HOMS teacher wins excellence in education award

The Martin County School District is proud to announce that Silvia Pacheco, a teacher at Hidden Oaks Middle School, has been selected as one of four statewide recipients of Florida’s Hispanic Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award.

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis recently hosted the winners of the Hispanic Heritage Month student and educator contests at the Florida Governor’s Mansion. Honorees were recognized for their creativity, leadership, and dedication to celebrating Florida’s diverse cultural heritage through education and the arts.

The annual contests are made possible through a collaboration between the Florida Department of Education, Volunteer Florida, the Florida Lottery, and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. Four educators were chosen statewide for their exceptional commitment to student success. Each Excellence in Education Award recipient received a $2,500 recognition provided by the Volunteer Florida Foundation.

“Volunteer Florida is honored to recognize these outstanding students and educators whose creativity and leadership showcase the lasting impact of Hispanic heritage in our communities,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. “Their work reflects the power of culture, education, and service to strengthen and inspire our great state.”

“Ms. Pacheco’s recognition by Volunteer Florida places her among an elite group of educators across our state,” said Superintendent Michael Maine. “This honor is a direct reflection of her exceptional dedication to students, innovative teaching practices, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Traveling to Tallahassee to receive this award is a well-earned distinction, and we are incredibly proud of the way she represents our District.”

The Martin County School District extends heartfelt congratulations to Mrs. Pacheco for this recognition and thanks her for her continued devotion to excellence in education.