MEDIA RELEASE -
Brooksville - Tuesday night’s School Board meeting was the last for Board Members Gus Guadagnino and Linda Prescott, who both did not seek reelection to their seats. Guadagnino, a longtime Hernando County resident and local business owner served as a school board member for 12 years and Prescott, with 8 years as board member brings her 55-year-long career in public education to a close.
Guadagnino was elected to the Hernando County School Board in November 2012 and remained active in community affairs serving with numerous civic and nonprofit organizations, including the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, Hernando HEAT Factory, Hernando County Education Foundation, Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation, Hernando County Sheriff’s ‘YES Program’ and many others. During his tenure on the School Board, Guadagnino has worked with three superintendents of schools. Some of his priorities throughout the years included reinstating some of the sports and arts programs to schools that were cut during leaner years and supporting vocational programs in the schools. He was the most vocal advocate of the half-cent sales tax that was approved by voters in 2015. Since voter approval in 2015, the sales tax brings in an average of $11 million a year to fund vital capital projects, such as roof and HVAC replacements at all HCSD sites.
Linda Prescott was elected to the Hernando County School Board in November 2016. She brought with her an extensive career as an educator in middle and high school, community college and at the university level. In fact, she has been in education for 55 years! In 2020, she was honored at Hillsborough Community College as a Professor Emeritus. Some of Prescott’s priorities included increasing workforce programs in vocational education, as well as increasing dual enrollment and advanced courses. Linda is regarded as a champion for teachers and has earned a reputation for her tireless efforts in ensuring that staff and schools are publicly recognized for their achievements and success. She worked with elected officials, staff and parents to provide more resources for schools, and worked toward increasing business partnerships with the district.
During their time in office, the school district has made progress with its graduation rates and test scores, and having a positive working relationship with district leaders. “Mr. Guadagnino talked about the people we have in our system and how great they are. And (Guadagnino and Prescott) are two people who contributed to that,” said Superintendent Ray Pinder. “I am proud to have known them and that you have been a part of this board.” And he lightheartedly added: “Congratulations on not being board members after tonight!”
Board Member Mark Johnson, who often disagreed with both members during his tenure, said: “Gus, it's been a pleasure working with you. We don't always see eye to eye, but your perspective has always been welcome...I respect your vision and I wish you a lot of luck.” He added: “And Linda, you've always been a lady, gentle, and you have that silver tongue where you can tell someone off and they don't even know it It's hard not to love you. Be healthy and stay well.”