CTE Teacher of the Year finalist Seema Naik honored for innovation in Coral Springs
Coral Springs, Florida – Seema Naik, a dedicated educator from Coral Springs Middle School, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2025 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher of the Year Award at Broward County Public Schools. With 20 years of experience in the education field, Naik has spent the past two years teaching biology, coding, and robotics at the middle school level. Her commitment to fostering critical skills in students has earned her a spot among the six finalists for this year’s honor.
Naik’s passion for teaching and dedication to her students have been key factors in her recognition. Principal Jill Slesinski praised Naik’s influence on the school community, saying, “Ms. Naik has been an integral part of Coral Springs Middle. Her influence goes beyond academics. Her passion, dedication, and innovative teaching methods have significantly enriched our school’s academic and extracurricular programs.”
As an engineer turned educator, Naik brings a unique perspective to her role. She understands the importance of bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications, particularly in fields such as STEM and computer science. Naik herself expressed the significance of these subjects, saying, “STEM and computer science are crucial for students’ success in the 21st century, providing a foundation for career paths and developing critical thinking skills.”
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Her dedication to preparing students for future careers extends beyond the classroom. Naik’s work with robotics and coding gives students valuable tools that will serve them well in the modern workforce. By focusing on critical skills, she helps students gain the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Naik’s recognition as a finalist comes ahead of Broward Schools’ 3rd Annual CTE Teacher of the Year Awards, which will take place on February 27 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Sunrise. The event will honor more than 50 outstanding CTE educators from middle, high, and technical schools who have made significant contributions to student career readiness. Alongside Naik, the other finalists include Regina Ferriera (Cooper City High School), Janira Gallego-Arias (Glades Middle School), Rose Michel (Sandra Marie Curtis High School), Jacqueline Peeters (Miramar High School), and Sabrina Tobias (Lauderhill 6-12).
Broward Schools Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn emphasized the vital role CTE teachers play in shaping student futures. “Their commitment to building skills and nurturing talent directly impacts student success and the economic well-being of our community. Recognizing and celebrating their accomplishments inspires educators and future professionals alike,” Dr. Hepburn said.
Naik’s recognition in the CTE Teacher of the Year Awards is not her first accolade. In 2022, she was a finalist for Florida’s Teacher of the Year while serving as a fourth-grade teacher at Eagle Ridge Elementary School. She also earned the distinction of Teacher of the Year within Broward County Public Schools that same year, further cementing her reputation as an educator who goes above and beyond to support her students.
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The 2025 CTE Teacher of the Year Award is a significant achievement for Naik, reflecting her tireless dedication to improving education for her students and preparing them for success in a rapidly evolving world. As a teacher, Naik is not just imparting knowledge—she is inspiring her students to pursue careers in the fields that will shape the future.
The upcoming award ceremony will serve as an opportunity to celebrate Naik’s achievements along with the other finalists who have had a lasting impact on the students in their care. It’s a testament to the importance of recognizing educators who are shaping the next generation of professionals.
