Headshot of Debra Otey, courtesy of ODA

After an extensive nationwide search, The Out-of-Door Academy’s Board of Trustees announced the appointment of Mrs. Debra Otey as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2022. After 17 years of transformational leadership under Mr. David Mahler, The Out-of-Door Academy named Mrs. Otey as the incoming Head of School. Mr. James Connor, former Head of School at Germantown Academy from 1990-2016 is serving as Interim Head of School for the 2021-2022 school  year. 

Mrs. Otey was selected from a pool of impressive candidates after a thorough search process. The Head of School Advisory and Search Committees found Mrs. Otey to be a dynamic, accomplished, passionate educator, well-poised to lead Out-of-Door into its next chapter. “As Out-of-Door prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2024, this transition of leadership creates a wonderful opportunity for our next Head of School to guide us to new levels of academic, athletic, and artistic success while never forgetting our core values of Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Responsibility,” said Chair of The Out-of-Door Academy’s Board of Trustees Mr. Tom Murphy. “This search–for an individual of outstanding character and  professional experience, demonstrated ability to inspire and encourage faculty, staff, students, and  alumni, and support the forward momentum of the school’s growth–resulted in the appointment of  Mrs. Debra Otey.” 

Mrs. Otey will lead the prestigious school starting in the 2022-23 school year. “I am excited to join a Pre-K–12 community that emphasizes character education and student wellbeing,” she explains. “Building on established programs while maintaining Out-of-Door’s traditions will create opportunities for inspiring growth and development. As we move into the next phase of ODA’s educational and community impact, we look forward to a bright and impactful future filled with student-centered, engaging experiences inside and outside of the classroom.” 

The Board of Trustees will continue to expand the school’s college preparatory program with Mrs. Otey at the helm. The School’s curricular, programmatic and physical expansion has set a precedent for academic, artistic, and athletic excellence, establishing The Out-of-Door Academy as one of the top independent schools in Florida. 

Headshot of Debra Otey, courtesy of ODA