Carol Thomas is currently an Area Superintendent for Pinellas County Schools. To address the needs of the nation’s 22nd largest school, the district utilizes area superintendents to lead, support and develop the work of schools. Of the 37 diverse elementary schools that Thomas oversees, 27 made the NCLB’s “adequate yearly progress” standard in 2009. For the past three years the work of her region has been focused on a systematic approach to developing powerful instructional leaders. Using professional learning communities, principals and assistant principals studied and practiced the art of practitioner inquiry. As a result, school leaders have a clear understanding of the elements and power of an inquiry rich environment. Her vision and leadership supports an unwavering commitment to the practice of inquiry as the cornerstone for authentic, passionate teacher/educator professional development. Thomas began her career in education as a special education teacher in the Arlington, Virginia. Dr. Thomas has a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. Since that time she has dedicated 29 years to the Pinellas school community as teacher, Principal, Director of Professional Development, and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction.
