Denise Carlin was raised in Cape Coral and has lived in Lee County for 54 years.  She is a lifelong educator, having served as a teacher, principal, and district leader. Under her leadership, student achievement increased, budgets supported classrooms, and students, families, and staff were all treated with respect. 

Denise attended Edison Community college where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Elementary Education before moving on to the University of South Florida, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, and a Master’s degree and Doctorate in Educational Leadership.  

Denise and her husband of 33 years, John, have two sons who graduated from Lee County schools. Not only is she experienced as a teacher, principal, and administrator, she also understands what it means to be a parent of students within the district.  

Denise is running for Superintendent of Lee County Schools because she believes in public education and knows that the children of Lee County are our future. She also knows that, while the School District of Lee County has made strides, there is so much more that must be done to provide a high-quality education for every student. Denise is committed to making our school district the best in the nation by ensuring safe schools, academic excellence, college and career ready students, highly effective teachers for every child in every classroom, and fiscal responsibility. The school district must live within its means, and Denise will make sure that happens.