Union County High School (UCHS) teacher Mark Harrison was selected as the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year on Thursday in Orlando.

According to a Florida Department of Education (FDOE) release, Harrison was selected from five finalists at the Florida Teacher of the Year program, which “elevates the education profession and recognizes outstanding educators in the state and their achievements.”

Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas named Harrison, who was selected from more than 175,000 teachers statewide, the winner.

“Congratulations to Mark Harrison on being named the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year,” said Kamoutsas in the press release. “Mark sets the example of how a talented and dedicated teacher makes all the difference for his students. Not only is he dedicated to their academic success, but he also helps his students excel outside the classroom through the Civics and Debate team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and driving the school bus every morning. I look forward to working with him during the coming year.”

Harrison teaches economics and American government for grades 9-12 at UCHS. He has a bachelor’s degree in history from UF and has earned his Civics Seal of Excellence.

“On behalf of Union County, I would like to congratulate Mark Harrison on being named Florida Teacher of the Year,” said Union County Schools Superintendent Michael Ripplinger in the press release. “We are all extremely proud of Mr. Harrison and thankful for the impact he has had on so many in Union County. I have no doubt he will be a tremendous ambassador for education in the state of Florida.”

According to the release, Harrison will receive $50,000 and will also serve as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education for one year, advocating for students and representing Florida’s teaching community. He will receive a tuition waiver to pursue a graduate degree from the Florida State University College of Education and a two-year Florida College scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan to present to a student of his choice.