Joe Jannazo named principal of Ruckel Middle School in Niceville

NICEVILLE, Fla. — Educator Joe Jannazo has been named principal of Ruckel Middle School in Niceville.

Jannazo, who served as principal at Destin Elementary School for the past four years, started his teaching career in Okaloosa County in 2009 at Pryor Middle School, according to the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD).

The Okaloosa County School Board approved Jannazo’s appointment at its meeting on May 23.

A product of the Okaloosa County school system, Jannazo is a graduate of Choctawhatchee High School. Following high school, he earned his degree in International Affairs with a concentration in Political Science from Florida State University.

In 2009, after working in the private sector, Jannazo entered the field of education as a teacher at Pryor Middle School, where he continued his professional growth earning his teaching credentials as well as a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida.

He continued his path in education as the Assistant Principal at his alma mater, Choctawhatchee High School, while earning his Principalship Certification before having the distinct honor of serving as the Principal at Destin Elementary School for the past four years.

Currently, Jannazo serves on the Board of Directors as the Northwest Region Director for the Florida Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals.

Jannazo has been married for 10 years to Jenna, a Hospice Nurse in Okaloosa County. They have three children: Braden, a freshman at Fort Walton Beach High School; Kate, a 5th grader at Destin Middle School; and Scarlett, an upcoming kindergartener at Destin Elementary.

The veteran Okaloosa County educator said he feels honored for the opportunity to serve in the Niceville community and is looking forward to continuing the legacy of excellence by building lasting relationships with the students, staff, and community.

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