Dr. Coury Knowles

ABOUT ME

Born on January 12, 1977, in Lakeland with cerebral palsy, Coury Knowles has built a life defined not by obstacles, but by perseverance, leadership, and service. A proud graduate of George Jenkins High School, Lakeland FL (Class of 1995), he demonstrated early leadership through student government and varsity baseball before continuing his education at the University of Florida, where he became the university’s first disabled baseball coach and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame while earning his master’s degree.Since 2002, Dr. Knowles has faithfully served Seminole County as an educator, dedicating his career to shaping young minds and strengthening the community. For the past ten years, he has also operated a youth camp in Longwood, providing opportunities for students to grow in leadership, confidence, and integrity. Above all, he is a devoted father who has consistently supported his son in every pursuit. From youth sports to academic achievement and leadership activities, Coury has always put his all into his work.Whether attending events, offering guidance, or leading by example, he has made it his mission to be present, encouraging his son to work hard, serve others, and strive for excellence. Coury Knowles’ life reflects resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. He is prepared to bring that same dedication, integrity, and heart for service to the office he seeks to serve.

Special recognition and heartfelt thanks to Ethan Knowles for writing this "About Me" section. His thoughtful words and unique perspective helped tell this story in a way that only a son could.

Explore More About Coury Below:

• COURY'S CLAIM TO FAME

• RESUME

• FPTA NEWSLETTER

Endorsements

Leadership Philosophy

Leadership, to me, begins with courage-the courage to listen deeply, to speak honestly, and to act boldly when our community's well-being is on the line. For over two decades, I've stood in front of classrooms, locker rooms, and boardrooms, guided not by authority, but by the strength of relationships and shared purpose.In every role- from teacher to coach, mentor to administrator-I've learned that real leadership isn't about telling people what to do; it's about inspiring people to do what's right.At the heart of my leadership is love for Longwood, its people, and its future. Love means seeing the potential in every resident, from the youngest child in our schools to the most seasoned voice at a town hall meeting. Love is why I listen before I lead and why I fight for policies that create opportunity, equity, and dignity for every
neighbor.Finally, leadership is not static; it is service in motion. It demands transparency, humility, and the willingness to evolve. As a lifelong educator and community builder, I know that good ideas can come from anywhere, and strong school communities are built from the ground up-not the top down.As your Commissioner, I will lead with integrity, empathy, and clarity. I will make decisions rooted in shared values, not politics. And I will work every day to earn and keep your trust-not just with my words, but through visible, measurable action.Together, with courage, love, and leadership, we can shape a Longwood Community that honors its past and embraces its brightest future.

Campaign Priorities

Focused on the priorities that matter most to our community:• Infrastructure Improvements
• Sustainable Development
• Fiscal Transparency
• Youth Advocacy
• Public Safety
• Parks & Community Spaces
• Supporting Local Businesses
• Ensuring Every Resident is Heard

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• Link

Supporters

If you would like to become a campaign supporter please go to the following supporter form. Here you can request a yard sign, volunteer your time for campaigning or donate. We appreciate your support!

• Supporter Form

Campaign Schedule

If you would like to meet with Dr. Coury Knowles, show your support, or volunteer please check out our campaign schedule below:

Voices of Our Community

Photos