Superintendent

Denise M. Carlin, Ed.D.

Denise M. Carlin, Ed.D. - Superintendent

Dr. Carlin is a lifelong educator, having served the School District of Lee County for 32 years as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and district leader. Dr. Carlin was elected on November 5, 2024, as Superintendent of Schools for a four-year term. She is proud to serve as the first elected Superintendent in Lee County in over fifty years. Dr. Carlin is honored to have the opportunity to serve the students, families, and team members who make Lee County so exceptional.

Dr. Carlin believes in public education and knows that the children of Lee County are our future. She recognizes that, while the School District of Lee County has made some strides, there is so much more that can be done to provide a high-quality education for every student. As such, we will:

  1. Ensure Safe and Secure Schools: Every child deserves a school environment where they feel safe and respected. I am proud of the work that has been done to keep our schools safe and secure and to promote the safety and well-being of students. We have a zero-tolerance policy toward bullying, harassment, and any threats, creating schools that are secure spaces for learning and growth.

  2. Increase Student Achievement: Student success is at the heart of everything we do. While we have so many student success stories across our District, we know there is still much to do. We will work diligently to ensure that every classroom is led by a high-quality, dedicated teacher and that our resources are used effectively to drive academic excellence and student achievement.

  3. Expand Technical Education Opportunities: The School District of Lee County has a wide variety of career and technical opportunities for our students, in addition to several advanced academic programs. While preparing students for college is essential to the work of the District, we are dedicated to offering pathways that prepare them for high-demand careers in technical fields. Expanding career and technical education programs will allow students to leave high school ready for a bright future, whether in college, a trade, or the workforce.

  4. Increase Teacher Retention and Recruitment: Great teachers are invaluable to student success. We are focused on creating supportive working conditions, improving teacher compensation, and retaining our top talent, ensuring our students benefit from skilled and experienced educators.

  5. Ensure Fiscal Responsibility: With a budget that serves more than 100,000 students, we are committed to accountability and transparency in all of our spending. This means ensuring that resources are used wisely and prioritizing our students and classrooms to make the greatest impact.

  6. Empower Parents as Partners in Education: Families are essential partners in the educational journey. We are dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for you to be involved. We will work to strengthen communication and empower you in every step of your child’s education.

Dr. Carlin was raised in Cape Coral and has lived in Lee County for 55 years. She has been married to her husband for 34 years and they have two sons.