MARION COUNTY – Two leaders in Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) received surprise visits announcing them as the District’s 2026 Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year.
Hillcrest School’s Lori Manresa learned she is the Principal of the Year during the school’s rock band pep rally last Friday. She was surrounded by her family, along with staff and students, when the surprise caravan delivered the news, led by Interim Superintendent Dr. Danielle Brewer.
Manresa began her education career in 1991 as an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher in Miami-Dade County and joined MCPS in July 2000 as the assistant principal at Hillcrest. She has served as principal of Hillcrest since 2008. Known for her dedication to students with unique learning needs, Manresa has built a school culture centered on collaboration and student growth.
Manresa holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Miami and two master’s degrees, one in Emotionally Handicapped and another in Educational Leadership, from Nova Southeastern University.
North Marion High School’s Aisha Pete is the 2026 Assistant Principal of the Year for MCPS. She was also surrounded by family, staff, and students when the surprise caravan arrived on her campus.
Pete began her educational career in 2011 as a teacher at Micanopy Middle School before joining MCPS in 2012 as a math teacher at Howard Middle School. During her time there, she also served as a student services manager. In August 2021, she became assistant principal at North Marion High School, where she continues to support student achievement, strengthen instructional practices, and build meaningful relationships with families and staff.
Pete earned her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science and her master’s degree in Medical Sciences from the University of South Florida. She also holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University.
Manresa and Pete now advance to state-level competitions through the Florida Department of Education for consideration as Florida’s 2026 Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year.
For more information, contact the Public Relations Office.
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