Osceola School Board Appoints Monique Machado as Assistant Superintendent and Other Leaders

The Osceola County School District Board Meeting held on July 15, 2025, featured significant personnel appointments and heartfelt acceptance speeches from newly appointed leaders. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to educational excellence and community engagement.

Monique Machado, the newly appointed Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools, delivered an inspiring acceptance speech. She expressed gratitude to the board for recognizing her potential and shared her journey of improving student achievement at Kissimmee Middle School, where her leadership led to an 18-point increase in the school’s grade. Machado emphasized the importance of collaboration and high expectations for all students, stating her eagerness to work with her new team to build a culture of excellence.

Dr. Tammy Deary, appointed as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction, also addressed the board, sharing her excitement about her new role. She acknowledged the mentors who shaped her career and expressed her commitment to supporting teachers through high-quality curriculum development.

The board approved several key appointments, including Giselle Lee as the new staff attorney for the district. Lee, who has extensive experience within the Osceola County School District, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and her commitment to supporting the community.

Michael Melvin was appointed as the new principal of Kissimmee Middle School. Melvin, who has spent 19 years in Osceola County, thanked the board and his family for their support, highlighting his dedication to the students and staff of the school.

Other appointments included Michelle Quinn as the new assistant principal at Neptune Middle, Emily Blackmore as the assistant principal at Central Avenue Elementary, and Dr. Kijuana Carpenter as the assistant principal at Gateway High School. Each new leader expressed their excitement and commitment to making a positive impact in their respective schools.

The meeting concluded with a transition to a public hearing for the 2025-2026 rulemaking cycle, indicating ongoing efforts to engage the community in educational governance. The board's focus on leadership appointments reflects a strategic move towards enhancing educational outcomes and fostering a supportive environment for both students and educators in Osceola County.