Cynthia Saunders was sworn in as Superintendent of the School District of Manatee County on June 28, 2018. Her nearly 30 years of service in education in Florida include experience as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and principal as well as time in district administrative and leadership positions including curriculum and staff development, Executive Director of Secondary Schools and Deputy Superintendent of Instructional Services.

Mrs. Saunders came to Manatee County in July 2013 as Executive Director of Secondary Schools and became Deputy Superintendent of Instructional Services in March 2015. With the help of her leadership, experience and community spirit, the School District of Manatee County has seen momentous gains academically, financially and in terms of community support during her tenure.