Finding a job in 2026 isn't easy. On average, job openings get over 250 applications, and the unemployment rate is around 5.2% (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2026). The truth is, in today's market, it's tough to stand out from the crowd. A lot of people end up searching for jobs only to find that they're underqualified or don't have as many options as they once thought.
What many hardworking people don't know is that attending medical assistant school can be a real game-changer for long-term stability. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts jobs for medical assistants will grow by 14% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for most other careers. With healthcare always in demand, there's a strong need for people with these skills. Training as a medical assistant can give you a reliable path to a good job and set you up for a secure future, even when things are uncertain.
The problem? Not every medical assistant school in Pompano Beach, FL has the staff, class size, programs, and attention that you need. If you're for more than a degree - like equipping yourself with the tools and confidence to excel in a new medical career - it might be time to consider The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute.
The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, established by Dr. Andrew Rudnick, aims to equip students with the skills and confidence to thrive in the healthcare field. Our medical assistant curriculum is fast-paced and hands-on, designed to prepare students for real-world success. In fact, students have the chance to work directly with industry professionals and learn essential techniques during their time at The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute. This approach helps students gain practical experience in a lively, engaging setting. After all, shouldn't learning be as exciting as it is practical?
While many students choose medical assistant courses, students can earn a range of diplomas at The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, including:
At The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, professional mastery goes hand in hand with personal transformation. Our courses immerse students in the practical realities of healthcare while encouraging independent thought, self-assurance, and curiosity that lasts well beyond graduation.
We offer an environment where learning is an adventure. Here, students work alongside experienced professionals, tackle real challenges, and develop skills through genuine, hands-on scenarios. Growth here is not just measured by tests but by the ability to adapt, question, and chart one's own course.
No matter where you begin, The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute helps shape individuals who want to stand out in the healthcare space. We're talking about driven people who lead with initiative, contribute original ideas, and leave their mark. Here, you craft your own path and gain more than just a set of skills. You create your own story.
Our students and graduates recommend our medical assisting school because we prioritize:
Faculty and staff at The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute collaborate closely with students from day one, providing personalized mentorship and hands-on guidance. They assist students in developing a clear academic plan, offer feedback on projects, and are available for one-on-one support throughout the entire program. This partnership ensures that students feel supported and empowered at every step.
The curriculum is regularly tailored to reflect current trends in healthcare, allowing students to pursue learning opportunities that directly align with their chosen career paths. Workshops, practical labs, and networking events are integrated into the program, making each experience relevant and valuable. This approach guarantees that every moment at The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute contributes meaningfully to the student's professional journey.
At The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, our instructors serve as a dedicated bridge between graduates and the broader business and medical community. This role involves actively reaching out to local hospitals, clinics, private practices, and healthcare organizations to develop partnerships and stay up to date on evolving industry needs.
Our instructors regularly consult with employers to ensure graduates possess the skills and attributes most in demand and also facilitates introductions and networking opportunities for students preparing to enter the workforce.
The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute offers comprehensive instruction on job search strategies tailored to the realities of today's healthcare job market. Students and graduates receive guidance on crafting impactful resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, and developing a strong professional presence both in person and online.
Faculty members dedicate a scheduled hour each week specifically for student counseling, offering guidance on academic progress, course selection, study strategies, and personal challenges related to coursework. These sessions may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the student's needs and preferences. In addition, faculty can provide referrals to external resources for issues beyond academic matters.
Staff members are also available in the administration office throughout regular business hours to assist with enrollment questions, tuition payments, scheduling, access to campus facilities, and general inquiries. They also help students navigate institutional procedures, process documentation, and connect with the appropriate campus services for specialized support.
Our students and graduates recommend our medical assisting school because we prioritize:
Faculty and staff at The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute collaborate closely with students from day one, providing personalized mentorship and hands-on guidance. They assist students in developing a clear academic plan, offer feedback on projects, and are available for one-on-one support throughout the entire program. This partnership ensures that students feel supported and empowered at every step.
The curriculum is regularly tailored to reflect current trends in healthcare, allowing students to pursue learning opportunities that directly align with their chosen career paths. Workshops, practical labs, and networking events are integrated into the program, making each experience relevant and valuable. This approach guarantees that every moment at The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute contributes meaningfully to the student's professional journey.
