New School Year, New Leaders: Meet Lee County's Principals for 2025!
Lee County schools welcome new principals as students return on August 11, 2025. Explore changes and upcoming sales tax holiday details.
New School Year, New Leaders: Meet Lee County's Principals for 2025!
As the summer sun dims and students prepare to head back to their classrooms, Lee County is buzzing with exciting changes. Today marks the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, and along with it comes a fresh slate of leadership in various schools across the district. In total, Lee County schools have appointed new principals for eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, and the Success Academy. The shift in leadership promises new perspectives and strategies for enhancing student success in the classroom.
Among the notable new appointments is Dr. Jessica Duncan at Gulf Elementary School, boasting an impressive 31 years in education. She’s no stranger to Lee County, having contributed in various roles since 2002. Meanwhile, Misty Smyrnios returns to J. Colin English Elementary after leading a school in North Florida, bringing a focus on partnerships vital for student success. Other new leaders include Jessica Stafford at Lehigh Elementary, who has implemented effective literacy intervention models, and Kristine Calcara at Manatee Elementary, who has a reputation for bolstering school performance.
Details on Leadership Changes
The list of new principals is both diverse and experienced. Teri-Ann Petrekin takes the helm at Mirror Lakes Elementary after a commendable stint as assistant principal, emphasizing a student-first philosophy. Over at Rayma C. Page Elementary, Jennifer Shonak aims to foster an inclusive learning environment after 25 years in various roles within the district. Additionally, Lisa Thomas at Tortuga Preserve Elementary and Melissa Layner at Lemuel Teal Middle School each bring a wealth of experience, as both have spent around three decades in education. The trend continues with Kristina Morgan at Trafalgar Middle School and Vincent Lewis at South Fort Myers High School, who are dedicated to promoting student achievement through rigorous instruction.
On the administrative front, the Success Academy will be led by Dr. Joseph Restino, recognized for his work in driving academic improvements at Lemuel Teal Middle School. Jill Cooke, who has dedicated 25 years to education, joins the team at Treeline Elementary, concentrating on nurturing teacher leaders.
News-Press reports that these leadership changes are vital as schools gear up for the academic challenges ahead.
Back-to-School Updates
Mark your calendars! August 11 is the first day of school for Lee County students, the earliest possible date permitted by Florida law. In fact, 56 of Florida’s 67 counties will also commence their school years on this date, reflecting a new trend in school scheduling. A recent law even allows districts more freedom in setting start times, although schools must document the associated costs.
In line with educational reforms, elementary school start times generally span from 8:40 a.m. to 3:10 p.m., with exceptions for Skyline and Hector A. Cafferata, which begin earlier. The adjustments don’t just stop at start times – a newly implemented ban on cellphone usage during school hours will apply to all K-12 students, though allowances will be made for health-related devices.
Adding to the excitement is Florida’s annual back-to-school sales tax holiday, running through the end of August. This initiative allows parents to purchase school supplies, clothing, and computers tax-free, making it easier to stock up before the academic rush. Eligible items include school supplies priced under $50 and clothing under $100, to name a few. A unique aspect of this holiday is that there’s no limit on how many items can be bought, whether in-store or online, if shipped immediately.
USA Today highlights these beneficial measures, ensuring families are well-equipped for the school year.
As we embark on another school year filled with potential and opportunity, the momentum behind these leadership appointments and initiatives is indeed promising. Here’s to a fantastic school year in Lee County, marked by collaboration, growth, and success!
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