Mary Rathman

Chalk Talk 01-22-14

January 22, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Financial aid information nights
Hillsborough County Public Schools Guidance Services is hosting financial aid information nights for high school students and their families.
Financial aid representatives will explain the financial aid process, review how colleges and universities compile financial aid packages, and discuss available local, state and federal aid.
All meetings start at 6 p.m., in each school’s auditorium:
• Jan. 23, Gaither High School, 16200 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., in Tampa
• Jan. 28, Riverview High School, 11311 Boyette Road
• Jan. 30, Hillsborough High School, 5000 N. Central Ave., in Tampa

Speaker series at Saint Leo
Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo, will host these upcoming free events:
• Jan. 28, 7 p.m., University Speaker Series with author Sheryl WuDunn, co-author of “Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide,” about the challenges facing women around the globe.
• Jan. 29, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:20 p.m., Literature for Lunch with poet Joseph Miller. Guests must bring their own lunch.
• Jan. 29, 2 p.m., lecture and book signing with Mary Christine Athans on the topic of “In Quest of the Jewish Mary.”
• Feb. 18, 7 p.m., University Speaker Series with scientist Robert Musil on contemporary sustainability, social responsibility and health issues.
• March 3, 7 p.m., Spring Choral Concert
• April 15, 7 p.m., Spring Sing
For information, visit SaintLeo.edu.

Home education information
Classical Conversations, a Christian home education support group that meets every Tuesday, will host an open house Jan. 28 for an in-depth look at classical conversations. The group engages students ages 4 to 18 in academics and fine arts, and equips parents to classically educate their children at home.
For information, call Michele Rearden at (813) 365-2843, or email .

John Long Middle wants your jeans
The John Long Middle School PTSA is hosting its annual Jeans for Teens drive. Jeans for Teens has collected more than 2.5 million pairs of jeans through Aeropostale, and with the help of drives in more than 12,000 schools, for the homeless youth in the country.
The school, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, has a bin placed in the office for January to collect donations.
Everyone who donates a pair of jeans will receive an Aeropostale coupon.
For information, call the school at (813) 346-6200.

Common Core info meetings
Pasco County Public Schools has scheduled meetings to educate parents and the community about Florida’s new standards for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
Meetings are from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., for parents whose children attend the high schools and the elementary and middle schools that feed into them.
Guests will hear a presentation by district experts, receive materials explaining what the Common Core state standards are, and participate in a question and answer period.
Upcoming meetings are:
• Feb. 6, Land O’ Lakes High School, 20325 Gator Lane, mini theater, Room 500
• Feb. 25, Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, cafeteria
• March 4, Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel, business learning community area

Hillsborough recognized for early reading
Hillsborough County’s campaign to improve reading proficiency among its youngest students has earned recognition as a 2013 Community Pacesetter.
The Campaign for Grade-Level Reading is a nationwide movement to address readiness, attendance, summer learning, parent involvement and reading on grade level by third grade. The United Way and Hillsborough County Schools led the initiative.
More than 50 agencies in Hillsborough County were brought together to develop and implement a community action plan.

December Student Citizens named
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce recognized Student Citizens for December, chosen for exemplary effort, achievement and contribution to their school, family and community. They include, from left, Jacob Smith of Woodland Elementary School, Savannah Woods of Heritage Academy, Laci Carter of East Pasco Adventist Academy, Amber Flanagan of Zephyrhills High School, Alena Chavez of West Zephyrhills Elementary School, Deserae Smith of The Broach School, and Ethan Poe of Florida Autism Center of Excellence. With the children are Santa Claus and Zephyrhills mayor Danny Burgess.

Pilot Club honors Stewart Top Dogs
The Pilot Club of Zephyrhills recognized the Top Dog students for the second quarter from Stewart Middle School in Zephyrhills at a recent luncheon. Students are chosen for serving as positive role models for their peers, based on citizenship, leadership and academics. Students awarded with a certificate and dog tag were Ryan Diaz, Ben Isaacs, Darion Lopez, Paige Zimmer, Logan Castro, Eleanor Wilkerson, Levi Smith, Aleksander Martin, Brooklyn Holmes and George Morris.

Encore Academy to host senior expo
Pasco-Hernando Community College’s Encore Academy will host a Winter Senior Expo on Jan. 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at its East Campus in Dade City, 36727 Blanton Road.
The event is free and participants can learn about services available from area agencies and businesses, and attend mini-seminars on topics such as art and painting, beginning computer, digital photography, and more.
Seating is limited. Registration begins at 10 a.m.
For information, visit PHCC.edu/encore.

‘Bee Bully-Free’ in Zephyrhills
Zephyrhills area schools are encouraging students, teachers and staff to wear black and yellow on the last Friday of each month as part of the “Bee Bully-Free Initiative.” The initiative provides stickers and coloring book pages for schools that request them, participates in the Great American Teach-in, and provides certificates and awards for students who transform from bullies into kinder versions of themselves.
Upcoming black and yellow Fridays are Jan. 31, Feb. 28, March 28, April 25 and May 30.
For information on the initiative, visit Facebook.com/beebullyfree.

