Mark Harrison named 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year

Orlando, Fla., July 17, 2025 – Mark Harrison has been named the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year by Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. Selected from over 175,000 teachers across the state, Mr. Harrison was chosen through a rigorous process among five finalists. The Florida Teacher of the Year program aims to recognize and celebrate outstanding educators in the state.

“Congratulations to Mark Harrison on being named the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year,” said Commissioner Kamoutsas. “Mark sets the example of how a talented and dedicated teacher makes all the difference for his students.”

Union County Schools Superintendent Michael Ripplinger expressed pride in Mr. Harrison's achievements: “We are all extremely proud of Mr. Harrison and thankful for the impact he has had on so many in Union County.”

Mr. Harrison teaches Economics and American Government at Union County High School for grades 9-12. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Florida and has earned the Civics Seal of Excellence.

As this year’s Teacher of the Year recipient, thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis’ leadership, Mr. Harrison will receive a $50,000 award and serve as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education for one year. He will also receive a tuition waiver for graduate studies at Florida State University College of Education and a two-year scholarship from Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan to present to a student.

The five finalists will each receive a $20,000 bonus. They have shown significant impact in their classrooms and communities.

The Teacher of the Year Special Awards were also announced:

- Jennifer Morrow received The Outstanding Teacher Leader Award.

- Kimberly Stalker received The Educator Legacy Award.

- Vincent Taylor was awarded The Excellence in Service Award.

- Kayla Stanford received The Consortium of Florida Education Foundations Invested in Excellence Award.

These awards honor educators who contribute significantly to making Florida's education system exceptional.

The 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 Florida Healthcare, Herff Jones, Publix Super Markets Charities, Comcast, JM Family Enterprises, and PNC Bank.

For more information about the program visit Florida Teachers Lead.