Charlie Kennedy Seeks to Return to Manatee School Board

On Thursday,  former Manatee County School Board member Charlie Kennedy filed to run for election to the District 3 seat currently held by  Mary Foreman. Kennedy previously served as the board's District 2 representative from 2014 to 2022. 

“If elected to return to the school board, my constituents can expect I will work with my fellow board members to ensure financial stability, continued academic improvements, fidelity to Florida law, and building board consensus—even on tough issues—through the superintendent, staff, and public input,” Kennedy said in a press release announcing his candidacy.

Kennedy has been an educator for two decades. He has taught in various states, including Florida, where he’s taught at Manatee High School and IMG Academy. He currently works at Daughtrey Elementary in Bradenton.

During his previous tenure, Kennedy's board colleagues elected him to serve twice as chair and twice as vice chair. Kennedy supported a referendum for additional millage funds to support teachers, staff, and academic enrichment.  The measure was approved by voters, resulting in Manatee County teachers being among the highest-paid in the state.

Kennedy has already earned the endorsement of Foreman, who will not be seeking another term.

“Charlie’s dedication and experience are unmatched, making him the perfect fit for this role," said outgoing incumbent Mary Foreman, with whom Kennedy served during his prior terms. "With years of teaching experience under his belt, he brings invaluable insight into the inner workings of our district. Charlie’s commitment to the well-being of students, teachers, and staff is unwavering, earning him respect throughout the school district and the wider community. As I prepare to step down from the District 3 seat, I hope Manatee County voters cast their ballots for Charlie."

On April 30, a candidate named Jeffrey Carman also filed to run for the seat. At this time, Carman's SOE page contains only his filing paperwork. TBT has reached out to Carmen in hopes of reporting on his candidacy.