KEYS SCHOOLS WELCOME NEW SUPERINTENDENT ED TIERNEY

a man in a suit and tie posing for a picture
Edward Tierney is the new superintendent of schools in Monroe County. He takes over from the retiring Theresa Axford. CONTRIBUTED

Monroe County schools this month welcomed Edward Tierney as the new superintendent of schools. Tierney brings more than two decades of educational leadership from the school district of Palm Beach County — an “A” rated, academically high-performing district — where he most recently served as deputy superintendent and chief of schools.

Tierney has served in public education for 23 years, beginning at Indian Ridge School, in roles ranging from behavior intervention associate to principal. He later led John I. Leonard High School as principal for five years, increasing the graduation rate by 22% and narrowing achievement gaps in GPA, graduation and access to advanced coursework.

He then served as an instructional superintendent, supporting 15 schools in improving culture, systems and instruction. As chief of staff, he provided direct support to the superintendent and school board, managing district-wide initiatives and serving as liaison to the legislative liaison office, strategic communications and other key departments.

Tierney said he is committed to the belief that education changes lives and that success builds upon itself. In his first year, he plans to listen and learn from school stakeholders and build upon the district’s existing strengths.

“I am so honored to be the superintendent of Monroe County Schools and very appreciative of the warm welcome,” Tierney said on his first official day. “I look forward to working with this talented team to continue to improve outcomes for all students.”