Robert Strenth
Principal
Prairie Lake Elementary
Robert S. Strenth is a servant leader who champions his staff and students at Prairie Lake Elementary. The 2022-23 OCPS Principal of the Year points to his upbringing as shaping him into the educator he is today.
Strenth’s mom was a single parent who didn’t finish high school. They moved frequently, so he grew up without a hometown or extended family. He also struggled with academics.
Strenth decided to become a changemaker after he graduated from high school. He pursued an education career because he wanted to be the teacher he never had as a child.
He studied at the University of Florida and received his Bachelor of Arts in history, a Master of Education in secondary social studies education and an education specialist degree in educational leadership. He later earned a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Central Florida.
For more than 25 years, Strenth has strived to ensure all his OCPS students have a promising and successful future. He goes the extra mile by filling in for teachers, answering phone calls at the front desk and providing his assistance in the cafeteria and nurse’s office.
He also is a believer that people are called to serve everyone they encounter. That belief holds true at school, where children communicate and interact with administrators, faculty and staff who are setting an example as role models while leading OCPS students to success.
“Dr. Strenth is truly a leader of leaders and an outstanding principal who embodies the vision of Orange County Public Schools,” said North Learning Community Area Superintendent Meredith Leftakis. “He also ensures every student at his school has a promising and successful future.”
Strenth has created a family atmosphere where everyone is accepted. He also has worked with Prairie Lake Elementary teachers and students to increase the school grade from a “C” to a “B” in 2022.
