As we enter this holiday season, I want to take a moment to express my profound appreciation for the extraordinary people who make the St. Johns County School District such a special place for our students to learn and grow. Each day, our administrators, teachers, and support staff bring unwavering commitment, compassion, and professionalism to their work. Their dedication shapes our students’ futures and strengthens our entire community.
We are equally grateful for the ongoing support of our parents, guardians, and families. Your partnership is vital to our success. Whether volunteering in classrooms, attending school events, supporting learning at home, or simply offering encouragement, you play a remarkable role in helping our students thrive.
This month, we also celebrate three exceptional employees who exemplify the very best of SJCSD.
Our Principal of the Year, Ms. Kathy Tucker, has served the Ketterlinus Elementary community with grace, empathy, and visionary leadership. Her steady guidance through challenging times, such as the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew and the unique demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects her deep devotion to students and families. Under her leadership, Ketterlinus established a valued partnership with the University of Florida Literacy Initiative (UFLI), creating a comprehensive literacy culture supported by the local Rotary Club, dedicated volunteers, and a trust-funded literacy initiative. She aligned literacy resources with the B.E.S.T. Standards Civics Literacy Reading List and developed teachers as instructional leaders. As a result, Ketterlinus has become a sought-after school of choice, attracting new families for its strong academic foundation. Ms. Tucker has transformed Ketterlinus into a strong, inclusive, literacy-rich environment through meaningful community partnerships and instructional leadership. She embodies what it means to lead with heart and purpose.
Our Assistant Principal of the Year, Ms. Danielle Coates, is a dynamic instructional leader whose work at James A. Webster Elementary has elevated both student achievement and school culture. Her expertise in data-driven instruction, her commitment to supporting every learner, and her ability to build systems that truly make a difference have helped propel Webster from a D to an A school. Under Ms. Coates’ leadership, a five-week summer enrichment camp was designed that engaged over 300 students, offering targeted learning recovery and enrichment opportunities that had lasting academic impact. She supervises a range of specialized programs, including ESE support facilitation, Pre-K, EBD, and self-contained classrooms, always ensuring compliance, communication, and care for students with diverse needs. Whether guiding new teachers, coordinating critical student services, or fostering a positive PBIS culture, Ms. Coates leads with compassion, precision, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential.
Our School-Related Employee of the Year, Ms. Michelle Reid, serves our district with exceptional professionalism, warmth, and care. In her fast-paced role as the administrative assistant for the Regional Superintendents’ Office, she handles complex responsibilities with calm skill, accuracy, and a genuine commitment to serving others. Beyond her administrative expertise, Ms. Reid serves as a leader and mentor to school secretaries, offering professional learning opportunities and guidance to help them grow in their roles. She is a connector who helps colleagues find answers, navigate processes, and access resources, fostering collaboration across the district. Ms. Reid is known for her responsiveness, her ability to connect people with the resources they need, and her steady leadership among school support staff across the district. Her impact is felt far and wide.
To these remarkable honorees, and to all our employees, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Their dedication strengthens our schools and supports the success of every student we serve.
As we close out the year, I wish all our families a joyful holiday season and a restful Winter Break. May this time bring peace, restoration, and meaningful moments with loved ones. We look forward to welcoming our students back in January with renewed energy and enthusiasm for learning in the new year.
Warmest wishes,
Dr. Brennan Asplen
Superintendent of Schools
St. Johns County School District
