Meet Our Administrators

Ms. Kelly Slusser is the Principal of Central High School where she cultivates a school culture focused on academic success and college and career readiness for all students.  Prior to becoming a high school Principal, Kelly served as an Assistant Principal for three years at the secondary level.  In addition, she taught high school mathematics for 15 years where she served as Mathematics Department Chair.  Ms. Slusser earned her B.S. degree in Mathematics from the University of Tampa and her M.Ed. degree from National Louis University.  She has had the opportunity to use sports as a vehicle to further her education both as a player and as a coach.

"It's the little details that are vital.  Little things make big things happen."  ~John Wooden

Dr. Lore Adesso joined Central High School in January 2023, after 17 years in Hernando County Schools. Her career began at Deltona Elementary, where she taught 2nd and 3rd grade, then to Fox Chapel Middle School as a Reading Resource Teacher for grades 6 and 7. Prior to joining Bear Country, Dr. Adesso was at Weeki Wachee High School for almost 8 years as Teacher of Intensive Reading, Assessment Coordinator, and more recently MTSS Coordinator.

Dr. Adesso, originally from New Jersey graduated with her Bachelor's degree from Kean University. Her love for education afforded her the ability to go back to school at Saint Leo University where she earned her Master's in Educational Leadership (2010), Educational Specialist in Leadership (2021), and in 2023 she earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Dr. Adesso believes in building relationships with all stakeholders and focuses on student success. During her free time, she enjoys reading, playing with her dog, and spending time with her family.

Hey there, Bear Country! My name is Alyssa De Jesus, and I am a new Assistant Principal at Central High School. This is my third year at Central and my 9th year in education. I am a proud Central High School alumnus, class of 2006. My travels then brought me to the University of South Florida where I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Valencia College where I completed my teaching certification, and ultimately Saint Leo University where I received my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership.

I have spent most of my career teaching Social Studies at the high school level teaching almost every topic in the department, then spent some time as a Dean at Central High. I have a passion for athletics and have spent the last 9 years working in various coaching positions for the following sports: cheerleading, weightlifting, track, softball, and baseball. In my role here at Central in my first year as an AP, I will be working closely with our Athletic Department to try and boost our support on campus and in the community.

Outside of work, I am a mom of 3 amazing children (2 girls- 12 years and 1 year, and a boy- 2 years). I spend most if not all my time with them when I am not working, either at the park, the pool, or various daycare events. I enjoy going to the movies and dining at up-scale steak houses on the weekend with my significant other.

I can’t wait to get things started and help make it another fantastic year as a Central High School Bear!

Mr. Wilson Sommer serves as an Assistant Principal at Central High School. He is entering his 15th year with Hernando County Schools and is proud to be a product of the Hernando County education system. Central holds a special place in his career, as he previously served Bear Country as a classroom teacher and is excited to return in a leadership role.

Mr. Sommer earned his bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of South Florida and his master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University. As he returns to secondary education, he looks forward to building strong relationships with students, families, and staff. His goal is to help students feel seen, supported, and challenged as they work toward graduation and their future goals.

Outside of school, Mr. Sommer enjoys traveling, including road trips and cruises, gaming, including tabletop and video games, and attending comic conventions. He is proud to be back in Bear Country and excited to serve the Central High School community.