SCOTT LAIRD - HEAD OF SCHOOL
Scott Laird is currently serving as Interim Head of School for the 2024-25 school year. A lifelong Episcopalian, Mr. Laird was born and raised in New Jersey where he began his career at The Peck School in Morristown, teaching 4th grade and coaching middle school sports. He moved to Florida in 1983 to join the faculty at Palm Beach Day School where he served in various roles as teacher, coach, and administrator, eventually being named Assistant Headmaster. In 1996, Mr. Laird was named Headmaster of St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School in Tampa, where he served for 24 years. During that time he served on the Boards of the Elementary School Heads Association, the Florida Council of Independent Schools, and as President of the Bay Area Association of Independent Schools. Mr. Laird holds a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University and two advanced degrees from Florida Atlantic University. He also studied at the graduate schools of Drew University and the University of Virginia. Mr. Laird and his wife, Sharon, have three grown children and four grandchildren.
DR. ALEXANDRA FERNANDEZ - HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL
Alexandra Fernandez was appointed Head of Lower School in July 2022. For the past 22 years, Dr. Fernandez has served as a teacher and administrator in PK through Grade 8 schools. Prior to joining St. Mark’s, Dr. Fernandez served as Principal for two schools in the Archdiocese of Miami, where she held various leadership roles as a principal advisory council member, principal mentor, and clinical educator. Additionally, Dr. Fernandez has served on numerous accreditation visits as a team chairperson for the Florida Catholic Conference Accreditation Program. Dr. Fernandez holds a Doctor of Education degree in Leadership from Creighton University, a Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary English Education from Nova Southeastern University, and a Professional Educator's Certificate from the State of Florida. She and her husband are the proud parents of adult twin daughters.
MARCO CIRILLO - HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
Marco Cirillo was appointed Head of Middle School in July 2023. He brings with him over 19 years of UK and international school experience. Holding various teaching and administrative roles throughout his career, Mr. Cirillo has extensive experience in both designing and publishing curricula for leading international organizations, being part of accreditation teams and leading regional professional development programs. Mr. Cirillo holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography and Development Studies from the University of Sussex and a MA in Secondary Education from Middlesex University.
CATHY HOFFNER - HEAD OF PRESCHOOL
Catherine Hoffner was appointed Head of Preschool in June 2024. For the past twenty years, Ms. Hoffner has served as a teacher in fifth grade, second grade, pre-K4 and Christian Education. She has been a member of the St. Mark’s faculty for the past 14 years. Additionally, Ms. Hoffner is a United States Navy veteran, serving 4 years active duty and 17 in the reserves. Ms. Hoffner holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, DCF Director’s Credential and a Professional Educator’s Certificate from the State of Florida in Elementary Education and Prekindergarten with an ESOL Endorsement. Ms. Hoffner is the proud mom of a former St. Mark’s student, who will be attending Florida Atlantic University in the fall of 2024.
CINDY SEXTON - DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT
Cindy Sexton was appointed Director of Enrollment in April 2015. Entering her 23rd year in education, Ms. Sexton has considerable college and independent school experience in recruitment, admission, enrollment, and retention. She holds a master’s and bachelor’s degree in Communication from the University of Arkansas. Additionally, Ms. Sexton is a Certified Admission and Enrollment Professional (CAEP©), and she has served on several school accreditation teams for the Florida Council of Independent Schools. Prior to joining St. Mark’s Episcopal School, she managed enrollment at Holy Spirit Preparatory School, an independent school in Atlanta, Georgia. Ms. Sexton is the proud parent of John, a St. Mark's alumni.
SERGIO PEREZ - CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Sergio Perez was appointed Chief Financial Officer in May of 2024 after 16 years at North Broward Preparatory School, last serving as the Director of Finance. Mr. Perez, a graduate of Florida Atlantic University and Certified Public Accountant, has a 30+ year career in which he held accounting and finance positions in various industries, such as Food Retail, B2B Retail, and Semiconductor, prior to joining North Broward Preparatory School. After a brief stint in an accounting leadership position in the Insurance industry, Mr. Perez returned to his passion which is being part of the education community. Mr. Perez and his wife, Maritza, are the parents of five children: three sons, Luis, Christian and Christopher, and two daughters, Adrianna and Alyssa.
JAMIE WALTON - DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Jamie Walton was appointed Director of Development in May 2024. Her role is centered around cultivating donor relationships and spearheading development initiatives to propel the mission of St. Mark's forward. Prior to her current position, Jamie held pivotal fundraising roles at Freedom Alliance and leadership positions at Tree of Life Foundation International and Schumacher Automotive. She also served as Marketing and Events Director at the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches. Hailing from Palm Beach, Florida, Jamie is an alumna of Florida State University. Jamie is actively involved in volunteering with veteran and ocean cleanup organizations. She cherishes moments spent with her nine nieces and nephews, finding joy in family bonds and community service alike.