The School District of Manatee County is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Excellence in Education Awards, held this week at Manatee Technical College to celebrate the outstanding achievements of public school employees who uplift, inspire and empower students across the district.
“The Excellence in Education Awards honors our extraordinary people who make the School District of Manatee County a place where students thrive,” said Superintendent Dr. Laurie Breslin. “Congratulations to the winners, the finalists, and all of our site representatives for serving as ambassadors of excellence for our School District.”
MANATEE COUNTY EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR: Clifford “Cliff” Dawson
Director of Bands, Braden River High School
“Inspiring Excellence Through Music, Leadership, and Legacy”
7 Years with the School District of Manatee County
Cliff Dawson is a versatile and deeply committed music educator whose career spans more than three decades of shaping student musicians through excellence, discipline, and artistry. At Braden River High School, he directs the award‑winning Marching Band of Pirates, a seven‑time Florida Marching Band Championships State Champion and 10‑time State Finalist.
Dawson teaches multiple musical disciplines including concert band, jazz, percussion, and music technology. Known for building inclusive, high‑expectation environments, he ensures every student feels seen, challenged, and capable both as musicians and as individuals.
Since returning to Braden River as Director of Bands, Dawson has rebuilt and expanded the program following the pandemic, raising performance ratings from excellent to consecutive superior ratings, increasing enrollment, and elevating the band’s statewide standing from eighth place to first in just four years. He has strengthened feeder programs, mentored emerging educators, and built a thriving community of students, families, and alumni united by pride and purpose.
“Cliff Dawson is a true Renaissance man, musician, strategist, and mentor. He doesn’t just teach music; he teaches life,” said Wendell Butler, Braden River High School Principal. “His visionary leadership and selfless commitment to his peers and students exemplify the very best of our education community.”
MANATEE COUNTY SUPPORT EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Mara Gonzalez
Paraprofessional, Bayshore Elementary School
“A Heart for Students and the Spirit to Lift Them Up”
3 Years with the School District of Manatee County
Mara Gonzalez has become a deeply valued member of the Bayshore Elementary community through her dedication, empathy, and unwavering support for students and staff. While completing her Associate of Arts degree at the State College of Florida, she supports kindergarten through fifth‑grade students with small‑group instruction, one‑on‑one academic support, classroom transitions, and behavior guidance.
Gonzalez’s fluency in Spanish strengthens connections with multilingual students and families, ensuring they feel welcomed, understood, and fully included. Known for building strong, trusting relationships with students, especially those needing extra encouragement, she creates environments where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to learn.
“Mara exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and compassionate paraprofessional, and her impact is felt throughout the school community,” said Dr. Melinda Lundy, Bayshore Elementary School Principal. “Whether supporting instruction, modeling professionalism, or proudly serving as the school mascot, Mara brings heart, resilience, and joy to everything she does.”
Both winners receive a $5,000 cash prize; a 15‑guest suite for a 2026 Bradenton Marauders game, including food and beverages; and four tickets to a 2026 Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training game (based on availability). The Educator of the Year additionally receives round‑trip airfare and a five‑night Hawaiian getaway. All finalists received a custom engraved plaque and a $1,000 cash award from the Manatee Education Foundation.
The district extends deep appreciation to the Manatee Education Foundation and the many generous community sponsors who make the Excellence in Education Awards possible. Visit ManateeSchools.net/EEA for full details.
Dawson will now advance to the Florida Department of Education Teacher of the Year Program, while Gonzalez moves on to the Florida School‑Related Employee of the Year Program.
Watch the ceremony on the School District's YouTube Channel.