Monroe County--Christine Paul will serve as the next principal at Marathon Middle/High School, according to Monroe County School District Superintendent Theresa Axford. Mrs. Paul currently serves as the principal of Stanley Switlik Elementary School and will take over the position in August of 2023 from outgoing principal Dr. Wendy McPherson.
Axford said, “Christine Paul makes me very proud that I have played a part in her development as an administrator. Her high level of expertise is accompanied by a personality that expresses her calmness, commitment to education and happy demeanor. It is truly a pleasure to appoint a former Marathon High School graduate to the role of Principal. Christine has had many successful experiences in leadership and has extensive knowledge of how to support students. I have relied on her for expertise in several areas during my tenure as Superintendent. I am sure she will serve the Marathon community proudly and with love in her heart for all students and their families.”
Paul is a highly qualified educator with a leadership record at the school and district level that spans Kindergarten through high school. After graduating from Florida International University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science in Art Education degree, she became an art teacher in the Monroe County School District, working at Plantation Key School and Sugarloaf School. As a Media Specialist in 1999, she began integrating her love of literature with emerging technology at both Plantation Key School and Stanley Switlik Elementary while also serving as the District Library Media Specialist for several years. In 2016, Paul began her administrative career as an assistant principal at Marathon Middle/High School where she coordinated the interventions and support systems, oversaw attendance and supported higher student engagement and achievement as evidenced by an increased graduation rate. She became the principal of Stanley Switlik Elementary in 2020, leading the school through the COVID pandemic while increasing the learning gains in reading and math. Her passion and experience with the students, staff and families of the Marathon community make her well suited to take the helm of Marathon Middle/High School.
“As a graduate of Marathon High School and a proud Dolphin, I look forward to working with teachers and staff to provide a school of excellence where all students can achieve their full potential,” states Paul.
In her new role, she envisions working collaboratively with teachers to ensure delivery of a rigorous and challenging curriculum that prepares students for success in college, career and beyond. Paul will encourage students to pursue their passions, develop leadership skills and contribute to the community through service-learning opportunities. Simply put, she believes that a well-rounded, high-quality education is the key to a better tomorrow.
