Largo, FL. – Denise White was named the 2026 Teacher of the Year for Pinellas County Schools on Wednesday night at the annual Illuminate: Evening of Excellence hosted by Pinellas Education Foundation at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park.
Born, raised, and rooted in the Pinellas County Schools community, White is a proud graduate of Northeast High School. She comes from a family with strong ties to the district, as her parents and sisters are also graduates of Pinellas County Schools. White has been giving back as an educator in the very schools that shaped her own journey since she began teaching in Pinellas County in 1994. That legacy will continue next year, when her son follows in her footsteps by graduating from Northeast High, making her story one of multigenerational pride, service, and lifelong commitment to public education.
“The difference I strive to make is rooted in helping students believe in themselves and in their abilities, finding confidence that extends beyond the classroom,” said White, “and understand that, with effort, they are capable of overcoming challenges and achieving great things.”
“For decades, Denise White has devoted her career to helping students grow by igniting their curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning. Her passion, joy, and belief in each child have shaped generations. We are honored to celebrate her as the 2026 Pinellas County Schools Teacher of the Year.” Said Kevin Hendrick, Superintendent of Pinellas County Schools. “To all of our Teachers of the Year, your dedication and unwavering commitment to students and families embody the very best of who we are as a district. You show us every day what is possible for every child.”
“It’s an honor and an important to celebrate teachers and the dedication they bring to their profession,” said Kim Jowell, Chief Executive Officer of Pinellas Education Foundation. “The excellence they demonstrate in the classroom shapes students’ lives and strengthens our community. Congratulations to all this year’s outstanding finalists. It’s especially powerful to recognize Denise White as the 2026 Pinellas County Schools Teacher of the Year, whose roots in Pinellas County reflect generations of pride and a lifelong commitment to the district that shaped her journey.”
Illuminate: Evening of Excellence was made possible by presenting sponsor Aetna, and distinguished sponsors Raymond James, Suncoast Credit Union, DITEK, Ajax, and AD Morgan. Many additional community and corporate sponsors contributed to the event and finalist prize packages.
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 all the way 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.
