School Board Selects Lori Breslin and Misty Mathis as Finalists for Superintendent Position

In a pivotal meeting held on August 12, 2025, the School Board of Manatee County focused on advancing its search for a new superintendent. The board convened to review a pool of semifinalists, ultimately narrowing down candidates for face-to-face interviews scheduled for the following week.

The meeting commenced with acknowledgments of contributions from key figures, including Dr. Bill Vogel, who has been instrumental in facilitating a transparent selection process. The board's primary task was to determine which of the four semifinalists would be invited for interviews.

After a thorough discussion, the board unanimously selected Dr. Lori Breslin as a finalist, with all five members expressing their support for her candidacy. Dr. Misty Mathis also garnered significant interest, receiving three votes in favor of her advancement. The board decided to move forward with both candidates, marking a significant step in the superintendent search.

While two other applicants, Mr. Adams and Mr. Solano, received limited support, the board opted not to advance them, emphasizing the importance of thorough vetting and in-person discussions for all candidates. The decision to focus on Dr. Breslin and Dr. Mathis reflects the board's commitment to finding a qualified leader for the district.

As the meeting concluded, the board reviewed the interview schedule for the finalists, with plans for out-of-area candidates to arrive shortly. This meeting not only highlights the board's proactive approach to leadership selection but also underscores the importance of community engagement in educational governance. The next steps will involve conducting interviews and ultimately selecting a new superintendent to guide the district forward.