Orlando, FL — December 5, 2025 — The Cognia Impact Summit, held last week in Orlando, brought together educators and leaders from across the state for a dynamic professional learning experience focused on improving student achievement, fostering inclusive learning environments, and advancing data-informed instruction. Several Florida charter leaders and organizations were honored with top distinctions during the event.
FCSA Executive Director Receives Excellence in Education Award
Lynn Norman-Teck, Executive Director of the Florida Charter School Alliance (FCSA), was awarded the 2025-2026 Cognia Excellence in Education Award for the State of Florida. This prestigious recognition is presented to one individual in each state who demonstrates exceptional commitment to advancing high-quality education. “I am proud of the work the Alliance does on behalf of our member schools and the charter school movement in Florida, and am humbled to be recognized by Cognia—an organization I deeply respect,” said Norman-Teck.
Charter School Associates Honored with Circle of Excellence Award
Charter School Associates received the 2025–2026 Cognia Circle of Excellence Award, recognizing a single organization in each state that exemplifies a deep culture of excellence, high performance, continuous improvement, and measurable impact on student learning. “Their work reflects the kinds of systems, expectations, and daily practices that push the field forward,” said Sarah DeCotis, Senior Director of Cognia Regional Services. “Their commitment aligns directly with Cognia’s mission: building environments where every learner can succeed, and every school is continually growing stronger.” The award was accepted by Dr. Jay Drag, VP of Operations, Charter School Associates.
True North Classical Academy Receives Values-Driven Award of Excellence
True North Classical Academy was selected for the 2025–2026 Cognia Values-Driven Award of Excellence, given to one education organization in each state that demonstrates a deeply rooted, values-aligned culture evident in everyday decisions, schoolwide practices, and student outcomes. “True North exemplifies what it means to place students at the heart of every choice,” said DeCotis. “They dream big for their learners, challenge the status quo, and create opportunities that expand potential for both students and staff. Their work captures the spirit of this award: standing firmly for the learner while pushing the field toward what’s possible.”
Visionary in Leadership Award Presented Posthumously to Demetrio Pérez Jr.
The Visionary in Leadership Award, reserved for leaders whose lifetime of service fundamentally reshapes educational opportunity, was presented posthumously to Demetrio Pérez Jr., founder of the first Lincoln-Martí School in 1968. Pérez’s work expanded access to compassionate, high-expectation educational environments for generations of families across Florida and beyond. The award was accepted by his son, Demetrio J. Perez. “Over the decades that followed, he dedicated himself to building educational opportunities rooted in compassion, equity, and a relentless belief in the potential of every child,” said DeCotis. “His vision changed neighborhoods and opened doors. It set a standard for what leadership in education should look like.”
Additional Recognitions
Earlier this year, Cognia announced its 2025 Schools and Systems of Distinction. Several Florida charter schools earned this prestigious recognition, including Somerset Academy, Inc., Brooks-DeBartolo Collegiate High School, and State College of Florida Collegiate School. Each of the schools or systems recognized “effectively implements high-quality instruction, shows consistent organizational effectiveness, and maintains a commitment to continuous improvement. These institutions demonstrate energetic and sustained commitment to learners,” states the Cognia website. Winners carry the designation for one year. A full list of 2025 Schools and Systems of Distinction is available here.
