Lee County schools superintendent candidates plead their case to school board

The new superintendent of Lee County schools will be picked on Tuesday. On Monday, the school board questioned the two candidates for the job.

The two candidates both have had long careers in Florida. Michael Ramirez spent 16 years working in the Broward County school system, and Christopher Bernier spent 33 years working in Orange County.

The school board did not ask about controversial issues like masks or transgender student rights.

Instead, board members asked the final two candidates for superintendent about themselves.

Bernier told the board, “people would tell you I’m direct, honest, and fair.”

“I’m transparent. That’s what they would say,” Ramirez said.

Ramirez was raised by two Puerto Rican parents. He told the board he’s the better man to lead the more than 40% Hispanic school district.

Has says he has a plan to boost English proficiency.

“We individualize plans for our students and the accountability not only at the school level but at the district level,” said Ramirez.

Bernier told the board he doesn’t like the term ‘chain of command’. This, he said squarely, is a team sport. He made it clear: if appointed superintendent, it won’t be his job alone to solve every problem in the district.

Bernier said, “I put my trust on my sleeve to people. I give it away. Be careful not to injure it. There may not be a way back across if I’m being candid. My job is to earn it from all of you, and the community though.”

On Tuesday, school board members will decide if Bernier or Ramirez will lead be the next to lead Lee County schools.