Education

Students, older adults connect through light

TAMPA – Lower elementary students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay took part in one of the school’s most cherished traditions: the annual Chanukah celebration with the residents at Aston Gardens. 

The visit began with lively Chanukah songs that filled the room with energy and joy. The residents clapped along, many joining in softly, at first, as familiar melodies sparked memories. 

After uniting in song, students and seniors gathered together around tables for a few spirited rounds of dreidel. Laughter echoed as everyone compared spins, traded chocolate gelt and enjoyed the friendly competition.

The students also brought fresh latkes and applesauce.

Many residents commented on how meaningful it was to celebrate together and how the students’ presence brightened their day.

Performing Arts Series returns

NEW PORT RICHEY – Tickets are on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Performing Arts Series.

• Jan. 9 – Yacht Rock (1970s and 1980s rock).
• Feb. 6 – Dwight Icenhower (Elvis Presley tribute).
• Feb. 27 – Crystal Stark: Divas of Disco.
• March 20 – The Edge Effect (acapella).
• April 10 – Honky Tonk Chicks (Country).

Tickets range from $30 to $35 with discounts available for season ticket packages and groups. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

District names Outstanding Seniors

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has identified 17 students as Outstanding Seniors.

Profiles for each student are available on the district website, highlighting scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and extracurricular activities.

Winners and their schools are as follows: 

• Michael Whittaker, Anclote High School
• Danya Nasiri, Angeline Academy of Innovation
• Lindsay Fulop, Cypress Creek High School
• Braydin Gadouas, Fivay High School
• Miles Slavinsky, Gulf High School
• Mylah Short, Hudson High School
• Sadie Graber, J. W. Mitchell High School
• Mariana Vargas, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
• Emerson Phelps, Land O’Lakes High School
• Parker Baldwin, Pasco eSchool
• Olivia Simmons, Pasco High School
• Logan Owens, River Ridge High School
• Reese Van Brocklin, Sunlake High School
• Lucy Kossoff, Wendell Krinn Technical High School
• Jadon Wilson, Wesley Chapel High School
• Nathan Finkel, Wiregrass Ranch High School
• Ethan Stone, Zephyrhills High School

Pasco County Schools recognizes staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized two staff members Dec. 16 for going above and beyond the call of duty.

• Tina Ray,  of West Pasco Education Academy, not only has more than 25 years of experience in alternative education but also pitches in with programs at the school. 
• Logan Gardner, of Watergrass Elementary School, was nominated for being a supportive teacher and team lead.

Quick Hits

• Lorea Sprackling of Lutz, was elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at The University of Tampa.
• Chloe Benoist of Odessa, was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Students must have an academic average of 3.5 with at least 12 hours to qualify. 
• Benjamin Terlion, of Land O’ Lakes, earned a bachelor’s degree in aviation at Minnesota State University, Mankato. 
• Jenna Backus, of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, won a $40,000 scholarship from the College Board.
• Nirvika Ramsetty, of Oakstead Elementary School, won an essay contest run by Pasco County Clerk and Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.
• Ava Reiners, of Wendell Krinn Technical High School, is nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Program in Career and Technical Education.

Two Good Soles donations help thousands of students

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Government and Constitutional Offices collected more than 8,000 pairs of shoes and socks for kids in Pasco County Schools during the Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive.

This year’s drive resulted in 2,757 pairs of shoes and 5,325 pairs of socks.

Over the past 10 years, the Two Good Soles event has collected 24,813 pairs of shoes and 58,872 pairs of socks, which social workers distribute to Pasco students.

“Ten years and this event has become bigger and better,” said Cathy Pearson, assistant county administrator for public services.  “This is a great way Pasco County bands together to make a positive difference in so many students’ lives.”

All collected shoes and socks are distributed to students enrolled in Pasco County Schools.

Bill seeks to boost student veteran success

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis and Lois Frankel reintroduced bipartisan legislation to authorize funding for Student Veteran Success Centers at colleges and universities nationwide, helping student veterans transition from military to academic life.

