Administration

Ms. Tara Palasciano is a highly accomplished educational leader and the Principal of Bailey Middle School in the Escambia County School District. She holds an extensive academic portfolio, including a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Georgia, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Brenau University, and a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida.

Ms. Palasciano’s more than two decades of service to the district began in 2003. She quickly distinguished herself at Ferry Pass Middle School, first as a teacher and later as an Instructional Coach. During this time, she developed deep expertise in literacy instruction and evidence-based literacy strategies—skills that continue to shape and strengthen her leadership practices. Her dedication was recognized early in her career with the Teacher of the Year award for the 2004–2005 school year.

Her leadership trajectory continued when she was appointed Assistant Principal at Bellview Middle School in 2015. In 2019, she was honored as Escambia County’s Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year. After serving as Interim Principal at Bellview Middle School, she was selected for her current role as Principal of Bailey Middle School.

Most recently, Ms. Palasciano was named Escambia County’s Outstanding Principal of the Year for the 2025–2026 school year—a testament to her unwavering commitment, proven expertise, and lasting impact on the school community.

Ms.Amy Burns was born in Bogalusa, Louisiana but calls Covington, Louisiana her  home.  She graduated from Covington High School and went on to attend LSU and Southeastern Louisiana University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education.  

Ms. Burns taught 4, 5, and 6th grades in two schools in St. Tammany Parish.  She returned to Southeastern Louisiana University in 2010 to obtain her Masters degree in Educational Leadership.  Ms. Burns was appointed Parishwide Assistant Principal in 2012 and then became assistant principal at William Pitcher Junior High in 2013 where she  remained until 2019.  Ms. Burns completed her career at William Pitcher Junior High as principal for the last three years.  

After having relocated to Pensacola in 2019, Ms. Burns was prepared to enjoy life until the school year came calling.  She returned to work in November 2019 as the Dean at Beulah Middle School.  In 2021, she was appointed as assistant principal at Workman Middle School.  She joined the Bailey staff in July 2025.

In her free time, Ms. Burns enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.  She has two cats, Auti and Sunny. She is also “Mimi” to one grandson.  And last but not least, Geaux Tigers! 

Mrs. Thomas was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from Tucker High School in Dekalb County. From there, she went to Georgia Southern University where she graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Thomas completed her schooling at the University of Phoenix and Georgia College & State University where she received a Master's degree in Curriculum and Technology and Education Leadership respectively.