Brevard Schools Foundation, in partnership with Brevard Public Schools (BPS), is proud to announce Michelle Hanus, an ESOL teacher at Melbourne High School, as the 2025–2026 Brevard Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Hanus received the honor during the annual ABC (Applauding Brevard’s Champions) Awards Teacher of the Year Gala, held Tuesday evening at the Radisson Resort at the Port in Cape Canaveral.
The Teacher of the Year program celebrates educators who exemplify excellence in instruction, leadership, and service. Hanus stood out among an exceptional group of finalists representing schools across the district. As Brevard’s Teacher of the Year, she will go on to represent the district in the Florida Department of Education’s statewide Teacher of the Year program.
A Champion for Student Success
“Educators like Michelle Hanus are champions who make a lasting difference in the lives of students,” said Janice Kershaw, President and CEO of Brevard Schools Foundation. “Through dedication, high expectations, and a commitment to helping every learner succeed, she represents the very best of public education in Brevard County. We are proud to celebrate her leadership and impact.”
Hanus is recognized for her unwavering commitment to student growth and her ability to build confidence in learners. Her approach to instruction empowers students to develop the academic and interpersonal skills needed to thrive both in school and beyond.
Celebrating Excellence Across the District
Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell praised Hanus and the many dedicated educators who serve Brevard students every day.
“The teachers we honor today strengthen the heart of Brevard Public Schools,” Rendell said. “Their commitment to supporting students, uplifting colleagues, and fostering safe, welcoming campuses is remarkable. They demonstrate that caring adults make all the difference in a child’s educational experience, and we are incredibly thankful for the positive influence they bring to our district.”
This year’s ABC Awards Teacher of the Year Gala honored 93 outstanding Teacher of the Year recipients—one from each Brevard Public School. The ABC Awards are part of Brevard Schools Foundation’s annual Applauding Brevard’s Champions program, which recognizes excellence among teachers, administrators, support personnel, and volunteers.
A Community Effort
The 2026 ABC Awards were made possible with support from community partners committed to strengthening public education in Brevard County. Community Credit Union Florida served as the Super Star Sponsor of the event. Additional major support came from Health First (Platinum Star Sponsor), as well as Connection and W+J Construction (Gold Star Sponsors), alongside numerous corporations, media, and in-kind partners.
About Brevard Schools Foundation
Brevard Schools Foundation fills educational funding and opportunity gaps at all 85 public schools, serving more than 74,100 students and 5,000 teachers. The Foundation supports innovation, engages communities, and changes lives through private contributions, corporate support, public matching funds, fundraising, and endowments.
Learn more at brevardschoolsfoundation.org.
About Brevard Public Schools
Brevard Public Schools is the 49th largest district in the U.S. and the 10th largest in Florida. As Brevard County’s largest employer, BPS serves over 74,100 students and employs more than 9,500 staff members. With 85 schools, 15 special centers, and 12 charter schools across 17 municipalities, BPS is committed to providing exceptional education in a culture of dedication, collaboration, and learning.