Missy Frana, a veteran Lake County educator with nearly 30 years of experience, has been named the new principal of South Sumter High School for the 2026-27 school year.

Principal Frana has served in Lake County Schools for more than 20 years. She has been tasked to lead the Raiders high school program starting this fall. She most recently served as principal of Cecil E. Gray Middle School in Groveland since 2021.

“It’s a blessing to now work in Sumter County home to the number 9 high school in the state of Florida,” says Frana. “While I absolutely loved my time working in Lake County Schools, opportunities like this don’t come around often, so I’m so grateful for this opportunity of a lifetime.” 

Frana says she is impressed with the alignment and high expectations already in place among the faculty and athletics program at South Sumter.

“One of the things that has impressed me from day one is just how aligned the faculty and teachers are here,” she says. “There’s already a high bar set for everyone at South Sumter and that includes both academically and athletically. 

A Leesburg High School graduate, Frana noted a personal connection that brings her appointment full circle.

“I’m a Leesburg High graduate with Ty Lawrence, who is now the South Sumter High School athletic director,” she says. It’s a really great moment to be able to reconnect and just look back at how far we have come.” 

Principal Frana began her career in 1997 as an athletic trainer with Orange County Public Schools. She joined Lake County Schools in 2006 in the same role before becoming an athletic director and eventually transitioning to assistant principal and administrative duties. 

Frana spent 14 years at East Ridge High School in Clermont serving as an administrator for 9 of them until 2021 when she was named principal at Cecil Grey Middle in Groveland. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in science from Mississippi State University.

Her leadership philosophy is strongly student-centered.

“Students are the reason we are here,” Frana says. “My goal is 100% enrollment in higher-level courses, AP classes and industry certifications. I want every student set up for success after they graduate from South Sumter High.” 

Principal Frana also mentioned she wants to help students reach outside their comfort zones.

“My goals will be to challenge our students and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone while also motivating academic achievement and celebrating every success matter how big or small,” she says.

Known for her positive impact on students, families, and staff, Principal Frana was recently honored by the City of Groveland for her outstanding service and leadership.

“Thank you for exemplifying the city’s strategic value of knowledge through your continued service, leadership and positive impact on our students, families and community,” the city says.

South Sumter High School has a long history of producing successful graduates, including engineers, NCAA national champions, professional athletes, doctors and skilled laborers who’ve helped build our communities over the years. 

“I just want to say that we are all looking forward to welcoming the returning classes for the upcoming 26-27 school year,” says Principal Frana. “We’re excited to get going and as the motto goes ‘Tradition Never Graduates.’”