Operation K12

Teacher: Mason Lewis

District: Hernando

Mason Lewis is a cybersecurity and computer science teacher at Hernando High School in Brooksville, Florida. Now in his 21st year as an educator, he has taught at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, serving in roles that include elementary education, middle school science, and information and communication technology.

He is currently in his fifth year leading the Academy of Computer Science and Cybersecurity at Hernando High School. Mason has been recognized for his commitment to students and innovation in education, earning honors as a two-time school-level Teacher of the Year, the 2021 Hernando County Teacher of the Year, and the recipient of the 2021 Ron Nieto Digital Educator Award.

This year, Mason’s students earned first place at CyberLaunch, a testament to his dedication to preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. We are grateful for his continued commitment to Florida’s students and the future of cybersecurity education!

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Teacher: Susan Garcia

District: Palm Beach County

For more than 20 years, Susan Garcia has inspired Jupiter High School students through innovative, real-world computer science and cybersecurity education. A former programmer and computer coordinator at Pratt & Whitney, she brings industry experience into the classroom to build students’ creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Garcia expanded cybersecurity and programming pathways by founding the Computer Science Honor Society and helping grow the school’s Cybersecurity Academy. Her students compete in leading national programs and competitions, including AFA CyberPatriot, CISCO Networking Academy, Lockheed Martin Cyber Quest and Code Quest, CyberLaunch, and multiple collegiate-level programming tournaments.

She is now leading the launch of Jupiter High School’s Esports Academy, developing a curriculum that integrates Scratch, Minecraft MakeCode, Minecraft AI and Cybersecurity, and Unity with C# to deliver hands-on learning in coding, game development, simulations, and cybersecurity.

Garcia was recently named a Final Four finalist for the 2026 Dwyer Award in the STEM category, recognizing her impact on students and the future cybersecurity and computer science workforce.

Thanks for all you do, Ms. Garcia!

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Teacher: Phillip Lynch

District: Palm Beach County

For more than nine years, Phillip Lynch has worked to make learning engaging, relevant, and connected to the world students experience every day. A teacher at Palm Beach Lakes Community High School, Lynch primarily teaches history while integrating technology into the classroom to help students better understand both the past and the rapidly evolving digital future.

Before becoming an educator, Lynch built a strong foundation in the technology industry through his work with Apple and Tesla. Today, he also serves on his school’s AI implementation team, helping guide conversations around emerging technologies and their impact on education.

Although cybersecurity is not his primary subject area, Lynch recognizes its growing importance for students of all backgrounds and career interests. He believes cybersecurity education plays a critical role in helping students protect personal information, navigate the digital landscape safely, and prepare for careers in an increasingly technology-driven world.

“What I enjoy most about being involved in technology education is helping students understand how technology shapes both our world and their futures,” Lynch said. “Whether through AI, historical connections, or digital tools, I strive to make complex concepts accessible, relevant, and engaging for my students.”

Thank you, Mr. Lynch, for all you do!

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Teacher: Yoel Mozote

District: Miami-Dade County

Yoel Monzote is a cybersecurity and computer science educator at iPrep Academy North in Miami, where he prepares the next generation of digital defenders through real-world instruction in network security, ethical hacking, and IT.

Under his leadership, iPrep Academy North has become a hub for hands-on, competitive learning. His students have earned:

• 3rd Place (Beginner Level) at CyberLaunch 2025, a statewide competition hosted by Cyber Florida with more than 1,000 participants
• 1st Place in the Innovate Challenge 2025 district competition, outperforming nine high school programs

Mr. Monzote emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving under pressure, and technical excellence. He has also secured donated devices so students can practice on real hardware.

He also teaches at Miami Dade College (MDC), where he is known for connecting academic theory with the rigorous demands of today’s cybersecurity industry.

Thanks for all you do, Mr. Monzote!

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Teacher: La Rocca-Mitchell

District: Miami-Dade County

At Miami Lakes Educational Center, Monica La Rocca-Mitchell is shaping the next generation of cyber talent as the lead instructor for the Cisco Networking Academy within the IT Academy. She delivers advanced coursework for 10th–12th grade students in the CCNA program and AP Cybersecurity, equipping them to earn college credit and in-demand industry certifications, including CompTIA Security+ and Network+.

