ABOUT ME

My name is J. Dennis Russo, a dedicated professional who has pursued a fulfilling career in the field of education. Over the years, I have held various roles, starting as a classroom teacher and then transitioning into school administration. Eventually, my passion for ensuring the safety and well-being of students led me to take on the role of our district’s School Safety Specialist. Here is a brief overview of my career journey through education.

Early Education and Teaching Experience:

From a young age, I had a natural inclination toward education and a deep desire to make a positive impact on young minds. Following this passion, I earned a Bachelor's degree in Education, specializing in Social Sciences. This solid educational foundation equipped me with the necessary knowledge and pedagogical skills to embark on my career as a classroom teacher.

As a classroom teacher, I spent several years honing my teaching abilities and creating engaging learning environments. I fostered strong relationships with my students, striving to inspire and empower them to reach their full potential. I developed innovative lesson plans, implemented effective teaching strategies, and consistently sought professional development opportunities to enhance my skills.

Transition to School Administration:

Motivated by my desire to influence education on a broader scale, I decided to transition into school administration. I pursued a Master's degree in Educational Leadership, which provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the administrative aspects of running a school.

In my role as a school administrator, I gained valuable experience in curriculum development, staff supervision, budget management, and fostering a positive school culture. I worked closely with teachers, parents, and students to create a conducive learning environment and ensure a high standard of education. Collaborating with stakeholders, I spearheaded initiatives to improve student performance, enhance teacher effectiveness, and promote overall school success.

Specialization in School Safety:

While serving as a school administrator, I developed a keen interest in school safety and the well-being of students. Recognizing the growing importance of this field, I decided to specialize in school safety to contribute to creating safe and secure learning environments.

In 2018, I was appointed as Pinellas County Schools’ “School Safety Specialist.” This was a newly created position by the Florida Department of Education detailed in the MARJORY STONEMAN DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL PUBLIC SAFETY ACT. To further expand my knowledge and expertise, I pursued additional certifications and training in school safety and emergency management. In this capacity, I collaborate with school staff, administrators, and local authorities to develop and implement comprehensive safety protocols, emergency response plans, and threat assessment procedures. I conduct safety audits, train staff on safety procedures, and promote a culture of safety awareness within educational institutions.