Education
Gulf Breeze First-Grade Teacher Named Santa Rosa’s 2026 Rookie of the Year
Reghan Irvin was chosen from a field of 32 first- and second-year educators honored at Thursday’s reception.
The Santa Rosa Education Foundation named Reghan Irvin, a first-grade teacher at Gulf Breeze Elementary School, as the 2026 Santa Rosa Rookie of the Year during a reception held Thursday afternoon. Irvin was selected from 32 educators with three or fewer years of classroom experience who were recognized at the event.
The Gulf Breeze Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation presented Irvin with a $1,000 award in recognition of her achievement.
“Mrs. Irvin demonstrates exceptional classroom management skills and has quickly established a positive, structured learning environment where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn. She builds strong, meaningful relationships with both her students and their families, fostering a true sense of community within her classroom.”
—Nadia Colin, Principal, Gulf Breeze Elementary School
The foundation launched the Rookie of the Year program to recognize outstanding new educators across Santa Rosa County. This year’s reception drew a strong field of nominees from schools throughout the district.
2026 Rookie of the Year Sponsors
The Santa Rosa Education Foundation thanks the following sponsors for their support of Santa Rosa County educators:
- Gulf Breeze Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
- Santa Rosa County Association of School Administrators
- Carol Boston
- Bubba and Paula Drinkard
- Milton Woman’s Club
- Elizabeth Hewey
- Paula Lou Mapoles
- Scott and Renee’ Peden
- PenAir Credit Union
- Linda Sanborn
- Rick and Diane Scott
- Woodmen Life Chapter 906
The Santa Rosa Education Foundation supports educators and students across Santa Rosa County through grants, awards, and community partnerships. For more information, visit the foundation’s website.