Blackburn named Lee’s Teacher of the Year
School District of Lee County.
An educator of 25 years was surprised at school this week when she was named Teacher of the Year for the School District of Lee County.
“This recognition is truly meaningful. It affirms the importance of the work and reflects the collaboration, trust, and dedication of the educators and students I work alongside every day. I am honored to represent the School District of Lee County and grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role,” said Laurel Blackburn, a math coach who has been with the district for nine years.
As the West Region math coach in the Department of Curriculum & Instructional Innovation, she spends several days a week among 22 schools across Cape Coral. She works with students, math teachers, and administrators on research-based math instruction, lesson planning, interventions for students who are struggling, mentoring, and professional development to have the greatest impact on student achievement.
“Each day looks a little different, which I enjoy most. A typical day includes visiting classrooms, collaborating with teachers during planning, analyzing student data, and supporting instructional strategies in real time. I focus on being present and responsive, whether that means modeling lessons, helping teachers adjust instruction to meet students’ needs, or partnering with school leaders to support instructional goals,” Blackburn said.
The opportunity to support teachers and students across multiple schools is what she enjoys the most about being the West Region math coach.
“The role allows me to build strong relationships, collaborate with educators, and support continuous growth. Being able to impact instruction beyond a single classroom and help teachers feel supported and confident is incredibly rewarding,” she said.
This is the first year for Blackburn to serve as the West Region’s coach.
“In my first year, I focused on building relationships, supporting effective instructional practices, and helping teachers use data to inform instruction,” she said. “I have collaborated with schools to increase student engagement, strengthen math instruction, and support teachers through coaching and professional learning. Seeing early growth in both teacher confidence and student learning has been a strong indicator of success.”
According to the district, one of the math classes she had been coaching this year, students began the year performing below the proficiency standard. Now many are achieving proficiency for the first time, demonstrating significant learning gains, including English Language Learners and students with special needs.
“Laurel Blackburn represents the absolute pinnacle of educational leadership,” Regional Director for Academic and Student Services Rob Cooper said in a prepared statement. “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.”
Blackburn said she is proud to work in a district that values growth, collaboration, and student success.
“This recognition motivates me to continue learning and supporting teachers so that every student has access to high-quality math instruction,” she said.
The school district will forward Blackburn’s application to the state for consideration as 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year.
Certified personnel are recognized for the Lee County Teacher of the Year program for their significant contributions.
Blackburn was chosen from among five finalists who represent the district’s four regions and an at-large region.
Finalists also included Joseph Camputaro, literary coach at Manatee Elementary, Bianca McGinley, the math teacher at Lemuel Teal Middle School, Barbara Scarnato, math teacher at The Sanibel School and Nicole Micieli, science coach at Diplomat Elementary.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com