(BRADENTON, FL – June 19, 2026) The School District of Manatee County is pleased to announce Mr. Eric Jackson has been selected to be the School District’s Executive Director for Student Support and Family Engagement, pending School Board approval.

“Mr. Jackson’s extensive leadership experience will further strengthen our commitment to supporting students and engaging families,” said Superintendent Dr. Laurie Breslin. “We look forward to the positive impact he will have accelerating our momentum in Manatee.”

The School District’s Student Support and Family Engagement includes Exceptional Student Education (ESE); Student Services & Alternative Education; and serves as charter schools’ liaison.

Mr. Jackson is an experienced school leader with more than 20 years of experience as a principal and administrator. He brings a deep understanding of regional and national education to his role, having successfully led elementary, middle, and high schools in both Connecticut and Florida. His extensive background in neighboring Sarasota County includes serving as Principal of Venice High School, Riverview High School, and Tatum Ridge Elementary, and as Assistant Principal at Sarasota High School.

Throughout his career, Mr. Jackson has focused on supporting educators, fostering positive school environments, and driving measurable success in K-12 education. Under his leadership, four schools achieved an "A" state rating, including a notable turnaround from a "C" to an "A." Additionally, he established student wellness and academic support initiatives that significantly boosted graduation rates and earned the state’s 5-Star School Recognition multiple times for excellence in family and community engagement.

Mr. Jackson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts, a Master’s degree in Educational Computing from the University of Hartford, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Professional Education from the University of Connecticut.