SHANNON BRENNAN
Mildred Helms Elementary IB World School
Pinellas County Schools
Shannon Brennan, principal of Mildred Helms Elementary IB World School in Largo, FL, has been recognized as the 2024-2025 Magnet Schools of America Region 3 Principal of the Year. A dedicated leader in international education, Brennan has transformed Mildred Helms into a thriving International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) magnet school, fostering a culture of inquiry, global citizenship, and academic excellence.
Under her leadership, the school recently achieved an “A” grade for the first time in 14 years, a testament to the success of its rigorous transdisciplinary curriculum and inclusive learning environment. Brennan has championed professional development for her staff, ensuring educators have the tools to implement inquiry-based instruction and concept-driven learning. Through partnerships with community organizations and initiatives like the Principal’s Multicultural Committee, she has deepened students’ understanding of cultural diversity and social responsibility.
“Our goal is to develop internationally minded students who see themselves as agents of positive change,” Brennan shared. “Every day, we empower students to think critically, take action, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
Raise the level of performance consistent throughout school districts nationwide and creates a platform from which all magnet schools can flourish. Magnet Schools of America’s national certification process is designed to recognize the hard work of the best magnet schools in the nation and to help them as they grow.
