Deerfield Beach Middle School

The 2011-2012 school year marks Mr. Pantano’s eighth year as an Administrator at DBMS. Mr. P, who was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, graduated from St. John’s University, and taught Reading for two years at Bay Ridge High School.  After moving to South Florida, he held several different jobs and owned a business before returning to teaching Reading at Blanche Ely High School in 1995. While at Ely, Mr. Pantano taught a myriad of subjects, including Power Communications, TV Production, Stagecraft and English.  For six years Mr. Pantano taught Language Arts to 6th, 7th and 8th grade students at Crystal Lake Middle School while pursuing his Masters degree in Educational Leadership from Florida Atlantic University. Mr. P’s passion is developing and nurturing new teachers, while encouraging students to develop and grow academically and intellectually through goal-setting, and taking personal responsibility for achievement.

Mr. Devon O’Neal, Interim Assistant Principal
7th grade Administrator

Devon O’Neal is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and Nova Southeastern University; however, he is especially proud of being a product of Broward County Public Schools. Specifically, he is an alumnus of Dillard High School, where he discovered his ardor for education. Mr. O’Neal’s instructional experiences consist of teaching at Margate Middle and Arthur Robert Ashe, Jr. Middle. His cultivation as an educational leader is derived from his belief that dreams become realities through perseverance, motivation, and academics. As a self- proclaimed lifelong learner it is his understanding that through total commitment to academics, success is attainable for all students. The mantra to always act in the best interest of children will continue to guide his decision making as an administrator.

Ms. Keietta Givens, Intern Principal
8th Grade Administrator

Keietta L. Givens has been an administrator in Broward County for six years. She has worked at Lanier-James Education Center and Cypress Run Education Center before moving to her current location. As a graduate of Florida State University, Florida International University, and Florida Atlantic University, Ms. Givens pursuit of education has filtered into her life working with children. As a former teacher and counselor, she understands the needs of students, teachers and the communities. Ms. Givens has a true passion for students and believes this is her calling in life. Her favorite quote states, ” Education is the key to excellence”.