Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. | Florida Department of Education
The Florida Department of Education has announced Katy Jo Harrison, a first-grade teacher at Hosford Elementary and Junior High School in Liberty County, as one of five finalists for the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year. These finalists were selected from 76 district teachers of the year, with the winner to be announced in July.
“I am pleased to recognize Katy Jo Harrison as one of five finalists for the 2026 Teacher of the Year award,” stated Commissioner of Education Many Diaz, Jr. “Ms. Harrison is truly dedicated to her students and the teaching profession.”
Liberty County Schools Superintendent Kyle Peddie commented on Harrison's impact: “Because of Katy Jo’s tenacity and desire for student success, she is the epitome of what we want a teacher to be in Liberty County.” He further noted that her classroom data shows she “is getting it done” daily, making her a model teacher.
Harrison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education/Exceptional Student Education from Flagler College. She is endorsed in English for Speakers of Other Languages and reading, obtained the Civics Seal of Excellence, and is working toward her Literacy Coach endorsement. Additionally, she developed a first-grade writing rubric for grading student papers and is rated highly effective.
The state finalists were chosen from nearly 175,000 public school teachers. A committee representing various stakeholders reviews each district application based on teaching ability, knowledge communication, professional learning, and community service. The winner will serve as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education for one year.
The Florida Teacher of the Year program is supported by sponsors including Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan; Florida State University Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health and Human Sciences; Helios Education Foundation; Sunshine Health; The Florida Lottery; Florida Power & Light Company; HCA Healthcare; Herff Jones; Publix Super Markets Charities; PNC Bank; and JM Family Enterprises.
For more details about the program, visit Florida Teachers Lead.
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