BY DAN HILDEBRAN
The Florida Department of Education announced Mark Harrison, a teacher at Union County High School, as one of five finalists for the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year.
The department said in a news release that state finalists were chosen from 76 district teachers of the year. The 2026 Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year winner will be announced in July.
“Mr. Harrison’s dedication to the success of his students is evident in his teaching and his commitment to going above and beyond for his students,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Congratulations to Mr. Harrison for being chosen as a 2026 Teacher of the Year finalist.”
“Mr. Harrison is one of the most capable, remarkable, and highly regarded teachers I have ever had the pleasure of knowing throughout my career,” added Union County School District Superintendent Mike Ripplinger. “He has made a tremendous impact on countless students and has earned the admiration of his fellow teachers and the community. I cannot think of a better person to represent the field of education in the state of Florida.”
The 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year state finalists were chosen from nearly 175,000 public school teachers. After each school district selects its teacher of the year, a committee representing teachers, principals, parents and the business community reviews each district application on the basis of outstanding ability to teach and communicate knowledge of the subject taught, professional learning and outstanding school and community service. The winner will serve for one year as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education and will represent the Department of Education and teachers throughout the state.
About Mark Harrison
Mark Harrison is an Economics and American Government teacher for grades 9-12 at Union County High School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Florida and has earned the Civics Seal of Excellence. Harrison has also served as a Civics and Debate team sponsor and Fellowship of Christian Athletes sponsor. He also serves as a school bus driver for the high school.
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