Superintendent Cathy Mittelstadt announced new leadership changes within Flagler County schools Friday.

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – Flagler-Palm Coast High School principal James “Tom” Russell died Tuesday weeks after testing positive for the coronavirus, according to Flagler County School District officials. “We were all elated when Tom agreed to come to Flagler County to become FPC’s principal. He truly cared about everyone on that campus,” Flagler County School Board Chairman Trevor Tucker said. “This is a loss, not only for Flagler-Palm Coast High School and Flagler Schools but for all of us in education in the state.”A crisis response team of counselors will be available on the Flagler-Palm Coast High School campus. CORRECTIONAn earlier version of this story stated James “Tom” Russell was notified of possible coronavirus exposure through a school-related contact trace.

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. Flagler County Schools announced the districts start date for fall sports for Flagler-Palm Coast High School and Matanzas High School. The district said the goal is to start fall sports practice on Sept. 5. School officials said the current conditioning programs will remain in place. I recognize the importance of athletics to many of our students and our community. But we need to ensure we are doing all we can do to provide a safe environment for all our students and staff, including our athletic programs, Superintendent Cathy Mittelstadt said.