Kirk E. Gavin, Ed.D., an educational leader who has served
at elementary, middle, and high schools around Leon County, will become the new
interim superintendent of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Developmental Research School. Gavin earned his bachelor’s degree in political
science, a Master of Education degree from FAMU, and a doctoral degree of
educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
Gavin began his career in academia in 1986 as an
instructional aide. In the 30 years since, he has served in numerous capacities
including assistant dean of general studies, director for faculty development,
and interim assistant vice president of academic affairs at FAMU. A champion of
the underserved, Gavin has secured over $11 million in funding for promoting
educational equality and access.
The new superintendent of FAMU DRS will oversee operations at the school, a task which Rose Campbell, Ph.D., faculty administrator at the College of Education, said will come easily to the seasoned administrator.
“Dr. Gavin is an excellent leader in education. With his
background experience being in leadership and administration, he brings a
wealth of knowledge and experience to the position,” Campbell said. “He can
help improve academic rigor and communication, but most of all, make sure the
school continues to grow. With our university support, Dr. Gavin will succeed
in making FAMU DRS a leading K-12 institution in the state of Florida.”
FAMU DRS, formerly known as Lucy Moten Elementary School,
was created in 1887 as a teacher training facility for FAMU College of
Education students. It has transcended its original purpose, developing from an
elementary school to servicing nearly 1,000 K-12 students with a focus on
mathematics, science, technology and foreign language, which are subjects of
particular importance in the 21st century and beyond.