Welcome! My name is Brenda Longshore and I have served as your Superintendent of Schools over the past 8 years. I will be seeking re-election in August and would be honored to continue to serve as the leader overseeing our county’s public education system. Highlands County is one of the thirty-eight districts in Florida that elects this position. Clearly, our founders wanted the Superintendent of Schools to be directly accountable to voters. So, exercise your right and let your voice be heard!
This race is personal to me. For the past 33 years, I have had the opportunity to serve the School Board of Highlands County in a variety of roles. Beginning as a substitute teacher, I quickly realized that I had discovered my passion in the field of education. I am very grateful for my experience as a classroom teacher, reading coach, assistant principal, principal, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, and most recently, Superintendent of Schools. Eight years ago, I pledged to this community my commitment to "Empowering Student Success." Despite many challenges, our district continues to increase student achievement and provide unprecedented opportunities to students.
I believe that despite much controversy in our world today, it is essential that our School Board of Highlands County partner with students, families, and the community, to prepare our students well for a successful future. It is critical that our school system empowers every child, regardless of their background, to fulfill their greatest potential. The stakes are high for our children, our economy, and our shared future.
My commitment to "Empowering Student Success" remains steadfast. I am dedicated to providing solid pathways to colleges, universities, the military, vocational schools and the workplace. One of my top priorities for the next term is to further enhance student options and opportunities through these programs.
As a lifelong educator, I am deeply honored by your trust in me to shape the education of our future leaders. I am woman of deep faith, and my strong Christian beliefs have been my guide throughout my personal life and in my decision making as a leader. The prayers, support, and encouragement I have received from the community members have been truly humbling.
My campaign, like my work as Superintendent of Schools for Highlands County, is focused on "Empowering Student Success," I hope you will engage in this important race. There is nothing more democratic, more forward thinking, or more critical to the future of our public education system. I ask for your support in my re-election pursuit of the office of Superintendent of Schools in Highlands County.
Proven Leadership
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Increased Graduation Rate by 9% since 2017
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Fiscal Responsibility
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Increased Fund Balance​ by $4,000,000
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Capitalized 1/2 cent sales tax impact
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Maximized ESSER funds
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Managed $250,000,000 budget
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1 to 1 Student Device Model
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Employee Recruitment & Retention
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Increased Teacher Salary
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Average Salary went from $44,600 to $52,100​
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Starting Salary went from $37,000 to $48,900
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Established District Recruiter
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Hosting Career Opportunity Fairs
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Increased Highly Effective Teachers
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Increased Substitutes
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Increased Mental Health Specialists
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Expanded Student Opportunities
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Increased number of Career & Technical Education offerings​
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Increased number of advanced course offerings (IB, AP, Dual Enrollment)
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Record number of students graduating with AA Degree
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Marjorie Stoneman Douglas​ School Hardening​​
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​Single point of entry​​
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Cameras / Fencing
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SRO/SRD on all campuses
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Centegix Crisis Alert System
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Implemented Guardian program
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COVID
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Investment in technology eased the transition during school closure
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Instructional continuity planning allowed learning to continue during school closure
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Increased student enrollment when other districts saw decline after school reopening​
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Stakeholder Involvement
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Teacher of the Year​ Committee
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School Related Employee of the Year Committee
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Student Council Committee
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1/2 cents Sales Tax Task Force
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District School Advisory Committee
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Athletic Task Force
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Pediatrician Advisory Committee (COVID)
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Listening Tours at schools​
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