Bay District Schools Welcomes New Principals for 2025-26 Year

Lynn Haven, Florida, USA - In an exciting transition for Bay District Schools, several new principals have been appointed for the upcoming 2025-26 school year, effective July 1. This change marks a significant moment as experienced educators step into leadership roles, shaping the future of schools in our community.

Phillip Campbell is taking the helm at Merriam Cherry Street Elementary School after recognition at the May 27 School Board meeting. Campbell, who has dedicated his career to Bay District Schools since 1998, previously served as principal at Cedar Grove Elementary and as assistant principal at Deane Bozeman School. He expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to return to a principalship and lead at Cherry Street.

Meanwhile, Keri Weatherly has been appointed principal of Mowat Middle School, following her approval on May 13. With nearly 20 years of service in Bay District Schools, Weatherly began her journey as a teacher at Cedar Grove Elementary in 2006. She has a wealth of leadership experience, notably as the turnaround principal at Cherry Street Elementary since 2023, and an earlier role as an administrative assistant at Mowat Middle School 15 years ago.

Changes at Other Schools

Shandra Payne will step into the principal role at St. Andrews School after serving as the assistant principal, a move announced at the April 22 School Board meeting. Similarly, Heather Kirkpatrick, also effective from April 22, has been appointed as principal of Tommy Smith Elementary, transitioning from her role as the assistant principal at Callaway Elementary.

Bridgett Miller completes the lineup of newly appointed principals, taking over as principal of West Bay Elementary. Previously, she served as the school’s assistant principal, demonstrating her capability within the school’s leadership team.

This wave of new leadership arrives alongside the ongoing commitment to educational excellence in Bay District Schools, as emphasized by Superintendent Mark McQueen during a recent address to parents and guardians. On May 29, he noted the community’s dedication and the vibrant energy felt within the classrooms. “Students feel energized by the passion of school staff,” he shared, reflecting on the positive feedback from student leaders. Programs aimed at improving attendance and the initiatives led by graduation coaches have also received praise.

Future Initiatives

Superintendent McQueen highlighted upcoming initiatives geared toward both middle and elementary school students. This includes offering professional school counseling services, optional test preparation sessions, and enhanced support for college applications. Additionally, elementary students will benefit from increased exposure to Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities and enhanced character education programs.

As we look forward to the state school grades expected to be released in mid- to late-July, there is a palpable sense of optimism for the new school year. Families are encouraged to enjoy the summer and prepare for a fresh start in education this fall.

For more details on these appointments and the exciting changes in our local schools, you can check out the full coverage at News Herald and WJHG, which also reported on the new leadership structure as it unfolds.

For further insights from the Superintendent’s office, visit Bay District Schools.