TAMPA, Fla. — The school districts in Hillsborough and Polk counties held ceremonies Thursday evening to honor a handful of teachers after what has been another challenging year.
Hillsborough County Public Schools said three educators received awards out of 675 nominees chosen by peers from classrooms across the district.
Those three winners were:
- Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year: Benigno Lopez, Shields Middle Success Coach
- Instructional Support Employee of the Year: Faith Smith, Temple Terrace Elementary Parent Liaison Aide
- Teacher of the Year: Laura Widerberg, Armwood High School Biology teacher
A little further west, Polk County Public Schools held a ceremony of its own where finalists were recognized with video tributes and received sponsored gifts.
The main winners of the night were:
- Teacher of the Year: Ashley Brannon, Karen M. Siegel Academy curriculum coach
- School-Related Employee of the Year: Tiffany Berrien, Rochelle School of Arts physical education paraeducator
Both winners also received a cash prize.
Hillsborough County's ceremony took place at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Polk County held its ceremony at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland.
Polk County's ceremony can also be seen online on YouTube.