Chalk Talk 1-8-14

January 8, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Chorus Christmas program a real treat
The Liberty Middle School Chorus, under the direction of Joseph Canessa, performed ‘A Winter Celebration’ on Dec. 13 for faculty, students and families. Musical selections included classic Christmas songs, interpreted modern songs, and featured individual singers and small groups.

Outstanding social studies teachers honored
The Florida Council for the Social Studies recognized outstanding elementary, middle and high school social studies teachers at a conference in Daytona Beach. Joining Pasco County Schools superintendent Kurt Browning are, in back from left, River Ridge Middle School principal Jason Joens, Wiregrass Ranch High School assistant principal Robyn White, Connie Hines of Wiregrass Ranch, Karen Schmidt of River Ridge Middle, Erin Greco of Denham Oaks Elementary School, Denham Oaks Elementary principal Mardee Powers, Paula Lesko, and school board chair Alison Crumbley.

Encore Academy to host senior expo
Pasco-Hernando Community College’s Encore Academy will host a Winter Senior Expo at several locations. The event is free and participants can learn about services available from area agencies and businesses, and attend mini-seminars on topics such as art and painting, beginning computer, digital photography, and more.
Seating is limited. Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the expo runs until 2 p.m.
The expo dates and locations are:
• Jan. 10, West Campus in New Port Richey, 10230 Ridge Road
• Jan. 17, Spring Hill Campus, 450 Beverly Court
• Jan. 24, North Campus in Brooksville, 11415 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
For information, visit PHCC.edu/encore.

LOLHS interact club car wash
Charter members of the Land O’ Lakes High School Interact civil club, under the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel, will host a car wash fundraiser on Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the LOL Transport & Moving parking lot, located on the corner of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard and Ehren Cutoff. The club is raising money for an international service project to get hygiene kits for Honduras.

Financial Aid information nights
Hillsborough County Public Schools Guidance Services is hosting financial aid information nights for high school students and their families.
Financial aid representatives will explain the financial aid process, review how colleges and universities compile financial aid packages, and discuss available local, state and federal aid.
All meetings start at 6 p.m. in the school’s auditorium:
• Jan. 14, Brandon High School, 1101 Victoria St.
• Jan. 16, Jefferson High School, 4401 W. Cypress St., in Tampa
• Jan. 23, Gaither High School, 16200 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., in Tampa
• Jan. 28, Riverview High School, 11311 Boyette Road
• Jan. 30, Hillsborough High School, 5000 N. Central Ave., in Tampa

One-woman Rosa Parks show
Pasco-Hernando Community College’s 29th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture Series will feature a one-woman monologue by Gwendolyn Briley-Strand called “Rosa Parks: Such a Time.”
There will be a presentation on Jan. 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the North Campus, 11415 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Room B-104, in Brooksville.
There will be two additional performances on Jan. 16. One at 9:45 a.m. at the West Campus Performing Arts Center, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey, and one at 7 p.m. at the Spring Hill Campus, 450 Beverly Court, Room B-105.
The performances are free. For information, call (877) 879-7422.

Chalk Talk 12-25-13

December 25, 2013 By Mary Rathman

Kids Care Club recognized
The Kids Care Club at Veterans Elementary School in Wesley Chapel has been nationally recognized as club of the month for December. The group consists of 45 students and is headed by Yvette Hoff with assistance by Andria Roscart. The club works with local charities and is currently working with the Tampa Bay area Pajama Program. (Photo courtesy of Veterans Elementary School)

College Board recognizes students
More than 70 Land O’ Lakes High School students were recognized for their exceptional achievement on a variety of academic measures on Nov. 21 with a breakfast in their honor at the Land O’ Lakes High School Academy of Culinary Arts.
The students demonstrated the highest qualifying scores on Advanced Placement examinations, earning AP Scholars designation, National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalist ranking, College Board National Achievement Scholar recognition, and perfect sub-scores on the ACT or SAT college entrance exams.
Hallie Grimes was recognized as the Outstanding Senior for the Class of 2014.

Wiregrass offers ACT practice test
Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, is offering the Princeton Review Practice ACT Test and Strategy Session on Jan. 18 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., in the school’s cafeteria. Students should bring No. 2 pencils and a scientific calculator. Lunch will be provided. Check-in begins at 10:45 a.m.
Cost is $15 by Jan. 17, and $20 at the door Jan. 18.
Forms can be picked up at the school’s student services, or online at WiregrassPTSA.org.
For information, call Val Lanza at (813) 426-7399, or email .

Hillsborough graduates are college ready
More graduates from Hillsborough County Public Schools are ready for college upon graduation, according to the latest results from Florida’s Common Placement Tests.
The college-readiness rate for HCPS 2012 graduates who attended college in Florida rose to 72.5 percent, up from 69.1 percent the previous year. The HCPS rate is more than six percentage points higher than the state rate of 66.4, and is higher than all Tampa Bay area school districts and the state’s largest districts.
The Common Placement Test results measure the reading, writing, and math abilities of Florida high school graduates who go on to attend Florida colleges.
For the full Common Placement Tests report, go to the Florida Department of Education website at FLDOE.org/articulation/perfCPT/.

