The Okaloosa County School District proudly announces Ms. Katrina Brownsburger (Brominguez) as the 2025 Teacher of the Year! The announcement was made during last night's school board meeting, recognizing Ms. Brownsburger's exceptional dedication and educational contributions. Ms. Brownsburger, a tenth-grade English Language Arts teacher at Fort Walton Beach High School, has made a significant impact both in and out of the classroom. As the sponsor of the Speech and Debate team, she has guided her students to remarkable success, including victories at state and national competitions. Her unwavering commitment to her students' growth and success exemplifies the highest standards of teaching excellence.
(Pictured above Front L to R: Superintendent Marcus Chambers, Ms. Katrina Brownsburger, and Fort Walton Beach High School Principal Lindsey Smith. Pictured Back L to R: Mr. Brett Hinely, Ms. Linda Evanchyk, Dr. Lamar White, Mr. Tim Bryant, and Mr. Parker Destin.)
The district also recognized Ms. Brittney Stein, who teaches 8th-grade Pre-Algebra at Pryor Middle School, and Ms. Shalytha Payne-Blevins, an English teacher at Crestview High School, runners-up for this prestigious honor. Traditionally, the Teacher of the Year is announced at the Annual Teacher of the Year Banquet hosted by the Okaloosa County Education Association (OCEA). However, due to last week's unprecedented winter weather, the banquet was rescheduled to February 13th, after the State of Florida's deadline for district candidates to advance to the state competition. Despite the delay, the district is excited to celebrate all Teacher of the Year nominees at the rescheduled banquet.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers expressed gratitude to the OCEA and everyone involved in ensuring Ms. Brownsburger has the opportunity to represent Okaloosa County at the state level this spring in Tallahassee. "Ms. Brownsburger's dedication and success inspire all of us, and we are honored to have her represent the incredible educators of Okaloosa County," he said.