Education

Florida Lottery transferred $2.45B to K-12 education in 2023

March 26, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — The Florida Lottery has become a crucial part of funding for education in the Sunshine State, and according to a recent report from the Florida auditor general (AG), it continues to grow each year.

In late January, the AG released the financial audit of the Florida Lottery, whose mission is to maximize financial revenue for the benefit of education “in a manner consistent with the dignity of the State of Florida and the welfare of its citizens.”

The lottery offers a full range of scratch-off and draw products, and has for the 34th consecutive fiscal year (FY), sustained ticket sales in excess of $2 billion, with the last 11 years exceeding $5 billion. Over that 34-year period, a minimum of $800 million has been transferred to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, with FY 2023 exceeding $1 billion for the 21st consecutive year, according to the report.

In FY 2023, there was approximately $2.45 billion transferred to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF), compared to the previous fiscal year where $2.33 billion was transferred, reflecting a ticket sales increase of 5.12% over the prior year, collecting approximately $9.80 billion compared to $9.32 billion the previous year.

Around 71.86% of total sales came from the lotteries’ scratch-off products, which increased 0.26% from the previous year. Prize expenses increased by 4.97% or $310.25 million during 2023, also reflected by an increase in ticket sales.

According to the report’s financial analysis of the Florida Lottery’s assets, at the end of FY 2023, total assets increased by $154.98 million from $665.43 million in June 2022 to $820.41 million by June 30, 2023, which were primarily related to an increase of investments from the state treasury.

Total liabilities on June 30, 2023 were $768.47 million, around $151.79 million higher than total liabilities from the previous year which were $616.68 million. The increase in liabilities can be attributed to the increase of $84.84 million to prizewinners and $70.91 million for amounts due to the EETF.

Between June 2022 and June 2023, noncurrent liabilities decreased by $4.25 million, attributed to a decrease of $11.85 million for grand prizes paid to winners and an increase of $13.72 million in pension liability. Since the lottery’s inception, total transfers to the EETF have reached over $44 billion.

Published March 27, 2024

Chalk Talk 03/27/2024

March 26, 2024 By Mary Rathman

Yvenie Desrosiers, left, Student of the Year-Nature Coast, with instructor Christina Cazanave. (Courtesy of Caroline Jorgensen/SaintLeo University)

Influential women recognized
Sponsored by Saint Leo University’s Undergraduate Social Work Department, the school recently celebrated National Social Work Month as well as Women’s History Month. This year’s event honored students, agencies and members of the community for the work they do to promote social work and aid the community.

The National Association of Social Workers Florida (NASW-FL) honors went to:

Yvenie Desrosiers — Student of the Year-Nature Coast
United Way of Pasco County — Rising to the Challenge Award
Cheryl Pollock, chief advancement and community engagement officer at Premier Community HealthCare — Public Citizen of the Year Award-Nature Coast
Christina Cazanave — Social Work Educator of the Year

The Influential Women of Social Work recognized four “visionaries” who helped grow, promote and influence social work education:

Dr. Cindy Lee, director of Saint Leo’s Center for Alternative Pathway Programs (CAPP)
Dr. Marguerite McInnis, former chair of Saint Leo’s Social Work Program
Dr. Rhonda Waddell, former associate dean and assistant professor of social work at Saint Leo
the late Dr. William “Bill” Day, various roles including positions at Florida State Hospital and University Hospital in Jacksonville, and program manager of the Counseling and Human Services Program at Hillsborough Community College for 25 years

Three scholarships were awarded during the event to Saint Leo students pursuing Bachelor of Social Work degrees: Emily Hernandez, $2,000; Jalessa Murray, $1,000; Wendy Smith, $500.

Saint Leo social work students also were recognized for being No. 1 in the nation in the VOT-ER student-led voter registration competition. The Why Vote effort by the Saint Leo students resulted in 553 voter registrations in two months.

Saint Leo spring concerts
Saint Leo University will host its Spring Concerts featuring Faure’s “Requiem” on April 3 — one at 4 p.m., at the chapel at Holy Name Monastery, 12138 Wichers Road in St. Leo, and another at 7 p.m., at Saint Leo Abbey Church, 33601 County Road 52 in St. Leo. The concerts will feature the Saint Leo Chamber Singers and guest instrumentalists.

Admission is free. Donations can be made online at OnTheStage.tickets/saint-leo-university/campaigns/music-and-arts-funderaiser-3183.

