Florida Virtual School Names 2026-27 Team Members of the Year

September 17, 2026

Team members of the year pose with their awards after being recognized during the Annual Professional Learning Conference on Wednesday, Sept. 16. From left: Corey Johns, Amber Haber, Melissa McGovern, and Regina Hagans. 

In its annual recognition of outstanding staff, Florida Virtual School (FLVS) has named its 2028 Teacher of the Year and 2027 Principal, Assistant Principal, and School‑Related Employee of the Year.

This year's honorees are:

• Teacher of the Year: Amber Haber 
• Principal of the Year: Melissa McGovern
• Assistant Principal of the Year: Corey Johns
• School-Related Employee of the Year: Regina Hagans

“Our four award winners reflect the passion and excellence that define FLVS," said Sam Verghese, president and CEO of Florida Virtual School. "Through their leadership and commitment to student success, they are expanding opportunities for students and families across Florida and making a lasting impact on the future of education."

All four honorees will advance to the Florida Department of Education's annual awards program, where one teacher, one principal, one assistant principal, and one school‑related employee will be selected as the statewide winners.

2028 Teacher of the Year: Amber Haber

Amber Haber, who is from Lake Worth, Fla, has been selected as the 2028 Teacher of the Year in recognition of her exceptional dedication to student success, innovative leadership, and lasting impact on career and technical education (CTE) programs across the organization.

Haber played an instrumental role in expanding industry certification opportunities for Florida Virtual High School (FVHS) students. Her support enabled 946 students to earn industry certifications during the 2025-26 school year, opening doors to future academic and career opportunities.

"Amber exemplifies what it means to be an extraordinary educator. She consistently goes beyond teaching content to create meaningful opportunities that help students discover their passions and prepare for their futures," said Suzanna Pacheco, FVHS principal. "Through her leadership of our Career and Technical Education programs, commitment to innovation, and unwavering focus on student success, Amber has made a lasting impact on countless students, families, and colleagues."

Haber's leadership of FLVS’s internship partnership with Lockheed Martin has created meaningful opportunities for students to gain real-world professional experience and develop critical skills for career readiness. Beyond coordinating the program, she personally mentors students through every stage of the process, including resume development, mock interviews, workplace preparation, and ongoing professional guidance. Through this hands-on support, Haber helps students build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and successfully transition from the classroom to professional environments.

In addition to her work with students, Haber has emerged as a respected teacher leader throughout the organization. She coaches and mentors educators, supports data-driven instructional decisions, facilitates professional learning opportunities, and promotes innovative practices that enhance student engagement and achievement. Her collaborative approach and focus on continuous improvement have strengthened instructional practices well beyond her own classroom, positively impacting students across multiple programs and content areas.

"I believe every student has a unique pathway, and it’s my privilege to help them discover it and show them that with hard work, anything is possible," said Haber.

Haber began her career in education in 2014 and joined the FLVS team in 2019. She has a bachelor's degree in business administration from Western Carolina University and a master's degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education. 

2027 Principal of the Year: Melissa McGovern

FLVS Principal Melissa McGovern, from Jupiter, Fla., has been named the 2027 Principal of the Year, honored as a dedicated leader passionate about expanding access to rigorous academic opportunities and supporting both students and teachers in achieving excellence.

McGovern has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of FLVS's Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone program, guiding students and teachers through its challenging research-based curriculum. This program provides students with an additional pathway to earn the Florida Bright Futures Academic Scholarship while developing the research, writing, and critical thinking skills necessary for college and future careers.

She is committed to building strong partnerships with families, empowering innovation, and ensuring students develop the skills they need to succeed in college and beyond. Her leadership helps strengthen opportunities for advanced learning while fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. 

"Melissa's impact extends far beyond the students and teachers she directly serves," said Amy Clark, director of instruction. "She is a true servant leader, committed to excellence and a genuine passion for helping others grow. Melissa continues to inspire teachers to reach new heights and empowers a culture where innovation and student success soar."

McGovern began her career in education as a teacher in 2002 and joined the FLVS team in 2008. She holds a bachelor's degree in history and a master's degree in education from the University of Florida. 

2027 Assistant Principal of the Year: Corey Johns

FVHS Assistant Principal Corey Johns from Orlando has been named the district's 2027 Assistant Principal of the Year. 

Johns joined the FLVS team in 2023, bringing more than 17 years of experience in public education as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, testing coordinator, district leader, and school administrator. 

Johns is best known for expanding access to rigorous coursework and creating opportunities for students to earn college credit while still in high school. Under her leadership, FVHS achieved a 64% increase in AP exams taken, and she led efforts to bring the AP Capstone program to FVHS. 

"Corey represents the best of educational leadership," said Suzanna Pacheco, FVHS principal. "Her passion for the students, an unwavering commitment to the expansion of academic opportunities, and the ability to build strong relationships have strengthened our school community. She leads with heart, vision, and relentless dedication to helping every student succeed." 

Johns began her career in education in 2006. She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Florida State University and a master's degree in education administration from Saint Leo University. 

2027 School-Related Employee of the Year: Regina Hagans

As the newly appointed school safety and discipline manager for FLVS, Regina Hagans of Orlando brings more than 20 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to serving students, families, and colleagues. 

During the 2025-26 school year, as the organization's district threat management coordinator, she led efforts to strengthen threat management processes, ensure compliance with state requirements, and build collaborative relationships with school districts and safety professionals across Florida. She provided oversight for threat assessment reviews to help ensure alignment with the Florida Harm Prevention and Threat Management Model and delivered months of training to the threat management team, helping strengthen the organization's approach to threat management and school safety.

"Regina's impact is felt across every level of our organization," said Dari Gars-Deas, director of instruction. "Through her leadership, FLVS has strengthened its approach to threat management while maintaining a steadfast focus on serving students and families. She brings professionalism, compassion, and integrity to every situation, making her an invaluable member of our team and beyond deserving of this recognition."

Throughout her career, she has also supported students as an instructor, parent and family engagement liaison, and sponsor of the National Honor Society and Senior Club, consistently creating meaningful connections and opportunities for students to succeed.

Hagans began her career in education as a teacher in 2004 and joined the FLVS team in 2020. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in elementary education from the University of Central Florida. 

Interested in joining the FLVS team? Visit the FLVS Careers webpage to learn more about career opportunities.