This week, Paul Burns, FDOE Senior Chancellor for Public Schools, traveled the state to recognize five outstanding teachers who are finalists for the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year award.

The finalists are:

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Heather Stewart, Walton County

The Florida Department of Education announced Heather Stewart, a teacher at Paxton School in Walton County, as a 2025 Teacher of the Year state finalist. 

“Congratulations to Heather Stewart on her selection as one of the five finalists for the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year award,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Ms. Stewart goes above and beyond, dedicating her time and shaping the lives of her students and schoolwide community."

Heather Stewart teaches Science and Aerospace to students in 8th-12th grades at Paxton School in Walton County. Stewart earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Arts from the Florida State University, her Master of Science degree in Corporate and Public Communication also from Florida State University, is a teacher ambassador for Harvard LabXchange, and holds licensure in remote piloting. Prior to teaching at Paxton School, Stewart was an adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Gaetz Aerospace Institute. In 2015, she was awarded the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics National Educator Achievement Award and in 2016 was recognized by the Embry-Riddle’s Gaetz Institute for “Engaging Apps for Alternative Formative Assessment.”

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Samantha (Sam) Nelson, Florida State University School

The Florida Department of Education announced Samantha (Sam) Nelson, a teacher at the Florida State University School, as a 2025 Teacher of the Year state finalist.

“I am pleased to recognize Samantha Nelson as one of the five finalists for the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year award,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Ms. Nelson embodies excellence through her hard work and dedication to her school and overall community.”

Samantha Nelson is a 5th grade science teacher at Florida State University School and is known for her dedicated spirit to her students and school community. Nelson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary Education from The Florida State University and a Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction, also from Florida State University. She is ESOL certified, Reading Endorsed and is in progress of obtaining a Gifted Endorsement. Not only does Nelson serve as a Teacher Induction Program Mentor but she also is the Grade Level Team Leader, the Elementary Tech and PTSA Teacher Liaison for her school as well.

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Jennifer Brown, Marion County

The Florida Department of Education announced Jennifer Brown, a teacher at Forest High School in Marion County, as a 2025 Teacher of the Year state finalist. 

“Congratulations to Jennifer Brown on her selection as one of the five finalists for the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year award,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “She has truly immersed herself in her subject area to ensure every student has a great foundation in mathematics.”

Jennifer Brown teaches geometry and trigonometry to students in grades 9-12 at Forest High School in Marion County. She earned Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary/Middle School Education and Mathematics from the University of Northern Iowa. Ms. Brown is also a LEGO Education Academy Certified Teacher Trainer and an Advancement via Individual Determination (AVID) Program site team member.

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Jaime Suarez. Hernando County

The Florida Department of Education announced Jaime Suarez, a teacher at the Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics in Hernando County, as a 2025 Teacher of the Year state finalist. 

“I am pleased to recognize Jaime Suarez on her selection as one of the five finalists for the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year award,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “She has a track record of improving student outcomes and works every day to ensure that every student receives a high-quality education.”

Jaime Suarez teaches mathematics to students in grades 6-8 at the Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Troy University. Ms. Suarez is a High Impact teacher, is the grade level team lead and mentor, coordinator of the Math Field Day and serves on the district’s science textbook selection committee.

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The Florida Department of Education will announce the fifth finalist soon. 

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The 2025 Teacher of the Year state finalists were chosen from more than 185,000 public school teachers. After each school district selects its teacher of the year, a committee representing teachers, principals, parents and the business community reviews each district application on the basis of outstanding ability to teach and communicate knowledge of the subject taught, professional development, philosophy of teaching, and outstanding school and community service. The 2025 Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year winner will be announced at a gala in Orlando on July 25, 2024. The winner will serve for one year as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education.

In partnership with the Florida Education Foundation, the Florida Teacher of the Year program is made possible by these generous sponsors: Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans, Florida State University College of Education, Helios Education Foundation, HCA Healthcare, The Florida Lottery, Florida Power & Light Company, Herff Jones, Publix Super Markets Charities and PNC Bank.

For more information about the Florida Teacher of the Year program, please visit Florida Teachers Lead.