BRADENTON, Fla. — Interviews are scheduled for Monday with the leading two contenders for the next superintendent in Manatee County, as school board members get ready to make their decision.
This marks the fifth superintendent for the School District of Manatee County in the last dozen years.
The initial list of four candidates has been trimmed down, and school board members will choose between Dr. Laurie Breslin and Dr. Misty Mathis.
Breslin is the internal candidate, currently serving as the executive director of student support & family engagement for Manatee Schools. She started her career as a teacher, later becoming assistant principal at both Manatee High and Palmetto High before transitioning to a principal role in Sarasota County.
Jill Harden, who previously worked with Breslin at Manatee High, shared her thoughts.
“I don’t think anyone would have anything negative to say about her,” Harden commented. “You can rarely say that about people, honestly.”
She noted that Breslin was consistently approachable and maintained a positive demeanor.
“If you don’t understand how the county operates… you might struggle to navigate it,” Harden pointed out. “She’s local! So she knows how the county functions, which is why she had to step outside for a while to fill the needs. Now she’s back – and I’m thrilled.”
Candidates for the superintendent position in Manatee County.
Dr. Misty Mathis currently serves as the executive director of curriculum and instruction for Nassau County schools. She began her career as a teacher, later becoming principal at two different elementary schools in Nassau County, and has extensive experience as the director of exceptional student education.
Mandy Conner, a parent of a child with special needs, highlighted Mathis’s deep commitment to people.
“I’ve been in meetings with Misty and several other special needs families, and she dedicated four hours to discuss each parent’s concerns. It’s remarkable that she would take that time after hours… to support her parents, while also backing her teachers,” she shared.
Conner praised her organizational skills and her immense passion.
“I believe passion is crucial for anyone in an educational role, and it’s something she embodies,” Conner added.
The two candidates will participate in panel-style interviews on Monday, which can be watched live here.
Later, they will join a meet & greet on Monday from 6:15 – 7:45 p.m. at Manatee Technical College, located at 6305 State Road 70 E. Community members are welcome to attend.
Read the full article here: Source link
