Voters make Lee County superintendent an elected position

In a major change to the biggest school district in Southwest Florida, voters have decided to make the Lee County superintendent an elected position on future ballots.

The Lee County School Board was responsible for choosing the district’s superintendent for more than 40 years. During the last legislative session, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 497, leaving it up to 2022 voters whether or not it should remain an appointed position.

In the end, voters overwhelmingly approved making the Lee County superintendent an elected position, with 62% voting for the change.

Newly appointed superintendent Christopher Bernier has held the position for less than a year. He has received praise from his constituents for how he managed the school district in the wake of Hurricane Ian.

Bernier’s position will be on the ballot in November 2024.