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Fiorentino To Lead Schools In 2nd Term

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By RONNIE BLAIR rblair@tampatrib.com

The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 5, 2008

LAND O' LAKES - Heather Fiorentino will serve another four years as Pasco County schools superintendent.

Fiorentino, a Republican, defeated Democratic challenger Stephen Donaldson on Tuesday to earn a second term by a margin of 53 to 47 percent.

Fiorentino said she is "honored and privileged" that Pasco voters recognized the school district's successes, which she attributed to its "hardworking employees."

She will return to office at a time when the school district, like others across the state, faces a tight budget and the likelihood of more funding cuts. "The budget is going to continue being a problem," Fiorentino said.

The district has a strategic plan now, though. That will help give school officials vision and guidance as they head forward, Fiorentino said.

Donaldson, a teacher at Gulf High School and a retired U.S. Air Force major, had the backing of the United School Employees of Pasco and made a strong showing in his first run for office. However, it wasn't enough to oust the incumbent.

"We're disappointed, but not bad for a rookie," Donaldson said Tuesday night.

He said he will consider another run in the future, building on the name recognition he established and lessons learned from this campaign.

Reporter Ronnie Blair can be reached at (813) 948-4218 or rblair@tampatrib.com.

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