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Community urges board to reverse transfer of Okamik Middle School principal
Summary
Scores of teachers, parents and students urged the Lee County School Board to reconsider the transfer and demotion of Okamik Middle School principal David Howdyshell, arguing his removal harms school culture; the board explained personnel decisions are made by the superintendent and approved M1, a personnel recommendation, by roll call.
Community members packed the Lee County School Board meeting on June 9 to plead for the reinstatement or reconsideration of Okamik Middle School principal David Howdyshell, whom speakers described as an essential on-campus leader whose reassignment and demotion have shaken staff and families.
"To be demoted from principal to assistant principal feels like a dishonor," said Tiffany Sherry, a 19‑year Lee County teacher who recounted Howdyshell's on‑the‑ground leadership during emergencies and everyday school life. Multiple teachers, current and former students and parents described him as the reason they joined or stayed at the school and said his removal will damage morale and continuity for students.
Speakers gave detailed examples of Howdyshell's involvement: hosting interventions, attending events late into the evening, assisting during Hurricane Helen and personally supporting staff and families. Teachers noted instructional improvements and programs they attributed to his leadership, and parents and alumni asked the board to explain the decision and to reverse it.
Board member Miss Jordan said she pulled a consent agenda personnel item (M1) so the public could better understand the process. Board attorney Attorney Dodig explained the legal framework, telling the board and public that "the superintendent makes the recommendation, the board approves that absent just cause, which is a significant showing under the law." He said the board approves job descriptions and positions but generally does not substitute its judgment for the superintendent on individual personnel assignments.
Superintendent Dr. Carlin declined to discuss personnel specifics at the public meeting but said administrative decisions are made "with the best intentions of children in mind" and based on a complete picture of student achievement and other data.
After discussion, the board voted by roll call to approve the superintendent's recommendation on M1. The motion, moved by Mr. Fischer and seconded by Miss Jordan, passed unanimously (7–0).
What happens next: The board's approval implemented the personnel recommendations contained in M1. Community members said they will continue to press for transparency and asked for clearer public explanations of personnel decisions and the evidence used to justify them.
