We’re going back to school with Dr. Laurie Breslin, the new Superintendent of the School District of Manatee County and one of the most full-circle stories in local leadership. A Manatee County native, Dr. Breslin has experienced our schools from every angle: student, teacher, parent, and now superintendent.

In this episode, we talk about how her personal journey informs her leadership, and how the district is helping every student succeed through programs like SOAR, a new initiative designed to support academic recovery and engagement. We cover the district’s focus on early learning and VPK, efforts to improve graduation rates, what’s being done to tackle chronic absenteeism, and the incredible opportunities available locally at Manatee Technical College.

You’ll also get to know the person behind the title - her favorite field trip food, her leadership influences, and how she stays grounded while leading a district of more than 50,000 students.

It’s thoughtful, inspiring, and she is absolutely delightful. Manatee County Teachers and Students are in good hands.

Related links

• School District of Manatee County Homepage: https://www.manateeschools.net
• SOAR Program Overview: https://www.manateeschools.net/page/soar-in-4
• VPK & Early Learning Programs: https://www.manateeschools.net/prek
• Attendance & Absenteeism Resources: https://www.manateeschools.net/attendance
• Graduation Rate Reports & Student Success Data: https://www.manateeschools.net/accountability
• Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program: https://www.vpkflorida.org
• Attendance Works – National Campaign to End Chronic Absence: https://www.attendanceworks.org
• Manatee Technical College: https://www.manateetech.edu