At The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, our Director serves as a dedicated bridge between graduates and the broader business and medical community. This role involves actively reaching out to local hospitals, clinics, private practices, and healthcare organizations to develop partnerships and stay up to date on evolving industry needs.
Our Director regularly consult with employers to ensure graduates possess the skills and attributes most in demand and also facilitates introductions and networking opportunities for students preparing to enter the workforce.
The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute offers comprehensive instruction on job search strategies tailored to the realities of today's healthcare job market. Students and graduates receive guidance on crafting impactful resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, and developing a strong professional presence both in person and online.
Faculty members dedicate a scheduled hour each week specifically for student counseling, offering guidance on academic progress, course selection, study strategies, and personal challenges related to coursework. These sessions may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the student's needs and preferences. In addition, faculty can provide referrals to external resources for issues beyond academic matters.
Staff members are also available in the administration office throughout regular business hours to assist with enrollment questions, tuition payments, scheduling, access to campus facilities, and general inquiries. They also help students navigate institutional procedures, process documentation, and connect with the appropriate campus services for specialized support.
Now that you know more about our medical assisting school in Pompano Beach, FL, you're probably wondering what medical assistants do and why you might want to become one.
Certified medical assistants (MAs) are sought after across the country. With only a short educational path required, becoming an MA opens the door to a rewarding and stable profession in healthcare. In May 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a national median salary of $42,000 per year (or $20.19 per hour) for medical assistants. Those numbers are expected to rise in the coming years. Pay can differ based on where you work, your experience, and your workplace environment. Many healthcare organizations now offer higher wages as they recognize the essential role MAs play and strive to fill open positions.
So, what exactly are the responsibilities of a medical assistant?
Medical assistants keep doctors' offices and clinics running. They greet patients, handle paperwork, and lend a hand with everything from preparing exam rooms to drawing blood or monitoring vital signs. Their work is hands-on and practical: entering lab results, arranging appointments, and making sure both patients and providers have what they need. Without medical assistants, daily routines would quickly unravel.
Most medical assistants spend their days in bustling outpatient clinics or doctors' offices, where they make up the backbone of day-to-day operations. But medical assistants are also valuable team members in specialty practices, urgent care centers, and even hospitals, where they adapt to the unique needs of each environment.
Here's an approximate breakdown of where most medical assistants work:
At The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, our staff works with students to provide job-finding resources, resume-building tips, placement services, and much more. Our goal isn't to fast-track you out of the front door. It's to set you up for a lifetime of success in the medical industry.
Once students graduate from their medical assisting school in Pompano Beach, FL, they're often ready to enter the job market and make a difference. Armed with a variety of skills, medical assistants jump between greeting patients, recording health histories, and assisting with hands-on care. As flexible workers, their role blends behind-the-scenes organization with direct patient interaction, meaning no two days are ever the same.
First, the medical assistant may check that all exam rooms are clean, stocked with supplies, and ready for patients. They review the day's schedule to see how many patients are coming in and what types of appointments are planned.
As the waiting room fills, medical assistants welcome each person, gather details about their health and medications, and find out what brings them in. They quickly and carefully record vital signs like the patient's pulse, temperature, blood pressure, and weight, which helps build a foundation for the doctor's diagnosis.
Once the patient is set, the medical assistant lets the doctors know the patient is ready. Sometimes they stick around during the exam, passing instruments or lending a steady hand with tasks like phlebotomy or giving shots, provided state rules allow. Their adaptability keeps the visit moving smoothly.
By lunchtime, medical assistants are in constant motion, wiping down exam rooms, updating charts, and fielding calls from people seeking advice or trying to fit in a last-minute visit. Their multitasking keeps the clinic humming even as the day gets busier.
A medical assistant might also help with:
MAs spend their days talking with patients, so clear communication is a key skill to have. In fact, medical assistants are often responsible for breaking down their doctor's instructions, whether it's explaining a prescription or walking someone through home care after an injury.
Late afternoons for medical assistants can mean prepping patients for last-minute appointments, lending a hand with wound care, or running quick tests like EKGs. Their focus shifts from the steady flow of earlier hours to wrapping up the essential tasks that can't wait until tomorrow.
They use simple language with patients, check charts, restock supplies, and clean up—ready for whatever the final hours bring. Before heading out, medical assistants huddle with the staff to recap the day's highlights, flag any lingering concerns, and set the stage for a smooth start in the morning.