Drawing on 16 years of classroom experience, Ms. La Rocca-Mitchell prioritizes immersive, real-world learning through high-impact competitions such as Cyber Launch and CyberPatriot, where students sharpen their technical expertise while practicing ethical decision-making and teamwork. Her students consistently perform at high levels, earning top placements in district contests and advancing to state-level competitions.

Through an ongoing partnership with Cyber Florida, she is expanding access to rigorous, hands-on cybersecurity education and opening doors to future academic and career opportunities for her students.

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Student: Anika Poss

School: West Boca Raton Community High School

District: Palm Beach County

Anika Poss is a trailblazer at West Boca Raton Community High School, where she plays a leading role in several of the school’s top STEM and cybersecurity initiatives. She serves as vice president of the school’s CyberPatriot team, is an active contributor to the Programming Club, and is a dedicated member of the VEX V5 Robotics Team, driving innovation at every turn.

Currently enrolled in AP Cybersecurity, Anika is already setting her sights on AP Cyber Networking for the coming year, underscoring her strong commitment to expanding her technical skills and advancing her future in cybersecurity.

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Teacher: Monica Urage

District: Miami-Dade County

Monica Uraga is the Lead Cybersecurity Magnet Teacher at Barbara Goleman Senior High School in Miami-Dade County, where she leads one of Florida’s most innovative K–12 cybersecurity pathways. With a master’s degree in Global Affairs (International Crime and Justice) from Florida International University and industry-recognized credentials including CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+, Uraga equips students with the technical knowledge and professional skills needed to succeed in cybersecurity, networking, and digital forensics careers.

Through strategic partnerships with FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing, regional employers, and community organizations, Uraga has expanded access to high quality cybersecurity education and workforce development opportunities. She has guided hundreds of students toward industry certifications, apprenticeships, and competitive cybersecurity events, with a strong emphasis on equity, immersive hands-on learning, and building a robust pipeline for national cybersecurity readiness.

As a teacher, program architect, and champion for emerging cyber talent, she is committed to opening doors for students into high-demand careers and strengthening the future of Florida’s cybersecurity workforce.

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Student: Jayden Greer

School: George Jenkins High School

District: Polk County

Meet Jayden Greer! Jayden’s passion for cybersecurity began with an early interest in technology and was further inspired by his teacher’s creation of the Cybersecurity Academy.

Jayden currently holds one cybersecurity certification and is determined to achieve several more by the end of the year. Over several months, Jayden has gained valuable hands-on experience working with the school’s network administrator. After high school, Jayden plans to attend the University of South Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and continue developing skills through real-world experience and additional certifications.

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Teacher: Jacob Hill

District: Escambia County

Jacob Hill is an innovative educator at Pensacola High School, where he has spent the past four years shaping young minds. He draws on nearly two decades of experience in international business education across secondary and higher education. He currently leads classes in IB Business Management, AP Computer Science, and AP CK Cybersecurity while also directing the school’s Work-Based Learning initiatives.

Seeing immense opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity, Hill launched the program to help students enter a high-demand industry. It equips them with technical expertise and the essential soft skills—critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork—that distinguish future leaders.

Beyond the classroom, Hill’s leadership extends to his roles as FBLA District 1 Director, service on the Florida FBLA State Board, and coaching cross country, empowering students to grow as leaders and individuals. In his downtime, he enjoys cooking and exploring new global cuisines, cheering for Chelsea FC, and designing graphics for school and community events.

Would you like to be featured in our Teacher Spotlight? To nominate yourself or another deserving teacher, complete the interest form below!

Student: Jonathan Hamm

School: Hernando High School

District: Hernando County

Meet Jonathan Hamm! Jonathan is one of Mr. Lewis’ cybersecurity students at Hernando High School. Jon has been accepted to Florida Polytechnic University, where he will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in cybersecurity engineering.

A driving force in Hernando High’s Hacking Club, Jon has earned recognition for his leadership and expertise. He played an instrumental role in the “Hacking for Hope” capture the flag event, hosted by EC-Council, where his efforts helped raise more than $1,300 for Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, Florida.

Jon wants to pursue a career in cybersecurity because it brings together his technical experience and his enthusiasm for innovation. He thrives on exploring how digital systems operate, uncovering vulnerabilities, and developing strategies to strengthen defenses—all while enjoying the excitement and challenge that the cybersecurity field delivers.

Jonathan—Wishing you every success as you advance your studies and help safeguard our digital future!

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