PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — On Tuesday, the Pinellas County School Board held a special called meeting to select a new superintendent.
Kevin Hendrick, Michael Ramirez, and Ann Hembrook were the finalists the school board chose from to take the place of the current superintendent,Michael Grego, who is retiring in July.
After discussion of all three finalists, the board unanimously voted to name Hendrick as the district's next superintendent.
The vote comes after each finalist had in-person interviews last week and shared what their leadership would be like.
Hendrick is currently an assistant superintendent for Pinellas County Schools.
“My vision is built around our 110 years of excellence. It’s built around our communities, our unique communities, our over 120 schools, and it captives on some areas we’re really strong in but also areas we need to grow in,” said Hendrick.
The next steps in the process, per Chairperson Eileen M. Long, will include Hendrick completing all pre-employment processes and starting contract negotiations, which will determine a starting date and compensation package.
Following the vote, Hendrick was called into the room to speak, where he called the moment surreal. Watch Hendrick's full speech below:
