Administration

Nancy Dubin pixNancy Dubin, Principal

I am pleased to welcome you to Laurel Nokomis School! This is my 5th year at LNS, and I am very happy to be part of this outstanding school community. I came to Sarasota County in 1982 with a Master's Degree in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin. I have served the county for twenty-three years. Eight of these years were as a special education teacher, and then as the Program Director for the K-8 Betty Tackett School/SED Center. Prior to coming LNS, I enjoyed my job as the Principal at Tuttle Elementary for twelve years. I thrive on helping students achieve their highest potential, whether it is in academic areas, or in the arts, or sports. Helping students excel in reading and writing is a special focus and passion of mine. I also have a special place in my heart for programs such as our Pet Therapy program, which helps students deal positively with personal challenges in their lives.  I am proud to support the fine students of LNS and appreciate the dedication of our staff and parents, who make our students' achievements possible.

Debbie Cohen pixDebbie Cohen, Assistant Principal

Welcome to all students and families. This is my 5th year at LNS, and I am pleased to be a part of the LNS family.  I spent my early years teaching profoundly deaf children in Philadelphia and in Manatee County.  Before arriving at Laurel Nokomis, I had the opportunity to serve Sarasota County first at the district level as a “Child Find Specialist” and “Assistive Technology Specialist” with the “Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System” and then as an Assistant Principal at Tuttle and Alta Vista Elementary.  I came to Sarasota in 1985 from Philadelphia with an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Administration from Nova University and a Masters degree in Special Education from Columbia University in New York.  I have two children attending college. My passion is working with your children and providing support to our wonderful staff that work with them every day.

Melodie Deeds imageMelodie Deeds, Assistant Principal

Welcome to all students and families. I am proud to say I am in my 12th year with the LNS family! I came to LNS with a BS degree in Special Education from the University of south Florida. Throughout the years, I have taught grades 6, 7, and 8. I then took on the position of the Exceptional Education Liaison for five years. In the summer of 2000, I completed my M.Ed in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University. In January 2001, I began my position as Assistant Principal. Every year I am here, I am able to say with confidence and pride we have the best students, families, and staff in the district. Only the best of educational experiences will be found here at LNS. We welcome your thoughts and ideas for any services we provide. Have a great year.

Laurel Nokomis School