Each year, Santa Rosa District Schools gather members of the school board, Santa Rosa Education Foundation and the community together to surprise the pick for Santa Rosa Teacher of the Year. This year, the group ventured to Allentown to announce Christal Bennett, Central School’s band teacher, as the district’s best.

Santa Rosa County District Schools is proud to announce a substantial increase in its graduation rate, reaching an impressive 90.4% for the 2022-23 school year. This marks a remarkable 4.4% surge since 2017, showcasing the commitment and diligence of both students and the dedicated educational community.

Sims Middle School’s Ryan Wieczorek is in her 20th year of education, but her first as the media specialist at the school.

Santa Rosa Education Foundation has announced the three finalists selected from five semifinalists for Santa Rosa Teacher of the Year. Congratulations to Christal Bennett, Central School, Rhonda Waters, Milton High, and Angela Fulton, Woodlawn Beach Middle.  

Most people played “school” as children; few of them played in a real classroom.

Cathryn Denny, the daughter of two teachers, was one of the lucky few who did, and it’s made all the difference.

Ashley Robinson said her recognition as Pea Ridge Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year, something she calls an ‘incredible honor’ highlights the value of what she does at the school.

Meg Quina didn’t know for sure she would one day become a teacher, but her background kind of set the stage for a career in education.

Sydney Nowling knew in fourth grade what she wanted to be when she grew up: Nellie Dobson.

Berryhill Elementary School Teacher of the Year Katie Carnley understands winning is about more than numbers.

Rhett Rowell is a coach who teaches social studies, but don’t confuse him with the Hollywood stereotype. Rowell’s peers selected him to be Jay High School’s Teacher of the Year for his wins in the classroom and his contribution to students’ lives.