“I have personally visited many schools that offer student veteran centers and spoken with the veterans who utilize them,” Bilirakis said. “The veterans confirm that the enhanced services and specialized resources provided through the centers are invaluable as they seek to successfully reintegrate into civilian society. I hope my colleagues will join us in expediting passage of this important initiative.”

Student veterans face unique challenges, including long breaks from school, service-related disabilities, PTSD and family responsibilities, which can lead to higher dropout rates and limited job opportunities.

The Veteran Education Empowerment Act reauthorizes the Centers of Excellence for Veteran Student Success grant program through fiscal year 2033, supporting institutions in creating and operating Student Veteran Success Centers. Since its creation, the Department of Education has awarded nearly $50 million to more than 100 schools, including $4 million to eight institutions in Florida.

Bilirakis launches Kids Online Safety Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis unveiled the Kids Online Safety Act on Dec. 5. 

The legislation provides children, teens and parents with the safeguards and tools needed to better protect against serious online threats to kids’ well-being.

“Children and teens are constantly connected to devices, and their reality is now a blend of virtual and real-world experiences, conditions that have been proven to exacerbate isolation and negative social interactions, such as sexual abuse,” Bilirakis said. “We’ve seen far too many children and teens succumb to tragedy after being exposed to dangers online. After multiple congressional hearings and whistleblower testimonies, there is widespread, bipartisan consensus that Big Tech is failing to mitigate risks, empower parents and safeguard its youngest users. Our legislation will require them to do so.”

KOSA outlines a series of safeguards that Big Tech platforms must implement to protect minors. 

Castor makes nominations to U.S. Service Academies

TAMPA – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor announced 16 Tampa Bay-area students who received nominations for admission into service academies.

Receiving a nomination to one of our nation’s service academies is an essential step towards receiving an appointment. Nominations are earned based on each student’s interview with Castor’s nomination committee, their academic record, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated leadership qualities.

Castor granted her nomination to the following students:

• Berkeley Preparatory School: Decker W. Deady
• Dr. Earl J Lennard High School: Sawyer J. Burns, 
• H.B. Plant High School: William D. Baker and Roman A. Neske
• Jesuit High School: Robert K. Bossowski, Jesse D. Cogburn, Cade C. Holland and Asher Koontz.
• Northeast High School: Malik K. Robinson
• Robinson High School: Nicholas C. Zamprogno
• Salisbury School: John D. Williams, Salisbury School
• Steinbrenner High School: Konrad J. Paradies
• US Military Academy Prep School: Elijah R. Chames, 
• Walter L. Sickles High School: Kaylee M. DeLory, Katelynn R. McEntee and Simon Smith

“These talented students are America’s future leaders,” Castor said. “Their interest in serving our country is a point of pride for our patriotic Tampa Bay community.”

School board reorganizes for 2026

LAND O’ LAKES – Colleen Beaudoin has taken over as chair of the Pasco County School Board.

The board voted unanimously Nov. 18 to appoint Beaudoin to preside over meetings. 

“It’s an honor to serve,” Beaudoin said upon receiving the gavel from Superintendent John Legg.

Al Hernandez will take on the role as vice chair. 

The school board’s 2026 schedule includes meetings at 9:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday and 6 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month with some exceptions, including January, April, July, August, September and December. 

The first meeting of the year will be held at 6 p.m. Jan. 13. 

As part of the board’s restructuring, members were assigned to various committees. They are as follows: 

• Cynthia Armstrong: Student Progression Plan, Architect Selection, Construction Management Evaluation, District Instructional Materials Challenge Review, Property Value Adjustment Board and Investment Oversight.
• Colleen Beaudoin: Pasco Pathways, Student Progression Plan, Early Childhood Programs – Policy Council, Community Engagement Task Force and Salary Referendum Oversight.
• Meg Harding: Pasco Education Foundation Board, Career Education Board, Charter School Task Force, Pasco Pathways and School Site Selection Advisory. 
• Al Hernandez: Government Relations Liaison, Pasco Education Foundation Board, District Insurance and District Instructional Materials Challenge Review.
• Jessica Wright: Health and Wellness Initiatives, Career Education Board, Student Code of Conduct, Wellness Policy Council (students) and Large Capital Project Review Team.

