Teacher of the year finalists named in Hillsborough

TAMPA — The list of finalists for Teacher of the Year in Hillsborough County has been narrowed to five.

"Surprise Patrols" from the Hillsborough Education Foundation visited schools Wednesday to notify the teachers, who were selected by their peers during the semifinal round in more than 200 county schools. The county winner will be announced Jan. 28 in a ceremony at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, along with the winners of the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year and Instructional Support Employee of the Year awards.

Teacher of the Year Finalists

Crystal Dukes, Freedom High School

Ryan Kinser, Turkey Creek Middle

Emily Marrero, Philip Shore Elementary

Marcy Ringdahl, Alafia Elementary School

Holly Sinclair, Gorrie Elementary

Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Finalists

Jene D. Bell, Chamberlain High School

Kimberly A. Duran, Foster Elementary

Japera Helene Hodges, Witter Elementary

Michael L. Oliver, Youth Services

Karen Willis-Barrett, Greco Middle School

Instructional Support Employee of the Year Finalists

Susan Marie Blackmon, Oak Park Elementary

Julie Harris, Broward Elementary

Suzie Morse, Chiles Elementary

Valerie L. Pearce, LaVoy Exceptional Center

Kelly Jean Zelaya, Stewart Middle Magnet

For more information about the Hillsborough Education Foundation's Excellence in Education initiative, visit www.educationfoundation.com