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The Laker/Lutz News

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Education

Pasco County School Board wants to alter district’s dress code

September 26, 2023 By B.C. Manion

How long should a student’s blouse be?

That question created considerable debate at the Pasco County School Board’s Sept. 11 meeting.

School board member Colleen Beaudoin urged her colleagues to remove language from the district’s dress code that requires a blouse “extend to the waist.”

She explained: “I, like my peers, would like to see students dress professionally and appropriately for school, but I don’t think it is a big enough problem in our schools that this be mandated in policy.”

The Pasco School District aims to revise its dress code policy regarding the length of a student’s blouse. (Mike Camunas)

She continued: “This is a parental right and responsibility, and the new policy is an intrusion on the parents’ decision-making.

“There are community norms in which we function, and not all tops come to the waist. In our community, at restaurants, at stores, and libraries, this clothing is socially acceptable.

“Parents have the right to choose and monitor what their students wear,” she added.

Additionally, she noted: “There are bigger and more important issues to focus on, and dress code is not a barrier to education. I think we should be focusing on things that truly impact instruction, and I know of no research that shows that what a student wears to school negatively impacts academic performance.

“We want kids in class and engaged in learning, and not being removed from class because of an arbitrary dress code.”

She also delineated more reasons for her stance, including:

  • “Enforcing it is problematic. We’ve seen that. Teachers do not feel comfortable, especially male teachers, addressing this issue.
  • “It pulls our administrators — who are so overworked already from the important work that they need to be doing, like improving student achievement; returning parent phone calls and emails; coaching teachers; doing walk-throughs; and addressing the serious behavior disruptions that occur.
  • “We have not been able to define ‘to the waist.’ We couldn’t even all agree on what that meant, or whether their ‘arms are up or down,’ or, ‘What happens when a student has a shoulder bag, or a backpack, and it pulls at their shirt.’

School board member Al Hernandez said he’s conflicted by the policy.

“When I talked to some of the administrators and some of the teachers, I tend to agree with you,” he told Beaudoin.

He said he’s conflicted because schools are an environment where “we need to, at a minimum, be respectful.”

But he added: “Having a policy in place that creates more controversy, probably should not be in place.”

He also agreed with Beaudoin’s point that the issue really should be a family matter.

“Dress code starts at home. That is a parent decision. The more I think about it, the more I believe that it is a parent’s responsibility to dictate the dress code,” Hernandez said.

School board member Alison Crumbley said she agrees with Hernandez’s point that “policy shouldn’t create problems, it should solve them.”

She told Beaudoin “Your point about some of the male teachers are uncomfortable (enforcing the current code) — that’s a good one. I hadn’t thought about that.”

Crumbley said she’s also bothered by the fact that the policy affects girls, but not boys.

“To me, we have bigger fish that we should be frying. We should be talking about raising our third grade reading scores, and our math scores. These are, to me, the things that we should be focused on right now,” Crumbley added.

But school board member Cynthia Armstrong and board chairwoman Megan Harding both support the policy the way it is.

Armstrong put it this way: “We have a dress code. We have items on the dress code, with the idea that they’re going to come looking professional, looking ready to learn, and how a student dresses might not affect their learning but could possibly affect the learning of the students around them because they’re distracted.

“We say that we’re preparing them for college, career and life. Career? You don’t get to come wearing just whatever you want. There’s an expected dress code for your job. To me, dressing professionally or a way that shows that you’re ready to come and learn, and present yourself in the best foot forward, falls right in line with preparing them for careers and for life.

“So, I do think we need to set a standard.”

Armstrong said she received positive feedback for her position on the issue.

“I talked to some principals, also. I talked to some community people. Quite a few community people came up and said, ‘I totally agree with what you are advocating. I talked to some principals that said, ‘Amazing, the students’ shirts have gotten longer. They managed to find blouses that fall below the waist. So, there’s no problem on that.”

She told her colleagues if they want to remove the verbiage relating to the length of blouses, “we might as well wipe out the rest of the dress code.”

Hernandez asked, “At the end of the day, what are we trying to solve for?

“We’re adding expenses. Whether we like it or not, what we’re asking really, is for some of those parents to buy new clothes. It’s costly.”

He also disagreed with Armstrong’s assertion: “I’m not sure that by removing that line really creates removing the entire policy,” he said.

Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning said he has maintained all along that the board sets policy and that his staff will enforce it. However, he noted, he doesn’t believe this issue goes to the heart of academics. He also told the board a public hearing will be needed on the change because it is a substantive change to board policy.

A public hearing on the issue is set for Oct. 3, with a final vote scheduled for Oct. 17.

Published September 27, 2023

Pasco-Hernando State Colleges selects its fifth president

September 26, 2023 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) District Board of Trustees has selected Jesse Pisors, Ed.D., as the college’s fifth president.

He is succeeding Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D., whose tenure at the college spanned 17 years and who has been PHSC president since 2015, according to a news release from the college.

The board of trustees chose Pisors at its Sept. 6 meeting, at the college’s Spring Hill campus, after the board conducted interviews with the four finalists for the post.