Homeschool sewing
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer “Homeschool Sewing for Beginners: Book Sleeve” on April 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., for homeschool students ages 9 to 17. Participants will practice using pins, sewing on a machine, ironing and more, to create a book sleeve. A signed waiver, registration and closed-toe shoes are required. Call 727-815-7126 for more information.

Foundation scholarships
The Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) Foundation provides more than $1.3 million in scholarships each year, according to a PHSC newsletter. Current and incoming PHSC students can now apply for a foundation scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. The priority deadline is April 12; however, applications are accepted and reviewed throughout the year.

Students can access the application at Foundation.phsc.edu/scholarships/apply.

For more information on how to apply or to make a gift to support student scholarships, contact Michelle Bullwinkel, director of alumni and donor relations, at 727-816-3212 or .

School leaders address Congress
Nearly 400 school leaders met with more than 300 members of Congress and legislative staff to ask for support for policies to address the mental health and educator shortage crisis, during the National School Leaders Advocacy Conference, hosted by the National Associations of Elementary and Secondary School Principals (NAESP), according to a news release.

“….School leaders are advocates by nature, and now, more than ever, we must ensure policymakers and the public hear their stories, understand the impact of their work, and support them in building a better future for every student,” said L. Earl Franks, executive director of the NAESP, in the release.

Legislators are being asked for their support on the following:

The Loan Forgiveness for Educators Act
Educators for America Act
Preparing and Retaining Education Professionals (PREP) Act
Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act
Supporting the Mental Health of Educators and Staff Act
Increasing Access to Mental Health in Schools Act
Mental Health Services for Students Act
Increased funding for schools serving high-needs students, educator recruitment and retention, and Career and Technical Education

Academy at the Farm opens market
Academy at the Farm in Dade City has opened a Farmer’s Market on its school campus.

The market is open to the public and carries fresh produce and eggs, local honey, sourdough bread that is made and delivered daily, plants, and other snacks and drinks. It is located at 9500 Alex Lange Way, right off of Handcart Road near the Pasco County Transfer Station, in Dade City (look for the large Farmer’s Market sign or the sign for the school).

The hours of operation are: Mondays, noon to 4:30 p.m.; Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays and Thursdays, noon to 6 p.m.

Visit the market and you may be greeted and waited on by a middle-school student who is learning customer service and business skills. Twenty-six students in grades 6 to 8 applied, interviewed and were selected to “work” at the market where they count, stock and track inventory, provide service to customers and learn about the aspects of running a business.

Students spend one of their elective class periods at the market each week and some of the students volunteer after school as well.

Academy at the Farm is an A-rated, high-performing charter school. In its 21st year, the Academy currently has 727 K-8 students and 90 preschoolers, as well as more than 140 livestock animals on campus. While agriculture is a main focus of the school, its mission is to build character in students by teaching and reinforcing six core values: respect, responsibility, citizenship, fairness, caring and honesty.

For daily updates and market specials, like and follow AATF Farmers Market on Facebook.

For more information about the school, visit AcademyAtTheFarm.com.

Chalk Talk 03/20/2024

March 19, 2024 By Mary Rathman

Tzvi Dubrowski stuffs a toy Hamentashen during Purim Sunday Funday. (Courtesy of Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay)

Celebrating the holiday of Purim
Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay (HATB) hosted its annual Purim Sunday Funday, a free community-wide event to celebrate the holiday of Purim, all things STEAM, and a special building expansion.

The event’s family friendly atmosphere hosted Tampa Bay families from a variety of school and Jewish communities where guests mingled, shared Shalach Manot, stuffed their own soft Hamentashen, made STEAM projects of wooden noisemakers, and enjoyed treats and Grille Express food.

Some attendees came in costume and built Lego robots, while others collected goodies in their HATB tote bags as they moved through various stations of science, art, creativity and play.

Sulha Dubrowski, head of school, also shared with the crowd that HATB will be expanding to accommodate the ever-growing student body. Plans are underway for the construction of four new classrooms for the upper elementary and middle school, which will leave room in the existing building to expand the infant, toddler and primary programs as well.

For more about the school, visit HebrewAcademyTampaBay.org.

Student achievements

Scott Abramson, Odessa: Dean’s List, Illinois Wesleyan University
Derek Baker, Wesley Chapel: Honor List, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Alyssa Bongiovanni, Lutz: Honor Roll, Rhodes College
Ethan Forrester, Land O’ Lakes: Deans’ Honor Roll, Fort Hays State University
Natalia Kaminski, Wesley Chapel, Honor List, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Thea Wangsness, Dade City: Dean’s List, University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Chasco Fiesta Education Expo
The Education Expo, orchestrated by Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC), is a new addition to the Chasco Fiesta. It is designed to grow into a “one-stop shop” venue for local educational organizations to come together to showcase/highlight their programs and services to help educate the community. There will be interactive demonstrations, classes, trainings and community leader engagements.

