Sarah Painter is a fifth-grade teacher in Pinellas County, Fla. who has spent more than 18 years serving in the classroom. Her talent for developing lasting connections with her students and their families led her to be named Florida’s 2022 Teacher of the Year.
Outside of the classroom, Painter is the chairperson for the School Advisory Council, the representative for English language arts and the Connect for Success liaison at her school. In addition to her bachelor’s degree from USF, she has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Florida.
As the Florida 2022 Teacher of the Year, Painter will serve for one year as the Christa McAuliffe Ambassador for Education. In this role, Painter will travel throughout the state to recognize and honor the contributions of Florida's teachers and create greater public awareness of Florida's exceptional teachers and the profession.