Sarasota County Schools is pleased to announce that Brentwood Elementary School’s John Weida is the 2020 Principal of the Year, and Booker High School’s Merlin Schenk is the 2020 Assistant Principal of the Year. Both recipients were recognized at district administrative and school staff meetings this week. “Our district is privileged to have many highly experienced, talented leaders,” said Todd Bowden, superintendent of Sarasota County Schools. “John Weida and Merlin Schenk epitomize the stellar qualities we prioritize in all of our school leadership. Mr. Weida and Mr. Schenk have each been unquestionably impactful to the various school communities they have served over the years. It’s our hope that our principals and assistant principals continually develop their skills and areas of expertise, as well as encourage their colleagues to strive for excellence.”

Sarasota County Schools has received two prior Florida Principal of the Year awards. Alta Vista Elementary’s Dr. Barbara Shirley received the honor in 2014, and Booker High School’s Dr. Rachel Shelley received the honor in 2017.