OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) is entering a season of transition, and many local parents will recognize a familiar name at the helm of that change.

Just hours after being officially appointed interim superintendent, Dr. Danielle Brewer announced longtime educator Ben Whitehouse as her choice for deputy superintendent, pending school board approval. The move signals a strong local focus, as Whitehouse is not only a product of Marion County Public Schools but also a seasoned leader within the district.

Whitehouse attended Madison Street Academy, Fort King Middle, and graduated from Forest High School before earning degrees from the University of Florida and National Louis University. He began teaching at West Port in 2004 and steadily rose through administrative ranks, most recently serving as director of Assessment, Accountability, and Research.

Parents may already know Whitehouse as a former Marion County Social Studies Teacher of the Year or from his time as principal of North Marion High School. His community ties run deep – from shaping student testing and curriculum to serving on the CareerSource board and mentoring future educators.

His appointment comes as Superintendent Dr. Diane Gullett prepares to step down in July. Brewer and Whitehouse will work closely to guide MCPS through a critical leadership transition.

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