Nov. 6, 2026 – Duval County Public Schools is celebrating two educators who earned statewide honors at the 2026 SHAPE Florida Conference.

Laura Fraietta was named Florida Adapted Physical Education Teacher of the Year, while Patricia Sitowitz was named Florida Health Educator of the Year.

“Laura and Patricia empower students with the skills and confidence to lead healthy, active lives,” said Heather Albritton, Director of Health and Physical Education. “They are passionate advocates for students and consistently go above and beyond to help them succeed. This recognition is a testament to the impact they make every day.”

For Fraietta, the recognition is rooted in the everyday victories she sees students achieve.

“Being named the 2026 SHAPE Florida Adapted Physical Education Teacher of the Year is an incredible honor," Fraietta said. “The most rewarding part of my job is watching students gain confidence and accomplish goals they once thought were out of reach. Every student deserves the opportunity to experience success and the joy of movement.”

Meanwhile, Sitowitz – a longtime advocate for student wellness – strives to equip students with skills that support healthy decision-making.

“It’s important to me that my students can develop and are able to demonstrate informed, self-supportive, and mindful decision-making skills,” Sitowitz said. “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.”

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