John Stratton is a long-time resident of Hernando County and brings over 25 years of experience both as an educator of students with special needs, behavior specialist, staffing specialist and as a school administrator at all levels including at an alternative school.

Prior to this appointment as Interim Superintendent, John Stratton served as Executive Director of Business Services for Hernando County Schools. 

Having lived in Hernando County for 24 years, Stratton has developed relationships across a wide network of local community and business organizations and is known for his approachability and fairness. Respected for his skill in developing and supporting leaders, Stratton has served as an administrative coach and as a ‘Lead Principal’, a role which highlights his ability to effectively communicate and support his fellow principals through shared decision-making and mentoring. Stratton was also nominated as the 2015 Principal Leader of the Year.

Along with his tenure as principal of Central High, Stratton’s career includes administrative leadership at Challenger K8, Explorer K8, and an earlier role with CHS as assistant principal. Under Stratton’s leadership, the Bears enjoyed an increase in student achievement results, graduation rates and college and career readiness indicators.

Admired for his ability to unify and build teams, Stratton has been an active participant at the district level serving as an administrative coach, a representative on the Academic Advisory Team and as a Lead Principal for the last two years, a role which highlights his ability to effectively communicate and support his fellow principals through shared decision-making and mentoring.

2017 - 2018   Executive Director Business Services
2016 - 2017   Executive Director of Academic Services
2013 - 2016   Central High, principal
2010 - 2013   Explorer K8, principal
2009 - 2010   Star Education Center, principal
2008 - 2009   Central High, assistant principal
2005 - 2008   Challenger K8, assistant principal
2001 - 2005   Crystal River Middle, assistant principal