Jesse Pisors

Pisors is expected to take office in early January, and Beard will remain during a transition period before he retires on Jan. 31, according to the release.

“We have full confidence that Dr. Pisors will continue to uphold the college’s core values and will lead PHSC to further success in all future endeavors,” said Lee Maggard, chairman of the college’s board.

Pisors’ career spans over 25 years. He has served as vice president at two public universities: Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMUSA) and University of Houston-Victoria (UHV).

Pisors was selected after an intensive, national search for a successor with the assistance of Myers McRae, an executive and consulting firm.

Information released by the college during the search described Pisors as a seasoned leader in the field of higher education. It said his leadership at TAMUSA showcases his dedication to inclusivity, where more than 75% of the student body is Hispanic and 60% are first-generation students. 

During his tenure at UHV, initiatives included restructuring the Office of University Advancement and executing a $13 million campaign, surpassing its goal by 12%.

His work in the University of Houston system’s $1 billion campaign indicates his involvement on a larger scale.

Pisors holds a Doctor of Education from Texas Tech University, where his dissertation focused on fundraising challenges and expectations facing university presidents.

Fluent in Spanish, he spent three years leading a private K-12 school in Mexico earlier in his career.

He has provided conference presentations and articles to the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), presenting at conferences, sharing his insights on various aspects of educational advancement and serving on conference committees.

Pisors has served on the board for a number of organizations, including Rotary, United Way, the American Heart Association and the YMCA.

The 18-member Presidential Search Committee was chaired by board member John Mitten and made up of business leaders, community representatives, and PHSC faculty and staff.

The position attracted hundreds of applications, resulting in 13 candidates being interviewed for the job.

Mitten expressed gratitude for the efforts of the search committee and to the finalists for taking part in the process, which includes interviews at a Town Hall meeting and receptions hosted at PHSC’s six locations.

To find out more about the search process and the candidates, visit PHSC.edu/about/leadership/presidential-search.

Published September 27, 2023

Chalk Talk 09/27/2023

September 26, 2023 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce)

Student Citizens recognized for achievements
The East Pasco Chamber Foundation in partnership with The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce recognized 11 students as Student Citizens of the Month. Students are chosen by the teachers and administration of their individual schools for exemplary effort, achievement, and contribution to their school, family and community. These students were honored: Allaster Spivey, Academy of Spectrum Diversity; Austin Dick, Children’s Educational Services Elementary Campus; Mikayla Washington, Children’s Educational Services Secondary Campus; Jackie Herrera, Chester W. Taylor Elementary School; Layla Decara, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Karissa Barrington, Heritage Academy; De’Najah Jackson, Raymond B. Stewart Middle School; Josiah Gomez, West Zephyrhills Elementary School; Audney LaPoint, Woodland Elementary; Cameron Sanford, Zephyrhills Christian Academy; and Yaxiel Nieves, Zephyrhills High School.

Donations to help local schools
Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices collected donations for the Pasco County School District and select charter schools’ ABC (Assist, Believe & Care) Program, which was created to provide financial assistance to students and their families experiencing economic hardship.

“These uncertain economic times can provide extra stress upon families who have already had to deal with COVID and other challenges,” said Fasano, in a news release.

“Thanks to the ABC Program or its equivalent in many charter schools, funds can be designated to students and their families who are experiencing hardship or crisis. …our five offices collected monetary donations of $22,500 to help children and their families in their time of need,” Fasano said.

Ten Pasco elementary schools each received $2,000 to be used by its respective ABC Program. Additionally, five Pasco charter schools received $500 each.

  • Cox Elementary School, Dade City
  • Lacoochee Elementary School, Lacoochee
  • West Zephyrhills Elementary School, Zephyrhills
  • Woodland Elementary School, Zephyrhills
  • Lake Myrtle Elementary School, Land O’ Lakes
  • Mary Giella Elementary School, Spring Hill
  • Gulfside Elementary School, Holiday
  • Hudson Primary School, Hudson
  • Sunray Elementary School, Holiday
  • Calusa Elementary School, New Port Richey
  • Dayspring Academy, Port Richey
  • Athenian Academy, New Port Richey
  • Pepin Academy of Pasco, New Port Richey
  • Learning Lodge Academy, New Port Richey
  • Academy at the Farm, Dade City

For more information about the tax collector’s charitable giving programs, contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com.

Donations may also be mailed to the tax collector’s office at: Tax Collector Mike Fasano, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526.

Online donations are accepted, too, at GovHub.com/fl-pasco/tc-gives/donate.

Forensic education
National Forensic Sciences Week (Sept. 17 to Sept. 23) recognizes the value forensic investigations provide to law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office celebrates its diverse Forensic Science entities within its agency, including its Forensic Services Section, F1RST (Florida’s Institute for Research, Security and Tactics), and Explorer Post 916 Forensic Branch.

Forensic investigators collect, catalog and identify evidence from every scene and achieve this through an array of techniques from evidence collection in traditional settings to finding ways to adapt to Pasco County’s landscape.

