2026 FASA Board Elections

Candidate Bios and Position Statements

FASA President-Elect

Chris McFarland

Bio - I have been employed by the Escambia County School District since 2004, beginning as a teacher at Pensacola High School, and moving into the role of Coordinator of School Choice in 2008. Since that time, I have working in a variety of roles through our Continuous Improvement Department, School Transformation and Student Services Department. For 9 years, I created and led Escambia Virtual Academy, our district's full time virtual school option for students. In 2005 I was the district's Rookie Teacher of the Year, in 2006 I was recognized for my outstanding leadership with Career and Technical Student organizations, in 2007 I was teacher of the year for Pensacola High School, in 2009 I was the Alumnus of the Year for the University of West Florida and in 2015 I was the Adminstrator of the Year for Escambia County through our professional organization EASA. I have served on the FASA Board since 2018, first as President of FAISA, than a regisional director of FAISA, and am now serving as the Northwest Regional Director. I have led our local Escambia Association of School Adminstrators since 2012.

Platform Statement - As the Coordinator of Student and Enrollment Services, the mission of myself and my staff is to empower students and families with clear, trustworthy information and personalized guidance so they can make informed school choices that lead to long-term student success. Our school district is a choice district, offering a variety of options to students and their families. We embrace a future where every student has access to the right educational environment to thrive academically, socially, and personally—regardless of background or circumstance. We help students discover schools that align with their strengths, needs, and aspirations by simplifying school choice and supporting pathways to lifelong success. Our vision is an education system where opportunity is not determined by zip code, and every student is supported in reaching their full potential. I have led this charge for the past 17 years, and continue to centralize processes and opportunities that lead to the successes we have seen in the Escambia County School District.

FASA Central Director

Kirianne Suriano

Bio - Kirianne Suriano is a dedicated educational leader with a strong history of service to the Florida Association of School Administrators (FASA). Currently serving as a network-wide administrator for Charter Schools USA, she has spent the last four years overseeing operations and school support focused on non-instructional operations.

Kirianne’s deep commitment to the profession is evidenced by her extensive leadership experience, having previously served as President of the Florida Association of Elementary School Principals (FAESP) and as President of the overall FASA organization. Before assuming her current role, she worked as a school administrator and principal for over a decade.

Kirianne is eager to bring her operational expertise and institutional knowledge back to the FASA board. She looks forward to supporting her colleagues and advancing the profession through the impactful work of the FASA association.

Platform Statement - It has been an honor to serve this association in the past as President of both FASA and FAESP, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue that service as your FSAA Central Director. My goal is simply to give back to the organization that has supported me throughout my career.

I believe my background offers a helpful perspective for the challenges we face today. With over a decade of experience as a school administrator and principal to my current role in network-wide operations, I hope to help the board bridge the gap between big-picture strategy and the day-to-day realities of our schools.

As the educational landscape continues to shift, I want to work alongside the board to ensure we stay focused on what matters most: the well-being of our students and the support of the administrators who guide them. I am eager to contribute my operational experience to help smooth the path for our members so they can focus on their essential work.

FASA South Director

Fabrice Laguerre

Bio - With nearly three decades of experience serving South Florida’s diverse school communities, I have dedicated my career to ensuring that every child, especially those in our most vulnerable populations, receives the high quality education they deserve. My professional journey has included teaching, coaching, lead magnet teacher, and serving as a school principal at the elementary, middle school, and K-8 center, experiences that have strengthened my belief that strong relationships, rigorous instruction, and supportive school culture are the cornerstones of student success.

Throughout my leadership roles, I have championed equity, expanded access to meaningful learning opportunities, and implemented systems that support both academic growth and social emotional well being. My work has focused on empowering teachers through targeted professional development, fostering collaborative problem-solving, and using data to drive continuous improvement.

I am committed to elevating the voices of administrators and ensuring they have the resources, mentorship, and advocacy needed to thrive. I believe deeply in the power of public education to transform communities, and I strive each day to model servant leadership, resilience, and integrity.

