Broward educator Jim Guarasci named National Teacher of the Year at film festival

Broward County – Jim Guarasci, executive producer at BECON, has been named National Teacher of the Year at the 2026 All American High School Film Festival, earning national recognition for his contributions to education, media production, and the development of young filmmakers.

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) announced the honor, celebrating Guarasci’s commitment to helping students explore filmmaking, storytelling, and creative opportunities in the media industry.

The award was presented during the annual festival at the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York, where young filmmakers, educators, and industry professionals gathered to celebrate achievements in student film production.

The All American High School Film Festival is described by the district as the world’s largest student film festival, providing a national platform for young filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with professionals in the field.

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Guarasci’s recognition highlights the important role educators play in helping students develop technical abilities, creative confidence, and an understanding of professional media production.

Through his work with BECON, Guarasci has contributed to educational opportunities that connect students with experiences in filmmaking and broadcasting.

His achievement also reflects the district’s emphasis on preparing students for opportunities beyond the classroom, particularly in career fields that combine creativity, communication, and technology.

For Guarasci, one of the most meaningful aspects of the festival was reconnecting with former students who have continued their involvement in the media industry.

“What made this even more special was seeing several former BECON-TV summer interns and BCPS graduates who now work with the festival,” said Guarasci. “I want to thank BECON, the District’s Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education (CTACE) department and Broward County Public Schools for their support and for putting student achievement first.”

His comments emphasized the significance of seeing former interns and graduates continue their professional development and contribute to an event that celebrates emerging filmmaking talent.

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The recognition also brings attention to the value of career and technical education programs that expose students to specialized industries while they are still in school.

Experiences involving media production can introduce students to a range of professional skills, including storytelling, collaboration, production planning, and creative problem-solving.

The presence of former BECON-TV interns and BCPS graduates at the festival illustrates how early educational experiences can connect with opportunities later in students’ careers.

The district’s Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education department was among the organizations Guarasci acknowledged for supporting student achievement and educational programming.

BCPS congratulated Guarasci and the entire BECON team, describing the award as an important moment for the district and its media education community.

The national honor recognizes Guarasci’s dedication to education and his efforts to encourage young people interested in filmmaking and storytelling.

More information about the recognition is available in the official Broward County Public Schools announcement.