OKEECHOBEE – Okeechobee County Schools has announced several administrative leadership assignments, effective Oct. 19, 2026, as part of the district's continued commitment to student achievement, effective school leadership, and meeting the needs of individual school communities.

The assignments reflect the district's ongoing efforts to align the experience, strengths, and leadership capabilities of administrators with the priorities of its schools.

"Our responsibility is to ensure that every school has the leadership and support necessary to provide students with the best possible educational experience," said Superintendent Dylan Tedders. "These decisions reflect careful consideration of the needs of our schools, the strengths of our administrators, and our commitment to continuous improvement."

North Elementary

Dr. Pat McCoy will become principal of North Elementary, transitioning from principal of Yearling Middle School.

Dr. McCoy brings extensive educational leadership experience, including experience in school improvement, organizational leadership, and building collaborative school teams. Her appointment will support North Elementary's ongoing school improvement efforts.

Dr. Pat McCoy [Photo courtesy Okeechobee County Schools]

Jess Lowe, who previously served as principal of North Elementary, will transition to Okeechobee Achievement Academy.

Okeechobee Achievement Academy

Jess Lowe will assume the role of principal at Okeechobee Achievement Academy.

Mrs. Lowe brings educational leadership experience and a background in technology that will support the district's efforts to strengthen alternative education and explore expanded virtual learning opportunities for students.

Jessica Lowe [Photo courtesy Okeechobee County Schools]

Yearling Middle School

Kellyann Campbell will become principal of Yearling Middle School, transitioning from her role as assistant principal.

Mrs. Campbell has demonstrated leadership readiness and a commitment to student success. She will be joined by Ashley Drazick, who will serve as assistant principal and brings experience in school administration and student support.

Kellyann Campbell [Photo courtesy Okeechobee County Schools]

Seminole Elementary

Audie Ash will join Seminole Elementary as assistant principal, replacing Ashley Drazick, who will transition to Yearling Middle School.

Mr. Ash brings experience in student behavior, threat management, and instructional leadership, including teacher evaluations. This experience will provide additional support to Seminole's administrative team as the school continues its focus on student achievement, school safety, and a positive learning environment.

Audie Ash [Photo courtesy Okeechobee County Schools]

Ashley Drazick [Photo courtesy Okeechobee County Schools]

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Commitment to Leadership and Student Success

"Leadership decisions are among the most important responsibilities we have as a district," Tedders said. "We recognize and appreciate the contributions of our administrators, and we are committed to treating every individual with professionalism and respect throughout these transitions."

The District will work closely with each affected school to provide leadership support, maintain continuity, and ensure that students, staff, and families are informed throughout the transition.

"Our expectations remain high for every school," Tedders added. "We believe in our educators, we believe in our students, and we will continue making decisions that position our schools for long-term success. I recognize that people may interpret these changes in different ways. I respect the service of every administrator involved, and I also have a responsibility to make decisions based on the needs of our schools. Those responsibilities can coexist. I am accountable for these decisions, and my focus now is ensuring that each school has the leadership and support necessary to move forward."