As a leader, I remain guided by the principle that when we invest in educators and support them boldly, our students succeed and our schools’ become places where every child can grow, achieve, and belong.

Platform Statement - As an elementary principal, I believe that public education is the foundation of opportunity, and it is our responsibility as leaders to ensure that every child, regardless of background, language, or circumstance, has access to the high‑quality teaching and supportive environment they deserve. The South Region is home to extraordinary diversity, and with that comes both the challenge and privilege of meeting students where they are.

If selected as South Region Director, I will champion safe, rigorous, and inclusive learning environments by supporting administrators with the tools, professional learning, and collaborative networks needed to navigate today’s evolving educational landscape. Behavior is communication, and I am committed to fostering school cultures that elevate student voice, strengthen relationships, and model empathy, consistency, and high expectations.

Our administrators deserve advocacy at the state level, high‑quality professional development, and opportunities to unify around research‑based practices that improve academic outcomes and staff retention. I will work to ensure that every leader feels supported, valued, and connected because when principals thrive, schools thrive.

Together, we can protect and strengthen public education while empowering our students to grow into resilient, capable, and confident learners.

FAPA Director

Melinda Bogart

Bio - My name is Melinda Bogart and I work in St. Johns County School District where I am currently the Assistant Principal at Sebastian Middle School and serving in the capacity of Administrator on Assignment in charge of organizing and maintaining our Add-the Director of Professional Development and Evaluations. As a 30-year educator, I have taught all grades 6-12, I have been a Reading and Instructional Coach at both the middle school and high school levels, I have been a high school Assistant Principal, and then moved to the District Office working with teacher Evaluations and then merging departments to become the Director of Professional Development and Evaluations. In 2024 I returned to the school setting to resume my role as Assistant Principal for a Title I middle school which is also the only STEM certified school in our district. I have been a member of FASA since I became a school administrator in 2013 and have been a full member since I joined FSAA in 2016 when I started working at the District Office level. I have actively served on FSAA as a member, then as President, and then as a Director on the FASA Board.

Platform Statement - As a 30-year educator in the state of Florida, I have taught all grades 6-12, I have been a Reading and Instructional Coach at both the middle school and high school levels, I have been a high school Assistant Principal, and then moved to the District Office working with teacher Evaluations and then merging departments to become the Director of Professional Development and Evaluations. In 2024, I returned to the schools where I feel I am able to affect more change and have a greater impact on improving student learning. My background and experiences have provided me with a broad understanding of the many ways that building administrators impact student achievement, and the supports they need to be successful. With my return as an Assistant Principal, one of my goals is to continue to coach and to use my skills from my previous roles to help support and develop future building administrators. Additionally, due to the amount of educational legislation I have had to filter through, implement, and attempt to change, I have a unique perspective of what schools and teachers truly need to function effectively as well as what negative impacts certain pieces of legislation could have both short- and long-term on student morale and growth as well as on teacher recruitment and retention. I would be grateful for the opportunity to lend voice and support by continuing my role on the FASA Board representing FAPA.

NASSP State Coordinator

Brent Jones

Bio - Brent Jones is an experienced Florida school administrator with 20 years in education, including 13 years in school administration. He currently serves as the NASSP State Representative on the Florida Association of School Administrators Board, a position he has held for the past four years.

Throughout his career, Brent has focused on supporting school leaders through practical advocacy, clear communication, and thoughtful policy engagement. His experience spans the day-to-day realities of school leadership, from instructional leadership and campus operations to staff development and accountability, giving him a grounded perspective on the challenges administrators face across Florida.

As NASSP State Representative, Brent has worked to strengthen the connection between national advocacy efforts and the needs of Florida’s principals and assistant principals. He values collaboration, consistency, and representing the profession with integrity.

