[This post will be updated as recognition continues of our district leaders]
The Education Foundation of Lake County is proud to recognize the amazing educators and staff who lead the Lake County School District. Throughout December & January, the Education Foundation of Lake County facilitates the recognition of the District’s School-Related Employee of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, and Teacher of the Year.
2026 School-Related Employee of the Year
The 2026 School-Related Employee of the Year program recognizes outstanding education support personnel for their contributions to their schools and communities. On November 17, the top three finalists for the district-wide recognition were surprised at their schools with the announcement. This year’s finalists include Jesi Cartagena of East Ridge High School (pictured far left), Terrie Burklew of Grassy Lake Elementary (pictured center), and Kimberly Capstraw of Mount Dora High School (pictured right).
The winner will be announced at the Lake County School Board meeting on December 8th. The winner will be recommended for the statewide recognition on behalf the of the district.
2027 Teacher of the Year & 2025-2026 Rookie Teacher of the Year
The nominees for Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, and the finalists for School-Related Employee of the Year will be celebrated on January 29 at the Celebration InspirED by Excellence. This event, presented by Additional Financial, aims to recognize the leaders making a difference every day in their schools. It is an evening honoring excellence and celebrating part of what makes Lake County Schools great.
You are invited to learn more about sponsorship opportunities for the Celebration InspirED by Excellence by visiting our events page or e-mailing us at edfoundation@lake.k12.fl.us.
