Florida’s 2024 Teacher of the Year announced: ‘Serves as an inspiration’

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. named the state’s 2024 Teacher of the Year, along with other educator awards.

Adrianna Swearingen, a media specialist from Bay County, is the recipient of the 2024 Teacher of the Year Award.

Along with the award, Swearingen received $50,000 from the state, a tuition waiver to pursue a graduate degree at the Florida State University College of Education and a two-year Florida College scholarship for her to present to the student of her choice.

The other finalists for the award each received $20,000 from the state as well.

“With Adrianna’s remarkable dedication, innovation and commitment to student success, she has set an exemplary standard for educators statewide,” Diaz said. “Adrianna embodies the qualities of an exceptional teacher and serves as an inspiration to fellow educators and students alike.”

Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez congratulated Swearingen and her accomplishments.

“It is great educators like Adrianna that make Florida the Education State,” she said. “Her passion and dedication in her profession is helping shape our next generation of leaders.”

“I also want to extend my congratulations to the other finalists for their commitment and for going above and beyond for their students,” she added.

Other awards that were presented that night included the Ron Nigel “Digital Educator” Award, the Outstanding Teacher Leader Award, the Mary J. Brogan “Excellence in Teaching” Award, the Liz Moya “Life Skills and Citizenship” Award, and the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations’ “Invested in Excellence” Award.