About Thomas Kennedy

I was first elected to the School Board in 2010 and re-elected in 2014, 2018, and 2022. I served as Chairman of the School Board in 2013-2014, 2014-2015, 2018-2019, and 2023-2024.

I relocated to Citrus County, Florida, in 1989 from Stoneham, Massachusetts. While volunteering at Crystal River Middle School in 1990, I met my wife, who had just begun teaching at CRMS, and we later married in 1992. My wife and I have lived in the Central Ridge area of Citrus for 29 years. We have two children who attended Citrus public schools from kindergarten through graduation. Our daughter began college in the fall of 2021 at Florida Southern College, majoring in Nursing, while our son graduated in May 2021 from the Florida Institute of Technology with a degree in Chemical Engineering and now works in the aerospace industry. He is also an MBA student at The Warrington College of Business, University of Florida.

For over 20 years, I worked in various areas of construction and real estate, from site selection and land acquisition to residential and commercial design and on-site supervision. In 1999, my business partner and I founded Roken Development, Inc., developing speculative homes in Central Ridge and Pine Ridge Estates. Over time, we expanded to Roken Construction, Inc., with me overseeing construction scheduling, payroll, bank reconciliations, and accounts management. Through these roles, I have gained comprehensive experience in project management and business operations.

I am a strong supporter and advocate for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which help students develop valuable skills and meet industry demands by offering courses and pathways for earning industry certifications during high school. During my time on the School Board, I am proud to have played a key role in the largest expansion of CTE offerings in the history of Citrus County Schools. These pathways provide students with hands-on experience in various specialized fields, enabling them to explore career options and build skills that will serve them well after graduation—whether they enter the workforce, pursue higher education, join the military, or follow a combination of these paths.

While my background is primarily in the private sector, I have developed a deep understanding of the public school system through consistent engagement and involvement. I regularly visit our schools, classrooms, and facilities to see firsthand the accomplishments, challenges, and needs of our students, teachers, and staff. This allows me to be fully informed and ready to support the educational environment in meaningful ways. Additionally, my experiences with the School Advisory Enhancement Council and my wife’s long career as a teacher in the Citrus County School District have provided me with valuable insight into both the private sector and public education, helping me understand their respective needs and how they intersect.

In addition to my service on the School Board, I have represented our community, district, staff, parents, and students on numerous committees and organizations, including the ESE/START Committee, Pupil Progression Plan for High Schools Committee, High School Directions Committee, and District Technology Committee. I currently serve on the Boards of Citrus County Education Foundation, Citrus County Blessings, LifeSouth Community Foundation, Citrus County Coalition for College and Careers, and the Sun Coast Swim Team. I am also a certified USA Swimming Coach, working with children outside of school. Click here for a full list of Committee Assignments, School Advisory Councils, and Community Service roles.

I am honored to have been recognized for my contributions to students and the community. In 2018, I was awarded the Florida STAR School Board Member of the Year by the Consortium of Florida Education Foundation—the only statewide award for Florida School Board Members. In June 2021, I received the Phil Royal Legacy Foundation’s “Heart of Gold Award” for my service and dedication to the community. In August 2023, I was honored with the FSBA Bridge Builder Award for turning challenges into opportunities and fostering an inclusive environment that embraces diverse perspectives.

In June 2022, I was sworn in as the 55th President of the Florida School Board Association, which represents most of Florida’s 358 school board members. Previously, I served as FSBA’s President-Elect and Vice-President, chaired the Policy and Leadership Services Committees, and have been a Florida Certified Board Member since 2014. In 2024, I was appointed to chair a statewide task force on the integration and use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) and Large Language Models in education.

As someone with dyslexia, I understand the challenges faced by students with learning disabilities and appreciate the dedication of teachers who help them succeed. Technology has become a valuable tool for me and others with disabilities, helping us overcome obstacles. I am always keeping up with technological advancements, earning the nickname “Techno Thom” from friends.

I am honored to serve Citrus County Schools and its residents.