Meet the 2026 Caliber Award Finalists

Broward County Public Schools has announced its finalists for the 2026 Principal of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year awards, two of the district’s most prestigious honors, celebrating exceptional school leadership. These finalists embody the vision, resilience and student-centered commitment that define outstanding educational leadership across Broward County.

These finalists embody the vision, resilience and student-centered commitment that define outstanding educational leadership across Broward County.

The announcement precedes the 2026 Caliber Awards, the District’s signature recognition event, taking place Friday, February 6, at the Broward County Convention Center.

Honoring Exceptional Leadership in Education

The POY and APOY Awards recognize outstanding school administrators for their exemplary contributions to students, schools, and communities. Through their innovative leadership and dedication to academic excellence, these leaders have strengthened school culture, elevated instructional outcomes, and created safe, supportive learning environments for all students. Each finalist has demonstrated a commitment to collaboration, working closely with teachers, parents, and community partners to increase student achievement and ensure that every child feels valued, protected, and empowered to succeed.

“These finalists demonstrate the kind of leadership that supports breakthrough instruction, positive school culture, and a belief in every student’s potential,” said Lisa Maxwell, executive director of the Broward Principals’ and Assistants’ Association. “Their influence reaches far beyond the campuses they’re shaping futures every single day.”

BPAA President Dr. Mark Kaplan emphasized the broad impact of these honorees: “These leaders bring vision, heart, and an unwavering focus on student success. They represent the very best of Broward County.”

Principal of the Year Finalists

• Charisse Merchant-James, Seagull Alternative Highschool
• Cormic Priester, Rock Island Elementary School
• Dr. Nicole Nearor, Coconut Creek High School

Assistant Principal of the Year Finalists

• Anna Koltunova, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
• Candace Booker Goode, Silver Lakes Middle School
• Mary A. Barba, Sheridan Technical College and High School

The Principal of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year recognitions are integral to the Caliber Awards program, which honors employees across the District, teachers, principals, assistant principals, and school-related staff whose work exemplifies dedication to students and school communities.