New Lee County schools superintendent’s job could soon be in voters’ hands

A practice that has been around for nearly 50 years may become a thing of the past. Governor DeSantis signed a law that will ask Lee County voters if they want to elect their school superintendent.

When you go to a ballot box there are lots of boxes to check. In November, Lee County voters will have another box to check.

“We’ll cross that when we get there,” said Superintendent Christopher Bernier

Bernier is the newly appointed Lee County schools superintendent and will be sworn in and on the job Monday.

If the majority of Lee County voters vote ‘yes’ to an elected superintendent referendum in November, he’ll have to campaign to keep his job.

WINK News asked the new superintendent if he is making plans in case that happens. “Right now I’m prepared to transfer and to come into Lee County and do the work I came here to do. That is not a priority for me at this time,” said Bernier.

Bernier may have to defend his job in just five months. If Lee County voters say yes, they’ll elect a superintendent in 2024.

The school board fought the measure. In a letter to lawmakers, the board wrote in part, “Superintendents appointed by school boards are vetted to ensure they have the qualifications, experience, character and proven leadership skills.”

“What we do is follow the law. What happens in Tallahassee we follow the citizens,” said Bernier.

The law though does not prohibit Bernier from taking a stance on the referendum, but he isn’t picking a side. “My job is to remain neutral in this process,” said Bernier.

Lots of districts in Florida have elected superintendents. More superintendents are elected than appointed.

Bernier made it clear though that a campaign is not his priority.