May 23, 2024 – Dr. Dana Kriznar, a former principal who led two different Duval schools from a “C” to an “A” grade, has been named as the next superintendent for Duval County Public Schools.
Dr. Kriznar will serve in the superintendent’s role for an interim period not to exceed six months. During this time, the Duval County School Board will conduct a national search for the next successor to current superintendent Dr. Diana Greene.
“As chairwoman of the board and a long-time colleague of Dr. Kriznar’s, I can think of no other person more qualified and committed to lead our district at this time,” said School Board Chairwoman Dr. Kelly Coker. “I look forward to working with her over the next several months.”
Dr. Diana Greene announced her retirement from the role earlier this month. Her last day on the job will be June 2, and Dr. Kriznar will then assume the role.
Dr. Kriznar began her service to Duval students in 1986 as a mathematics teacher at John Gorrie Junior High School. She also taught at Mandarin Middle School before entering school administration in 1993.
“At my core, I am Duval proud and grateful for this opportunity to work with our principals, teachers, and staff in this capacity,” Dr. Kriznar said. “When it comes to student success and great schools, so much positive momentum has been generated in recent years, and I will be working with our school leaders to keep that momentum moving in a good direction.”
Dr. Kriznar’s first principal assignment began in 2001 at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, where she led the school from a grade of “C” to an “A” in two years.
In 2003, she transitioned to the former Kirby Smith Middle School (now Springfield Middle School), where she also led the improvement of that school’s grade from “C” to “A” in three years.
Most recently, Dr. Kriznar has served as the deputy superintendent of the district.
Her full work history and educational background are listed below.
Work History
All positions are with Duval County Public Schools.
2019-present Deputy Superintendent
2016-2019 Chief of Staff
2013-2016 Assistant Superintendent, Strategic Planning and Partnerships
2008-2013 Executive Director, Multiple Pathways and Support Services
2003-2008 Principal, Kirby Smith Middle School (now Springfield Middle School)
2001-2003 Principal, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School
1993-2001 School-based Administrator (Vice Principal and Assistant Principal; multiple schools)
1986-1993 Mathematics Teacher (John Gorrie Junior High and Mandarin Middle schools)
Education
Ph.D. in Educational Administration, Research & Policy, December 2011, University of Florida
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, August 1992, University of North Florida
B.S. in Mathematics, May 1986, Iowa State University
