Two Okaloosa County middle school teachers and a student have received national recognition for their achievements in literacy education and academic growth.
- Donna Born of Pryor Middle School and Tracy Lott of Shoal River Middle School were both honored with the 2025 National 180 Educator Award. John Matthew Gumayao, a student at Shoal River Middle School, received the 180 Student Award for demonstrating remarkable progress in literacy.
The National 180 Awards, now in their 19th year, are presented by HMH, a learning technology company. The awards recognize students and teachers across the United States who have made extraordinary gains in reading and math through HMH Read 180 and HMH Math 180 programs.
“These recognitions reflect the hard work, dedication, and passion that defines Okaloosa County educators and students,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Born, Mrs. Lott, and John Matthew for this outstanding accomplishment. Their success highlights the effectiveness of innovative teaching and the potential of every student to thrive academically.”
According to the school district, the winners were selected from hundreds of nominations nationwide. The awards celebrate outstanding achievement in literacy and academic growth.
Elease McDonald, curriculum specialist for the Okaloosa County School District, noted the significance of having multiple winners from the same district.
- “It’s remarkable and unprecedented to have two educators from one school district receive this recognition,” McDonald said. “Mrs. Born and Mrs. Lott consistently excel in nurturing and enriching our most vulnerable students, helping them realize their potential.”
McDonald also praised John Matthew’s teacher, saying, “I’m also immensely proud of our student winning an award; his teacher, Mrs. Chord, is truly exceptional.”
The school district congratulated the award recipients for representing Okaloosa County nationally and inspiring excellence in education.