By now, you know that medical assistants keep the healthcare industry running, working alongside doctors and nurses to care for patients and tackle critical office work. At The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, we give students hands-on training and experience, so they're ready to step into jobs at hospitals, clinics, and doctors' offices as soon as they graduate.
Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will gain hands-on skills in patient care, medical procedures, and administrative duties, ensuring they are job-ready upon graduation.
Medical Assisting is a high-demand career with opportunities for growth, stability, and advancement in the healthcare field. Students choose this curriculum because, after graduating and getting a job, they benefit from:
If you're looking for an easy, affordable way to change your life for the better, contact The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute today and ask us about our medical assisting program. It could be the first step you take toward newfound success.
At The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute, our professors teach real-world skills, such as clinical techniques and office procedures, and provide hands-on training so students are ready for whatever healthcare setting they enter. Some of the skills you'll learn as a medical assisting student include:
Check blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and breathing to keep tabs on patient health.
Practice drawing blood, labeling samples, and following safety steps to prevent contamination.
Learn how to perform EKGs, record heart rhythms, and spot irregular patterns.
Master appointment scheduling, handling patient files, processing insurance claims, and managing billing tasks.
Prep exam rooms, set up tools, and help doctors during exams or minor surgeries.
Measure medication doses, give injections, and understand how to follow prescription instructions.
Use sterilization practices and follow safety rules to protect patients and staff.
After finishing the Medical Assisting program, graduates are ready for national certification exams and can step confidently into entry-level jobs in doctors' offices, clinics, urgent care centers, or specialty medical practices. Our program's blend of classroom learning and real-world training ensures students have the skills needed to thrive in fast-paced healthcare environments.
Some of the most common career paths include the following:
The start of your new career begins after you're approved for admission. In order to enroll in our medical assisting school, you must provide The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute with:
Proof That You've Completed High School (certification, GED, or diploma)
A Government-Issued ID
Proof That You're a U.S. Citizen (you must have a valid state ID or driver's license)
Diploma Catalog ID Deposit (new students must pay a $600 deposit and be scheduled on a payment plan or have tuition paid in full)
A career in healthcare means more than a steady paycheck. It's a chance to make a difference every day and grow alongside a field that never stands still. If you like working with others and want a job where your efforts matter, training as a medical assistant opens the door to a world of hands-on care and real impact.
Graduates from our medical assistant school in Pompano Beach, FL leave with more than just a certificate. They gain practical experience, confidence, and the know-how to jump into clinics, doctors' offices, or specialty practices from day one. If you're ready to start a rewarding career in healthcare, choose The Healthcare Assisting and Team Institute's medical assisting school and let our expertise help shape your future.
With the right skills and experience, medical assistants can also pursue specialized roles or continue their education into other roles, such as nursing, medical office management, or healthcare administration. Contact our admissions office today to learn more and get started on your journey.
POMPANO BEACH — A sprawling multi-family apartment complex in Pompano Beach's northwest area has changed hands for $16.5 million, according to property records and recent social media activity.Meir M. Cohen acquired the 120-unit residential portfolio from Joseph K. Maiuro in a deal that closed March 9. The sale of the property, located at 620 NW 7th Ave., reflects a price of approximately $289 per square foot.The transaction was backed by $11.5 million in seller-carried debt, signaling a significant financing arrangement ...
POMPANO BEACH — A sprawling multi-family apartment complex in Pompano Beach's northwest area has changed hands for $16.5 million, according to property records and recent social media activity.
Meir M. Cohen acquired the 120-unit residential portfolio from Joseph K. Maiuro in a deal that closed March 9. The sale of the property, located at 620 NW 7th Ave., reflects a price of approximately $289 per square foot.
The transaction was backed by $11.5 million in seller-carried debt, signaling a significant financing arrangement between the two parties.
The asset consists of eight buildings totaling 57,062 square feet, situated on a 3.74-acre site. The complex features a mix of three two-story buildings and five single-story buildings, with construction dates ranging from 1959 to 1983. The land is currently designated under multiple zoning classifications, including RM-12, RS-4, and B-2.
Daniel Cunningham of Marcus & Millichap represented the parties in the transaction. The deal was noted in an Instagram by the real estate database firm Vizzda.
The acquisition comes as investors continue to eye Pompano Beach for multi-family opportunities, driven by steady demand for workforce housing in Broward County. The property’s diverse zoning and vintage offer potential for future repositioning or redevelopment in the evolving North Broward market.
