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Dr. Samantha Dawson Named Principal of
Edge Elementary School
The School Board unanimously approved the selection of Dr. Samantha Dawson as the Principal of Edge Elementary School during the April 23 Board meeting.
Dr. Dawson has had ten years experience in the district as a building level administrator. She has also served as a classroom teacher, Title II math specialist and staff development coordinator in Memphis City Schools. She was instrumental in founding Liza Jackson Preparatory School (Preschool - 8) in Fort Walton Beach and she has most recently been an instructor in teacher education at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC). Dr. Dawson's experience from preschool through college gives her a broad perspective on public education.
“Her work at NWFSC in launching the new Baccalaureate program in teacher education is significant,” said Superintendent Dr. Alexis Tibbetts. “Samantha knows curriculum and how to assist teachers in improving instruction to increase student performance.”
Dr. Dawson earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education at the University of West Florida in 1988, her Master's at Memphis State University in 1992 and her Doctorate from the University of Memphis in 1996.
“She is a dynamic leader with vision and knowledge in budget and professional development,” said Tibbetts. “Dr. Dawson is an excellent communicator and is very articulate. She is committed to building relationships with teachers and families at Edge Elementary and she lives in the Niceville community. As the previous principal of a high performing charter school, Dr. Dawson will carry on the tradition of excellence at Edge Elementary. Her focus on all students achieving their highest potential is the mission of our district. Dr. Dawson will be able to transition with Mrs. Arneson over the summer.”
Dr. Dawson and her husband Greg live in Rocky Bayou with their two children. Nick is a sophomore at Niceville High School and Sydney is a seventh grader at Ruckel Middle School. The family likes to spend time boating, fishing and supporting youth sports. Nick plays football at Niceville and Sydney is a swimmer at Ruckel.