Econom Katlyn accepted to ambassador program
Econom Katlyn of Lutz has been accepted to the Virginia Tech College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences Ambassador Program for the 2013-14 academic year.
The program helps students build on leadership skills and strengthen resumes. Students can take advantage of networking opportunities with faculty, administrators, staff, parents, alumni and prospective students.
Katlyn is majoring in English at the school.

Bonk finds peace in busy career as tennis official

December 18, 2013 By Mary Rathman

You always know when a professional tennis player is performing well. They’re defeating opponents, earning trophies and hearing cheers from the crowd.

The best players become popular and wealthy, and tennis enthusiasts know their name.

Kim Bonk enjoys her love of tennis as an official, working at all levels of the game — from amateur to professional. She was recently recognized by the U.S. Tennis Association for her work behind the scenes of tennis.

But what about tennis officials? They don’t hear any supporters cheer their success. They aren’t popular. They don’t endorse athletic shoes or equipment. And fans don’t know their name.

Usually when they’re recognized it’s because of an unpopular call or a verbal dispute with a player, like the famous court conflicts with player John McEnroe back in the 1980s.

Officials don’t get the accolades, the glory or the money that some players earn, but their job is just as difficult. A player makes several mistakes each game, but can forget about them and bounce back for a victory. But an official is expected to be perfect all the time, stay focused for every point of every game in every set of a match, and stay composed no matter what challenges they have to face.

And they do it sitting by themselves in a large chair overseeing the match, both an integral part of the contest and an invisible spectator.

But occasionally, the best officials will get some recognition for their hard work. On Dec. 7, the U.S. Tennis Association’s Florida section awarded Lutz resident Kim Bonk the Official of the Year award at its annual meeting in Orlando.

“It’s an honor and it’s very humbling,” said Bonk, who also was elected president of the Bay Area Tennis Officials Association in 2013. “After 10 years of hard work, it’s an honor to be recognized.”

Bonk’s desire to become an official stemmed partially from her late entry into the world of tennis. She didn’t start playing until her mid-30s — when many singles players would be retiring — so a lucrative professional career wasn’t in the cards. But after her husband (and avid player) Pete drew her into the game, she wanted to be part of the action.

When the opportunity came up to learn officiating, Bonk took advantage and excelled in the role. Now she works matches at the junior, collegiate and professional level, even serving as line judge at U.S. Open matches.

But regardless of the level of play, Bonk maintains the same attitude heading into the match: She wants to know everything about the rules, and almost nothing about the players.

“Unless I’m in the chair, a lot of times I don’t know who the players are,” she said. “I’ll recognize the face, but I don’t like to know their name, I don’t like to know their seeding, I don’t like to know their ranking. To me they’re just another player on the court. I try not to know anything about them or their playing history so that (the officiating) stays as a non-biased opinion.”

While Bonk remains non-biased, she realizes that those playing the game are naturally biased and emotional, and sometimes that emotion turns into anger and conflict with officials. But when coaches or players get upset, she responds calmly.

When they react unprofessionally, she doles out the appropriate punishment (such as warnings or point or game penalties). And when they later come back and apologize for their behavior — which they often do — she accepts and doesn’t take offense at the outburst.

“People can be upset at you, but it’s not necessarily that they’re upset with you,” Bonk said. “As an official, you have to be there and willing to listen to them, not take it personally and make a decision based on the rules.”

If it sounds like Bonk has an almost superhuman ability to stay calm, her background contributed to her officiating skills. As a former pharmaceutical sales representative, she learned how to interact with a wide variety of customers, read body language, and hone people and listening skills. Now, those same traits have helped her deal with players of different ages, abilities and personalities in her job as an official.

And while it’s a full-time job, being an official is not a traditional 40-hour a week position. She’ll spend many days on the road, then have some time off, then gear up for the start of different seasons. Currently she’s on break, but will have a full schedule from January until May, which will mean officiating junior, college and professional matches all in the span of just a few months.

When Bonk does get some free time, she doesn’t stray far from the court. She’s happy to grab a racket and play recreationally or in a league, and said that playing the game is an important activity for a good official because it allows them to better understand the players and their motivations. But when asked whether she would prefer a great day on the court as a player or as an official, she made a tough-but-decisive call befitting an award-winning official:

“That’s a draw,” she said with a laugh. “They’re both good.”

Chalk Talk 12-11-13

December 11, 2013 By Mary Rathman

Wildcats spring into action
The Wildcat Garden at Wesley Chapel Elementary School is blooming with fruit trees, strawberries, tomato plants, broccoli, lettuce, okra, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables. The NFL Fuel Up To Play 60 and the Dairy Council of Florida provided funds to purchase plants and supplies, and students and volunteers dug in on Wildcat Garden Day to plant, mulch and water the garden. Fourth grade student Sania Siddiqui prepares her pomegranate bush for planting. (Photo courtesy of Wesley Chapel Elementary School)

New space dedicated with prayer and song
Father Stephan Brown and Saint Leo University music instructor Cynthia Selph recently celebrated the renovation of a university campus building to house the music department, along with female members of the Saint Leo Singers, one of the student choral groups. Students and faculty perform in both fall and spring semesters in programs that are free and open to the public, in addition to the annual Christmas program. (Photo courtesy of Erin Skoczylas)

Wiregrass Ranch named distinguished school
Wiregrass Ranch High School has received the Apple Distinguished School designation for the second time.
Apple recognizes a select class of institutions nationwide as exemplary learning environments and centers of innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.
Wiregrass Ranch was recognized for consistently supporting student learning with daily, instructional technology use.

