Raymond Wilson named new principal of Venice Elementary

VENICE — Raymond Wilson, the principal of Laurel Nokomis School, has been named the new principal of Venice Elementary School.

He will assume his new role June 3.

“I am looking forward to getting to know all of the students, families, teachers and staff,” Wilson stated in a district news release. “Venice Elementary is renowned for its incredible school community and strong academic and civic achievements. It will be an honor to collaborate with such a dedicated school team and extended school community to support the growth of our students.”

Wilson earned a bachelor’s degree in music education (K-12) from Florida A&M University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of South Florida.

He holds certifications in Educational Leadership, School Principal, and Music K-12. He has been principal of Laurel Nokomis School since May 2016.

Before that, he served as the assistant principal of Heron Creek Middle School and the assistant principal of Woodland Middle School, both in North Port.

Kirk Hutchinson, Venice Elementary’s current principal, has been promoted to serve as the new chief of student services for the school district.

Hutchinson was the district’s principal of the year for 2023.