I have spent the past 45 years of my life working in education where I am still eager to serve. I was elected Superintendent of the Putnam County School District in November, 2016. I was re-elected for this position in November, 2020. I retired in 2016 as a principal for the purpose of running for this elected position. I finished a 38 year school based career that included 10 years as a principal, 12 years as an assistant principal, and the remaining years as a social studies teacher, dean of students, and instructional assistant.
I have a quote that hangs in my office from author John Maxwell that states, “My goal is not to live forever, but to create something that does.” I am currently leading a once in a generation Revitalization Plan for the Putnam County School District. The plan began with the closing of 5 of the district’s 18 schools at the end of the 2020-21 school year and involves building 9 new schools in the district over the next 10 years. I firmly believe in leaving a legacy for our children and grandchildren to carry on. We must invest in our future and leave the world better than we found it.
I consider myself a humble, servant-leader for the people who have trusted me with this position. I work early in the morning until late at night to make sure I can be the most effective leader I can be. My wife, Penny, and I have 6 children and 10 grandchildren. Our children range in age from 24 to 42. Our grandchildren range in age from 4 to 15. We are involved in our church, community, and our grandchildren’s activities.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to apply for this most prestigious honor.
Past AASA Florida Superintendent of the Year Winners:
2022 Florida Superintendent of the Year: Kamela Patton
2021 Florida Superintendent of the Year: Sandra Himmel
2021 Florida Superintendent of the Year: Diana Greene
About the Award:
The Superintendent of the Year program, sponsored by First Student and AASA, pays tribute to the talent and vision of the men and women who lead the nation’s public schools.
State-level winners are selected on the following criteria:
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- Leadership for Learning
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Community Involvement