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Educator Moves Up The Ladder

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By JOYCE McKENZIE

jmckenzie@tampatrib.com

Published: March 18, 2009

TEMPLE TERRACE - Tim Binder is proud to be a product of the Hillsborough County School District and of parents who are longtime teachers in the system.
Binder has made his mark at several district schools. He taught from 1995 to 1999 at Mann Junior High when it transitioned into a middle school. For two years he was an assistant principal at Stewart Middle Magnet before moving in 2001 to Davidsen Middle and then on to Pierce Middle in 2005 to serve in the same capacity.

Two weeks ago, Binder, who wanted to carry on the legacy of his parents and be an educator, moved up a notch to take over as principal at Greco Middle, replacing Judith Kennedy Raynone, who was recently named the district's director of administration.

Binder, 40, who graduated from the University of South Florida with a bachelor's in social studies and has a master's from Nova Southeastern University, is thrilled to be in his new role.

"I'd heard so many good things about the school and the community," he said. "I was even interviewed by members of the community, which clearly shows the pride Temple Terrace leaders have in their schools."

He plans to maintain the school's involvement with the community, a relationship that several years ago fostered the use of its track for the American Cancer Society's annual Temple Terrace Relay for Life, an overnight fundraising event that draws several hundred people.

Binder, who is a 1986 graduate of Gaither High, is proud to follow in the footsteps of Raynone, who did a "wonderful job" at Greco, he said.

"I want to continue the quality academic programs here, although there may be a few changes," he said. "I also want be make myself visible, both to the students and adults. I try to be out in the hallway every day when the bell rings."

He describes himself as an advocate for his students and a leader who is "firm but fair."

Raynone said although she had no input in the selection process, she is pleased with the district's choice.

"I think he is an excellent choice," she said. "We made a lot of gains while I was there and I think he'll take it to the next level."

Scott Richmond, the district's supervisor of staff development, said although he has known Binder for several years, the two became well-acquainted as a result of training sessions held at Pierce.

"He's hardworking, he's dedicated to the kids and he even sometimes works on Saturdays," Richmond said. "He always has the kids at heart, and I think he'll do a phenomenal job."
Temple Terrace City Councilwoman Allison Fernandez, the council's liaison on the Temple Terrace School Support Committee, was one of the city's leaders who interviewed candidates for the position.

Fernandez said it was a great experience, although the school district made it clear she and the other city officials involved had no say so in its decision.

She thought it was an excellent candidate pool to select from because they had "some great qualities."

"Mr. Binder seems to have a lot of confidence and he had some good ideas," Fernandez said. "I also think he has the balance of being a leader both on campus and in the community."

Reporter Joyce McKenzie can be reached at (813) 865-4849.

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