TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A Hernando County math teacher was recognized for her hard work and dedication to her students on Thursday as she was named Florida's Teacher of the Year.
Jaime Suarez, who teaches grades 6-8 at Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics, was selected among five finalists "through a rigorous selection process," the Florida Department of Education said in a news release.
Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz Jr. congratulated Suarez on winning this year's award, as well as a $50,000 check from the state.
“It is because of inspirational and dedicated educators like Jaime that Florida’s students continue to exceed expectations and raise the bar for education. I look forward to seeing the impact that she will make on educators across the state over the next year," Diaz stated in the release.
Suarez earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Troy University, the department said. She will reportedly serve as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education for one year, advocating for students and representing Florida’s teaching community.
On top of this, the Hernando County math teacher will also receive a tuition waiver to pursue a graduate degree from the Florida State University College of Education and a two-year Florida College scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan to present to a student of her choice, the department said.
At Challenger K-8, Suarez reportedly also serves as the grade level team lead and mentor, coordinator of the Math Field Day and serves on the district's science textbook selection committee.
All five of this year's finalists will each receive a $20,000 bonus, according to the department.
In a separate release, Suarez offered this statement on being named teacher of the year:
"I am deeply humbled to be named the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year. It is both an honor and a privilege to represent not only this remarkable profession but also the extraordinary teachers who make it so special. I am thrilled to represent Hernando County and the many phenomenal educators and programs that we have here.
"Meeting the leadership from the Florida Department of Education has been an inspiring experience. Their unwavering passion for advancing student success is truly motivating, and I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate closely with them over the coming year to elevate teachers across the great state of Florida."