Many PSO forensic investigators also take part in specialty teams: Underwater Recovery, Critical Incident Stress Management, Missing & Abducted Children Team, and more.

The PSO Forensic Services Section uses skills and specialties such as crime scene documentation and reconstruction; specialized photography; latent print processing, comparison and identification; DNA collection; and blood pattern analysis. Visit PascoSheriff.com for more information.

The F1RST program provides a more research-focused approach to the forensics field, and includes an in-house forensic anthropologist, who often joins PSO investigators on cases, working to identify those whose remains were discovered in a variety of cases. For more, visit FloridaFirstTraining.org.

Explore Post 916 offers an innovative forensics branch that introduces younger members (ages 14 to 21) to forensics sciences. The program is a science-based look at forensic roles, outside of what is traditionally thought of as a responsibility of a law enforcement officer. Visit https://pascoexplorers.pascosheriff.com/ for information.

International Conference
Saint Leo University’s Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies is one of the organizers of the upcoming international conference, “New Documents from the Pontificate of Pope Pius XII and their Meaning for Jewish-Christian Relations: A Dialogue between Historians and Theologians,” from Oct. 9 to Oct. 11, in Rome.

The conference also will be livestreamed, in Italian and English, online at YouTube.com/unigregoriana.

The conference goal is to shed new light on the historical and theological controversies concerning Pope Pious XII and the Vatican during the Holocaust period and on Jewish-Christian relations at multiple levels.

Structured in seven sessions, the conference will address the most complex issues, both in the historical-diplomatic implications and in the social, religious and cultural ones, which led to an irrevocable reformulation of the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people in the following decades.

Registration is open to the public and due by noon on Oct. 2, online at tinyurl.com/2s35d4fu

Published September 27, 2023

Dayspring Academy breaks ground on Angeline Campus

September 19, 2023 By Mike Camunas

Here they grow again.

Dayspring Academy, with its five other locations in Port Richey, once again is expanding — this time coming to Central Pasco. The charter school broke ground on Sept. 14 on its PreK-5 Angeline Campus in northern Land O’ Lakes.

Dayspring Academy Angeline Campus Principal Diana Greenier could not contain her excitement seeing the dozens who came out to the official groundbreaking ceremony on Sept. 14. (Mike Camunas)

The school will be operating in a partnership with Pasco County Schools and with the newly opened Angeline Academy of Innovation.

“It really is ‘Here We Grow Again’ because that’s always our goal and then we always ask, ‘Where is our next project or school?’” Angeline Campus Principal Diana Greenier said, following the groundbreaking ceremony. “We are just making sure that any child, no matter what their background is, they have that opportunity to have an education. We’re not better or worse than any other school, but we have the niche — we have the arts infused with character infused with the content and maybe it’s not for everybody, but it is for those people that want a different opportunity that some other school can’t provide.

“It’s not a competition. We’re not out to be better — we’re just out to provide another option, a different niche and something a little bit different.”

For 24 years, Dayspring Academy has been an A-rated institution providing education through a fusion of arts and technology. It focuses on providing students with a holistic education with essential academic knowledge through creativity, critical thinking and digital literacy.

Now, they have partnered with Pasco Schools to provide a tuition-free charter school, at 9371 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. It will be situated on 20 acres of land in front of the Tierra Del Sol community, as the property is under construction for the athletic fields to Angeline Academy of Innovation.

Dayspring Academy board members and officials, and Pasco County Schools representatives and construction representatives lift up the official groundbreaking dirt on Sept. 14 for the charter school’s Angeline Campus, which will be located at 9371 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., next to Angeline Academy of Innovation’s athletic fields. The PreK-5 school was made possible through $25 million in financial backing from Pasco County Schools impact fees and will open August 2024.

Dayspring Academy CEO John Legg told The Laker/Lutz News the new campus would not have been possible without the $25 million that Pasco County Schools is using from the impact fees it collects from new residential development.

Dayspring Academy will own the Angeline Campus and the 50,000-square-foot building, which will include a full-kitchen cafeteria that can also double as a black box theater, or a performance space with black walls and a flat floor.

Greenier added the charter school also will have full access to the athletics fields.

“We’re so excited about the athletic fields because we’ve never had a field or a gym or anything that even resembled that,” Greenier said. “We’ve never even had a little area for the PE teacher to go inside, and, as hokey as that sounds, it’s true. “It’s the little things like that people don’t realize that give our kids those little extra things that we never had.

“I even think that the district underestimated the gift that they have given us,” she added. “We’re a Pasco County charter public school. To get the financial backing from the district, to hear we believe in you guys — it’s the biggest compliment and opportunity to get something like this that we wouldn’t be able to do without the district and their faith in us.”

Greenier, who has been with Dayspring Academy as an employee and the parent of a former student for 20 years, said it has been a goal for the institution to expand out of the Port Richey area for a while, aiming for a campus in the East and Central Pasco areas.