School board elects Crumbley, Luikart
The Pasco County School Board recently elected Alison Crumbley as chairwoman, and Steve Luikart as vice chair.
Crumbley was elected to the District 4 school board seat in 2010 to complete the final two years of Kathryn Starkey’s term when Starkey ran for county commission, and was re-elected in 2012 to a four-year term. Crumbley is marketing director for her family’s real estate company.
Luikart was elected to the District 5 school board seat in 2010, and is serving a four-year term. Luikart is a retired school administrator.

Center for the Arts host school bands
The Center for the Arts at River Ridge, 11646 Town Center Road in New Port Richey, will host a variety of school bands throughout December. All concerts are at 7 p.m., and admission is free. The upcoming schedule is:
• Dec. 11, River Ridge High School Band Concert
• Dec. 12, Cypress Elementary School Band Concert
• Dec. 13, Gulf Middle School Glee and Talent Showcase
• Dec. 14, Mitchell High School Prism Band Concert
• Dec. 16, Moon Lake Elementary School Music Concert
• Dec. 17, Long Leaf Elementary School Choral Concert
• Dec. 18, Calusa Elementary School Band Concert
• Dec. 19, River Ridge Middle School Band and Choral Concert

New Christian special needs school to open
Esther’s School — a special needs school specializing in autism, Down syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and learning differences — is slated to open Jan. 6.
The school will combine a Christian education with individualized learning and character building. Each child will work at his or her own pace. Diagnostic testing and individualized curriculum will be offered.
It will be located at St. James Methodist Church, 16202 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in New Tampa.
For information, call Marilyn Davis at (813) 454-8377 or (727) 544-4700.

Free workshops for child care providers
Hillsborough County Extension offers workshops that provide training and technical assistance to early childhood professionals. The workshops are free for all licensed child care providers in Hillsborough County. For others, the cost is $10.
The upcoming schedule is:
• Dec. 12, 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., Art appreciation for young children
• Jan. 11, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., What does time mean to children
• Jan. 16, 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., How to get parents on your team
• Jan. 25, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Science for preschool children
Registration is required for each workshop, and must be done online at extension.psu.edu/cyttap. Click on the green “state training” tab at the bottom of the page, choose “Florida,” then “Tampa,” and find the workshops.
For information, call Diana Converse at (813) 744-5519, ext. 54140.

New charter school launches website
Classical Preparatory School, a new charter school planned for Land O’ Lakes opening in fall 2014, has launched its website at ClassicalPrep.org.
The website serves as a resource for information about the school’s program, including frequently asked questions, and a letter of interest form for prospective students.

Heather Edwards elected to student government
Heather Edwards, a freshman and psychology major at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., was elected to the school’s student government for freshman class student services for the 2013-14 school year.
Edwards is a native of Lutz.

Chalk Talk 11-27-13

November 27, 2013 By Mary Rathman

Students tap into their creative side
Nine students from Liberty Middle School drew on their creativity to enter the 2013 National PTSA Reflections Art Competition, ‘Believe, Dream, Inspire.’ First place winners were Mackenzie Bray in visual arts, Amanda Yelvington in photography, and Taylor Pfister in dance choreography. These students will now participate in the district level competition. Honoring the three were, from left, principal James Ammirati, Matthew Rothfarb, Isabel Pliska, Bray, Pfister, Madelyn Greco, Kelly Tian, Chloe Kelley, PTSA’s RoseMarie Kelley, Yelvington, and PTSA’s Melissa Aucker.

John Long students take hike for school
Dr. John Long Middle School students celebrate at a party after their Go Take a Hike Walkathon on Oct. 18 netted more than $10,000 for the school. Students bringing in the most pledges were Vashawn Williams, Lucas Pelt and Taylor Bruno.

Red Ribbon Week contest
The National Family Partnership is looking for entries for the new theme of next year’s Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest and oldest drug prevention campaign.
The winning slogan and design will be used throughout 2014 at schools and communities across the United States, and the winner will receive $500 worth of Red Ribbon Week merchandise for their school.
Entries must be received by Dec. 2 via email to , or by traditional mail to National Family Partnership, 2490 Coral Way, Miami, 33145. Entrants must include their name, school, telephone number and email address.
For complete contest rules, visit RedRibbon.org/enter.

