Bruce Friend

With nearly 30 years of K–12 education experience as a teacher, administrator, and many leadership roles, Bruce Friend is a recognized as a pioneer in developing innovative K–12 school models. He currently serves as the Head of School for Pine Springs Preparatory Academy. Bruce has routinely been asked to advise educational leaders, elected officials, and families on issues related to innovative school models, digital learning and the use of technology in education. He has proven experience in helping schools across North America grow highly successful online and blended learning programs. Bruce’s successful work in launching charter schools in NC led to his appointment in 2018 to the NC Charter School Advisory Board by the NC Speaker of the House. His expertise in this field of school innovation resulted in an assignment to the K-12 education committee of the Business and Industry Advisory Committee in Paris, France as well as serving on the advisory boards for several education organizations. He has been recognized with the “Most Outstanding Achievement by an Individual: K-12 Education” award by the USDLA, and is a two-time recipient of the Florida Principal Achievement Award.