Pasco County Schools recognizes staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized three staff members Nov. 18 for going above and beyond the call of duty.

• Joann Ortiz, a secretary at Cypress Creek Middle, was nominated for work with the school’s ABC (Assist, Believe and Care) Program, as well as food and clothing drives. She also helps bilingual and non-English-speaking families. 
• Robert Leeds, a social studies teacher at Anclote High, was nominated by peers, in part, for serving as a freshman class sponsor, coordinating family nights and school events, and helping as an assistant flag football coach. 
• Latoya Jordan, principal of Lacoochee Elementary, was recognized for creating a collaborative school culture where students and teachers are supported. 

Date set for district awards

LUTZ – The Pasco County Education Foundation will host the S.T.A.R. Awards on Jan. 23 at Grace Family Church.

The event recognizes Teachers of the Year, School Related Personnel of the Year, Non-Instructional Non-Bargaining Employees of the Year and Administrators of the Year. 

“We focus a lot on student achievement, and rightfully so,” Superintendent John Legg said. “The individuals that make a lot of that happen are our teachers. That day is going to be a day of celebration, kind of our best of our best.”

Legg said the community has stepped up to support and celebrate the work of teachers for this year’s program. 

Parent calls out school district

LAND O’ LAKES – Tori Tiffany, of New Port Richey, called out Pasco County Schools at the Nov. 18 school board meeting for not following its policy regarding public records.

She asked the board at a previous meeting why corrected minutes were not placed on the agenda of a regular meeting. She didn’t receive an answer, but noted five of the 10 meetings she mentioned in her request showed up on the Nov. 18 agenda. 

“The district made corrections to all 10 meetings but for some reason, they won’t be transparent with the public regarding not uploading or adding the Let’s Talk public comments.”

She also mentioned that the school board was not following its policies by not having audio recordings of meetings. 

“It’s our elected officials’ duty to be open, transparent and accountable to the citizens they serve,” she said. 

PHSC offers apprenticeship programs

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s construction technician worker and apartment maintenance technician programs have made an impact on the workforce since their launch in 2022.

As of fall 2025, PHSC enrolled 64 apprentices in total, with 21 graduates having completed both the Related Technical Instruction and On-the-Job Training components of their programs. An additional 20 apprentices are currently active, working with local partners and gaining hands-on experience in their respective fields.

“We’re hoping to expand both of the programs as we enter the 2026 spring term,” said Wendy Villa, associate director of workforce development. “We currently have over 60 interested applicants for the AMT program and over 85 applicants for the CTW program. For this upcoming semester, we’re hoping to increase the program to allow for two cohorts of each program, doubling the number of current spots.”

PHSC’s overall job placement rate for apprenticeship graduates is between 80% and 85%, thanks to strong partnership with local companies in Pasco and Hernando counties. 

Many students transition directly from apprenticeships into full-time roles with these companies.

On the web: phsc.edu/academics/job-training/apprenticeships

Support helps at-risk freshmen stay the course 

SAINT LEO – Saint Leo University is celebrating a boost in student success, thanks to the generosity of alumnus Jody “Allan Joseph” Luihn and the Taco Bell Foundation.

Their support has helped provide direct aid to at-risk first time-in-college freshmen through the university’s Retention Task Force.

Through the Access to Excellence Fund, more than $50,000 in one-time scholarships are distributed annually, including Taco Bell Foundation contributions that also support student success in areas of financial literacy, advising and career readiness. 

While the Retention Task Force serves students across multiple groups, the Taco Bell Foundation grant was directed specifically to at-risk freshmen on campus.

