FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Press Release) Largo, Fla. – Mr. Dennis Zuercher was named the 2025 Teacher of the Year for Pinellas County schools Monday night at the annual Evening of Excellence hosted at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park by Pinellas Education Foundation.
Zuercher, a third-generation educator in Pinellas County and a proud alumnus of Gibbs High, holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies from the University of South Florida. Since 2020, he has been the Chair of the Social Studies Department, where he oversees curriculum development and provides support to fellow educators. Zuercher additionally serves as the Director of the Gibbs High School History Museum. In his role, he curates exhibits, leads a volunteer committee in collecting and archiving artifacts, and manages the museum’s social media presence.
“Teaching means building relationships with students, understanding their unique needs, and fostering an environment where they feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn,” said Zuercher. “It is helping students reach their full potential by nurturing their growth and teaching them the skills they need to be successful.”
“Dennis Zuercher ensures his students leave his classroom with the skills to succeed and the confidence to chase their dreams. As a proud 1987 alum of Gibbs High School, Zuercher is dedicated to creating a classroom where students are valued and inspired to learn,” said Kevin Hendrick, Superintendent of Pinellas County Schools. “As the director of the Gibbs High School History Museum, Zuercher also plays a vital role in preserving the school’s legacy for future generations.”
“All ten finalists for Teacher of the Year embody excellence in teaching, making the selection process incredibly challenging. We celebrate Dennis Zuercher and all our teachers for their unwavering dedication to achieving 100% student success,” Hendrick added.
The other Teacher of the Year Finalists were Brandy Ashby, Campbell Park Elementary; Judith A. Deeley, EdD., Dunedin High; Brittany Fuller, Clearwater Fundamental Middle; Kelly Hefty, Azalea Elementary; Tarik Mowatt, Meadowlawn Middle; Kaley Olles, Safety Harbor Middle; Natalie Steratore, Curlew Creek Elementary; Jill Shircliff, Osceola Middle; and Carrie Snyder, Belleair Elementary. Finalists were named by a panel of judges based on multiple criteria, with the winner selected in a second round of scoring.
Evening of Excellence was made possible by presenting sponsor Aetna, diamond sponsors DITEK, Raymond James, Suncoast Credit Union, and gold sponsor Ajax Building Company. Many additional community and corporate sponsors contributed to the event and finalist prize packages.
“It is an immense honor to celebrate the Top 10 Teacher of the Year finalists,” said Kim Jowell, Chief Executive Officer of Pinellas Education Foundation. “We congratulate each of them and are grateful for the profound difference they make in their schools and communities. A special congratulations to Dennis Zuercher for being named the 2025 Teacher of the Year. A third-generation educator in our district, he has spent over 30 years teaching, leading, and mentoring. His relentless dedication has helped shape the minds and lives of countless Pinellas County students.”
About Pinellas Education Foundation:
Established in 1986, Pinellas Education Foundation is a nationally recognized, dynamic nonprofit organization committed to transforming students’ lives, empowering them to achieve their full potential, and providing teachers with the resources they need to excel in the classroom. Through innovative initiatives, a strategic partnership with Pinellas County Schools, and collaboration with community partners, we work tirelessly to accelerate educational achievement for all students. With a comprehensive approach to education, our programs cover the bookends of learning, beginning with an emphasis on literacy and continuing through college and career readiness. Improving outcomes, especially for students with the greatest achievement gaps, is pivotal to our work. Our commitment to quality education spans the entire spectrum, and we are constantly evolving to address the ever-changing needs of students and teachers. To learn more, visit pinellaseducation.org.
MEDIA CONTACT FOR PINELLAS EDUCATION FOUNDATION:
Kate Smith
Chief Communications Officer
Pinellas Education Foundation
Office: 727-588-4816, Ext. 2128
MEDIA CONTACT FOR PINELLAS COUNTY SCHOOLS:
Isabel Mascarenas
Public Information Officer
Pinellas County Schools
Office: 727-588-6501