The School District of Lee County is excited to announce that Math Coach Laurel Blackburn is the 2026 Lee County Teacher of the Year. Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin, Board members, District administrators, and school staff surprised Ms. Blackburn earlier today with her award.
“This feels like an amazing opportunity,” Blackburn said. “I am really grateful for the students I work with, and the staff and administrators I’ve had the opportunity to learn from. I love seeing people succeed and I like to help them see the potential in themselves and help them be motivated to learn and grow.”
Ms. Blackburn is the West Region Math Coach in the Department of Curriculum & Instructional Innovation. She spends several days a week in 22 schools across Cape Coral, working with students, math teachers, administrators on research-based math instruction, lesson planning, interventions for struggling students, mentoring, and professional development to have the greatest impact on student achievement.
Ms. Blackburn’s commitment to data-driven instruction, high expectations, and helping every student realize their potential has demonstrated success. In one of the math classes she has been coaching, students began the year performing below the proficiency standard, but recently many achieved proficiency for the first time and demonstrated significant learning gains, including English language learners and students with special needs.
“Laurel Blackburn represents the absolute pinnacle of educational leadership,” said Rob Cooper, Regional Director for Academic and Student Services. “She is a teacher who has not only mastered pedagogy but who consistently elevates student outcomes through genuine empowerment and innovation. She embodies the spirit of unwavering dedication, never giving up on her students' potential or on the excellence of her fellow teachers. This level of professional excellence is precisely what defines our district's commitment to delivering a world-class educational experience for every family we serve.”
The Lee County Teacher of the Year program recognizes certified personnel for the significant contributions they make to their school and the School District of Lee County. The winner is chosen from five finalists who represent the School District’s four regions and an at-large region. Congratulations to the 2026 Teacher of the Year finalists:
- Joseph Camputaro
- North Region Teacher of the Year
- Literary Coach at Manatee Elementary
- Bianca McGinley
- East Region Teacher of the Year
- Math Teacher, Lemuel Teal Middle School
- Barbara Scarnato
- South Region Teacher of the Year
- Math Teacher at The Sanibel School
- Nicole Micieli
- West Region Teacher of the Year
- Science Coach, Diplomat Elementary
The School District will forward Ms. Blackburn’s application to the state for consideration as 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year. She will be formally recognized by the School Board at an upcoming meeting. The School District also wishes to thank Suncoast Credit Union for sponsoring the Teacher of the Year recognition program.