The Martin County School District named its 2021-2022 Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year on October 29, 2021, honoring two veteran educators with the awards.
Janice Mills of Spectrum Academy was named Principal of the Year and Andrew Connolly of South Fork High School was recognized as Assistant Principal of the Year. Superintendent John D. Millay and members of his Executive Cabinet traveled to both schools to deliver the surprise to each administrator.
"There aren't enough superlatives to describe leaders like Ms. Mills and Mr. Connolly," Dr. Millay shared. "Each is known for their servant leadership and going the extra mile to ensure their schools are supportive environments focused on educating all students for success."
Ms. Mills began her career in the District as an art teacher at Murray Middle School in 1995. She worked briefly as a teacher at Indiantown Middle School and Port Salerno Elementary School before becoming a high school principal in West Virginia in 2003. Her educational roots came calling and by 2008, Ms. Mills was back in Martin County in the role of assistant principal at Jensen Beach Elementary School. She began serving as an assistant principal at Jensen Beach High School in 2013 and proudly accepted the position of Principal at Spectrum Academy the following year. Ms. Mills is known for her belief that with the proper support and opportunities, all students are capable of maximizing their potential.
In 2007, Mr. Connolly began his career in the District as an English/Reading teacher and athletics coach at South Fork High School. After three years in the classroom, he eagerly assumed the role of Assistant Principal of Student Services. In 2011, he switched duties to become the Assistant Principal of Curriculum, a position he has held proudly for the past 11 years. Mr. Connolly appreciates the opportunity to help students explore diverse educational options that will help them grow as learners and prepare them for life after high school.
The District will submit both administrators' names to the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) for consideration in the statewide Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership and Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award recognition programs. Winners of these awards will be announced in spring 2022.
To view the surprise announcement at Spectrum Academy, please click here.
To view the surprise announcement at South Fork High School, please click here.