New Cambridge program presentations
Pasco Middle and Pasco High schools will launch new Cambridge education programs, developed 150 years ago by the University of Cambridge in England.
Parents with students entering the sixth through 10th grade in the 2014-15 school year, and wishing to learn more, have a choice of two upcoming meetings:
• Dec. 3 at 6 p.m., Centennial Middle School, 38505 Centennial Road in Dade City
• Dec. 5 at 6 p.m., Wesley Chapel High School, 30651 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel
Those who cannot attend a meeting can learn more about the program, its benefits, get application and acceptance requirements, and have their questions answered by school and district officials.
For information on the scheduled presentations, call Linda Cobbe at (813) 794-2717.

Center for the Arts host school bands
The Center for the Arts at River Ridge will host a variety of school bands throughout December. All concerts are at 7 p.m., and admission is free. The upcoming schedule is:
• Dec. 3, Bayonet Point Middle School Band Concert
• Dec. 4, Gulf Middle School Band Concert
• Dec. 9, Hudson Middle School Band Concert
• Dec. 10, Chasco Middle School Band and Choral Concert
• Dec. 11, River Ridge High School Band Concert
• Dec. 12, Cypress Elementary School Band Concert
• Dec. 13, Gulf Middle School Glee and Talent Showcase
• Dec. 14, Mitchell High School Prism Band Concert
• Dec. 16, Moon Lake Elementary School Music Concert
• Dec. 17, Long Leaf Elementary School Choral Concert
• Dec. 18, Calusa Elementary School Band Concert
• Dec. 19, River Ridge Middle School Band and Choral Concert
The Center for the Arts is at 11646 Town Center Road in New Port Richey.

University women book club
The Tampa Branch of the American Association of University Women will meet on Dec. 5 at 10 a.m., for a book discussion on “Aviator’s Wife” by Melanie Benjamin. The group will meet at Barnes & Noble, 11802 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Carrollwood, followed by lunch at Carmel Café & Wine Bar.
For information, call Avis Chaplick at (813) 920-7077.

Mandarin Chinese classes
Those interested in Chinese language and culture, can join a Mandarin Chinese class on Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. The class will be conducted by an experienced Chinese volunteer teacher.
For information, call Michele Laney at (813) 929-1214.

New Christian special needs school to open
Esther’s School — a special needs school specializing in autism, Down syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and learning differences — is slated to open Jan. 6.
The school will combine a Christian education with individualized learning and character building. Each child will work at his or her own pace. Diagnostic testing and individualized curriculum will be offered.
It will be located at St. James Methodist Church, 16202 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in New Tampa.
For information, call Marilyn Davis at (813) 454-8377 or (727) 544-4700.

Free workshops for child care providers
Hillsborough County Extension offers workshops that provide training and technical assistance to early childhood professionals. The workshops are free for all licensed child care providers in Hillsborough County. For others, the cost is $10.
The upcoming schedule is as follows:
• Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Teaching Music to Young Children
• Dec. 10, 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., Math for Toddlers and Preschoolers
• Dec. 12, 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., Art Appreciation for Young Children
• Jan. 11, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., What Does Time Mean to Children
• Jan. 16, 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., How to Get Parents on Your Team
• Jan. 25, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Science for Preschool Children
Registration is required for each workshop, and must be done online at extension.psu.edu/cyttap. Click on the green “State Training” tab at the bottom of the page, choose “Florida,” then “Tampa,” and find the workshops.
For information, call Diana Converse at (813) 744-5519, ext. 54140.

Marching Virginians welcomes Shelby Coleman
Shelby Coleman, an animal and poultry sciences student in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, has become a member of the Marching Virginians at Virginia Tech. Coleman plays the clarinet and is a rank captain.
Coleman is a graduate of Freedom High School in New Tampa.

Chalk Talk 11-20-13

November 20, 2013 By Mary Rathman

Diego Montoya wins essay contest
In honor of Constitution Day in September, the Pasco County’s clerk and comptroller’s office conducted its Constitution Essay Contest for fifth-grade students. First place was awarded to Diego Montoya, center front, a student at Odessa Elementary School. Diego wrote, ‘This document to me is important because as a U.S. citizen it protects my rights. No one can steal them as long as it stands.’ Joining Montoya, from left, are district superintendent Kurt Browning, clerk and comptroller Paula O’Neil, parents Maria and Andres Montoya, teacher Mary Wainwright, principal Teresa Love, and school board chair Cynthia Armstrong. (Photo courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

Service & Safety Fair at Steinbrenner
Steinbrenner High School is hosting a Community Service & Safety Fair on Nov. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for students who need Bright Futures approved volunteer hours. The fair will be in the school’s cafeteria, and there will be several nonprofit organizations available for guests to speak with. Steinbrenner is at 5575 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz.

Music school open house
Claudia’s School of Music in Lutz is hosting an open house Nov. 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can meet the teachers, learn about lessons and programs, and take part in product presentations on digital pianos, guitars, violins, and more. The school is at 17615 Hunting Bow Circle, Suite 102, in Lutz.
For information, call (813) 926-1188, or visit ClaudiasSchoolOfMusic.com.

Academy at the Lakes offers tours
Academy at the Lakes Wendleck Campus, 2220 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, offers weekly group tours as follows:
• Early Childhood Group Tour, prekindergarten and kindergarten, Tuesdays at 9 a.m.
• Elementary group tour, grades 1-4, Thursdays at 9 a.m.
• Middle division group tour, grades 5-8, Wednesdays at 8:45 a.m.
• Upper division group tour, grades 9-12, Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
For information, email .

