40th Annual Program Recognizes Outstanding Educators Across Boca Raton Public Schools
The Rotary Club of Boca Raton Sunrise proudly announces the 2026 Teacher of the Year honorees, recognizing exceptional educators from Boca Raton’s public schools for their dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on students and the community.
Now celebrating its 40th year, the Rotary Teacher of the Year program, in partnership with the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce’s Golden Bell Education Foundation, honors teachers who exemplify excellence in education and a deep commitment to student success. Since its founding in 1987, the program has recognized more than 700 outstanding educators, making it one of Boca Raton’s longest running and most meaningful education initiatives.
The 2026 honorees represent a diverse range of grade levels, subject areas, and schools throughout Boca Raton.
2026 Rotary Teacher of the Year Honorees
• Ella Pillitteri – AD Henderson University School / FAU High School
• Kathryn Vecchio – Addison Mizner School
• Nicole J. Wallace – Blue Lake Elementary School
• Rachel Bennett – Boca Raton Elementary School
• Kimberly Carlo – Boca Raton High School
• Lonnie Varela – Boca Raton Middle School
• Grace Marie O’Dowd-Curra – Calusa Elementary School
• Cherise Chase – Coral Sunset Elementary School
• Michelle Stuart – Del Prado Elementary School
• Heather Tully – Don Estridge Middle School
• Allison Nelson – Eagles Landing Middle School
• Erika Dunlea – Hammock Pointe Elementary School
• Ebony Harden – J.C. Mitchell Elementary School
• Joseph Ametrano – Loggers’ Run Middle School
• Marta Sjövall-Brihammar – Olympic Heights High School
• Nathaly Ibarra-Rumsey – Omni Middle School
• Kerry Maione – Sandpiper Shores Elementary School
• Nichole Lee – Spanish River High School
• Robyn Marcus – Sunrise Park Elementary School
• Chelsey Boothney – Verde K-8
• Michelle Wagner – Waters Edge Elementary School
• Debra Rosenblum – West Boca Raton High School
• Stacy-Ann Garbos – Whispering Pines Elementary School
The teachers will be formally recognized at the 40th Annual Rotary Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Studio at Mizner Park.
For more information, visit http://www.rotarybocasunrise.org.
About the Rotary Club of Boca Raton Sunrise The Rotary Club of Boca Raton Sunrise is a community service organization dedicated to making a positive impact locally and globally. Through initiatives focused on education, youth programs, and community development, the club lives Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.
