Administration and Faculty

Tom MichelDr. Thomas Michel

Dr. Thomas Michel began his career in education as a Dropout Prevention teacher at Punta Gorda Middle School in Charlotte County before transitioning to Diplomat Middle School in Lee County, where he taught social studies. He later moved into school administration, serving as Assistant Principal at Gateway Charter High School and then at Mariner High School for 13 years. In 2018, he became the Principal of Mariner High School.

Dr. Michel holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Kent State University, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate Degree in Education from Nova Southeastern University. He has served as a college-level professor for over 15 years and has contributed to numerous School District Leadership Committees.

In his spare time, Dr. Michel enjoys traveling with his family, entertaining his dog "Bruce," and spending time by the pool barbecuing.

Photo of Mr. BitzerChase Bitzer

Mr. Chase Bitzer is from Cincinnati Ohio. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education from Indiana University East and his Master's degree in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education. Mr. Bitzer began his career in education in 2019 at Harns Marsh Middle School where he taught Social Studies. In 2021 he left the classroom and became the school’s Dean. Now, as Assistant Principal at Mariner High, his responsibilities are Facilities, Safety and Security, Science, PE, and Student Discipline.

Roberta WhiteRoberta White

 Roberta White’s journey is a vibrant tapestry woven from a life of movement, learning, and leadership. Born in the rolling hills of Tennessee, her childhood was a whirlwind of adventure, crisscrossing the country as her father, a dedicated Marine, followed his duty from state to state. This nomadic upbringing instilled in her a resilience and adaptability that would shape her remarkable career.

Settling in Virginia for her high school and college years, Roberta found her calling at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University—better known as Virginia Tech—where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Development. Her passion for education burned bright, leading her to pursue a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, a testament to her drive to make a lasting impact.

For a decade, Roberta brought classrooms to life, teaching across elementary, middle, and high schools with a spark that inspired students at every level. In 2005, she stepped into a new role as assistant principal at Caloosa Middle School, where her leadership began to shine. By April 2012, she took her talents to Mariner High, diving into the heart of the school’s operations. There, she orchestrates the intricate dance of curriculum design, master scheduling, grade management, and standardized testing—ensuring the school runs like a well-tuned engine while fostering an environment where students and staff thrive.

From a Marine’s daughter to a trailblazing educator, Roberta White’s story is one of dedication, growth, and an unwavering commitment to shaping young minds.

Beth GeddeBeth Gedde

Mrs. Beth Gedde is from Edgewater Park, New Jersey. She earned a Bachelor’s of Economics from Rutgers University, a Master’s of Business Administration from Strayer University, and a Master’s of Education Leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University. Mrs. Gedde spent 13 years in the Airline industry before coming to Mariner High School in 2005 where she started as a reading/business teacher.  She has been an Assistant Principal since 2014.  Her primary responsibilities at Mariner High School include Special Programs such as Career & Technical Education, AICE, Technology, Testing, and Attendance.

Carolyn MarshCarolyn Marsh 

Carolyn Marsh is from Gloucester, Massachusetts, but spent most of her childhood in Lee County. She graduated from Cypress Lake High School while attending the Cypress Lake Center for the Arts. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English: Creative Writing from the University of Central Florida and has also earned two master’s degrees. The first one was from Florida Gulf Coast University in Literature, and the second one was from The American College of Education for Educational Leadership. Before entering the field of education, Mrs. Marsh was a marketing associate in Atlanta for a Software company. She made the switch to education in 2005 where she was a third-grade teacher at a private school. In 2006, Mrs. Marsh decided to become a part of the Lee County School District. She joined the staff at Cypress Lake Middle where she taught Reading, Math and ELA. In 2014, she decided to join the staff at Challenger Middle. In 2021 Mrs. Marsh left the classroom and became the school’s Intervention Specialist. Now, as Assistant Principal at Mariner High, her responsibilities include Teacher Onboarding, Student Achievement Data and School Improvement Plan, ESOL, Professional Development and Student Discipline. When Mrs. Marsh is not at school, she is at the beach with her kids or reading a book.

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