MOSI offers preschool science
The Museum of Science and Industry, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa, now offers PeeWee Wednesdays, with free preschool science activities every Wednesday, from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. There will be a science activity or demonstration for children younger than 4. Kids eat free in the café with an adult meal purchase.
For information, call (813) 987-6000.

PHCC offers new online social media courses
The Pasco-Hernando Community College corporate training department now offers two new online courses, “Introduction to LinkedIn Career Networking” and “Using Social Media in Business.” Participants can learn to develop business contacts, and use the most popular media platforms to grow and promote their businesses.
To learn more, call (727) 816-3123, or email .

Italian American Club donates to ABC
The Italian American Club has donated $1,000 to the Assist, Believe, and Care programs at R.B. Cox Elementary and San Antonio Elementary schools. The ABC program is designed to provide school supplies, clothing and other essential services to students and families in need.

New charter school launches website
Classical Preparatory School, a new charter school planned for Land O’ Lakes opening in the fall of 2014, has launches its website at www.ClassicalPrep.org. The website serves as a resource for information about the school’s program, including frequently asked questions, and a letter of interest form for prospective students.

Heather Edwards elected to student government
Heather Edwards, a freshman and psychology major at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., was elected to the school’s student government for freshman class student services for the 2013-14 school year. Edwards is a native from Lutz.

University women book club
The Tampa Branch of the American Association of University Women will meet on Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. for a book discussion on “Aviator’s Wife” by Melanie Benjamin. The group will meet at Barnes & Noble, 11802 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Carrollwood, followed by lunch at Carmel Café & Wine Bar.
For information, call Avis Chaplick at (813) 920-7077.

Marching Virginians welcomes Shelby Coleman
Shelby Coleman, a major in animal and poultry sciences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, has become a member of the Marching Virginians at Virginia Tech. Coleman plays the clarinet and is a rank captain.
Coleman is a graduate of Freedom High School in New Tampa.

Chalk Talk 11-06-13

November 6, 2013 By Mary Rathman

LOLHS hosts IB information night
Land O’ Lakes High School will host several International Baccalaureate program information nights for applicants seeking ninth-grade admission in the 2014-15 school year. Upcoming sessions are from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as follows:
• Nov. 7 at John Long Middle School, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel
• Nov. 12 at Weightman Middle School, 30649 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel
• Nov. 14 at Pasco Middle School, 13925 14th St., in Dade City
For information, call Jeff Morgenstein at (813) 794-9429 or (352) 524-9429, or email .
Applications can be downloaded at lolhs.pasco.k12.fl.us.

Stop Bullying workshop
Crossroads Community United Methodist Church, 26211 County Line Road in Wesley Chapel, will host a free Stop Bullying Workshop, presented by Sunrise of Pasco County Prevention Team, on Nov. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Participants can learn to detect signs of bullying, understand cyberbullying, how to help other parents and youth facing bullying, and more. The event is for parents as well as children in grades 6 through 12.
For information, email .

Virtual language clubs offered
Pasco eSchool is partnering with Middlebury Interactive Languages to launch virtual language clubs for elementary-age students.
This is a six-week online language club starting Nov. 11 and running through Dec. 20. Club members will benefit from weekly club sessions that will include interactive and language-rich activities in a virtual group setting.
This is a fee-based program offering instruction in the following languages:
• K-2, Spanish on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m., and French on Thursdays at 4:30 p.m.
• Grades 3-5, Spanish on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m., and French on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.
Students are not required to be Pasco County residents.
The fee is $103.25, and includes a convenience charge for online payment.
To learn more, visit eschool.pasco.k12.fl.us.

Academy at the Lakes tour
Academy at the Lakes Wendleck Campus is hosting a Sunday Fun Day on Nov. 17 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students from pre-kindergarten through first grade can enjoy art, reading and math games with teachers, while parents can tour the campus and learn more about the Academy. Activities are for children ages 3-7, but child care will be on hand for older children to play on the playground.
The campus is at 2331 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.
To RSVP, email .

Corbett hosts open house
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS, a school for pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, is hosting an admissions open house on Nov. 20 at 8:30 a.m. Prospective families can get an overview of the school and will learn about the academic curriculum, as well as the fine arts, sports and technology programs.
The open house includes a tour of the campus. A light breakfast will be served.
The school is at 12015 Orange Grove Drive in north Tampa.
To RSVP or for information, call Jennifer Morrow at (813) 961-3087, or email her at .

Great American Teach-In
Watergrass Elementary School, 32750 Overpass Road in Wesley Chapel, is looking for people from the community and parents interested in participating in the Great American Teach-In on Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Those interested in reading a story, talking about a job, or sharing a hobby, please call Amanda Boria at (813) 346-0600, or email .

Nicole Kandil joins orchestra
Nicole Kandil of Lutz has earned membership in the Bob Jones University Symphony Orchestra in Greenville, S.C. Membership in the top-tier orchestra is by audition only.
Kandil is currently pursuing a degree in music education.

