Celebrating Excellence: Florida’s Top Educators and Staff Honored in 2026
In the heart of Florida’s educational community, three individuals have emerged as exemplars of dedication and leadership. The Florida Department of Education has recognized Brooke Loyed, Reshonda Scott, and Chris Hattaway as the state’s leading principal, assistant principal, and school-related employee of the year, respectively, for 2026.
Acknowledging Leadership in Education
Brooke Loyed, Patronis Elementary School
Principal Brooke Loyed has been instrumental in advancing academic success at Patronis Elementary in Bay County. Her initiatives have led to a marked improvement in English Language Arts proficiency among third graders, with scores rising from 67% to 79%. Loyed’s Spring Morning Minutes program further boosted fourth-grade performance, increasing students performing at or above grade level from 62% to 76%. These accomplishments underscore her commitment to fostering an environment where every student can thrive.
The Principal Achievement Award, established in 1988, honors leaders who excel in enhancing student performance and community engagement. This year’s top principal receives $3,575, while two other finalists receive $1,500 each.
State finalists for Principal of the Year:
- Martin Aftuck, Middleburg High School, Clay County
- Felice Bagley, Dodgertown Elementary School, Indian River County
Recognizing Assistant Principals’ Contributions
Reshonda Scott, East Ridge High School
Assistant Principal Reshonda Scott has been pivotal in transforming student outcomes at East Ridge High School, Lake County. Her innovative approach to the school’s night program resulted in 60% of seniors now being on track to graduate, a significant 40% increase. Since joining Lake County Schools in 2013 and assuming her current role in 2018, Scott’s leadership has emphasized creating pathways for student success.
The Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award, initiated in 1997, celebrates those who harness teamwork and leadership to improve educational outcomes. The winner receives $2,500, with finalists receiving $1,000 each.
State finalists for Assistant Principal of the Year:
- Melissa Miller, Frederick Douglass Elementary, Miami-Dade
- Ryan Garrett, Tuskawilla Middle School, Seminole County
Highlighting Exemplary School-Related Roles
Chris Hattaway, Rockledge High School
Officer Chris Hattaway, a School Resource Officer at Rockledge High in Brevard County, is celebrated for his unwavering dedication to student safety and mentorship. As an alumnus of Rockledge High, Hattaway’s efforts include a student support initiative and the introduction of K9 Trusty, a therapy dog that enhances the school environment and strengthens student-law enforcement relationships.
The Florida School-Related Employee of the Year Program acknowledges the vital contributions of education personnel. The top recipient is awarded $10,000, with state finalists receiving $6,000 and district winners $5,000 each.
State finalists for School-Related Employee of the Year:
- Valerie Rivera, A.D. Henderson and FAU High School, Florida Atlantic University
- Julie Vivian, TERRA Environmental Research Institute, Miami-Dade
- Kari Vennard, Hilliard Elementary, Nassau County
- Destiny Suarez, Everglades Elementary, Okeechobee County
For further details on these awards, visit the Principal Achievement Award, Assistant Principal Achievement Award, and School-Related Employee Award.
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