Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) is proud to announce the finalists for the 2026 Caliber Awards, celebrating the District’s most outstanding educators and employees. Selected from a distinguished group of nominees across BCPS, these finalists represent excellence, dedication and a shared commitment to providing world-class learning opportunities for all students.

The Caliber Awards program honors exceptional teachers, principals, assistant principals and school/District employees who ignite curiosity, inspire learning and shape the next generation of leaders. Winners will be announced during the prestigious Caliber Awards ceremony on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 5 p.m., at the Broward County Convention Center.

“The Caliber Awards showcases the extraordinary talent, dedication and passion of our educators and staff,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn. “These finalists go above and beyond every day to inspire students, foster meaningful learning experiences and make a lasting impact on our school communities.”

Congratulations to the 2026 Caliber Awards Finalists

Teacher of the Year Finalists

Mabel S. Colon

Orange Brook Elementary School

Mabel S. Colon is an accomplished educator and Exceptional Student Education Support Facilitator at Orange Brook Elementary School, recognized for her strong commitment to inclusive practices and student growth. With extensive teaching and leadership experience, she supports students with disabilities, mentors new teachers and leads initiatives that enhance schoolwide instruction and community engagement. Colleagues and families praise her compassion, professionalism and ability to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Fatima De Leon Casco

James S. Rickards Middle School

Fatima De Leon Casco is a dedicated science educator and department head at James S. Rickards Middle School. With more than eight years of experience, she has led notable gains in science, increasing the schoolwide Science Achievement Rate from 34% to 46% and sustaining an 86% Biology End of Course pass rate. Known for her hands-on, inquiry-based instruction and advocacy for equity, she brings passion, high expectations and a strong sense of purpose to her work.

Denise L. Moore

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School

Denise L. Moore is a dedicated educator and Literacy Coach at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School, known for driving strong learning gains in English Language Arts. A four-time Teacher of the Year, she has led key school improvement initiatives, founded student mentoring programs and strengthened collaboration among teachers. Moore is celebrated for her professionalism, innovation and ability to inspire colleagues while making a profound impact on her school community.

Dr. Saima Sanaullah

Plantation High School

Dr. Saima Sanaullah is a veteran science educator and department chair at Plantation High School with more than 14 years of teaching experience in advanced academic and honors programs. She has driven notable improvements in student performance – raising Biology End of Course proficiency from 37% to 63% – contributing to her school’s overall grade improvement. Known for data-driven instructional leadership and innovative teaching strategies, Dr. Sanaullah fosters a positive school culture that empowers both students and teachers.

Ilona Tinerino-Allen

Pasadena Lakes Elementary School
Ilona Tinerino-Allen is a first-grade teacher and team leader for exceptional instructional practices within the Pasadena Lakes Elementary School community. A veteran educator with more than 25 years of experience, she consistently delivers data-driven, engaging instruction – achieving 100% grade-level proficiency among her students. She mentors colleagues, leads professional development and has created enrichment programs that support academic growth and positive student behavior. Tinerino-Allen is widely recognized for her professionalism, dedication and meaningful impact on students, families and the broader school community.

Principal of the Year Finalists

Charisse E. Merchant-James

Seagull Alternative High School

Charisse E. Merchant-James, Principal of Seagull Alternative High School, is a transformative leader who elevated the school’s improvement rating to Commendable within just two years. She has strengthened student outcomes, expanded access to alternative education pathways and forged meaningful community partnerships. Her leadership reflects

 

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