Broward County Public Schools announced the finalists for
the 2026 Caliber Awards, recognizing exceptional educators and employees whose
leadership and service shape student success across the district. The annual
program honors Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, Assistant
Principal of the Year, and School and District Employee of the Year finalists
who demonstrate sustained commitment to academic excellence, safe learning
environments, and strong school communities. Finalists are selected from a
broad pool of nominees representing schools and departments throughout the
district.
The Caliber Awards place special emphasis on
instructional leadership and community impact. Principal of the Year and
Assistant Principal of the Year finalists are recognized for improving student
performance, strengthening campus culture, and fostering collaboration with
families and community partners. These administrators are credited with using
data informed decision making, teamwork, and high expectations to advance
school outcomes while maintaining safe and supportive environments for students
and staff.
Among the 2026 Principal of the Year finalists is Dr.
Nicole D. Nearor, principal of Coconut Creek High School. Dr. Nearor is widely
regarded as a student centered and results focused leader whose tenure has
marked a period of measurable progress for the campus. Under her leadership,
Coconut Creek High School earned its first B school grade, expanded advanced
academic offerings, enhanced campus safety systems, and experienced consistent
enrollment growth. District leaders and families have pointed to renewed
confidence in the school as one of the most notable outcomes of her leadership.
Dr. Nearor’s approach emphasizes high expectations paired
with meaningful family engagement. By strengthening communication with parents
and building trust with the broader community, she has positioned the school as
a model for sustained improvement. Her work reflects a broader district focus
on aligning academic rigor with student support systems to ensure long term
success.
Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science
in Biology from Alabama State University, a Master’s degree in Education, and a
Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction from
Capella University. With more than 28 years in education, Dr. Nearor has served
as a science teacher, instructional coach, STEM coordinator, science
specialist, assistant principal, and principal. She has held leadership roles
at Coconut Creek High School since 2016 and has served as principal since March
2022.
Broward County Public Schools leaders praised the full
slate of finalists for their dedication and impact. Superintendent Dr. Howard
Hepburn noted that the Caliber Awards celebrate educators and staff who go
beyond daily responsibilities to inspire students and strengthen school
communities. The district emphasized that each finalist reflects the values of
innovation, service, and excellence that define BCPS.
The winners of the 2026 Caliber Awards will be announced
at a formal ceremony on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 5 p.m. The event will be
held at the Broward County Convention Center and will bring together educators,
families, and community leaders to recognize the district’s most outstanding
professionals.