2024 Florida Teacher of the Year Gala
PRESENTED BY FLORIDA PREPAID COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS
Florida’s Teacher of the Year Program annual events conclude each year with the announcement of the state’s most celebrated educator. The 2024 Florida Teacher of the Year Gala took place at Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida on the evening of Thursday, July 20th, 2023 with Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. and Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Núñez making the announcement.
special awards
2023 OUTSTANDING TEACHER LEADER AWARD
Steven McGinley, Lee County
Presented by Christie Bassett, 2015 Florida Teacher of the Year, and Joy Prescott, 2019 Florida Teacher of the Year
The Outstanding Teacher Leader Award honors the legacy of exceptional educators and teacher leaders. This year’s honoree is Steven McGinley, a civics and science teacher as well as the team lead, department chair and academic coach for his school. McGinley is a lifelong learner dedicated to helping students achieve success.
2023 CFEF “INVESTED IN EXCELLENCE” AWARD
Anna Babcock, St. Lucie County
Presented by Mary Chance, President and CEO of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, and Jasmine Govan, Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, Florida Power & Light Company
The Consortium of Florida Education Foundations Invested in Excellence Award is presented to a teacher who has a tremendous impact on the lives of their students, their school and their community.
This year’s recipient, Anna Babcock, strives to provide opportunities for her students to become problem-solvers and develop skills for their future careers. Babcock, an elementary gifted teacher, goes above and beyond to help students gain real world experience, from promoting STEM labs to partnering with Daughters of the American Revolution. Babcock embodies someone who has a lasting impact on her students.
2023 Ron Nieto “Digital Educator” Award
Timothy Ferguson, Sarasota County
Presented by Kathy Hebda, Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor and Eve Nieto, wife of Ron Nieto.
The Ron Nieto Digital Educator award recognizes extraordinary educators who use digital components to enhance student achievement in the classroom. Congratulations to our winner, Timothy Ferguson, a music teacher who consistently uses technology in his classroom to enhance student engagement. Ferguson holds degrees in Music Education and Information Design and Technology.
2023 Liz Moya “Life Skills and Citizenship“ Award
Shelly Hinojosa, Walton County
Presented by Chris Moya and Anastasios Kamoutsas, Chief of Staff
In memory of Liza Moya, the Life Skills and Citizenship award is dedicated to an educator who focuses on teaching critical thinking and civic responsibility to their students, making sure they are well prepared for the future. Shelly Hinojosa was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Liz Moya Life Skills and Citizenship Award for her ability to help her students become civically engaged citizens. Hinojosa serves as the Educational Media Specialist, professional learning facilitator and yearbook teacher at her high school.
2023 Mary Brogan “Excellence in Teaching” Award
Vonda Morris, Volusia County
Presented by Frank Brogran, Former Florida Lt. Governor
Vonda Morris is this year’s recipient of the Mary J. Brogan Excellence in Teaching award. This award is presented to a district teacher of the year who instills a passion for learning in their students. Morris teaches all levels of high school mathematics and is a strong advocate for continual education. Morris brings invaluable knowledge and commitment to her community by mentoring future teachers.
