Congratulations to Marie Fratta of Hawthorne, New York! She is the winner of the HGTV® Dream Home 2024 sweepstakes, a grand prize package valued at over $2.2 million!

As a 25-year veteran educator, not much can surprise Hawthorne County, New York, resident Maria Fratta. Recently, however, the 4th grade teacher was at a loss for words. “This is insane,” she uttered. “I feel like this is a prank.”

In fact, her friends, co-workers, current and former students, their parents, and even the school’s principal had been up to a bit of mischief. The group helped HGTV arrange a gathering at a restaurant near their elementary school, telling Marie and her family that she was being honored for her excellence in teaching. Truth be told, the award would not be one Marie expected.

The Real Story

Although the sentiment behind the Teacher Appreciation recognition was sincere, the real reason for the gathering was very different. Marie was the Grand Prize Winner of the HGTV Dream Home 2024 Sweepstakes, including a newly built, fully furnished home located on Anastasia Island, FL, an all-new 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan, and a check for $100,000. Amid cheers of, “Fratta! Fratta!” HGTV host Lauren Makk shared the thrilling news with the dumbfounded schoolteacher.

A Family Affair

As Marie stood onstage with her husband and two of their three daughters, the story behind the winning entry was revealed. With their eldest currently living on the east coast of Florida, this particular HGTV giveaway caught the eye of their middle daughter. Upon her insistence, Marie and the other family members entered the sweepstakes. Although Marie didn’t put much stock into winning, she was chosen out of more than 130 million entries. The two girls called their sister live from the event to share the good news, and squeals of delight were heard over the phone — quickly accompanied by applause and cheers from the guests.

Living the Dream

With some of Marie’s favorite activities including heading to the beach, dipping in the pool, and enjoying drinks with friends, the 3,300 square-foot HGTV Dream Home 2024 seemed custom made for the seasoned teacher. The three-bedroom, four-bathroom waterside retreat features indoor-outdoor living, perfect for entertaining or taking a moment to quietly recharge.

“So many nooks and cozy areas to sit by yourself and a enjoy glass of wine,” said Marie, “and so much space to host a party with family and friends.” Should the native New Yorker be ready for a change of scenery, she can find shell-filled beaches, good restaurants, and lively night life located less than 5 miles away in historic downtown St. Augustine.

Despite the ruse regarding the “Award Presentation,” we’re sure Marie still felt appreciated by her school’s kids and staff. And although she didn’t receive a plaque or trophy, she gained much, much more: a beautiful beach haven in which she and her family can make memories for years to come. And that deserves an A!

Congratulations to Marie and her family!

About the Home

Located on Anastasia Island in St. Johns County, Florida, HGTV Dream Home 2024 offers indoor-outdoor living for a carefree coastal lifestyle. Built by Glenn Layton Homes with interiors designed by Brian Patrick Flynn, the 3,300 square-foot, three-bedroom, four-bathroom home boasts an open floor plan dressed in a tranquil hues of beachy grays, pearly whites, and seaside blues alongside surprising touches of HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ Color of the Year: Persimmon. Providing a plethora of luxurious spaces such as a deluxe dressing room, spa-worthy primary bathroom, inviting reading nook, and two guest suites and a loft with a wet bar and mini fridge, the welcoming interior is only matched by the entertainment-ready exterior. An outdoor kitchen with a high-top bar, built-in fireplace, pool, and a choice of seating areas guarantee good times for all.