April 30, 2021
The award recognizes Dr. Grego’s outstanding leadership and his successful efforts to increase choices for families and make magnet programs a priority.
Magnet Schools of America (MSA) announced the award during a virtual conference on Friday, April 30.
During his tenure, Dr. Grego has tremendously expanded magnet and career-education programs, leading to the creation of nearly 25 new programs. Current offerings include more than 80 programs, with additional options on the horizon. New programs were selected based on feedback from families and research of high-demand careers. Twice during his leadership, the Brookings Institution gave Pinellas the top score in Florida for offering the best educational choices for parents.
“We want all students to have access to programs that excite them and engage them in learning,” Dr. Grego said. “It is an incredible honor to receive national recognition for supporting educational choices for families. I am passionate about providing choices that enhance students’ interests, talents and learning styles.”
In addition to creating new programs, Pinellas County Schools is continuously investing in facilities to make sure students have state-of-the-art learning environments. This includes one the district’s newest magnet schools, Richard O. Jacobson Technical High School, which offers programs in Commercial and Digital arts, Gaming and Simulation Programming, Building and Construction, Electricity, Marine Mechanics, Nursing, and Veterinary Science.
Dr. Grego is a visionary leader who has served as Pinellas County Schools superintendent since 2012. Under Dr. Grego’s leadership, Pinellas County Schools has achieved record-high graduation rates and successfully narrowed achievement gaps between minority students and their peers. His dynamic leadership has resulted in state and national recognition for great teaching, digital learning, parental choice and preparing students for success in college, careers and life.
Magnet Schools of America (MSA) is a nonprofit education association dedicated to providing vision, leadership and support for innovative programs that promote choice, equity, diversity, access and excellence for all students.
