News Article

Edison Graduate Returns as First Principal of Collegiate High

Jan 13, 2009


Charlotte County -- Tammi Harvey has accepted the position as the first Principal of Edison State College’s Collegiate High School in Punta Gorda. “Something kept drawing me to the position,” said Harvey. “The more I learned about the school, it’s innovative and creative mission, I felt like, this is the right fit for me.” An unlikely Edison student, Harvey grew up in Arizona. She is a first generation college student and the only one of six children to earn a college degree. Harvey credits her grandmother who lived in Port Charlotte with her success. “She saw something in me,” says Harvey. “She paid for the first semester at Edison, I paid her back. Then she used that money to send me to the second semester. It went on like that until I earned my associate’s degree.” In 1992 Harvey graduated from Edison. She went on to the University of South Florida to earn a bachelor’s degree in History. Next she went to Florida Gulf Coast University to earn a Master’s in Educational Leadership and later an EDS from Argosy University in School Counseling. “Tammi has a diverse background in education and proven record of positive leadership,” said Dr. Patricia Land, President of Edison State College Charlotte Campus. “She understands the power and importance of education. I’m certain our students will benefit from her direction.” Harvey joins Edison State College after working in the Charlotte County School District for the past 14 years. Harvey taught gifted students at Port Charlotte Middle School, L.A. Ainger Middle School and Sallie Jones Elementary. She last worked as the Assistant Principal at Lemon Bay High School. “I’m very familiar with the Charlotte County education system,” said Harvey. “I believe there will be a positive working relationship.” Edison State Collegiate High School is awaiting final contract approval before accepting its first class of students. Dr. Land hopes applications will be available on line by the end of January. She expects students will be notified of acceptance by the end of March. The first class will be a maximum of 100 students. If more than 100 students apply, acceptance will be based on a lottery selection. Harvey has a son and daughter. She and her husband Jeff live in Rotonda.

Last Updated: January 13, 2009

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