After leading Destin High School through years of growth and development, Dr. Diane Kelley is stepping down as principal, but she isn’t leaving the school behind.
The Destin High School Governing Board unanimously appointed Jill McNamara as the school’s next principal and Matt Means as assistant principal, while also creating a new advisory role that will keep Kelley involved in shaping the school’s future through legislative advocacy and strategic planning.
The leadership changes were announced Tuesday, July 28.
According to school officials, McNamara’s appointment was recommended by Executive Director Dr. Willy Williams and endorsed by Kelley as part of a planned leadership transition.
“I had the opportunity to interview [McNamara] when I was principal at Destin Middle, and even though I had other applicants, she was a stand-out,” Kelley told Mid Bay News. “First, in her poise, but also in her content knowledge. … I felt very confident in what she could do as a leader and for my own succession.”
Williams described the move as an intentional succession plan designed to preserve the school’s culture while positioning it for future success.
“One of our greatest responsibilities is ensuring that Destin High School is always led by exceptional people,” Williams said. “Jill McNamara has consistently demonstrated integrity, vision, exceptional instructional leadership, and an unwavering commitment to our students, faculty and mission.”
Williams also praised the promotion of Matt Means to assistant principal, saying his administrative experience and background as a counselor make him well-suited for the role.
“Promoting leaders from within provides continuity for our students and faculty while preserving the culture of excellence that defines Destin High School,” Williams said.
Kelley retires after a 45-year career in public education that included serving as a teacher and administrator in the Okaloosa County School District, an elected member of the Okaloosa County School Board and, most recently, principal of Destin High School.
“You hear people say, ‘you’ll know when its time,’ and I always kind-of brush that expression off as folklore, but there is some truth in that you do have the sensation that there’s more out there to do in another lane,” Kelley said.
During her tenure at Destin High, school leaders said she helped strengthen the school’s academic programs, improve campus culture and position the charter school for continued growth.
Rather than leaving education entirely, Kelley will become Advisor to the Governing Board and Legislative Lobbyist, where she will work with school leaders, lawmakers and community partners on long-term initiatives benefiting the school.
“Serving students has been the greatest privilege of my life,” Kelley said. “While I am retiring as principal, I am excited to continue serving Destin High School as advisor to the Governing Board and legislative lobbyist, advocating for our students and our future while also enjoying more time with my grandson.”
McNamara said she is honored to lead the school where she lives and serves.
“My vision is clear — to lead Destin High School to an A-rating while creating a school where exceptional teachers choose to stay, grow and build their careers,” she said. “Together with our faculty, staff, students, families, board and community, we will continue building a school where every Shark has the opportunity to succeed.”
She also praised Means, calling him a leader with a deep understanding of students and families.
“He has an extensive background in administration,” McNamara told Mid Bay News. “He was an assistant principal before. He was a principal before in in other states. He knows the ins and outs. We’re kind of a good yin yang team.”
Governing Board President Heidi LoCicero said the new leadership structure balances continuity with fresh leadership.
“The Governing Board’s responsibility is to ensure that Destin High School remains positioned for success not only today, but for generations to come,” LoCicero said. “Dr. Kelley’s continued service preserves invaluable experience, relationships and institutional knowledge, while Ms. McNamara and Mr. Means bring the vision, energy and proven academic leadership necessary to build upon that foundation.”
School officials said the transition is intended to ensure continuity while advancing Destin High School’s long-term mission and continued pursuit of academic excellence.
