- October 5, 2026
Dear Editor:
It has been about a month since school started, and for the first time in more than 45 years, my parents won’t be teaching.
To truly appreciate what that means, you have to go back to 1981, when Flagler County had a population of around 12,000 people. Today, Flagler County has grown to [over 100,000] residents, and Flagler County Schools serves more than 13,000 students and employs more than 2,000 people.
Through all of that growth, my amazing parents have helped elevate education and athletics throughout Flagler County for generations of families.
Both of them spent more than 40 years at the same school, dedicating their lives to their students, athletes, coworkers, and community. The average career span of a Florida educator is around 12 years, and approximately 40% of educators don’t make it past their first five years. My parents were different. This was never just a job for them — it was their passion.
Their impact goes far beyond the students they taught and coached. They helped countless students achieve their goals, while also helping many of their coworkers grow, advance, and move into administrative positions along the way. They didn’t just build successful students and athletes; they helped build the people around them.
My mom finished with the highest test scores in the state multiple times. My dad won numerous team and individual state titles. Teacher of the Year as well. Those accomplishments are just a small part of the list.
When I think about their careers, the awards and championships aren’t what stand out the most. It’s the thousands of lives they touched, the relationships they built, and the legacy they leave behind.
— MICHAEL DEAUGUSTINO
When I think about their careers, the awards and championships aren’t what stand out the most. It’s the thousands of lives they touched, the relationships they built, and the legacy they leave behind.
I want to wish my incredible parents a very happy retirement and thank them for more than 40 years of endless effort, dedication, and love for Flagler County. I couldn’t be more proud of you both. Love you guys so much.
Flagler County Public Schools will always have your fingerprints on it. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from watching my parents, it’s this: No matter what career path you choose in life, if you find something you truly love, stick with it. Give it everything you have, make a difference, and leave it better than you found it.
Congratulations on an incredible career, Mom and Dad. You’ve earned this next chapter.
Michael DeAugustino
Editor's note: Michael DeAugustino is the youngest of Renee and Steve DeAugustino's three children. Renee and Steve both retired this summer. Renee taught at Wadsworth Elementary School. Steve won three state championships as the wrestling coach at Flagler Palm Coast High School and also served as FPC's athletic director. Michael originally posted this tribute to this parents on Facebook and gave permission to the Observer to publish it.
