Key Information
- New Superintendent: Laurie Breslin, Ed. D.
- Previous Role: Executive Director of Student Support and Family Engagement
- Board Decision: Unanimous vote
- School District Background: Graduate of Manatee County School District, began as a substitute teacher.
- Focus Areas: Transparency, attendance improvement, teacher support, and ELA achievement.
- Contract Negotiations: To begin immediately, expected to finalize by early September.
BRADENTON, Fla. — The Manatee County School Board selected a new school superintendent at a meeting on Tuesday evening.
The board voted unanimously to elect Laurie Breslin, Ed. D. as the next superintendent.
Breslin is a graduate of the Manatee County School District. She started off as a substitute teacher before holding leadership roles.
Currently, she is the executive director of Student Support and Family Engagement.
“The pride I feel for this community and then to have that returned as it was shown tonight with the absolute support of the board and this community, it’s really overwhelming,” said Breslin.
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Board members noted that Breslin was the internal candidate for the job, but also recognized that her competitor, Misty Mathis, was highly qualified as well. Mathis is the Executive Director of Curriculum for Nassau County Schools.
Earlier this year, the board voted to terminate the previous superintendent’s contract, citing communication issues and unanswered emails with Jason Wysong.
Breslin expressed her hopes for the district, emphasizing a focus on transparency, improving attendance, and supporting teachers. “I think with a school district you always have challenges that you’re going to face and some of the priorities we’re focused on is ELA achievement for all students that is that most important. I was a former English and reading teacher, so it’s near and dear to my heart and I know it’s key for success for our students,” Breslin stated.
“Focus on attendance, improving attendance, getting students in their seat so they can learn and focus on supporting our teachers and school leaders. If we support our teachers, I know our students will soar,” she added.
The district announced that contract negotiations would begin immediately and are expected to be finalized by early September.
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Article original publish date: 2025-08-27 02:02:00
Article source: www.tampabay28.com
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