Sarasota County — Chair Tim Enos informed the School Board that he will step down to accept the role of chief of the Sarasota County Schools Police Department, a personnel move the superintendent announced and the board discussed during Wednesday’s meeting.

Why it matters: The move shifts one sitting board member into an operational leadership role in district law enforcement. Board members, staff and members of the public reacted during the meeting; some colleagues praised Enos’s demeanor and leadership, while others raised questions about communications and the timing of the hire.

What happened: Enos said he had considered the position and accepted the superintendent’s offer; Superintendent Connor confirmed the district had the authority to hire for the chief post and that he had asked Enos whether he would take the role. Board members gave tributes to Enos for his service as chair, noting his ability to “deescalate” and bring calm to meetings.

Concerns voiced: Board member Tom Edwards and several public commenters referenced earlier, heated episodes at board meetings and said they were uneasy about the appointment process and how the news circulated. Edwards said he had received rumors and had raised concerns about transparency; other board members said they had been consulted and that the superintendent followed hiring authority in district practice.

Council and next steps: Superintendent Connor said the appointment follows usual hiring procedures and that district staff had already prepared necessary operational work. Board members asked for close monitoring of the school police department during the transition, and Enos said his priority will be student safety.

Ending: Enos’s departure triggers an upcoming vacancy on the board and additional conversation in the community about board composition and processes for personnel transitions. Board members and the superintendent said they will provide more details and continue to coordinate the transition.