Lee County Superintendent Wins FLDOE Leadership Award

CAPE CORAL, Fla. — Dr. Denise Carlin, Superintendent of the School District of Lee County, received the inaugural Florida Department of Education Commissioner's Leadership Award. The state-level honor recognizes leaders who inspire colleagues and positively impact students and schools.

Dr. Carlin accepted the award Thursday, July 23, at the 2027 Florida Teacher of the Year Gala in Orlando. The award celebrates professionalism and a strong commitment to education.

“To be chosen for this inaugural state award is a profound honor, but it is truly a reflection of the dedicated educators, staff, students, and families across Lee County,” Dr. Carlin said. “Our success belongs to our entire community. Together, we remain laser-focused on creating the best public school system in Florida.”

Interim Commissioner Paul O. Burns congratulated Dr. Carlin, acknowledging her dedication to Florida's students, educators, and families. “We are grateful for her leadership and the positive impact she continues to make in Lee County and across our state,” Burns stated.

Anastasios Kamoutsas, former Commissioner of Education and now President of Polk State College, praised Dr. Carlin's character. “Leadership is about standing on principle. It is about having integrity, which means doing what is right when no one else is looking,” Kamoutsas remarked. “I couldn't think of a better person to award than Superintendent Carlin, who demonstrated that level of leadership and perseverance.”

The award acknowledges leaders who model professionalism, inspire peers, and commit to improving public education.