FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT: Tanya Arja or Debra Bellanti
Hillsborough County Public Schools
Office of Communications
813-272-4060
Tampa, Fl. (October 9, 2025) – Four Hillsborough County Public Schools principals have been invited to join the 2025–2026 Cahn Distinguished Principals Fellowship, a national program recognizing exceptional school leaders from across the country.
The Cahn Fellows Program, in partnership with Teachers College, Columbia University, honors principals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, commitment to student success, and a deep dedication to equity and excellence in education. Only 60 principals from across the country were selected for this year’s fellowship. The yearlong fellowship provides advanced leadership development and opportunities to collaborate with top principals nationwide.
Representing Hillsborough County Public Schools this year are:
Dr. Scottie Basham, Lavoy Exceptional Education Center
Crystal Brown, Riverhills Elementary Magnet School
Katie Rocha, Newsome High School
Dr. Marcos Rodriguez, Bloomingdale High School
“These leaders represent the very best of Hillsborough County Public Schools,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “Their selection reflects not only their individual excellence but also the collaborative strength of our district’s leadership community.”
To learn more about the Cahn Fellowship visit: Cahn Fellowship
Crystal Brown
Dr. Marcos Rodriguez
.Dr. Scottie Basham
Katie Rocha