Hernando County Educator Named a 2025 Teacher of the Year Finalist
May 8, 2024
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Hernando County Educator Named a 2025 Teacher of the Year Finalist
Tallahassee, Fla., May 8, 2024 –Today, the Florida Department of Education announced Jaime Suarez, a teacher at the Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics in Hernando County, as one of the five 2025 Teacher of the Year state finalists. The five state finalists were chosen from 74 district teachers of the year. The 2025 Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year winner will be announced at a gala in Orlando on July 25, 2024.
“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.”
In photo (l-r): Hernando County Schools Superintendent John Stratton; Jaime Suarez; Challenger K-8 School Principal Rosemarie Maiorini; FDOE Public Schools Chancellor Dr. Paul Burns
Jaime Suarez, Hernando County
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.
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 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.
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