Brent is committed to continued service that amplifies the voice of Florida school leaders and supports policies that allow administrators to lead effectively in service of students, families, and communities.

Platform Statement - My platform centers on steady representation, practical advocacy, and strong communication between Florida school leaders and NASSP. Having served as NASSP State Representative for the past four years, I understand the importance of continuity and informed leadership in advancing the interests of principals and assistant principals across our state.

I believe effective representation requires listening closely to school administrators, accurately conveying their concerns, and ensuring that national initiatives align with the realities of Florida schools. My experience in school administration has reinforced the value of clear expectations, professional support, and policies that respect the complexity of school leadership.

I am committed to promoting leadership development, protecting the professional voice of administrators, and advocating for solutions that are realistic, student-centered, and sustainable. I believe collaboration between FASA, NASSP, and local leaders is essential to strengthening our profession.

My goal is to continue providing experienced, reliable representation that supports Florida’s school administrators and advances the mission of NASSP through thoughtful, principled leadership.

FAEMSP President-Elect

Joe Jannazo

Bio - Joe Jannazo is in his first year as the Principal of C.W. Ruckel Middle School and is a proud product of the Okaloosa County school system. Following high school, he earned his degree in International Affairs with a concentration in Political Science from Florida State University. In 2009, after working in the private sector, Mr. Jannazo entered the field of education as a teacher at Pryor Middle School where he continued his professional growth earning his teaching credentials as well as his Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida. He continued his path in education as the Assistant Principal at his alma mater while earning his Principalship Certification before having the distinct honor of serving as the Principal at Destin Elementary School for four years. Mr. Jannazo currently serves as a district liaison for FASA and has previously served on the Board of Directors as Northwest Region Director and President for the Florida Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals as well as President Elect for FAPA. He has been a member of FASA since 2014 serving on various committees and boards.

My goal is to continue providing experienced, reliable representation that supports Florida’s school administrators and advances the mission of NASSP through thoughtful, principled leadership.

FAEMSP South Region Director

Andrea Swift

Bio - I am an educational leader with a career grounded in service, advocacy, and a commitment to students with exceptional needs. I began my career as an elementary teacher in New York City Public Schools, the Island Trees Union Free School District, and Broward County Public Schools, experiences that shaped my belief in equitable access to high-quality education for all students.

My professional focus has centered on Exceptional Student Education. I served as an ESE Specialist for a K–12 ESE Center in Broward County and later began my administrative career as an Assistant Principal at two K–12 ESE Centers serving students with Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities. I am currently the Principal of The Quest Center, serving students with significant cognitive disabilities, severe autism, and medical fragility.

I earned my undergraduate degree and first master’s degree from the University of Florida in Exceptional Student Education and Early Childhood Education (Birth–Third Grade), as well as a second master’s degree in School and District Leadership from Touro University. I also serve as a coursework evaluator for Western Governors University.

I am actively involved in the Broward Principals’ and Assistant Principals’ Association as Recording Secretary and a board member, helping plan a 500-attendee leadership conference. Advocacy for schools and Exceptional Student Education is a central part of my work. I am also the proud parent of three children who guide my commitment to educational opportunity.

Platform Statement - As a candidate for FAEMSP South Director, my platform is grounded in service, advocacy, and unity. I am committed to increasing FAEMSP membership by strengthening connections among assistant principals, principals, and district leaders, and by clearly communicating the value, voice, and professional support that FASA provides. By engaging emerging leaders and strengthening outreach, we can build a broader, more inclusive network of school leaders across the South region.

I am equally committed to promoting and elevating the critical work of school administrators. School leaders face increasing demands and accountability, and it is essential that their expertise, challenges, and successes are recognized at the local and state levels. Through collaboration, communication, and shared leadership, we can ensure our collective voice is strong and unified.

Advocacy is central to my leadership philosophy. I am passionate about representing the interests of FAEMSP by actively engaging with state and local policymakers to advocate for sound educational policy, adequate resources, and strong support systems for school leaders and the students we serve. By uniting our voices for the common good, we can influence policy, strengthen our profession, and advance public education across Florida.

