Coral Springs City Commission will honor former Marjory Stoneman Douglas principal Ty Thompson for years of service and leadership
Coral Springs, Florida – The Coral Springs City Commission is set to recognize Ty Thompson, former principal of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, for his years of dedication and leadership within Broward County Public Schools. The recognition will take place during the commission’s meeting on Wednesday, highlighting Thompson’s contributions both before and after the 2018 tragedy at the school.
Thompson became principal at Stoneman Douglas in 2012, leading the school for nearly six years. His tenure included a period of notable achievements, including recognition as a Broward Principal of the Year finalist and the revitalization of school spirit across the campus. However, his time at the school was marked by the February 14, 2018, mass shooting, a tragic event that claimed the lives of 17 students and staff.
“From his early days as a dedicated teacher and coach to leading MSD since 2012, he revitalized school spirit, earned recognition as a Broward Principal of the Year finalist, and guided the community with empathy through the 2018 tragedy,” a memo to the commission stated.
The aftermath of the shooting weighed heavily on Thompson. In 2019, fifteen months after the tragedy, he announced his decision to step down as principal, citing the toll it had taken on his health and family. That same year, Broward County Public Schools initiated an investigation into the actions of Thompson and other administrators before and during the shooting. An outside review, completed in May 2020, cleared Thompson and others of any wrongdoing, determining there was no factual or legal basis for disciplinary action.
After stepping down, Thompson remained involved with Broward County Public Schools, transitioning to work in the district’s information technology department. Beyond his role within the district, he co-founded the Principal Recovery Network, a coalition of about 20 school leaders whose campuses have experienced shootings, including Columbine and Sandy Hook. The network focuses on sharing lessons learned and advocating for mental health and school safety on a national scale.
“His unwavering commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive environment has inspired countless students and staff, leaving a lasting impact on Broward County’s educational landscape,” the commission memo said.
Thompson’s recognition by the Coral Springs City Commission highlights a career defined by resilience, leadership, and service. Community leaders emphasize that honoring his work goes beyond his response to the 2018 tragedy, acknowledging the dedication he brought to all students and staff throughout his career.
The city’s acknowledgment comes at a time when discussions around school safety, mental health, and educational leadership remain highly relevant across the nation. Thompson’s experience as both a principal and a national advocate for school leaders positions him as a figure whose influence extends far beyond Broward County.
The Coral Springs City Commission’s formal recognition of Thompson underscores the importance of honoring educators who have navigated extraordinary challenges while maintaining a focus on students, staff, and the broader community. It is a reminder of the lasting impact that committed leaders can have in shaping safe, supportive, and thriving school environments.
