In recent weeks, the Hillsborough Education Foundation had the task of selecting one person to become the recipient of “The Teacher of the Year” Award.

The five finalists, all outstanding educators, were Ms. Yolanda Whitehead Driskell, of Hillsborough High School; Ms. Elizabeth Denison Babin, of Dowdell Middle School; Ms. Katy Cortelyou, of Kenly Elementary School; Ms. Sue Creekmore, of Kingswood Elementary School; and Ms. Christine Danger, of Robles Elementary School.

After interviewing all of the candidates, a district committee selected Ms. Whitehead Driskell for the honor.

She was surprised with the honor at the annual Excellence In Education Awards presentation last Thursday.

The “Teacher of the Year” Award recognizes outstanding teachers nominated as the Teacher of the Year for their school site.  All schools in the district are invited to nominate one teacher they feel is the most well-rounded and professional.

As the Hillsborough County representative, Ms. Whitehead Driksell will compete for Florida State Teacher of the Year honors, and potentially the national Teacher of the Year.