April 19, 2024 – Congratulations to Dr. Michael George who was just announced as the 2024 Florida Principal of the Year.
The Atlantic Coast principal received the surprise announcement in front of dozens of his peers during a principal’s meeting on Thursday.
Chants of “DU-VAAL” exploded over the room as Principal George thanked his students, staff, colleagues, and community. He gave a shout out to the strong women around him, like Assistant Principal Blair Chambers, who support him but are never afraid to tell him when he’s wrong. He credited his students with helping him grow as a leader.
“This is all because of you all,” said Principal George. “I was able to grow and be who I am because of you guys. I am not the leader I was when I came in. I am much better because of you all.”
His colleagues shared high praise about the educator, who is in his third year as principal at Atlantic Coast High School.
“You can walk into Atlantic Coast and feel the buzz,” said Chief of Schools, Scott Schneider. “It all stems from his energy. He is the nucleus of energy for that building.”
Chambers said she appreciates how George is “in the trenches” with the entire faculty and staff working on implementing what is best for students.
“He’s been an incredible mentor to me,” said Chambers.
This is not the first time a Team Duval principal was selected as state’s principal of the year. In 2022, Carolyn Davis received the honor, and was applauded from lifting a D-rated school to an A-school.