FASSP President-Elect

Martin Aftuk

Bio - Martin Aftuck is a distinguished educational leader serving as Principal of Middleburg High School in Middleburg, Florida, since May 2020. He was honored as Clay County Principal of the Year for 2025–26.

Under his tenure, Middleburg High achieved A-ratings for three consecutive years (2023–2025)—a historic first for the school—while posting a 10% overall school grade increase from 2021–2025. Aftuck closed achievement gaps with notable gains in proficiency among African American (up to 20% in Science), Hispanic, and economically disadvantaged students, alongside an 8% overall proficiency rise for students with disabilities through co-teaching and PBS initiatives.

He elevated graduation rates to a school-record 96% in 2025, doubled Advanced Placement testing with pass rates climbing from 45% to 57%, launched the Cambridge AICE program, and increased industry certifications from 422 to 692. Career and Technical Education expanded with innovative partnerships, including the Garber Auto Academy, yielding internships and scholarships.

Aftuck strengthened school culture via the #HorsePower social media brand (over 11,000 followers, millions of views), mentorship programs like Link Crew, mental health initiatives, staff retention efforts (84% from 2020–2025), and student recognitions including the Alumni Hall of Fame.

Previously, as Principal of Bannerman Learning Center (2018–2020), he founded the Elevation Academy credit recovery program, enabling over 1,500 graduates and boosting attendance and expectations.

Tim Kutz

Bio - Tim Kutz serves as the Principal of Gulf Coast High School in Naples, Florida, bringing extensive experience in both district-level and school-based leadership. Within Collier County Public Schools (CCPS), he has held multiple senior leadership roles, including Executive Director of District Operations, where he provided strategic oversight for Transportation, Nutrition Services, and Safety and Security. He also served as Executive Director for School Leadership, supervising secondary principals and advancing instructional leadership, accountability, and continuous improvement across the district.

Before joining CCPS in 2008 as the Principal of Barron Collier High School, Tim served as an Assistant Principal and Principal in Rockford, Illinois, but began his professional journey as a high school mathematics teacher in Fort Myers, Florida. He has been an active member of the Florida Association of School Administrators (FASA) since 2008.

Driven by service beyond the schoolhouse, Tim and his wife Christy served as foster parents in Collier County for more than five years. They have four children and three grandchildren; all three of their adult children work in education. A native of Sterling, Illinois, Tim is a United States Air Force veteran and holds degrees from Illinois State University and Nova Southeastern University.

Platform Statement - I am seeking the role of FASSP President-Elect to strengthen our collective voice and ensure that school leaders across Florida feel supported, connected, and represented. As the demands and pressure on school administrators continue to increase, FASSP must remain a strong advocate for our profession while also investing in the people who do this work every day.As President-Elect, my focus will be on supporting and retaining current school leaders by promoting professional learning, meaningful connections, and practical resources that will sustain principals throughout their careers. Equally important is developing future leaders by strengthening mentorship and leadership pathways for assistant principals and aspiring administrators.
I believe FASSP’s greatest strength is its membership. By expanding engagement, listening to diverse perspectives, and advocating boldly at the state level, we can elevate the principalship and influence decisions that impact schools, students, and communities statewide.
I am committed to collaborative leadership, practical action, and a future-focused vision that ensures FASSP remains a trusted, relevant, and powerful voice for Florida’s school leaders.

