Leadership Florida, an organization made up of community leaders in the state, has welcomed Superintendent Cynthia Saunders and Latrina Singleton, the School District of Manatee County’s Director of Federal Programs and Grants, as their newest class members. They join five others appointed to the Education Class 7 in the Calusa region, which includes Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Leadership Florida was created in 1982 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce to “build a sense of statewide community by identifying and educating individuals who have the passion, commitment and positioning to help make great things happen.” It’s a program designed to enhance the understanding of issues critical to Florida and develop bonds among leaders who use their talents and resources to build better communities. The goal of the Leadership Florida Education Class Program is to propel Florida’s K-12 public schools to national prominence. Members include accomplished superintendents, school board members, principals, teachers, state education department professionals, education foundation representatives, business partners and other public officials. The eight-month program will focus on best practices, schools, classrooms, partnerships, innovation and more. A total of 45 new class members were chosen for the 2022 Education program statewide. Since being sworn in June 2018, Superintendent Saunders has led the School District of Manatee County with exemplary energy and imagination. She has guided the school district to impressive improvements academically and financially, while introducing innovative new programs and initiatives. Latrina Singleton became the Director of Federal Programs and Grants in October 2020. She leads the department that supports the successful implementation of federal, state and local programs and grants to ensure that all children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education. Ms. Singleton previously served as the principal of Blackburn Elementary in Palmetto.