The Monroe County School District is pleased to announce new leadership at Plantation Key School for the 2026–2027 school year. Maida Court has been selected as Principal, bringing deep experience, strong instructional insight, and a long-standing commitment to the Panther community. Superintendent Ed Tierney announced Court’s appointment as long‑time leader Lisa Taylor retired after over 30 years of dedicated service.
Court has served as Assistant Principal at PKS for the past nine years and brings 17 years of leadership experience to her new role. Her expertise in curriculum and instruction, paired with her strong connection to students, staff, and families, positions her to lead PKS with confidence and continuity. Court earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English from Florida State University and her Master’s in Educational Leadership from Barry University. Reflecting on her new role, she shared, “These students, teachers, and families are part of a dynamic culture, and I look forward to stepping into the principal role and continuing our path of excellence.”
Joining Court on the administrative team is Monica Horsley, who has been selected as Assistant Principal. Horsley has served PKS for the past ten years as a teacher and literacy coach, bringing a strong foundation in instructional leadership, literacy development, data-driven support, and schoolwide collaboration. She has played a key role in strengthening intervention practices and advancing student achievement across grade levels.
She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's of Teaching degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University as well as a Master's in Educational Leadership from the America College of Education. Horsley shared her excitement for the new role, stating, “I look forward to continuing to support the strong partnership between PKS, families, and the community while serving students and staff in this new role.”
Together, Court and Horsley bring experience, passion, and a deep commitment to the Panther community—ensuring that Plantation Key School continues to thrive and grow under strong, student-centered leadership.