She added many of Dayspring’s buildings have been donated or procured through funding. And as a longtime Dayspring employee, she’s not only honored to be the new principal, but overjoyed to see the Angeline Campus from the ground floor up.

Dayspring Academy will be adding a new PreK-5 school in Land O’ Lakes. It already has five campuses.

“When we saw the (building) forms there (on the property in Land O’ Lakes), once that hit us, it was the real deal,” Greenier said. “This real particular moment (at the groundbreaking), to see kids who have been through our schools and employees come back after leaving, that’s crazy — it made me emotional to see them, to see the commitment to Dayspring and it’s a big deal to see something Mr. and Mrs. Legg started way back — and it’s here to stay.

“To be able to take our program and be able to expand it to so many people in Pasco County, that has been a huge goal for us to finally see come to life.”

DaySpring Academy Angeline Campus
Where: 9371 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
When: Opening August 2024; enrollment begins Feb. 1, 2024
Details: A learning institution dedicated to high-quality education through a fusion of arts and technology in a collaborative environment to prepare students for high school, college and the workforce. Dayspring Academy has five other locations located in Port Richey.
For more information, visit Dayspring.academy/angeline.

Published September 20, 2023

Suzanne Legg, CEO of Dayspring Academy, speaks to dozens in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Angeline Campus, coming soon to Land O’ Lakes.
Decorative cookies featuring the Dayspring Academy Angeline Campus logo were provided to those attending the groundbreaking festivities.
Construction is underway for the Dayspring Academy Angeline Campus, as well as athletic fields that will be shared between the charter school and Angeline Academy of Innovation.

Pasco County School Board adopts nearly $2 billion budget

September 19, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Pasco County Schools’ budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year is just slightly under $2 billion.

The Pasco County School Board adopted the budget during its second public hearing, held Sept. 11.

Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning provided an overview of the budget for the board and public.

The actual 2023-2024 budget amount is $1,996,021,940, which is an increase of $189,409,710 — representing a 10.5% increase, Browning said.

That budget includes all funding types, not just locally generated revenue, the superintendent noted.

“The total tax millage for the 23-24 fiscal year is 6.449 mills. That’s an increase of .933 mills,” Browning said.

Without the 1 mill voter-approved tax to improve salaries for teachers and non-administrative personnel, the district’s tax rate would have been lower by .67 mills, the superintendent added.

One mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of taxable value.

Browning said a homeowner of a $350,000 home, taking into account a $25,000 homestead exemption, would pay $2,096 in taxes. That represents an increase of $303 over last year.

The superintendent offered this rundown on the budget. It includes:

  • A general operating budget of nearly $997.1 million, of which $53 million is from the voter-approved 1 mill increase.
  • A capital budget of $520 million
Operating costs for Angeline Academy of Innovation, plus construction costs for that school’s athletic complex, are part of Pasco County Schools’ 2023-2024 budget. (File)

The operating budget is increasing from $850 million to $997 million, and the capital budget is decreasing by $14 million, Browning said.

He noted the district received $59 million more in state funding, to accommodate a projected growth of 3,479 students and recurring expenses.

He then detailed how some of that $59 million will be spent.

Approximately $11 million will be set aside for charter schools, which are public schools, he said.

About $8 million is set aside for Family Empowerment Scholarships, which the state uses to provide scholarships to private schools.

Other expenses being paid with the additional state funding include $7 million for Florida Retirement System increases, $3 million for health insurance increases, and $3 million for software licenses, utilities and School Resource Officer contract increases.

The 2023-24 budget also includes an increase of 158 school allocations, for an increase of $12 million, Browning said.

He also noted: “There were no increased allocations at the district office, at the district level.”

Additionally, there’s an increase of $1.4 million for allocations and operating costs for the opening of Angeline Academy of Innovation, which opened in August, and for Kirkland Ranch K-8 school, which will open in August 2024.

Browning attributed the decrease in the district’s capital budget to a spending down of bond proceeds on construction projects.

He listed these major capital projects:

  • Completion of the construction of Gulf High School
  • Completion of construction of Kirkland Ranch K-8 school
  • Completion of the Starkey Ranch K-8 wing
  • Completion of the Angeline Academy athletic complex
  • Major renovations of West Zephyrhills Elementary School and Pasco High School

Other capital projects include: Marchman Technical College structural and roofing construction, infrastructure upgrades at various schools and HVAC system replacements.

Speakers at the public hearing urged the board to cut back on spending. They said they and other property owners simply can’t afford the increases.

School board member Cynthia Armstrong noted that the voter-approved tax increase is intended to help the district deal with a persistent problem.

“The whole reason for the salary referendum — the reason it was voted (approved) by over 60% of the voting population was because they saw the need for us to improve the salaries of our non-administrative people, because we were not competitive with the surrounding counties.”

Browning noted: “I’ll be the first to admit and maybe I shouldn’t be saying this, but I’ll be the first to admit, I don’t like the (tax) increase I saw on my house. I did not like it.

