LEE COUNTY, Fla. — Christopher Bernier announced Thursday that he will run to keep his position – which voters chose in November 2022 to make an elected office.

Bernier says he will continue to lead the school district throughout the entire term of his contract. The election for Superintendent of Schools will happen during the General Election in November of 2024.

There had been speculation about whether or not Bernier would run for the seat next year. In an email sent Thursday afternoon, he said he didn’t make the decision lightly and came to his conclusion after “careful consideration.”

“While I support the community’s decision based on the referendum vote in November of 2022, becoming an elected superintendent was never my aspiration,” Bernier wrote in the email.

Bernier was sworn in as Superintendent of Schools of the School District of Lee County on May 16, 2022. 

So far, two people have registered to run for Superintendent.

Read Bernier’s email below.

Dear Lee County Schools Community,

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. I wish to take a moment to share a significant decision that I have recently made concerning the position of Superintendent for the School District of Lee County.

After extensive contemplation and reflection, I have chosen not to pursue the upcoming elected position of Superintendent of Schools. I want to assure you that this decision was not made lightly; it demanded careful consideration. I want to underscore that my decision is founded on a profound respect for our School Board and the dedicated students, families, teachers, and staff who collectively contribute to our thriving educational community.

While I support the community’s decision based on the referendum vote in November of 2022, becoming an elected superintendent was never my aspiration. Ultimately, this realization led me to determine that running for election was not a reasonable course of action for my educational journey.

With the support of the School Board, I intend to continue leading the school district throughout the entire term of my existing contract. We must remain steadfast in our commitment to addressing the challenges that impact the future of the children we serve. Our communities’ commitment to our students and educational mission continues to inspire us. I have the utmost confidence that together, we can continue to lead our School District toward our stated vision of being a World-Class School System.

I appreciate your understanding and eagerly anticipate our continued collaboration in advancing our school district’s mission.

Warm regards,
Dr. Christopher S. Bernier
Superintendent of Schools