Dr. Brianna Patterson
Jean Ribault Senior High School | Jacksonville, FL
The Florida School Counselor Association (FSCA) is thrilled to announce Brianna Patterson, Ph.D., as the 2025–2026 Florida School Counselor of the Year (SCOY).
Dr. Patterson is a school counselor at Jean Ribault Senior High School in Jacksonville, serving 1,211 students in grades 9–12.
Dr. Patterson has been a school counselor since 2017. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Florida, her master's from the University of North Florida, and her doctorate from the University of the Cumberlands.
“School counselors have a significant impact on the lives of students, and the FSCA School Counselor of the Year award highlights the work of a counselor who has made an extraordinary impact on their students, school, and community,” said Dr. Rebecca A. Schumacher, FSCA Executive Director.
“Dr. Patterson is an exceptional school counselor, visionary leader, tireless advocate for students, and a driving force for exposure, equity, and excellence in education," said Andrea R. Talley, Assistant Principal of Curriculum at Jean Ribault Senior High School.
During her time at JRSHS, Dr. Patterson:
- Achieved a 90% retention rate in the Early College Program;
- Doubled the number of students eligible for dual enrollment;
- Increased scholarship awards this past year from $13 million to $18 million;
- Doubled the number of Bright Futures Medallion recipients; and
- Increased college enrollment by 5% (according to the National Student Clearinghouse), among other achievements.
"Dr. Patterson transformed academic support systems through strategic, data-informed interventions," Talley said, "and rather than waiting for change, she led it."
Thanks to Dr. Patterson's efforts, JRSHS is embarking on a school-wide needs assessment and a shift toward proactive, data-driven support systems. JRSHS will also be facilitating trauma-informed education for faculty based on Dr. Patterson's recommendations.
"Dr. Patterson's impact reaches far beyond our one district," Talley said. "In every aspect of her work, she leads with heart, purpose, and an unwavering belief in her students."
“FSCA is proud to recognize Dr. Brianna Patterson as our School Counselor of the Year,” Schumacher said. “Brianna empowers her students to make informed decisions and build a clear vision for their future, setting them up for success long after graduation.”
Dr. Patterson will be celebrated as the FSCA School Counselor of the Year at the 2025 FSCA Convention this November.
