If you have a scholar at our Secondary Campus, there is a good chance you already know Principal Dionte Perry's smile from morning drop-off. We sat down with him to share a little more about the person behind that friendly face.
How long have you been part of PBMA?
"I've been part of the PBMA community for three years, and I'm going into my second year as principal at the Secondary Campus." At PBMA, that kind of steady presence at the front of the building means a lot to our families.
If you had to sum up PBMA in three words, what would they be?
"Flexible, safe, and growing." That is exactly what PBMA is built to be. Flexible looks like before and after care until 6:30pm and a school day built around real family life. Safe looks like our Active Alert system and Yondr phone-free classrooms. Growing looks like scholars earning college credit before they even graduate.
What is a PBMA moment that has stuck with you?
"Celebrating our students' achievements this past year." That pride shows up at PBMA every time we hand out an Honor Roll certificate or announce a Shark of the Month.
If you could teach any subject outside your role, what would it be?
"Life management skills." It is a fitting answer from someone who helps run a school built on preparing scholars for more than a test. That same spirit runs through PBMA's SEL lessons and character education.
What was your favorite movie in high school?
"He Got Game," he told us without missing a beat.
What might surprise people about you?
"I have a certificate in graphic design." That kind of creativity is right at home at PBMA, where it shows up across our campuses in Digital Media and Art class, and in the murals our scholars help paint.
Come Say Hello!
School starts August 10. Stop by during drop-off, say hello at Back-to-School Night, or follow along on our social channels for more from the Secondary Campus this year. Spots for the 2026-27 school year are open now — start your application today.
About Palm Beach Maritime Academy
Palm Beach Maritime Academy is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in Kindergarten through 12th grade across two campuses in Palm Beach County, Florida. Founded by the Palm Beach Maritime Museum, PBMA combines rigorous academics - including Cambridge AICE coursework, STEAM programming, and dual enrollment with Palm Beach State College - with a whole-child philosophy that puts safety, belonging, and individualized support at the center of every school day. With small class sizes, full-time licensed mental health counselors, a robust extracurricular program, and county-wide transportation, PBMA offers a college-preparatory education that is completely tuition-free. Visit us at palmbeachmaritimeacademy.org today.
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