In the 2024-25 academic year, 43 at-risk freshmen received critical support to stay enrolled. The program expects to reach more than 130 students facing similar challenges this year. 

Saint Leo’s retention rate jumped 7 percentage points in one year, from 59% to 66%, outpacing the national average for private nonprofit universities.

“This partnership directly impacts our most vulnerable students, providing the confidence and resources they need to succeed,” said Stephen Kubasek, vice president of University Advancement.

Turning Point USA launches pilot chapter

LAND O’ LAKES – Turning Point USA has launched a Middle School Pilot Chapter.

The new chapter will bring middle school students and parents together to learn about the values that have shaped America, such as freedom, community, civic engagement and faith. 

The 501c3 nonprofit strives to inspire the next generation to become informed, engaged and responsible citizens.

Email or search for TPUSA Junior Patriots on Facebook for more information. 

Saint Leo University hosting open house Oct. 25

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University will host a fall open house for prospective students.

High school and transfer students and their families can explore academic programs, campus life and university resources from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 25 at 33701 County Road 52. They are also eligible for a $250 microscholarship if they enroll for spring or fall 2026. 

The event begins with a welcome session at the Wellness Center, followed by campus tours, a free breakfast during check-in, and lunch in the Dining Hall from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Guests can meet current students, learn about clubs and organizations, and connect with faculty at a resource fair featuring degree programs, majors, and minors. 

RSVP by Oct. 22. For details, contact the Office of Admissions at 352-588-8283 or . 

Restauranteur helps first-generation students thrive

1. LEO – Saint Leo University students have until Oct. 15 to apply for the Richard & Melanie Gonzmart Endowment, an annual scholarship created to support first-generation undergraduates with financial need. 

The scholarship, funded by Tampa Bay philanthropists Richard and Melanie Gonzmart, ensures future Lions have the resources to pursue their degree.

For Richard Gonzmart, fourth-generation caretaker of Tampa’s iconic 1905 Family of Restaurants, the endowment reflects his lifelong belief in the power of Catholic education and the importance of helping others.

“It grounds you,” he said. “At Jesuit, the motto was, ‘Men for others.’ That belief in service is what inspired us to support Saint Leo students, especially those who are the first in their families to go to college.”

Recipients must be full-time undergraduate students at Saint Leo’s University Campus, at least rising sophomores, first-generation in college, demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

PHSC earns Purple Star Campus Designation

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College has been designated as a Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education for its support of military-connected students and their families.

The designation is awarded to colleges that support the needs of veterans, active-duty service members and their families. PHSC met several key criteria, including maintaining a veterans services office to assist with GI Bill education benefits, academic advising, enrollment and transition support.

PHSC serves 587 veteran and military-connected students across seven locations. This past academic year, 45 veteran and military-connected students graduated from PHSC.

“Since starting as a coordinator of veteran services three years ago, the team and I have been working together to create new ideas and processes to strengthen and expand our services to military-connected students,” Shelly Beardenn said.

On the web: advising.phsc.edu/resources/veterans

Quick Hits

• Andrew Surin, of Lutz, was among over 500 first-year students who earned more than $9.4 million in merit scholarships to attend Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio this fall. Surin, a graduate of Tampa Catholic High School, majors in psychology. He earned an $18,000 Dean’s Scholarship based on outstanding academic achievements in high school.
• Jillian Rameau, of Lutz, made the summer 2025 dean’s list for earning a grade point average of at least 3.5 at University of Maryland Global Campus in Adelphi, Maryland. 
• Dr. John Long Middle School defeated River Ridge to win the county middle school volleyball championship.
• Pasco County Schools appointed Erin Phelps as assistant superintendent for middle schools. 
• Hillsborough County commissioners congratulated Webb Middle School student Alfredo Castenada Martell for winning the Anti-Bullying Recognition Team Award. 

Saint Leo fast-tracks MBA degree

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University’s Tapia College of Business is offering three MBA pathways streamlined from 36 credits, making it possible to complete a graduate degree more quickly, affordably and with greater specialization.

