Flagler Schools has two new principals following a vote by the School Board on Tuesday. Mike Rinaldi will be taking over at Matanzas High School with Katie Hansen assuming the job at Buddy Taylor Middle School.
The appointments were made necessary after MHS principal Kristin Bozeman announced she’d be leaving to move out-of-state, while BTMS principal Cara Cronk announced her retirement. Both choices have several years of experience within Flagler Schools.
Superintendent LaShakia Moore made her recommendations to the Flagler School Board on Tuesday, followed by the board’s vote to approve of her picks. The vote was unanimous for both Hansen and Rinaldi. Both principals will officially move into their roles on Tuesday, July 1st.
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Rinaldi and Ms. Hansen into these important roles within Flagler Schools,” Moore said. “Both are talented and experienced educators with a passion for helping educate the next generation, as well as building strong school communities. I’m confident they’ll lead with integrity, vision and heart as they both prioritize putting children first in all they do.”
MHS Principal Mike Rinaldi
The new principal at Palm Coast’s Matanzas High School, Mike Rinaldi, boasts over two decades of educational experience coming into his new role. His most recent role has been Flagler Schools Coordinator of Professional Standards. According to a statement from the school district, he worked with ‘leadership development and supporting districtwide professional practices’.
“I’m incredibly honored to have the opportunity to serve as Principal of Matanzas High School,” Rinaldi said. “Matanzas has a strong tradition of academic excellence and community pride. I look forward to working with our students and families, faculty and staff to build on the foundation built over the years, and help create even more opportunities for success.”
BTMS Principal Katie Hansen
Buddy Taylor Middle School’s new principal Katie Hansen is another familiar face for the district. According to her personal resume Hansen has worked as a teacher in Flagler County since 2002. She spent four years at BTMS as a teacher support colleague and is currently an assistant principal at Indian Trails Middle School.
Additionally, Hansen has a stint as president of the Flagler County Education Association, the teachers’ union representing Flagler Schools. Prior to her career in education, she has an Associate in Science from Daytona State College and a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education and Teaching from the University of North Florida.
“I’m truly honored to return to Buddy Taylor Middle School as its Principal,” Hansen said. “This school holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to work alongside our faculty and staff to help our students and their families reach their educational goals.”
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