“But I will tell you that I know that the increase for the teacher salaries was certainly needed. I voted for it. It was certainly needed in order for us to stay competitive and to continue to have great teachers in our classroom. And, we are getting teachers from Hillsborough, Pinellas and Hernando counties,” he said.

Published September 20, 2023

Chalk Talk 09/20/2023

September 19, 2023 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Patricia Serio)

A boost for Miles Elementary students
GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club members delivered a van filled with school supplies to Miles Elementary School in Tampa. The women donated and collected supplies for four in-need schools in the area, which they support every year. The school posted a thank you to the club on its marquee. Club members Cheryl Winegar, left, and Marcy Edmonson, right, flank Deborah Mora, Miles’ guidance counselor. For information about the club, visit its Facebook page or GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org.

Academy at the Farm recognized
The Academy at the Farm FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter has been recognized as a three-star national chapter and is a top-five finalist for the National FFA Middle School Model of Excellence award at this year’s National FFA Convention, according to an email from the school.

Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership. National FFA recognizes the top chapters with innovative activities in each of the three divisions: growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters that receive three-star ratings during judging are eligible to compete for the premier chapter awards.

Academy at the Farm members participated in a variety of activities during the 2022-2023 school year to qualify for this recognition, including organizing a pep rally for the school’s fair exhibitors, donating seed packets to the local library for its patrons and sponsoring a petting zoo at the Dade City annual Christmas Stroll, to merit their three-star status.

In November, FFA sponsor Robin Carter and several FFA members, will travel to Indianapolis, Indiana, to attend the National FFA Convention. They are currently seeking help to raise funds to get as many members as possible to attend the event.

For $5, you can sponsor a mile of their 967 mile trip. For $100 you can be a pit stop sponsor and have your name or business name on the back of their special edition Proud Supporter T-shirt.

To participate, visit AATF.wufoo.com/forms/q133k7fi18b3zd5 or AcademyAtTheFarm.com.

After-School Program
The Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, will host Early Release Day After-School Programs to coincide with Pasco County Schools’ early release dates: Oct. 4, Nov. 1, Dec. 6, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 13 and April 10. The programs are free and geared to second- to fifth-graders. There will be structured games, sports, and arts and crafts.

Program spots are limited and each date opens three weeks prior at 8 a.m. Registration can be done in person or online at secure.rec1.com/FL/pasco-county-fl/catalog. For more information, call 813-929-1220.

SONIC Foundation donations
SONIC Drive-In is dedicated to getting teachers and students the classroom supplies they need for the new school year. In August, the SONIC Foundation donated $1 million to help fund requests on DonorsChoose, a national nonprofit that allows individuals to donate directly to public school classroom requests submitted by teachers, according to a news release.
The $1 million donation is part of the SONIC Drive-In brand’s ongoing Limeades for Learning initiative.
The following schools received support for their teachers through the funding:

  • Lutz K-8 School, Lutz: $96 for “Classroom Necessities” for grades six to eight 
  • Sanders Memorial Elementary School, Land O’ Lakes: $107 for the project, “Magical Reading Nook for Little Bookworms!” for prekindergarten through second grade
  • Walker Middle School, Odessa: $168 for “Wobbling Into Small Group Engagement” for grades six to eight
  • Westside Elementary, Spring Hill: $61 for “Bold, Colorful Seating” for prekindergarten through second grade

Through the Limeades for Learning initiative, the brand donates a portion of proceeds from every drink, slush and shake purchase to the SONIC Foundation, which is used to support local public education. Since 2009, SONIC has donated more than $26 million to funding local classrooms, becoming one of the largest programs in the U.S. to support public education, the release said.
Visit DonorsChoose.org to donate to the public school teacher requests seeking support to provide students with educational resources.

Student achievement
Kierra James, of Odessa, was recognized to the summer Dean’s List at Georgia State University, Atlanta.

Performing Arts Series
Tickets are now on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Inc.’s 2023-2024 Performing Arts Series. All shows are at 7 p.m., at the PHSC Performing Arts Center, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey.
The concert line-up includes:

  • Dec. 1, The Atlantic City Boys
  • Jan. 19, She Will Rock You!
  • Feb. 23, The Olivia Show
  • March 15, The Beatle Maniacs
  • April 5, The Majesty of Rock

Tickets are $30 to $35. Season tickets are automatically discounted 15%. Groups of 10 or more can use code 15OFF. To purchase tickets, visit Tix.com/ticket-sales/phsc/1015.

For information, contact Jen Ferguson at 727-816-3431 or ">.

Price increases for new West Zephyrhills Elementary

September 12, 2023 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County School Board approved an agreement with Wannamacher Jensen Architects Inc., in May, with the company’s initial fee based on an estimated cost of $39 million for a project to essentially replace the existing West Zephyrhills Elementary School, at 37900 14th Ave., in Zephyrhills, with a new facility.

But, according to background materials for the school board’s Aug. 22 meeting, “there have subsequently been changes that have resulted in an increase in both the scope of work and in the overall square footage of the new building.”

