OCPS honors coach Max Purcell and celebrates Deputy Superintendent Mike Armbruster's retirement
Summary
The board observed a moment of silence for longtime coach Maxwell Purcell and presented a resolution to his family. Members also held a retirement tribute and presented mementos to Deputy Superintendent Michael Armbruster, and recognized employees including Margaret Harris and teacher of the year Steven Smith; several promotions and administrative appointments were announced.
Orange County Public Schools trustees opened their Dec. 9 meeting with tributes and personnel announcements.
Board member Vicki Elaine Felder read a resolution honoring the life and service of Maxwell (Max) Purcell, an Evans High graduate and longtime coach and teacher. "Whereas Orange County Public Schools mourns the passing of a dedicated former employee... Maxwell Purcell, who departed this life on 11/24/2025," Felder read, and she invited Purcell's family to stand for recognition.
The board also celebrated the retirement of Deputy Superintendent Michael Armbruster. Superintendent Maria Vasquez described Armbruster's multi-decade leadership in career and technical education, his role in building Orange Technical College and his personal mentorship to colleagues. The board presented Armbruster with a memento and dozens of board members and staff offered personal tributes. Armbruster said he felt honored and reflected on his time in the district, saying, "I'll always be OCPS."
In a separate segment Member Felder recognized several employees: Margaret Harris, a school secretary at Jones High School with 22 years of service, and Steven Smith, reading teacher at Molly Ray Elementary and the school's teacher of the year. The superintendent announced multiple administrator appointments including Joanie Casamento as principal at Endeavor Elementary, Meredith Jordan to Ocoee Middle School, Claire Hamilton to Vista Point Elementary, Jacqueline Hansen to Sunrise Elementary, Carla Kelly to Hidden Oaks Elementary, Matt Turner as principal leader for high schools and Jose Martinez as the district's incoming deputy superintendent.
The board took photos, presented tokens of appreciation and closed the tributes before moving to the day's business.
