The School District of Lee County this week announced that the School Board has approved two new administrative appointments that will form part of Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier’s cabinet.

Dr. Jennifer Cupid-McCoy is joining the School District of Lee County in the newly created position of deputy superintendent. In this role, she will supervise school improvement, student achievement and accountability for outcomes.

Cupid-McCoy has spent the majority of her 33 year career with Orange County Public Schools, where she started as a teacher and worked her way up to principal, a district administrator and most recently as area superintendent responsible for the oversight of thirty schools.

“I am excited to begin working with highly talented educators, committed parents, and amazing students,” said Cupid-McCoy. “Together, we will continue to operationalize the Board’s vision. I look forward to learning from you and growing with you as a contributing member of the team.”

Ramirez is joining the School District as chief of staff. Ramirez was one of the two finalists interviewed by the Lee County School Board for the superintendent position in January. He most recently served as deputy superintendent for Denver Public Schools after a 24-year career in Miami-Dade and Broward County as a teacher and administrator. As chief of staff, Ramirez will provide executive leadership and support for critical projects and initiatives of the district’s strategic plan.

“I am humbled and honored to be joining the School District of Lee County,” said Ramirez. “I look forward to serving our Lee Schools community in working together to truly live out our mission of ensuring each student achieves his or her highest personal potential.”

Dr. Denise Carlin, chief of staff to both interim Superintendent Dr. Ken Savage and Superintendent Bernier, is moving to the newly created position of chief communications and government relations officer. In this role, Carlin will supervise the district’s communications and expand the district’s work on legislative advocacy.

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Cupid-McCoy and Mr. Ramirez to the School District of Lee County,” said Bernier. “Both have the experience to drive our District to greater student success. I also congratulate Dr. Carlin in her new position at the district where she will continue to put her expertise to use for our student’s benefit.”

Ramirez and Carlin will move into their newly appointed positions on Aug. 1. Cupid-McCoy will join the district on Aug. 15.