BUNNELL, FL – Flagler Schools is looking toward the future by tapping into “homegrown” talent to fill two of its most critical executive positions.
During tonight’s School Board meeting at the Government Services Building, Superintendent LaShakia Moore is set to recommend Joshua Walker as the new Chief of Human Resources and Lauren Johnston as the next Chief of Operations.
A Transition of Leadership
The appointments follow the upcoming retirement of two long-time district leaders:
- Bob Ouellette, the current Chief of HR, who has been a stabilizing force for the county’s largest employer since 2020.
- Dave Freeman, Chief of Operations and a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, who has spent over a decade in district leadership.
Both Ouellette and Freeman are scheduled to officially conclude their careers on July 1, 2026.
Local Roots
The move marks a significant milestone for the district’s leadership pipeline. Both Walker and Johnston are graduates of Matanzas High School and have children currently attending Flagler Schools.
Johnston, who was a member of the very first graduating class at Matanzas in 2008, returns to the district after serving as the Assistant City Manager and Acting City Manager for the City of Palm Coast. She noted that returning to the district feels like a “true homecoming”.
Walker, a ten-year veteran of the district, currently serves as the Human Resources Supervisor. He expressed his enthusiasm for serving the district that shaped him, stating his goal is to keep Flagler Schools a “premier destination” for educators.
Looking Ahead
Superintendent Moore emphasized that both appointees possess both the professional expertise and a deep personal investment in the community.
To ensure a smooth transition, Walker and Johnston will begin their new roles on April 20. This allows for a ten-week mentorship period working alongside Ouellette and Freeman before they officially take the reins this summer.
The public is invited to attend tonight’s board meeting in Bunnell to welcome the new chiefs.