Have an idea for a story? Looking to advertise? Email Publisher/Editor Jeff Yastine: . Jeff is a veteran journalist and 30 year resident of Pompano Beach.
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Published on March 19, 2026Pompano Beach, Florida, a destination once overlooked by vacationers and real estate developers, is now emerging as one of the most coveted spots for luxury oceanfront living and tourism in the state. Once known for its laid-back beach vibe, this town has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, evolving into a prime location for those seeking high-end, coastal lifestyles and world-class developments.Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Pompano Beac...
Published on March 19, 2026
Pompano Beach, Florida, a destination once overlooked by vacationers and real estate developers, is now emerging as one of the most coveted spots for luxury oceanfront living and tourism in the state. Once known for its laid-back beach vibe, this town has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, evolving into a prime location for those seeking high-end, coastal lifestyles and world-class developments.
Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Pompano Beach is now home to some of Florida’s most exclusive oceanfront condominium developments. These include globally recognized luxury brands like Ritz-Carlton, Waldorf Astoria, and Armani Casa. From its pristine beaches to cutting-edge urban developments, Pompano Beach is swiftly becoming the place to be for those seeking a perfect blend of beachside serenity and metropolitan flair.
For years, Pompano Beach was overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Boca Raton to the north and Fort Lauderdale to the south. However, the tides began to change in 2007 when the Plaza at Oceanside and Sonata condominiums opened their doors. Despite the onset of the Great Recession, these initial luxury condo projects laid the foundation for the town’s vibrant real estate market. Today, these early developments, including the Plaza at Oceanside, are commanding impressive prices, with resales starting at over $1 million.
What sets Pompano Beach apart is its rapid expansion in luxury oceanfront properties. Currently, there are more luxury-branded oceanfront condos under development in Pompano Beach than in any other town of its size in Florida. Among the most notable are the Ritz-Carlton Pompano Beach and the Waldorf Astoria Residences, both of which have attracted significant attention from international buyers seeking an opulent Florida retreat.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Pompano Beach have been a game-changer for the city. Construction began in late 2022, and since then, the demand for these condos has been nothing short of explosive. With 205 luxury residences featuring both oceanfront and Intracoastal views, the Ritz-Carlton’s development has been a testament to the town’s rising status. More than 95% of the residences in the project have already been sold, with the remaining units boasting over 3,000 square feet and commanding prices upwards of $6 million.
The success of this development is proof that Pompano Beach is attracting high-net-worth individuals looking for the perfect blend of beachside relaxation and upscale living. The allure of these luxurious oceanfront properties has not only transformed the local real estate scene but has also revitalized the tourism sector, drawing wealthy visitors from around the globe to experience the beach’s beauty and world-class amenities.
Pompano Beach’s luxury transformation continues with the arrival of the Waldorf Astoria Residences. This iconic hotel brand is constructing a residential tower that promises to redefine coastal living in Florida. With 92 ultra-luxurious condos, the Waldorf Astoria Residences has already garnered massive interest, with 70% of the units being reserved before construction was completed.
Starting at $2.65 million for a two-bedroom unit, these condos offer unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. The crown jewel of the project is a five-bedroom penthouse priced at an astounding $17 million. The Waldorf Astoria Residences are not just homes; they are a statement of luxury living, with state-of-the-art facilities and a design that captures the essence of refined coastal living.
Pompano Beach’s transformation extends beyond just luxury oceanfront condos. The city is investing heavily in creating a world-class tourism and lifestyle hub that will further cement its position as a top Florida destination. The city has already unveiled a range of innovative public projects that make the area more attractive to residents and tourists alike.
One of the city’s most exciting developments is a one-of-a-kind beachfront park, designed to offer visitors a full range of leisure activities. The park includes professional exercise equipment, a state-of-the-art fishing pier, and a children’s play area, providing something for everyone. A new 40,000-square-foot beachfront complex, complete with restaurants and shops, has also been constructed, adding to the area’s vibrancy and appeal.
For those interested in unique, interactive experiences, Pompano Beach is home to Shipwreck Park. This underwater wonderland consists of a cluster of sunken ships, offering a one-of-a-kind scuba diving experience. Underwater art installations, including a life-sized octopus dealer and card-playing sharks, add a whimsical and adventurous flair to the diving experience.
