Sarasota County, FL, May 3, 2022 – Sarasota County Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Mindy Long – the current Assistant Principal of Fruitville Elementary School – has been selected to serve as the new Principal of Alta Vista Elementary School. Dr. Long will officially start her new position on July 1, 2022 but will be working with the school over the summer to transition into the new school year after the retirement of Principal Dr. Barbara Shirley.

“Dr. Long is a proven leader with a true heart for collaboration and innovation,” commented Dr. Brandon Johnson, executive director of Elementary Schools. “Her student-centric focus and unwavering commitment to supporting the diverse needs and best interests of families & school personnel will contribute immensely to the continued and future success of Alta Vista Elementary.”

“I am honored to serve as the new Principal of Alta Vista Elementary School,” said Long. “Dr. Shirley and her amazing team have fostered a genuine, inclusive community for all students & families. I am excited to get to know everyone and look forward to seeing all of our Eagles soar strongly into the new school year!”

Dr. Mindy Long received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida. She has a master’s degree in Reading Education as well as a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, both from the University of South Florida. Dr. Long has her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Florida.

Before starting her most recent role as the Assistant Principal of Fruitville Elementary School, Dr. Long served as the Assistant Principal of Lamarque Elementary School. She has also served as an Intervention teacher at Lamarque Elementary School, a Grade 3 teacher (and Team Leader) at Lamarque Elementary School, and a Grade 4 teacher at Glenallen Elementary School. Dr. Long holds certifications in Elementary Education (K-6), Reading (K-12), ESE (K-12), Principalship, and Educational Leadership and has an ESOL Endorsement.

About Sarasota County Schools

Sarasota County Schools is committed to providing unrivaled academic, emotional, and civic growth to every student, every day. As one of the leading employers on the Suncoast, Sarasota County Schools boasts 55 schools that expertly cater to the diverse needs of all our students. We are one of two Florida school districts to consistently earn an A-grade every year since 2004 and have been awarded the Mid-Sized School District of the Year by the University of Cambridge. Our passionate educators empower students to take charge of their academic and personal success, a practice we believe fosters lifelong growth and achievement. Working as one, we actively maintain the district’s tradition of excellence and ensure that tradition extends to all students. Our commitment to our students extends beyond graduation to make sure they not only graduate on time, but do so college and career ready. Want to take your student’s education to the next level? Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, or visit www.SarasotaCountySchools.net.

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