It’s official

Danielle Brewer has been named superintendent of Marion County Public Schools. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette file photo]

During their regular meeting on Feb. 24, members of the Marion County School Board unanimously voted 5-0 to appoint Danielle Brewer as the district’s superintendent. The decision formally drops the “interim” title Brewer has held since she abruptly stepped into the leadership role last April.

As the newly appointed head of Marion County Public Schools, the largest employer in Marion County, Brewer officially begins her contracted tenure on Feb. 25, 2026.

The board approved an amended employment contract that secures her position through June 30, 2028. According to school board attorney Jeremy Powers, this specific end date was requested by Brewer to align her contract with the district’s fiscal year and school calendar, ensuring that future contract discussions avoid the busy state assessment window. Initially, her interim contract was set to run until late April, but the board agreed to the immediate Feb. 25 start date following contract negotiations.

Following the vote, Brewer expressed her gratitude, stating, “I truly appreciate the school board’s confidence in my leadership and look forward to continuing our work.”

She also thanked her administrative team, noting that the district’s hard work and successes could not be achieved without them.

The board members offered enthusiastic congratulations, with board chair Sarah James commending Brewer for taking the reins and making difficult decisions during a challenging budget year.

Vice chair Lori Conrad expressed her excitement about formally introducing her as “Superintendent Dr. Brewer” at a community event the next day.

The appointment also received strong backing from the student body, with student board member Luke Lombardo noting that nearly every student in district focus groups had named Brewer as their first choice to lead the school system.