The Okaloosa County School District announced that Luann Zant, an Intensive Reading teacher at Pryor Middle School, has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 National 180 Educator Award, a recognition celebrating achievement in literacy and academic growth.
- Zant, who has taught at Pryor Middle School for nearly 11 years, was nominated by her colleague, Donna Born.
Educators recognized through the National 180 Awards are selected based on teaching excellence, measurable student growth, innovative instructional practices, whole-group and small-group rotational models, student engagement through application use, and alignment with the program’s core values.
“Mrs. Zant represents the very best of Okaloosa County School District,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Her passion for literacy and her commitment to ensuring every student succeeds reflect the heart of our mission. While I could not attend the recognition in person, I could not be prouder of the incredible work she is doing to change the trajectory of students’ lives through reading.”
Pryor Middle School Principal Jason McClelland praised Zant’s classroom instruction and her dedication to her students.
“Mrs. Zant is deeply committed to the success of every student in her Intensive Reading class,” McClelland said. “She knows exactly how to challenge and support students, pushing them just enough to help them grow in confidence and achievement. When you step into her classroom, you immediately see engaging, interactive lessons and students who are actively involved in learning. Pryor Middle School is truly fortunate to have Mrs. Zant. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her students are supported, motivated and successful. We are so proud of Mrs. Zant, Pirate Pride!”
Zant said her work with middle school readers continues to inspire her.
- “I am passionate about helping middle school students develop strong reading skills that will serve them for a lifetime, while also fostering a love of reading,” Zant said. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is witnessing those ‘lightbulb’ moments, when everything finally clicks and students gain confidence in themselves as readers. Those moments are what continue to inspire me.”
Elease McDonald, district curriculum specialist for the Okaloosa County School District, spoke to the broader role of reading teachers.
“Few occupations are more noble or more rewarding than being a reading teacher,” McDonald said. “You open doors to the world that students will walk through for the rest of their lives. Literacy is the foundation of everything, and we are incredibly fortunate to have teachers as dedicated to that mission as Mrs. Zant.”