As a result, the agenda materials add: “This has increased both their design and construction administration work significantly since their original proposal, not least of which is the impact of the new building location and the additional civil services required, which has resulted in an increase to the overall construction budget.”

That new overall construction budget is $51 million.

The changes have led to an increase in the architect’s original fee of $1,006,805 to a new fee of $3,804,240, according to the agenda packet.

The school board approved the change, as part of its consent agenda, without discussion.

Published September 13, 2023

Chalk Talk 09/13/2023

September 12, 2023 By Mary Rathman

From left: Eileen Belanger and Zelia; Dee Reed and Boo; Debbie Smith and Shelby; Karin Glessner and Maizie; and Deborah Meyer and Ginger visit James Marlow Elementary School for a special reading event. (Courtesy of Corey Dierdorff, Public Information Officer, Pasco County Schools)

Local therapy dogs visit students
In line with Pasco County Schools’ commitment to expanding literacy among its students, local therapy dogs paid a visit to James Marlowe Elementary School in New Port Richey for a special reading event, “From Woofs to Words.”

A young reader at James Marlowe Elementary shares a book with a local therapy dog during a special reading event at the school.

Six therapy dogs and their handlers recently took the time to read to approximately 100 students. This unique initiative exemplifies the school district’s belief in innovative approaches to enhance the reading experience and bolster literacy rates, according to a news release.

The event also aligns with the district-wide “15 Million Minute R.A.C.E. for Reading” program, which champions the goal of logging 15 million minutes of reading this school year.

“We always explore diverse ways to excite our students about reading. Integrating therapy dogs

and our 15 million-minute RACE for reading program are just a few examples of Pasco County

School’s dedication to fostering a love for literature and achieving our ambitious reading goals,”

Superintendent Kurt Browning said, in the release.

Plant/Animal Teacher Boxes
Hillsborough County Teachers and homeschool parents can sign up today to receive a “tool” box filled with lessons on invasive plants and animals (limited quantities available). The boxes give access to an online Canvas Module and video created by Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful.

To claim a box on animals, visit http://tinyurl.com/yba7cc4z.

To claim a plant box, visit http://tinyurl.com/yjrb8558.

Boxes will be ready for pickup on Sept. 25, at 730 W. Emma St., in Tampa. For information, call 813-221-8733, or email .

There also will be a giveaway of plants for three butterfly gardens, which can be planted at a school or in an approved city or county area in October or November.

Absentee Awareness Month
Pasco County Schools is on a mission to ensure every student shines brightly in the classroom, as it recognizes Absentee Awareness Month in September.

“Every morning is a new opportunity. When parents and guardians actively participate in their child’s morning routine, it’s like lighting a spark for their entire day,” said Superintendent Kurt Browning, in a news release.

“Together, we can fan that spark into a flame of academic achievement by being involved with starting our children’s day on the right foot,” said Browning. 

  • Why Attendance Matters: Students with consistent attendance achieve greater academic heights due to increased instructional time. Missing just two days a month is 10% of a school year.  High absentee rates can lead a student down the path of dropping out. Alarmingly, a 10% or higher absentee rate can steer a child towards future crime and unemployment. Statistics show that the two largest age groups impacted are students in the third and eighth grades.  
  • Get Involved: Parents can dive into Pasco Schools’ website (Pasco.k12.fl.us) for practical tips to ensure their child is school-ready every day.  Join in the conversation by speaking with your kids and family about the importance of school attendance.  Parents, guardians and community members are encouraged to be the change-makers in a child’s academic journey. 

During the month of September, Pasco County Schools will share valuable tips to help students, which will be highlighted on its website, shared across its social media platforms, and communicated directly to parents through district messaging platforms.

Pasco County Schools is committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. 

YEA! Awards
Hillsborough County has opened nominations for its Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards) now through 9 a.m., Sept. 18.

Nominations can be submitted for both middle and high school students in each of these categories:

  • Leadership — demonstrating positive impact on others in an ongoing endeavor, such as sports, academics or the arts
  • Success Despite Difficult Odds — overcoming tremendous personal difficulty to attain success and make a positive impact on others
  • Volunteer or Community Service — allocating discretionary time to help others or complete a project that has improved the community

Students honored show initiative, innovation, and a commitment to themselves and others, while pursuing excellence in a leadership capacity. This can be demonstrated in academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation, or other areas.

Submissions will be reviewed by the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women.

The YEA! Awards will be presented by the Board of County Commissioners in June.

Nomination forms can be found online at HCFLGov.net/YEA.

Student achievements
These local students were recognized at Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester: 

  • Dean’s List — Tara Fisher, Kelsey Gulic
  • President’s List — Troy Bacon, David Hernandez, Timothy Hicks, Preeti Sameera Batchala, Matthew Stewart and Steven Turpin

Also, Noah Kilpatrick, of Lutz, earned a Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration from The University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa.

Leadership Training
The North Tampa Bay Chamber in partnership with the Florida Institute for Political Leadership (FIPL), an initiative by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, will host a virtual Campaign School & Community Leadership Training on Sept. 27 and Sept. 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., each day.

