Pinellas County Schools' next superintendent has long been a leader for the district.
The school board voted unanimously to name Kevin Hendrick as the district's next superintendent at Tuesday's meeting.
Hendrick, currently the district's Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Services, has also served as Director of High School Education and principal of Northeast High School, among other roles.
"I am so excited to be doing this...and to be doing it here in Pinellas County. It is a true pleasure and something that is really a lifelong dream," Hendrick said.
READ MORE: Pinellas County School Board selects three superintendent finalists
The board received nineteen applications for the position, which oversees the seventh largest public school district in Florida.
While board members said finalists Michael Ramirez, Deputy Superintendent of Schools of Denver Public Schools, and Ann Hembrook, Area Superintendent for Marion County Public Schools, are ready to serve, they ultimately chose Hendrick. Members said he would advance the district's goals and increase collaboration.
In addition, they said Hendrick deeply understands the district.
He was lauded by board members like Caprice Edmond.
"I think we need a strong leader that's going to stand firm on the values that we have and I saw that in him."
Board members also noted Hendrick's positive reviews from former employees and the community. At the meeting, parent Kimberly Works expressed her support.
"I think he has a great passion for the district. I think he loves the students. I think he loves the faculty and I really think he has the best intentions of this district at heart."
Contract negotiations will now begin. Hendrick will be paid in the range of $275,000 to $305,000 a year, along with other benefits, WUSF previously reported.
Longtime Superintendent Mike Grego will retire this summer after a decade in the district's top job.
