As a successful teacher and administrator for Hillsborough County Schools, she was admired by both her peers and students. It is no wonder that our school facility was named after her!
Bryant was born and raised in Tampa. She earned her bachelor's degree from Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, a master's degree from Florida A&M University and a doctorate from the University of South Florida.
She began her teaching career in Okeechobee, then moved back home to work for the Hillsborough County school district in 1960. Over the course of her career here, she worked as a teacher, principal and area director. When she retired from the Hillsborough school system in 1997, she was an assistant superintendent in the district.
In 1993, she was awarded the state's Ida S. Baker Distinguished Minority Educator award, recognizing her as its top minority educator. She was also awarded the Humanitarian Award for Community Service and the Education Service Award from the National Council of Negro Women.
At her retirement party at Jefferson High School, more than 300 people attended. She received commendations from the city, the county and the state. Former President Bill Clinton sent her a congratulatory letter!
In 2003, the school district opened Mary E. Bryant Elementary School, named in her honor.
Even after retirement, Mrs. Bryant couldn't stop helping. She enjoyed visiting the students and staff at our school, and read books to the children. She also opened an assistant-living facility.
Mary Bryant sadly passed away in January, 2011, at the age of 75.
"She was always thinking about ways to improve lives," her son said. "She just always wanted to see people do better."
Kindergarten Transportation Information
The following procedures will be in place for the 2012-2013 School year.
