By Stacy Carchman
Panther Run Elementary School in Wellington will start the new school year with a new principal, but not a new face at the school. Risa Suarez, previously the assistant principal at the school, has been promoted to principal. She takes over for Edilia de la Vega, who was recently named the director of professional standards for the School District of Palm Beach County.
Suarez has been with Panther Run, an A-rated school, since 2017, but she has 25 years of experience as an educator. Suarez started her career in Broward County before moving to Palm Beach County.
“I went into education for the opportunity to make a positive impact in children’s lives,” she said.
Suarez holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership, both from Florida Atlantic University. She is a reading specialist and has a strong literacy and intervention background, along with being nationally board certified in literacy. Earlier in her career, Suarez taught at Royal Palm Beach Elementary School and Pierce Hammock Elementary School. In addition, she was the single school culture coordinator at Crosspointe Elementary School.
“What I like about Panther Run is the family connection, positive school culture, passionate staff and PTA, and the Village of Wellington is very supportive,” Suarez said. “Everyone, including business partners, are very dedicated to student achievement.”
Her goals for the future of Panther Run include continuing high expectations for academic excellence for all students, ensuring a safe and secure learning environment, developing well-rounded students prepared for future success, and building community involvement and strong relationships with staff and families to support the learning environment.
“I want to create an environment where children feel involved, supported and challenged to reach their full potential,” Suarez said. “I want to take Panther Run to the next level and continue the foundation I started there seven years ago.”
Suarez has three adult children — Victoria, 23; Jordan, 27; and Nico, 34. Her hobbies include reading, cycling, spending time at the beach, and spending time with her family and friends.