Additionally, the historic Hillsboro Lighthouse, located on the northern end of the beach, anchors the city’s growing tourism scene, making it a landmark attraction for visitors.
Pompano Beach’s government is actively supporting the area’s growth with major infrastructure improvements and the development of new amenities. Soon, the city will have a brand-new civic center and city hall. Furthermore, the 12-block waterwalk, inspired by San Antonio’s famous River Walk, will bring cafes, benches, and live music, adding to the city’s walkability and making it an even more attractive destination for both residents and tourists.
The city’s commitment to building a world-class tourism destination is further demonstrated by the planned mixed-use district near the Harrah’s Casino. Spanning 223 acres, this new district will include new dining options, entertainment venues, and thousands of new homes, creating a vibrant, bustling atmosphere that will further attract tourists and residents alike.
Getting around Pompano Beach is easy, with multiple transportation options designed to make the area more accessible. The city offers a free Circuit shuttle that takes visitors between the beachfront, fishing pier, oceanfront hotels, and downtown dining and shopping areas. Visitors can also make use of the water taxi service, which operates along 12 stops on the Intracoastal Waterway, making it simple to explore Pompano Beach and its neighboring areas.
With excellent walkability and a wide range of activities available, visitors to Pompano Beach can easily immerse themselves in the local lifestyle without needing a car. For those who prefer not to drive, the city’s public transportation options, including the free Circuit shuttle, make it easy to explore the area.
Since the turn of the century, Pompano Beach has seen an influx of over 40,000 new residents. This surge in population can be attributed to the city’s combination of luxury oceanfront living, improved amenities, and a thriving real estate market. As a result, Pompano Beach is quickly becoming one of Florida’s most sought-after destinations for both permanent residents and vacationers.
With luxury developments like Ritz-Carlton and Waldorf Astoria, combined with ongoing infrastructure improvements and exciting public projects, Pompano Beach is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come. The town’s rapid transformation has made it a standout destination on Florida’s coast, and it is now attracting discerning visitors from across the world who want to experience the best that the Sunshine State has to offer.
Pompano Beach’s transformation into Florida’s premier oceanfront luxury destination is not just a real estate boom; it’s a testament to the city’s dedication to creating a vibrant, sustainable, and attractive community for both residents and tourists. With high-end condos, world-class attractions, and a commitment to infrastructure development, Pompano Beach is well on its way to becoming one of Florida’s top destinations for those seeking luxury and lifestyle by the sea.
As the city continues to grow and evolve, its blend of rich heritage, modern amenities, and unparalleled coastal beauty will ensure that Pompano Beach remains a prime spot for luxury oceanfront living and tourism in Florida. Whether you’re looking to buy a luxury condo, enjoy world-class amenities, or simply relax on the beach, Pompano Beach has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
POMPANO BEACH — The sounds of Colonial-era fife and drum echoed along Pompano's beachfront on Saturday morning as a procession of men, dressed in the uniforms of Revolutionary War soldiers, paraded onto the Fisher Family Pier.The group, joined by a throng of more than 300 residents, curious visitors, and VIP guests, helped commemorate the city's newest and most unique donated monument.First Amphibious Assault MemorialDressed in tri-corner hats and period-correct regimentals, members of the Florida ...
POMPANO BEACH — The sounds of Colonial-era fife and drum echoed along Pompano's beachfront on Saturday morning as a procession of men, dressed in the uniforms of Revolutionary War soldiers, paraded onto the Fisher Family Pier.
The group, joined by a throng of more than 300 residents, curious visitors, and VIP guests, helped commemorate the city's newest and most unique donated monument.
First Amphibious Assault Memorial
Dressed in tri-corner hats and period-correct regimentals, members of the Florida Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) gathered to officially unveil the First Amphibious Assault Memorial.
The 20-foot stone obelisk commemorates the Raid of Nassau - a successful, important - but historically-overlooked 1776 naval expedition to a British stronghold in the Bahamas to obtain much-needed gunpowder.
In the early days of the war, a fledgling American naval force and a detachment of Continental Marines—the precursors to the modern U.S. Marine Corps—came ashore to target a British gunpowder stockpile and overwhelm its garrison of soldiers. The raid was a tactical triumph, netting roughly 8 tons of desperately-needed gunpowder for George Washington’s Continental Army.
