. This year’s theme, “Hillsborough’s Treasures,” celebrates the individuals who help guide students and colleagues to reach their greatest potential—much like navigating uncharted seas in search of hidden wonders beneath the waves.
What: 2026 Excellence in Education
Where: The Straz Center for the Performing Arts
When: January 22nd, 2026
Schedule: 4:30 p.m. - Welcome Reception, 6:00 p.m. - Awards Ceremony, 8:00 p.m. - After Party
Excellence in Education Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities
Don’t miss your chance to celebrate these extraordinary educators! Tickets for the Excellence in Education Awards are now available at EducationFoundation.com/EIE2026.
In spirit with this year’s theme, attendees are encouraged to add a hint of treasure to their cocktail attire with pearls, shells, and pirate-worthy gems!
Sponsorship opportunities are also still available! Anyone interested in supporting this event should contact Shannon Boltz, HEF’s Chief Development Officer, at sboltz@educationfoundation.com.