Dr. Howard Hepburn named new Broward County Schools superintendent
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Dr. Howard Hepburn was voted the new superintendent of Broward County Public Schools following the abrupt resignation of former Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata during Tuesday’s board meeting.
“I thank the School Board for their trust and support as I proudly serve the District in this new capacity,” Hepburn said. “As Superintendent, my focus remains on moving our District to an ‘A’ grade and ensuring all students receive a world-class education.”
“We will continue to prioritize closing achievement gaps, increasing student access to accelerated courses and implementing strategies to support continuous student achievement,” he said.
Before assuming his new role, Hepburn served as the district’s deputy superintendent of teaching and learning. He also served as a instructional superintendent, classroom teacher, principal, assistant principal, coach and dean prior to joining the district.
“We offer a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Licata for his dedicated service and commitment to
our students and understand the need for him to focus on his health and family at this time,” School Board Chair Lori Alhadeff said. “We are grateful to have Dr. Hepburn ready to take the helm and continue the important work of our district.”
With over 20 years as an educator, Dr. Hepburn earned a Bachelor of Science in Science Education and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida.
He also holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Florida Southern.
Licata suddenly resigned due to health reasons.
Licata, 59, was sworn in as Broward County Public Schools superintendent in July 2023. He presided over the sixth-largest school system in the United States and the second largest in Florida during his short time as superintendent.
With Licata out, Hepburn becomes the latest superintendent in a district marred in turnover. Broward County Public Schools has had four district leaders in four years, including Dr. Vickie Cartwright and Dr. Robert Runcie, who resigned in the aftermath of the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
With over 250,000 students, Broward County Public Schools is the sixth-largest school system in the United States and the second largest in Florida.
Florida’s Voice reached out to Broward County Public Schools regarding Licata’s contract/severance details.
