Four Finalists Vie for Miami-Dade Schools’ Teacher of the Year Award

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) will host the 2027 Francisco R. Walker Teacher of the Year ceremony to name the most outstanding teacher on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Miami Airport & Convention Center. The hotel is located at 711 N.W. 72nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33126.

The four finalists, the regions and schools they represent, are as follows:

·       North – Julia Pennington-Gilchrist, Dr. Frederica S. Wilson/Skyway Elementary School

·      Central – Roberto Rabelo, South Miami Middle Community School

·       South – Dale J. Adamson, Howard D. McMillan Middle School

·        Postsecondary Career and Technical Education/Division of Educational Opportunities – Gary D. Spitnale, Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College 

M-DCPS will also recognize the 2027 Rookie Teacher of the Year finalists and announce the winner at the event.

The finalists, the regions and schools they represent, are as follows:

·         North – Katherine Ocejo, Ernest R. Graham K-8 Academy

·         Central – Tyone Haynes, Booker T. Washington Senior High School

·         South – Kristian Jose Luciano, Homestead Middle School

·         Postsecondary Career and Technical Education/Division of Educational Opportunities – Pedro D. Perez, Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College

The signature sponsors for the event include the Educational Federal Credit Union (EdFed), United Way Miami, and Kendall Toyota, which will present the Teacher of the Year with the keys to a new car. The event is made possible through partnerships with United Teachers of Dade, Miami-Dade County Council of PTAs/PTSAs, the Dade Association of School Administrators, Univision and Fox-Mar Photography.

Events such as the Francisco R. Walker  Teacher of the Year ceremony highlight the exceptional caliber of educators who define Miami-Dade County Public Schools: dedicated professionals whose expertise, passion, and commitment to student success ensure families can choose a school system grounded in excellence, innovation, and opportunity, making MDCPS truly your best choice.

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