As the Academy of Science and Technology at Santa Fe College prepares to begin its third year this fall, it will do so under the direction of a new principal.
Santa Fe College announced Monday that Shane Andrew will join the Academy on Aug. 1 as it welcomes its third freshman class and advances its first class of juniors. He replaces former principal William McElory, who retired.
Andrew, an Alachua County native, worked for Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS) for more than 34 years. He most recently served as superintendent for ACPS before his termination in October 2024.
“The SF Academy is fortunate to have a leader joining us with such a strong background and a heavy focus on student success,” said Jen Homard, executive director of Secondary Programs for SF, in a press release. “We are excited to watch the school continue to excel and help students reach their potential under his guidance.”
Before his tenure as ACPS superintendent, Andrew worked as the Alachua County School District’s Chief of Operations, where he directed several functions, including human resources, professional development, facilities construction, maintenance and planning and student transportation.
Andrew’s tenure at ACPS also includes five years as principal of Eastside High School, where he implemented the College Board AP Capstone Program schoolwide to help students develop research, teamwork and communication skills through advanced coursework.
In partnership with school and district staff, Andrew also implemented the school’s Medical Skills Career-Tech program, “which has successfully prepared students for continuing education and work in the healthcare field,” according to the release.
He also served as Newberry High School principal, where he helped the school earn its first ‘A’ grade based on student academic achievement.
Outside the classroom, Andrew has served in leadership roles with statewide organizations, such as the Florida Educational Facilities Planners’ Association and Florida League of Middle Schools. He also served on the Alachua County Children’s Trust Board and the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce Board.
Andrew is a graduate of Santa Fe College and holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
The Academy of Science and Technology opened in fall 2023 on the Santa Fe College Northwest Campus in Gainesville with a goal to help students earn an Associate of Science degree and industry certifications while finishing their high school graduation requirements, at no cost to the students or families, the release said. The school received an ‘A’ grade from the Florida Department of Education in 2024 after its first year of operation.