The virtual training is recommended for candidates and anyone interested in running for local or state office, serving their community or managing campaigns. 

Training is free and nonpartisan. Participants can attend one or both days.

The sessions will provide a comprehensive briefing on emerging local and state issues, teach attendees on what local opportunities are available for appointed or elected positions, offer guidance on how to prepare to run for office in the future, and provide training on how to run winning campaigns.

Registration is online at FIPL.org/Register.

After-School Program
The Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, will host Early Release Day After-School Programs to coincide with Pasco County Schools’ early release dates: Oct. 4, Nov. 1, Dec. 6, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 13 and April 10.

The programs are free and geared to second- to fifth-graders. There will be structured games, sports, and arts and crafts. Program spots are limited and each date opens three weeks prior at 8 a.m. Registration can be done in person or online at secure.rec1.com/FL/pasco-county-fl/catalog.

For more information, call 813-929-1220.

Performing Arts Series
Tickets are now on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Inc.’s 2023-2024 Performing Arts Series. All shows are at 7 p.m., at the PHSC Performing Arts Center, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey.

The concert line-up includes:

  • Dec. 1, The Atlantic City Boys
  • Jan. 19, She Will Rock You!
  • Feb. 23, The Olivia Show
  • March 15, The Beatle Maniacs
  • April 5, The Majesty of Rock

Tickets are $30 to $35. Season tickets are automatically discounted 15%. Groups of 10 or more can use code 15OFF. To purchase tickets, visit Tix.com/ticket-sales/phsc/1015.

For information, contact Jen Ferguson at 727-816-3431 or ">.

Chalk Talk 09/06/2023

September 5, 2023 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Pasco Sheriff’s Office)

School zones are everyone’s responsibility
Roads, sidewalks and pathways experience more traffic during the school year and require additional caution. Keeping students, families and schools protected is everyone’s responsibility, according to a Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO) news release.

The PSO shares these tips to keep school zones, where students travel to and from school, safe:

  • Eliminate distractions when driving, such as phones.
  • Take time to learn school bus stop laws to know how to properly obey their lights and signs.
  • Follow posted speed limits, which are reduced in school zones, and obey all traffic laws and directions.
  • Pedestrians and bike riders must follow the rules of the road, including obeying safety signals and crossing at crosswalks, where drivers expect pedestrians to cross.

It is important to slow down and pay attention no matter how you travel, to help keep students, families, neighborhoods and communities safe.

Homeschool Morning
The Tarpon Springs Aquarium, 1722 N. Pinellas Ave., in Tarpon Springs, will host a Homeschool Morning: Backyard Florida Adventure on Sept. 7 and Sept. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., for kindergarten through fifth grade. The event will feature hands-on activities and live animals. The cost is $10 per person (ages 2 and older); $5 per annual passholder (includes day pass admission). For information, visit Tarpon Springs Aquarium on Facebook.

Student achievement
Colin Frederick Gaynor, of Odessa, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business.

YEA! Awards
Hillsborough County has opened nominations for its Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards) now through 9 a.m., Sept. 18.

Nominations can be submitted for both middle and high school students in each of these categories:

  • Leadership — demonstrating positive impact on others in an ongoing endeavor, such as sports, academics or the arts
  • Success Despite Difficult Odds — overcoming tremendous personal difficulty to attain success and make a positive impact on others
  • Volunteer or Community Service — allocating discretionary time to help others or complete a project that has improved the community

Students honored show initiative, innovation, and a commitment to themselves and others, while pursuing excellence in a leadership capacity. This can be demonstrated in academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation, or other areas.

Submissions will be reviewed by the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women.

The YEA! Awards will be presented by the Board of County Commissioners in June.

Nomination forms can be found online at HCFLGov.net/YEA.

Performing Arts Series
Tickets are now on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Inc.’s 2023-2024 Performing Arts Series. All shows are at 7 p.m., at the PHSC Performing Arts Center, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey. The concert line-up includes:

  • Dec. 1, The Atlantic City Boys
  • Jan. 19, She Will Rock You!
  • Feb. 23, The Olivia Show
  • March 15, The Beatle Maniacs
  • April 5, The Majesty of Rock

Tickets are $30 to $35. Season tickets are automatically discounted 15%. Groups of 10 or more can use code 15OFF. To purchase tickets, visit Tix.com/ticket-sales/phsc/1015. For information, contact Jen Ferguson at 727-816-3431 or .

Shoes & Socks Drive
The eighth annual Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway with Pasco County Government and Constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County Schools.

“It’s not just about providing a new pair of shoes and socks to each child in need,” said Paula Baracaldo, Pasco County support services director, in a news release. “It’s about giving them a sense of dignity and security. It’s about enabling Pasco County schoolchildren to focus on things other than basic needs,” said Baracaldo.

