Three Hillsborough County educators were honored on a recent Thursday night as part of the 2026 Excellence in Education Awards, a signature celebration recognizing the individuals who represent the very best of public education across the district.
Presented by Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools, the annual awards ceremony took place on January 22 at Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. This year’s theme, ‘Hillsborough’s Treasures,’ highlighted educators and support staff whose dedication, leadership and commitment continue to shape student success.
Among the honorees were the finalists for the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Award: Che Counce, an Access Points teacher at Symmes Elementary School; Adrian Sarmiento, workforce program advisor at Morgan High School; and Jennifer Giannone, an AVID academic teacher at Newsome High School. Each was recognized onstage for outstanding efforts to foster inclusion, equity and opportunity for students across Hillsborough County.
The three educators were selected from a highly competitive pool of 690 nominations submitted by students, families, colleagues and community members. In total, 13 finalists were honored during the evening across three categories: Instructional Support Employee of the Year, Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year and Teacher of the Year.
“This year’s finalists represent the true treasures of Hillsborough County’s public schools,” said Anna Corman, president and CEO of Hillsborough Education Foundation. “Their commitment to students, colleagues and families creates a lasting impact well beyond the classroom, and we are proud to recognize the difference they make every day.”
The Excellence in Education Awards serve as one of the district’s most visible celebrations of public education, shining a spotlight on the educators and staff members whose work helps students thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Hillsborough Education Foundation continues to support students and teachers throughout the district by investing in classrooms, expanding opportunities and strengthening public schools, with the goal that 100 percent of students graduate prepared to pursue their dreams.
For more information about Hillsborough Education Foundation and its programs, visit https://educationfoundation.com/.
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