CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

Ms. Kelly Slusser is the Principal of Central High School where she cultivates a school culture focused on academic success and college and career readiness for all students.  Prior to becoming a high school Principal, Kelly served as an Assistant Principal for three years at the secondary level.  In addition, she taught high school mathematics for 15 years where she served as Mathematics Department Chair.  Ms. Slusser earned her B.S. degree in Mathematics from the University of Tampa and her M.Ed. degree from National Louis University.  She has had the opportunity to use sports as a vehicle to further her education both as a player and as a coach.

"It's the little details that are vital.  Little things make big things happen."  ~John Wooden

Dr. Lore Adesso joined Central High School in January 2023, after 17 years in Hernando County Schools. Her career began at Deltona Elementary, where she taught 2nd and 3rd grade, then to Fox Chapel Middle School as a Reading Resource Teacher for grades 6 and 7. Prior to joining Bear Country, Dr. Adesso was at Weeki Wachee High School for almost 8 years as Teacher of Intensive Reading, Assessment Coordinator, and more recently MTSS Coordinator.

Dr. Adesso, originally from New Jersey graduated with her Bachelor's degree from Kean University. Her love for education afforded her the ability to go back to school at Saint Leo University where she earned her Master's in Educational Leadership (2010), Educational Specialist in Leadership (2021), and in 2023 she earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Dr. Adesso believes in building relationships with all stakeholders and focuses on student success. During her free time, she enjoys reading, playing with her dog, and spending time with her family.

Hey there, Bear Country! My name is Alyssa De Jesus, and I am a new Assistant Principal at Central High School. This is my third year at Central and my 9th year in education. I am a proud Central High School alumnus, class of 2006. My travels then brought me to the University of South Florida where I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Valencia College where I completed my teaching certification, and ultimately Saint Leo University where I received my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership.

I have spent most of my career teaching Social Studies at the high school level teaching almost every topic in the department, then spent some time as a Dean at Central High. I have a passion for athletics and have spent the last 9 years working in various coaching positions for the following sports: cheerleading, weightlifting, track, softball, and baseball. In my role here at Central in my first year as an AP, I will be working closely with our Athletic Department to try and boost our support on campus and in the community.

Outside of work, I am a mom of 3 amazing children (2 girls- 12 years and 1 year, and a boy- 2 years). I spend most if not all my time with them when I am not working, either at the park, the pool, or various daycare events. I enjoy going to the movies and dining at up-scale steak houses on the weekend with my significant other.

I can’t wait to get things started and help make it another fantastic year as a Central High School Bear!

My Journey into Education and Leadership

In 2006, I made the life-changing decision to switch careers and enter the field of education. At the time, I never imagined it would become my true calling. Initially, I was drawn to the profession by the practical benefits—being off work when my son was out of school and having the flexibility to take him to ice hockey practice.

I began my career in what was then known as the “special diploma” program. Just a year later, I transitioned into English and math inclusion, where I truly found my niche. I developed a deep passion for working with students who require additional support and tailored strategies to thrive in a general education setting. These students hold a very special place in my heart.

In 2012, driven by a desire to expand my impact, I earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. However, I found myself torn—while I was intrigued by leadership, I deeply loved being in the classroom. I started small, serving as department head for several years, which allowed me to grow as a leader while staying connected to teaching.

Eventually, I was asked to step into the role of Dean of Students, a position I held for eight years. This experience solidified my commitment to leadership, and I finally took the leap to become an Assistant Principal.

Today, my goal is to help transform the community’s perception of Central High School. I want our school to be recognized as a leader in academic excellence through our AICE program, as well as through our robust ROTC and CTE offerings that prepare students for both college and career success.