Local students make semifinalist list for National Merit
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has announced the names of approximately 16,000 seminfinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Hillsborough County Public Schools led the state in the number of National Merit semifinalists, with 60 students earning the honor. Local students include:
• Rachel Hargrove and Shahob Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes High School
• Bridget Weber, Sunlake High School
• Stephen Hurley, Steinbrenner High School
• Rohith Ravi, Freedom High School
• Jorge Rodriguez, Sickles High School
• Kiana Outen, Wharton High School
• Chelsea Chitty, Wiregrass Ranch High School

Chalk Talk

October 23, 2013 By Mary Rathman

Veterans Elementary festival
Veterans Elementary School PTA will host an Owl at the Moon fall fundraising festival on the school campus, 26940 Progress Parkway in Wesley Chapel, on Oct. 25 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will include carnival games, inflatables, a dunk tank, photo book, pumpkin decorating contest, music, vendors, and concessions. Proceeds from the event will help the PTA provide essential programs and services to the school.

Air Force colonel to speak at Saint Leo
Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Sheri Andino Straka, a resident of Lake Jovita, will speak at Saint Leo University’s Teco Hall Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. Straka is the recipient of the Bronze Star and the Legion of Merit. She currently is the Air Force JROTC instructor at Springstead High School in Spring Hill where she also serves as the senior aerospace science instructor. Her presentation is one of several special programs in celebration of Saint Leo University’s 40^th anniversary of those who serve the nation. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call (352) 588-7233.

Weightman hosts All Pro Dads
Thomas Weightman Middle School hosted its first All Pro Dads Day breakfast in the school’s media center on Oct. 2. The event connected 75 dads and their middle school students. For an upcoming schedule of more All Pro Dads meetings, visit AllProDad/3830.

Robotic showcase at UT
Robocon Tampa Bay will be held Oct. 26-27 at the Bob Martinez Sports Center at the University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., in Tampa. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. Guests can watch a full-scale robotic competition with massive Frisbee shooting robots, participate in a college and career fair, and learn more about industrial and medical robotics, and tech careers in Tampa Bay. For information, visit RoboconTampaBay.com.

PHCC to host free workshop
Pasco-Hernando Community College will host a free information workshop “Knowing Your Options for High School and Beyond” on Oct. 29 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at its West Campus,10230 Ridge Road, in New Port Richey. Representatives from the Pasco County school district and PHCC will provide information on advanced placement, dual enrollment, International Baccalaureate programs, and more. Space is limited. For reservations, email .

Bridge building contest at Saint Leo
The Department of Mathematics and Science at Saint Leo University, State Road 52 in St. Leo, will host its annual Bridge-Building/Bridge-Breaking competition on Oct. 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the Greenfelder-Delinger boardrooms of the Student Community Center. Students from kindergarten through high school can watch small-scale model bridges built by physics and engineering students be tested for weight. All bridges are destroyed at the end of the event. Those attending also will have a chance to speak to faculty members. For information, call Jo-Ann Johnston at (352) 588-8237.

Nicole Kandil joins orchestra
Nicole Kandil of Lutz has earned membership in the Bob Jones University Symphony Orchestra in Greenville, S.C. Membership in the top-tier orchestra is by audition only. Kandil is currently pursuing a degree in music education.

District launches new online tool
Hillsborough County parents now have the option to use the school district’s new grade book tool, Edsby, which provides classroom assignments and grades. To register, go to sdhc.edsby.com. Parents will need the name of the child’s school, the child’s student number, last four digits of the child’s Social Security number, and the child’s birthday. An Edsby registration video tutorial can be found at sdhc.k12.fl.us. For information, call Grace Posada at (813) 840-7064.

Land O’ Lakes thespians excel
The Land O’ Lakes High School Thespians Troupe 4740, took part in a one-act play competition at Haines City High School over the Oct. 5 weekend. The group performed the play “Drop Dead, Juliet” and went on to receive a rating of Excellent. Cast member Carinne Julien also received the All-Star Cast award.

Heather Edwards elected to student government
Heather Edwards, a freshman at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., was elected to the school’s student government for freshman class student services for the 2013-14 school year. Edwards is a psychology major native from Lutz.

Zephyrhills schools support anti-bullying
Zephyrhills area schools are encouraging students, teachers and staff to wear black and yellow on the last Friday of each month as part of the “Bee Bully-Free Initiative.” In addition, the initiative plans to provide free stickers and coloring book pages to schools that request them, to spread the word by participating in the Great American Teach-In, and provide certificates and awards for students who transform from bullies into kinder versions of themselves. The initiative hopes to sponsor and provide assembly programs, BMX demonstrations, skydiving jump-ins, and team-building and confidence-building games and activities at no cost to schools throughout the school year. For details, visit facebook.com/beebullyfree. Upcoming “Black & Yellow Fridays” are: Oct. 25, Nov. 22, Dec. 20, Jan. 31, Feb. 28, March 28, April 25 and May 30.

