I have recently been informed that Michael Kotkin’s contract for employment as Principal of Lake Howell High School has not been renewed. Additionally, he will no longer be an employee of Seminole County Public Schools. No explanation has been provided by Seminole County Public Schools for this action. 

Michael Kotkin has no reason to be fired, and many reasons to continue in his job.

In the last three years as our principal, Michael Kotkin has greatly improved our school. He is the first principal in our school’s history to be a Lake Howell graduate, and thus approached his job with a determination that was personal, not out of obligation. He taught us to be better. What was once a place with no sense of spirit became a place where we took pride in being Silverhawks. He established a sense of community that did not exist before. He updated parents weekly, reaching out through phone calls. He answered every student’s email. He fostered community involvement with local businesses. Since becoming principal, our graduation rates have improved above National and State averages. 

Michael Kotkin has fought for Lake Howell. We know it, and we are grateful for it. Previously, SCPS would commonly leave Lake Howell in a constant state of disrepair, postponing improvements time and time again. Michael Kotkin has ensured that our regularly scheduled maintenance happens. He listens and cares about our needs.  Last year the county was going to postpose painting AGAIN, and he made sure that it was done. Currently, he is working to get us a fully functioning air conditioner, something that is essential in Florida. Lake Howell is scheduled for a large construction project that would reshape the school and safety of generations of Silverhawks to come.  His known commitment to excellence and the betterment of this school and community is now one of our greatest assets.  The leadership at the county level is making arbitrary decisions without our school and community’s best interest in mind and at heart. 

Michael Kotkin transformed Lake Howell High School into a community. Now this community is demanding that he remains our principal.