Linda M. Francis, PhD, is an educator, community leader, and ordained clergywoman with
more than two decades of experience in public education, leadership, and service. She currently
serves as Senior Pastor of St. Andrews African Methodist Episcopal Church in Palmetto, where
the congregation is expanding its community outreach by becoming the 13th Avenue 941
community site offering afterschool tutoring services.
Dr. Francis is a U.S. Army veteran, having served ten years on active duty, including service
during Operation Desert Storm. Following her military career, she worked in finance and
corporate training before transitioning into education, where she spent over twenty years as a
high school English and reading teacher and later as an Assistant Principal at Manatee and
Southeast High Schools.
The majority of Dr. Francis’s education career was spent working in Title I high schools,
including serving as a reading and literacy coach, where she partnered with teachers and students
to address learning gaps, strengthen reading achievement, and support historically underserved
learners.
Her academic background includes degrees in English and linguistics, educational leadership,
reading, theology, and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction. This blend of instructional
expertise and leadership experience informs her commitment to creating safe, academically
supportive spaces for young people and families.
As a site leader with Avenue 941, Dr. Francis brings a deep understanding of literacy
development, youth advocacy, and community partnership. Under her leadership, St. Andrews
AMEC is positioned to serve as a hub for afterschool tutoring, mentorship, and family
engagement in Palmetto.
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Francis is an avid reader of science fiction and fantasy, a
home cook, and a saltwater aquarist.