The types of new shoes and socks that are needed include:

  • Children’s shoe sizes 9 and up
  • Adult shoes in all sizes
  • Socks in all sizes/neutral colors
  • Closed-toe shoes only/no flip-flops

Donations can be dropped off in collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations and the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller, Property Appraiser, and Tax Collector offices (visit PascoTaxes.com). All new shoes and socks will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October.

Grant applications open
Applications are now open for the 2023 McDonald’s Golden Grants program. McDonald’s owner/operators across Florida, southeast Georgia and southeast South Carolina will select educators, nonprofit organizations, and the like, who represent programs that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students, as recipients of a grant.

This year, 27 Golden Grants will be awarded in the following amounts based on creativity and hands-on application of projects:

  • Three grants in the amount of $10,000
  • Seven grants, $5,000
  • 12 grants, $2,500
  • Five grants, $1,000

Qualifying activities include arts programs, education initiatives, mentorship and empowerment programs, after-school programs, community service, sports activities, and technology.

To apply, visit GoldenGrantsFl.com through Sept. 15. Winners will be announced on Oct. 12.

School Fishing Club
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s 2023-2024 School Fishing Club Program is now open for registration.

This annual educational program focuses on teaching youth anglers about best fishing practices to help ensure the future of fishing in Florida.

To register, club sponsors need to apply for a Florida R3 Fishing Grant, which is funded by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, Coastal Conservation Association, and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida. 

The grant will award up to 50 school fishing clubs or teams $500 each to assist with club expenses, such as the purchase of fishing licenses or gear for participants.

The grant application period is open until Sept. 15, but grant funding is not required to participate in the fishing club program.

To be considered for the grant, school fishing clubs or teams must have a minimum of five members and be represented by a school faculty member or parent.

Each participating club will be provided with program curriculum and educational materials. The curriculum consists of lessons and activities on ethical angling, conservation, Florida’s aquatic habitats, basic fishing gear, and general fishing concepts, applicable to both fresh and saltwater fishing.

Additionally, at least one conservation project activity must be completed each school year and is an opportunity for clubs to earn points for a chance to win prizes.

Applications can be found online at MyFWC.com/SFC, by scrolling down to “Florida’s R3 Fishing Grant Program.” The deadline for submitting applications is Sept. 15.

Academy at the Farm plans to launch high school

August 29, 2023 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County School Board has approved an amendment to Academy at the Farm’s charter contract that allows the school to begin phasing in a high school program, starting in 2025-2026.

The school has been granted its request to add ninth grade, in the 2025-2026 school year, and to add one grade level each year,  to phase in grades nine through 12, according to materials in the Pasco County School Board’s Aug. 22 agenda packet.

The charter school, at 9500 Alex Lange Way in Dade City, is operating under a 15-year renewal contract amendment adopted by the Pasco school board on Aug. 1, 2013.

Academy at the Farm, at 9500 Alex Lange Way, currently serves kindergarten through eighth grade, but plans to phase in a high school beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. (File)

In the 2025-2026 academic year, the school plans to increase its total student enrollment from 700 students to 876 students.

Under its high-performing status, Academy at the Farm intends to fully implement a high school campus serving grades nine through 12 in 2028-2029, the background materials say.

Its anticipated enrollment is:

  • 876 students in grades kindergarten through nine, in 2025-2026
  • 976 students in grades kindergarten through 10, in 2026-2027
  • 1,076 students in grades kindergarten through 11, in 2027-2028
  • 1,176 students in grades kindergarten through 12, in 2028-2029.

The school board approved the action as part of its consent agenda. Items on the consent agenda are approved in a single vote, without comment, unless someone pulls an item from that agenda for discussion.

About Academy at the Farm
Where: 9500 Alex Lange Way, Dade City
Details: Academy at the Farm is a K-8 charter school that intends to phase in high school, beginning in 2025-2026. The school focuses heavily on higher education, but also has several agricultural aspects, such as a working farm, livestock, crops and more. Any parent can apply for their child or children to attend Academy at the Farm; however, there is a lottery list that resets every March, and it has a long waiting list.
Info: Visit AcademyAtTheFarm.com.

Published August 30, 2023

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09/29/2023 – Teacup Fairy Garden

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10/03/2023 – Drawing Workshop

The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host a Drawing Workshop: Exquisite Corpse, on Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., as part of its Museum + Art Series. Participants can learn about the exquisite corpse drawing method and create a drawing inspired by surrealist artists. Registration is required; call 727-815-7126. To learn more, visit MOMA.org/collection/terms/exquisite-corpse. … [Read More...] about 10/03/2023 – Drawing Workshop

10/03/2023 – Halloween Games/Crafts

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will host Teen Halloween Games and Crafts on Oct. 3 at 6:30 p.m., for ages 13 to 17. Supplies will be provided. For information, call 813-929-1214. … [Read More...] about 10/03/2023 – Halloween Games/Crafts

10/03/2023 – Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will host a porch book sale on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon, featuring all genres of books including novels, nonfiction, biographies, sewing, cooking, self-help, and more. The porch sale takes place every Tuesday. Call 813-929-1214 for information. … [Read More...] about 10/03/2023 – Library Book Sale

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