Chalk Talk

October 9, 2013 By Mary Rathman

Education recognized in Pasco County
The Pasco Education Foundation received a donation of $10,000 from Humana in support of its educational program at the Sept. 17 school board meeting. Participating in the presentation, from left, are Superintendent Kurt Browning, Pasco Education Foundation operations vice president Stacey Capogrosso, Humana president and chief executive Tom Avramis, Humana’s Tampa director of accounting management Ray Hodorski, and school board chair Cynthia Armstrong.

Sanchez receives UPS scholarship

Javier Sanchez, a senior at Saint Leo University, has been selected to receive a $2,400 UPS scholarship provided through the Florida Independent College Fund.
He is the son of Javier Garcia and Primitiva Garcia, and is a 2011 graduate of Zephyrhills High School.
Sanchez is majoring in sport business and is a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, the Sport Business Association, and Toastmasters. He also has participated in four varsity sports programs.

Human trafficking presentation
The Parent-Teacher-Student Association at Charles S. Rushe Middle School will host Officer Alan Wilkett of the Pasco County Sheriff’s office on Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m. for a presentation on “What Parents Need to Know About Human Trafficking.” Tampa Bay is one of the leading sources for human trafficking in Florida.
Parents of elementary or middle school children who would like to attend should arrange for child care for the evening. The school is at 18654 Mentmore Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.
For information or questions, call Tammy Curtis at (813) 909-4200.

KnowledgePoints celebrates five years
KnowledgePoints Tutoring is celebrating its five-year anniversary with a series of special events throughout October, including an essay contest. There also will be an open house on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
During the month, KnowledgePoints Land O’ Lakes will offer all diagnostic testing free, as well as a savings discount for those that prepay their child’s program.
For information, visit KnowledgePoints.com/landolakes.

USF offers retirement workshop
USF Continuing Education will offer a two-day workshop, “Planning for a Balanced Retirement: It’s Not Just About the Money,” on Oct. 25-26 for adults ages 50-65. It will take place at Unitarian Universalist Church, 11400 Morris Bridge Road, in Tampa.
The workshop will look beyond financial issues and focuses on the personal and psychological process of finding purpose and satisfaction in life.
The workshop is $395 per person before Oct. 14, and $435 per person after Oct. 14. There is a discount for those registering as a couple.
For information, visit conted.usf.edu/transitions.

Home Improvement Education Scholarships
Hillsborough County Public Schools and the Tampa’s city water department are teaming up to support neighborhood revitalization.
Prequalified utility customers may be eligible for scholarships through the Hillsborough Education Foundation. For $50, a prequalified customer can register for a $216 hands-on eight-week home improvement course. The course is designed for adults looking to upgrade their home improvement skills or looking to explore a new career.
The courses are at Erwin Technical Center, 2010 E. Hillsborough Ave., in Tampa, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Oct. 22.
Seats are limited. Vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For information, visit tampagov.net/DIY or call the water department at (813) 274-8121 for a tuition voucher.

District launches new online tool
Hillsborough County parents now have the option to use the school district’s new grade book tool, Edsby, that provides classroom assignments and grades.
To register, go to sdhc.edsby.com. Parents will need the name of the child’s school, the child’s student number, last four digits of the child’s Social Security number, and the child’s birthday. An Edsby registration video tutorial can be found at sdhc.k12.fl.us.
For information, call Grace Posada at (813) 840-7064.

PHCC collects canned food
Pasco-Hernando Community College Human Services Club members will compete in The Volunteer Way’s fundraising competition “Canstruction” on Oct. 18 at the Pasco Government Center, 7535 Little Road, in New Port Richey.
The exhibit will be open to the public Oct. 21-25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
PHCC has a goal to collect more than 1,000 cans of food for the event. All food collected will be donated to The Volunteer Way Food Bank after the competition.
Collection barrels are located in the library on the West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road, through Oct. 17.

Local students make semifinalist list for National Merit
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has announced the names of approximately 16,000 seminfinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Hillsborough County Public Schools led the state in the number of National Merit semifinalists, with 60 students earning the honor. Local students include:
• Rachel Hargrove and Shahob Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes High School
• Bridget Weber, Sunlake High School
• Stephen Hurley, Steinbrenner High School
• Rohith Ravi, Freedom High School
• Jorge Rodriguez, Sickles High School
• Kiana Outen, Wharton High School
• Chelsea Chitty, Wiregrass Ranch High School

Dominguez graduates from Cornell summer program
Devon Dominguez of Odessa has graduated from Cornell University’s summer college program.
The summer program invites high school sophomores, juniors and seniors to spend three or six weeks on the Cornell campus in Ithaca, N.Y., experiencing what it’s like to live and learn at an Ivy League university.
Students take official courses, earn college credits and explore majors and career options.

Beautification project at Watergrass
During the month of September, employees of Lowes Home Improvement store in Zephyrhills volunteered hours to beautify the campus of Watergrass Elementary School in Wesley Chapel. The store donated flowers, shrubs and 100 bags of mulch.
In addition, the employees erected a fence behind the Elf Owl classrooms, providing the students with autism a safe, secure play area.
This group is seeking various equipment donations for use within this area so students can practice gross and fine motor skills, as well as communication and socialization skills.
If interested in donating to this project, contact the school at (813) 346-0600.