Destin High School has named Jill McNamara its new principal and Matt Means its new assistant principal, the school announced, as Dr. Diane Kelley retires from the top job after a 45-year career in public education.
- The school’s Governing Board of Directors appointed both leaders unanimously. The two signed commitment letters at a press conference in the Shark Tank, an event the school billed as a leadership “signing day.”
McNamara was recommended by Executive Director Dr. Willy Williams and endorsed by Kelley. Means, who was promoted from within, will serve as assistant principal.
Rather than leaving the school entirely, Kelley will move into a newly created role as advisor to the Governing Board and legislative lobbyist. In that position, she will work with school leadership, state policymakers and community partners on strategic counsel, legislative advocacy and governmental relations.
Kelley’s career included work as a teacher and administrator in the Okaloosa County School District, service as an elected member of the Okaloosa County School Board, and most recently as the principal at Destin High. The school credited her with strengthening its culture, advancing academic performance and positioning the campus for continued growth.
“This announcement represents the very best of thoughtful leadership and succession planning,” Williams said. He said McNamara has demonstrated integrity, vision and instructional leadership, and called Means a leader who brings administrative experience and a strong understanding of the school community. Promoting from within, he said, provides continuity for students and faculty.
Heidi LoCicero, president of the Destin High School Governing Board, said the transition is part of the board’s focus on long-term stability. She said Kelley’s continued service preserves institutional knowledge and relationships, while McNamara and Means bring the energy and academic leadership to build on that foundation.
- Kelley said the move lets her keep serving the school while making room for family time. “Serving students has been the greatest privilege of my life,” she said. “While I am retiring as principal, I am excited to continue serving Destin High School as advisor to the Governing Board and legislative lobbyist, advocating for our students and our future while also enjoying more time with my grandson, Gabe.”
McNamara, who lives in the community, said leading the school is personal. “I am deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as principal of Destin High School,” she said. “Because I live in this community, this appointment is especially meaningful to me.”
She laid out her goal for the campus.
“My vision is clear, to lead Destin High School to an A-rating while creating a school where exceptional teachers choose to stay, grow, and build their careers,” McNamara said. She thanked the Governing Board and credited Kelley’s mentorship, and said she looks forward to partnering with Means to strengthen the school’s culture.
Kelley said she leaves the principal’s office confident in the school’s direction. “I have every confidence that our school’s leadership team and our Governing Board will continue leading Destin High School with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” she said.
Destin High School is a tuition-free public charter school chartered by the Okaloosa County School District. Kelley became principal in 2024.
