Matthew Cote Named Assistant Principal of the Year

Delmae Elementary School Assistant Principal Matthew Cote received exciting news Thursday morning: he is the 2025-2026 Florence 1 Schools Assistant Principal of the Year! Principal Roy Ann Jolley had gathered the entire school for a “Character Counts” assembly when Cote was surprised with the news by district administrators.

"With unwavering dedication, Matthew brings excellence to everything he does—from supporting staff and building strong peer relationships, to creating meaningful partnerships with parents,” Jolley said. “His calm leadership, tireless work ethic, and genuine love for children shine through in every decision he makes. Matthew doesn’t just do the job—he elevates it. We are proud to celebrate him as our district’s Assistant Principal of the Year."

Cote has worked at Delmae since 2011, serving as both teacher and Technology Coach before becoming Assistant Principal in 2021. Though he has specific grade levels that fall within his responsibilities, Mr. Cote can regularly be found throughout Delmae, helping out wherever he is needed, interacting with students, and even dressing up as the school’s mascot Max, the Delmae Dawg.

There were many happy tears as Cote's parents, wife, sons, and brother all gathered to celebrate him.

"This award is a reflection of everyone around me," Cote said. "The people that I work with every day and learn from every day."

“Mr. Cote is passionate about student achievement and is always willing to step in as a true team player,” said Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education, Michelle Wynn. “His leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, and his collaborative spirit makes him an invaluable part of Florence 1 Schools.”