JoAnne Glenn
JoAnne Glenn is a dedicated educational leader with over 32 years of experience in teaching and administration. She currently serves as Principal at a MAGNET STEM school within the School District of Pasco County, a role she has held for the past 13 years. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a Master’s degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Florida, JoAnne’s career began in high school mathematics instruction, including teaching online courses, before transitioning into educational leadership to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
Throughout her career, JoAnne has focused on fostering a supportive and high-performing school environment. She leads by example, working closely with her team while maintaining professional boundaries, building trust, and providing consistent support. Known for her data-driven decision-making, curriculum expertise, and leadership approach, she has successfully guided her district through initiatives such as distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her professional affiliations include membership in the National Association of Secondary School Principals, CLASS, and BOLD.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, JoAnne is deeply committed to community service, supporting organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and local food banks. She enjoys live music, cooking, and reading, and cherishes creating memories with her children—particularly as a proud “band mom” supporting her daughter’s trumpet performances. JoAnne’s leadership philosophy emphasizes trust, collaboration, and empowering both students and educators to achieve their fullest potential.
• University of Florida - M. Ed.
• National Association of Secondary School Principals
• Habitat for Humanity
• Local food banks
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of determination, ambition, and continuous learning. When faced with challenges or skepticism, I channel my persistence to exceed expectations and achieve results. I set ambitious, “big hairy” goals for myself and consistently seek opportunities for growth and improvement. Additionally, I prioritize ongoing education and have pursued advanced courses to sharpen my skills and stay at the forefront of my field.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to pursue my Master’s degree and continue my education without interruption. Following that guidance opened doors for me and provided a wider range of professional opportunities than I had initially imagined.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is: go for it. Education is a career full of opportunity and impact, and it’s worth pursuing with passion. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who encourage and support you, as a strong network helps maintain resilience and motivation. Above all, be tenacious—persistence and determination are key to thriving in this field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is evolving to meet the diverse needs and interests of the communities we serve. People communicate in many different ways, and clearly conveying the value of STEM education can sometimes be challenging. At the same time, this diversity presents a tremendous opportunity to innovate, adapt, and find creative ways to engage and inspire learners.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me, both in my work and personal life, include sharing knowledge, believing in my ability to make things happen, loyalty, honesty, and tenacity. These principles guide how I approach challenges, build relationships, and strive to make a meaningful impact every day.