- Stanley Switlik Elementary
- Homepage
School Superintendent Axford Names New School Principals for 2023-2024 School Year
Monroe County School District Superintendent Theresa Axford has named three new principals for the 2023-2024 school year. Trevor Tyler will take the helm of Sugarloaf School, Melissa Alsobrooks will lead Gerald Adams Elementary and Linda Diaz will be principal of Stanley Switlik Elementary. All three have extensive experience with the district and are looking forward to their new positions.
Axford stated, “Linda Diaz has extensive knowledge of our K-12 system so much so that I believe she will be a truly legendary Principal at Stanley Switlik Elementary School. I taught her in her undergraduate program many years ago and I recognized her as a person full of talent and potential. That impression has been proved correct consistently throughout her career. I know that in this leadership role, she will excel and she will have the opportunity to share her extensive knowledge and educational expertise with all the stakeholders at Stanley Switlik Elementary School.”
Diaz is filling the principal role at Stanley Switlik Elementary that has been vacated by Christine Paul who will take over as principal at Marathon High School. Diaz moved to the Keys in 1988 and immediately connected with Monroe County School District as a substitute teacher while completing her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Nova University. During her 35 year career, she has held several key roles including teacher, Program Specialist for Professional Development, Director of Title I and Professional Development, Assistant Principal and currently is an Exceptional Student Education Transition Specialist who works with teachers, parents and students. Her skills in master scheduling, staff development training and implementing initiatives in schools are strengths she will bring to the new position. Diaz has earned a Master Degree in Instructional Technology and Distance Education from Nova University and a Master Degree in Educational Leadership from Florida State University. Upon moving to Marathon in early 2022, Linda has become an active member of the Marathon Community including volunteering for the Marathon Community Theatre. She understands the connection between schools, families and community organizations which is a fabulous way to help our students succeed. Diaz will bring a strong curriculum background to the role and is excited to collaborate with all Stanley Switlik Elementary stakeholders to continue its trend of academic success and being a standout community school that meets the needs of the students.
Upon her appointment, Diaz said, “As an active member of the Marathon community and a lifetime educator, I am thrilled to join the Stanley Switlik family. The talented teachers and staff are dedicated to students and families. As principal, I am excited to work together as a team to ensure that all students succeed and grow.”