How the Memorial Came to Pompano
So why was the monument placed in Pompano? While the battle took place across the Gulf Stream, organizers say they chose the city for its proximity to the site and the city's enthusiastic support.
"We were looking for a location, and the patriotism within Pompano Beach and the willingness of the city commission made this possible," said Steven DePaul, chairman of the First Amphibious Assault Memorial (FAAM) committee for the Florida Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.
"This is a unique monument. There is no other dedication to this particular event in history," he said.
The event also drew curious onlookers like Mary Allen Dacey, who - being a resident of the metro Boston area - knows plenty about Revolutionary War memorials.
“Everybody walks the fishing pier, including me. So we've watched this whole assembly of the monument, the flags, the whole thing,” said Dacey. “I've watched it come together in the last few months, so I didn't want to miss it. And being from New England, you know - we do a lot of Colonial reenactments,” she said.
Event Draws Residents and VIP Guests
The ceremony, which drew more than 300 guests, featured high-ranking military figures including retired USMC Major General James Hartsell; Michael Elston, President General of the Sons of the American Revolution; Broward County Commissioner and former Pompano mayor Lamar Fisher; and Mayor Rex Hardin.
“This was truly an inspiring event to make this happen for our 250th anniversary, the semi-quincentennial,” said Hardin. “This is something that is part of our history and will be part of our history forever going forward. And to memorialize the first amphibious landing of our forces, what a great event,” he said.
Donations Brought the Obelisk to Reality
Sons of the American Revolution representatives noted that the obelisk is the product of a two-year fundraising effort. While the city prepared the pier, creating a small portion of the structure available as a place of honor for the monument - the obelisk, its bronze plaques, and flanking flagstaffs were paid for through donations by SAR members and corporate donations to the organization.
SAR members said the monument will help the organization serve its educational mission. Christopher Washler, President of the Florida Society of SAR, noted that even seasoned history buffs are often unaware of the Nassau gunpowder raid.
"We forget American history far too easily," Washler said. "The number of blank stares I get when I ask about the first amphibious landing... it’s stunning to me. This is the least we could do for the Marine Corps and the country."
As the ceremony concluded, attendees lined up to place carnations at the base of the obelisk, a somber tribute to the "first of a first" that helped secure the ammunition necessary for American independence.
BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — A longtime Pompano Beach Catholic school principal accused of stealing nearly $240,000 in unauthorized stipends over nine years appeared in a Broward County courtroom on Monday.The state and defense have rested their cases. The defense filed a motion for acquittal, but it was denied. The case will now go to a jury.Defense attorneys questioned whether there had ever been complaints about the defendant’s leadership.“During your time with the Archdiocese was there any complaints abou...
BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — A longtime Pompano Beach Catholic school principal accused of stealing nearly $240,000 in unauthorized stipends over nine years appeared in a Broward County courtroom on Monday.
The state and defense have rested their cases. The defense filed a motion for acquittal, but it was denied. The case will now go to a jury.
Defense attorneys questioned whether there had ever been complaints about the defendant’s leadership.
“During your time with the Archdiocese was there any complaints about Dr. St. Thomas?” a defense attorney asked witness Kristen Hughes, a former superintendent of elementary schools for the Archdiocese of Miami Catholic Schools.
“No,” Hughes replied.
Lori Ann St. Thomas, 62, formerly served as principal at St. Coleman Catholic School and faces charges including first-degree grand larceny and second-degree fraud.
“Would you have asked the auditors to look into it?” the defense asked Hughes.
“Absolutely,” Hughes responded. “We determined that the payments made were for stipends or reimbursements.”
St. Thomas turned herself in to investigators after an arrest warrant was issued.
Authorities allege she used a second, unauthorized bank account to deposit extra direct payments for herself and also transferred nonapproved credits into a personal pension fund from 2016 to 2024.
Prosecutors said in court, “The defendant over the course of nine years systematically and ongoing received unauthorized extra pay totaling $238,196 depriving (the school) of their funds.”
“It reflects that principals cannot receive any additional stipends without permission from the superintendent,” a prosecutor said.
Investigators said someone from the school reported the suspected theft to the Broward Sheriff’s Office late last year. The Archdiocese terminated St. Thomas’ employment in October 2024.
“You would agree that you have to ask permission to take your own stipend,” a prosecutor said.
In Florida, a first-degree grand larceny conviction carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
Closing arguments are expected Tuesday at 10 a.m.
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