Nigel Pillay

Bio - Nigel David Pillay is first and foremost a father; he has 3 amazing sons, and 3 wonderful daughters. He is also the proud grandfather of 2 grandsons and granddaughter. This is Nigel’s 25th year in education in which he has experiences working for both Seminole County Public Schools and St. Johns County School District. While with Seminole County Public Schools, Dr. Pillay worked in instructional positions at the elementary and middle school level, as a teacher, testing coordinator & instructional coach/interventionist. Nigel then moved into administration and spent 8 years serving as an assistant principal at the middle school and high school levels for both Seminole County Public Schools and St. Johns County School District. He was named A.P. of the year and was one of the top three state finalists in 2015. For 5 years, Nigel served as the principal of Otis A. Mason Elementary School. Additionally, he served as principal of St. Johns Technical High School and St. Johns Virtual School, for 5 years and 1 year respectively. Currently Nigel is the planning principal for a new High School in Osceola County, set to open in August 2026. In 2020 he was named the National Distinguished Principal for the state of Florida. Dr. Pillay holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Central Florida, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, a Graduate Certificate in Urban Education from the University of Central Florida, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Central Florida. Go Knights!

My goal is to continue providing experienced, reliable representation that supports Florida’s school administrators and advances the mission of NASSP through thoughtful, principled leadership.

FASSP Central Region Director

Ginger Cruze

Bio - Ginger Cruze has served in education for the past 37 years at the secondary and postsecondary levels. She currently is the Principal of West Port High School which is a comprehensive Magnet School in Marion County Florida with over 3,000 students. She has a strong literacy background serving as an academic coach for over ten year. She has a strong commitment to educational excellence providing ongoing professional development to her staff year-round. She believes that all students deserve to become the best versions of themselves and provided with access to various pathways.
Mrs. Cruze has a Bachelor's degree in Management from the University of Tennessee, Masters in Business Administration from Saint Leo University, and her Educational Leadership Specialist from Nova Southeastern University.
In addition to role as Principal, she is also involved in local and state organizations. She is the Board Chair for the Marion Cultural Alliance, FASA FASSP Central Director, Leadership Florida, and United Way Women United. She takes pride in celebrating student accomplishments and working to remove barriers to success. Through her dedication and vision, Ginger Cruze continues to guide West Port High School toward academic excellence and a strong sense of community.

Platform Statement - Ginger Cruze has served in education for the past 37 years at the secondary and postsecondary levels. She currently is the Principal of West Port High School which is a comprehensive Magnet School in Marion County Florida with over 3,000 students. She has a strong literacy background serving as an academic coach for over ten years. She has a strong commitment to educational excellence providing ongoing professional development to her staff year-round. She believes that all students deserve to become the best versions of themselves and provided with access to various pathways.
Mrs. Cruze emphasizes leadership, accountability, and continuous improvement. She provides her students and staff with a pipeline for their future. She currently has 15 of her staff who were previous students. In addition, many of her staff both noninstructional and instructional staff have received promotions to teaching and administrative positions. She encourages her staff to take chances and supports innovative teaching practices, as well as, sharing their expertise with other staff.
Mr. Cruze believes that all students are able to learn when they are supported by a community of strong, knowledgeable, and dedicated educators. Positive relationships are the key to put the pieces together in this ever changing world.

FASSP South Region Director

Johna Giordano

Bio -Johna Giordano is a School Principal at Hollywood Academy of Arts & Science (HAAS). HAAS is a downtown school with 1600 students in an artistic, beachside, heavily populated area. Recipient of the prestigious Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding Leadership from the United States Department of Education, Ms. Giordano advocates for continuous growth for students and staff through rigorous and individualized professional development, a committment to academic excellence, and prioritization of the Arts and Science in education. She served as FASSP South Director from 2023-2026, is a Distriguished Fellow at the Florida Charter Institute, and mentors and trains other principals throughout the State. Her belief that everyone is an instructional leader transcends classifications of Administrators throughout the state as she shares her knowledge and expertise with all Adminstrators regardless of whether they serve in the District, Charter, Private, or Microschool sector. During her Tenure at HAAS, her team has catapulted the school to its highest academic achievement and highest student and staff growth. As a former collegiate debator, dancer, and TV anchor her prioritization of the Arts and the Science program at HAAS have produced remarkable student growth.