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Team

Meet Our Team

Our team is united by a shared devotion to the timeless traditions of classical education. We dedicate our time and expertise to cultivating wisdom, virtue, and a lifelong love of learning in every student.

Executive Director

Robert Jackson

Robert directs the Institute’s strategic initiatives, championing liberal education renewal and supporting the growth of classical schools throughout the state of Florida.

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Teaching Fellow

Kathryn Perkins

As a Teaching Fellow, Kathryn empowers educators by sharing research-backed leadership and instructional practices to drive student achievement.

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Coordinator of Partnerships

Melanie Ramirez

Melanie manages stakeholder engagement and builds alliances to support the growth and connectivity of Florida’s classical education network.

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Teaching Fellow

Paul Powell

As Founding Director of the Florida Charter Institute, Paul empowers educational leaders by leveraging his extensive background in regional superintendency and school founding to drive excellence across the charter sector.
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Advisory Board

Comprised of distinguished leaders in public policy, education, and civic life, the Advisory Board provides strategic counsel to guide the Institute’s mission and expand its statewide impact.

Michael Bileca

Michael advises the Institute on strategy and growth, drawing on his dual background as a successful healthcare entrepreneur and education reformer.
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Richard Corcoran

Richard advises the Institute on strategy and policy, drawing from his tenure as Florida’s Education Commissioner and House Speaker.
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Manny Diaz

Manny provides strategic counsel on statewide policy, drawing on his experience as Florida’s Education Commissioner and University President.
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Robert Pondiscio

A Senior Fellow at AEI, Robert advises the Institute on K-12 policy, drawing on his deep expertise in curriculum and school choice.
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John Rood

Drawing on a distinguished career in public service and diplomacy, John provides high-level strategic guidance to advance the Institute’s mission.
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Join Florida's Classical Education Network

Whether you’re leading a classical school, teaching in a classroom, or exploring classical education for your family—you belong here. Join Florida’s growing community of practitioners shaping the future of classical learning.

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The Florida Institute for Classical Education brings together practitioners across the state to collaborate, share insights, and advance classical learning.

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