Candidate: Cheryl L. Massaro

As a candidate for the Representative of Flagler County School Board District 5, it is my desire to serve the community by bringing significant experience and a fresh perspective to enhance the critical work of the Board.  As a resident of Palm Coast, I have lived in Flagler County for the past 16 years following relocation from Pennsylvania, where I worked in education as a teacher and administrator.  During this time and through a variety of endeavors, I have been an ardent supporter and champion of youth in Flagler County, as well as in the state of Florida.

Key priorities of my candidacy:

• Ensure student safety
• Expand awareness of need for mental health education and services
• Attract and retain top-notch administrators, educators and staff by promoting the value and benefits of working for Flagler County Schools
• Accomplish all goals in a fiscally responsible manner, while eliminating unnecessary spending 
• Continue to increase graduation rates for Flagler County’s diverse youth population

My body of work throughout my professional career demonstrates an unwavering commitment to supporting, advocating for, and mentoring youth in a variety of community and educational environments.  In December 2018, after 13.5 years of service, I retired from Flagler County Schools in the roles of Director of the Flagler County Youth Center and the George Washington Carver Community Center. Prior to, and following retirement, I remain focused on youth as a member of the Florida Youth Justice Commission, as well as the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice State Advisory Group, to which I was appointed by Governor Scott in 2012.  I previously served as a member of the Federal Advisory Committee of Juvenile Justice, to which I was appointed by President Obama. I currently serve as Treasurer of Focus on Flagler Youth Coalition Board, Tobacco Free Flagler Partnership, and as an active member of the George Washington Carver Foundation. 

Key areas of my expertise and passion include working with Florida youth, particularly at-risk youth, with an emphasis on prevention.  As a member of the Florida Youth Justice Commission, I serve as chair of the newly formed youth committee that was created to develop youth advocates to facilitate juvenile justice reform within the community and state.  I attribute my success to both my ability to lead when called upon to do so, as well as my ability to serve as a collaborative and engaged member of groups, boards and committees.     

Additional Administrative Positions and Offices Held:

• Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) Circuit 7 (Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns and Volusia counties) – Member and Past Chair
• Flagler County DJJ Council – Member and Past Chair
• Flagler County Community Garden – Founder and Past Chair 
• University of Florida Flagler County Extension Services Advisory Committee – Former member
• Flagler County 4-H Advisory Board – Former member Past Chair
• Spotlight on Flagler Youth Talent Show; and Flagler County Youth Center Summer Camp - Founder
• State Advisory Group- Executive Committee member
• State Advisory Group – Member and Chair of Racial Ethnic Diversity / Disproportionate Minority Contact Committee

Education / Credentials:

• Master of Education Degree – Health Education, College of New Jersey
• Bachelor of Science Degree – Health and Physical Education, East Stroudsburg State University
• Principal Certification – Pennsylvania State University
• Registered Athletic Administrator – Pennsylvania Department of Education