Two Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) educators earned statewide Teacher of the Year honors at the 2026 SHAPE Florida Conference in St. Augustine.

Laura Fraietta was named Florida Adapted Physical Education Teacher of the Year, and Patricia Sitowitz was named Florida Health Educator of the Year, according to the district. The district announced the awards on Friday, Nov. 6.

Both will advance to the Southern District level of SHAPE's awards program, where they will be considered for regional Teacher of the Year honors.

Heather Albritton, DCPS director of health and physical education, said the two educators "empower students with the skills and confidence to lead healthy, active lives." Albritton called them "passionate advocates for students" who "consistently go above and beyond to help them succeed."

According to the district, Fraietta's recognition is rooted in the everyday victories she sees students achieve.

"The most rewarding part of my job is watching students gain confidence and accomplish goals they once thought were out of reach," Fraietta said. "Every student deserves the opportunity to experience success and the joy of movement."

Sitowitz, described by the district as a longtime advocate for student wellness, said she wants students to leave her classroom equipped to make their own health decisions. "It's vital that when students leave my class, they are empowered to be active participants in advocating for their own health and well-being," Sitowitz said.

The SHAPE Florida Conference ran Oct. 8 through Oct. 10 at the World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort. SHAPE America recognizes outstanding teachers in categories including adapted physical education and school health education. State winners have a three-year window to apply at the district level, and district winners are eligible for the national award.