• 30-credit MBA in Management: This pathway teaches analytical and strategic skills for business management, helping students build on their professional experience to accelerate career growth. “This program offers a convenient and affordable way for working professionals to advance in their careers without putting them on hold,” said Pamela Lee, MBA program director.
• 30-credit Flexible MBA: This pathway allows students to customize their degree with electives from varied fields, including human resources, project management, health care management, marketing and supply chain management. Students gain broader exposure to multiple business fields, helping them become more well-rounded and acquire skills beyond what a traditional MBA offers.
• 33-credit Specialized MBA: Students can choose from specializations that align with the demand from fast-growing industries, including accounting, cybersecurity, data analytics, finance, marketing and health care management. “While we offered a specialized MBA in the past, this year we’ve updated it with new specializations that meet workforce demand in fewer credit hours,” Lee said.

PHSC Foundation offers concerts

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation has announced concerts for its 2026 Performing Arts Series. 

Concerts are as follows: 

• Jan. 9 – Yacht Rock (late 1970s and early 1980s light rock)
• Feb. 6 – Dwight Icenhower (Elvis Presley tribute)
• Feb. 27 – Crystal Stark: Divas of Disco (disco hits)
• March 20 – The Edge Effect (a capella group)
• April 10 – Honky Tonk Chicks (country hits)

Single and season ticket packages are available. Buy them at phsc.tix.com

Student Achievements 

• Tahlia Reynolds, of Lutz, graduated with a master’s degree in philosophy from Georgia State University in Atlanta. 
• Jackson Preacher, of Lutz, made the spring 2025 president’s list and dean’s list as well as earned gold stars at The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. 
• Jackson Reese, of Odessa, made the spring 2025 dean’s list and earned gold stars at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina.

Raising Phoenix Temple University points to resources

WESLEY CHAPEL – Raising Phoenix Temple University held a free public workshop Sept. 16 at SMARTstart – The Grove at Wesley Chapel to help residents secure tuition support for doula certification and other vocational training programs. 

“People with a calling to serve as birthworkers or community wellness professionals often assume education is out of reach,” said Sheree D. Williams, principal chief and founding mother of RPTU. “Our goal is to show them that practical funding paths exist and how to use them.” 

RPTU is recognized by the Florida Department of Education’s Commission of Independent Education and accredited by the International Metaphysical Practitioners Association. 

The university offers live, online, and on-demand programs designed to provide flexibility for modern learners. 

Both RPTU and Williams are active members of SMARTstart, Pasco County’s entrepreneur and business incubator program, furthering their commitment to local economic development and community education. 

On the web: therptu.com  

Venue welcomes field trips

LAND O’ LAKES – Looking for a fun and engaging field trip where your students can discover a world of sustainable innovation and sustainable living, witness regenerative agriculture, renewable energy and recycling? Consider Rosebud Continuum, located at 22843 Hale Road. 

Rosebud Continuum provides an environmental science-focused field trip for students in grades K-12, where they learn about diverse topics regarding sustainability. Demonstration projects are available for each topic.

Rosebud’s living laboratories provide students with authentic learning experiences that connect academic concepts to real-world environmental challenges and solutions.

Field trips can be tailored to specific topics to enhance a grade’s curriculum. 

Email for details.

On the web: rosebudcontinuum.net

Students can enter Florida Bar competition

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Bar has launched its annual High School Appellate Brief Writing & Moot Court Competition, giving students a chance to gain firsthand experience in law and advocacy. 

Sponsored by the Bar’s Law Related Education Committee, the event is open to teams statewide who draft briefs and present arguments on a fictitious case. 

“This event not only provides an in-depth understanding of legal processes but also enhances critical thinking, research and public speaking skills,” said C. Erica White, competition subcommittee chair. 

Top teams will argue before the Florida Supreme Court.

Register at floridabar.org/flmootcourt

Student Achievement

• Oumoukalcoum Seini Tahirou, of Lutz, earned the Master of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia.