EASTSIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Mike Lastra has been selected as the new principal of Eastside Elementary. Recently, Mr. Lastra completed his 4th year as the principal of Brooksville Elementary. He has now been EES' principal since 2022. Mr. Lastra has lived in Hernando County since 1992 and is an alumnus of Central High School, Class of 1998. 

Throughout the school district, Mr Lastra is regarded for his exuberant support of educational technologies and led the effort to bring the interactive Makerspace Lab to Eastside (when he was A.P.) along with the “STEAM Team” at Eastside and helped build the STEAM Lab at Brooksville.

“I am excited to be serving alongside the staff and parents of Eastside Elementary.” Mr Lastra said. “Working together, we will make great things happen for our kids and our community!”   

“Mike is a skilled leader who keeps his heart open for kids and his attention focused on quality learning experiences for students. Among other strengths, Mike’s leadership is most defined by his enthusiasm and enduring positivity. He will shine,” Superintendent John Stratton said. 

• 2022-2018- Principal @ Brooksville Elementary School   
• 2018-2015- Assistant Principal @ Eastside Elementary School
• 2015-2004 – Teacher Nature Coast Technical High School 
• 2024  Doctorate of Education: School and Organizational Leadersip, St. Leo University
• 2015  Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, St. Leo University 
• 2004  Bachelor of Science Chowan University

Mr. Eric Schwartz has been EES'  assistant principal of Eastside Elementary School since 2022. Previously, he served for three years as the assistant principal of Explorer K-8.

Mr. Schwartz has also taught high school mathematics, coached football, served as a district mathematics coach, and a district transition specialist, prior to entering administration. He earned his B.S. in Mathematics Education in 2011 from the University of South Florida.  In 2017, he then earned his M.A. in Educational Leadership from St. Leo University.

Mr. Schwartz believes “a powerful mind can achieve anything through discipline, strength, confidence, and ambition,” and  he values the opportunity to help foster a strong mindset in his peers, students, and families.  

Mr. Schwartz has been married for 10 years, and he and his wife have a daughter and a son.