The expo will take place on March 22 from noon to 7 p.m., and March 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Sims Park, Grand Boulevard and Bank Street, in New Port Richey.

For information, contact Aaron Ellerman, public information officer, at 727-816-3259 or .

Magnet certifications awarded
Two schools within the Pasco County School District have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to academic excellence and innovation: Paul R. Smith Middle School and Pasco Middle School.

The Lower Secondary Cambridge Programmes at both schools have been awarded Nationally Certified Magnet Schools by Magnet Schools of America, according to a news release. The honor is a testament to the schools’ unparalleled dedication to the principles of innovation, choice, diversity and academic excellence.

“We are immensely proud of the Cambridge Programmes at Paul R. Smith and Pasco Middle schools for achieving this significant milestone,” said Superintendent Kurt Browning, in the release.

“This recognition is a reflection of our tireless commitment to fostering an educational environment where every student can thrive. We look forward to continuing our drive towards excellence and setting new benchmarks for quality education,” said Browning.

This certification acknowledges the schools’ successful implementation of the five pillars of magnet schools and the National Magnet School Standards of Excellence.

It also honors the active participation and support from the schools’ staff, students, families and community partners.

Wellness initiative launched
Emotional Vaccines, the emotional education platform provided by Dr. Rahul N. Mehra, M.D., has partnered with the Early Learning Coalition (ELC) of Pasco and Hernando counties to support the well-being of early childhood educators and parents across nearly 300 child care centers, according to a news release.

The partnership comes at a time of increased global focus on issues like stress and anxiety, and as early learning educators are noticing more challenging child behaviors in the classroom, the release says.

Emotional Vaccines is a Tampa-based organization that provides adults and children with science-backed coping skills before these issues become more serious.

The partnership, dubbed “Mondays with Mehra,” is a weekly offering that will provide ELC teachers and parents with free access to Emotional Vaccines’ video content on managing stress, regulating emotions, and avoiding burnout.

Videos will be accessible via QR codes on posters placed in every ELC center. The content library will continue to build over the weeks ahead.

“This collaboration will introduce a comprehensive approach that prioritizes the health of early learning educators and the families we serve,” said Steve Knobl, Ph.D., executive director, Early Learning Coalition Pasco Hernando, in the release.

“We are excited to share these invaluable resources with our community. Our goal is to continue to empower and support child care providers and parents/caregivers through prevention and education,” said Knobl.

For more information, visit EmotionalVaccines.com.

Roots in Education grant
Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) announced the 2024 Roots in Education teacher grants. The annual Roots in Education program awards 25 teachers each with a $1,000 grant to enhance their classroom and teaching process. Nominees must be residents of Michigan or Florida.

Those who receive the award are recognized for having a particular admirable trait as an educator.

Grants can be used for classroom supplies, subscriptions to online services, or anything that will positively impact the educational experience for students.

This year, LMCU is celebrating educators who possess an outstanding attitude of optimism. Any teacher from pre-K through high school can be nominated for this award. Students, peers, parents and community members are encouraged to nominate those teachers who are positive and have cheerful energy and have impacted their community for the better.

For details and full eligibility requirements, visit LMCU.org/TeacherGrant. Nominations will be accepted through March 31.

Magnet Mania goes to Round 3
Pasco County Schools celebrated a win in Round 2 of the Magnet Schools of American Magnet Mania 2024 Superintendent of the Year contest, according to a news release.

This lighthearted contest allows MSA member districts to highlight progress and success in areas crucial to magnet schools: diversity, innovative curriculum and professional development, academic excellence, family and community partnership, and leadership.

Superintendent Kurt Browning is the reigning champion, the release says.

This year’s tournament will culminate at the National Conference on Magnet Schools in New York City, with the winning district receiving a grand prize of $2,500.

Cast your vote online at Pasco.k12.fl.us.

Chalk Talk 03/13/2024

March 12, 2024 By Mary Rathman

Superintendent Kurt Browning, left, speaks with Magnet Schools of America CEO Ramin Taheri. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

Pasco Schools wins Round 1
Pasco County Schools has emerged as the Round 1 champion in the Magnet Mania contest, orchestrated by the Magnet Schools of America (MSA), edging out Aurora Public Schools in Colorado, according to a news release.

The MSA tournament coincides with National Magnet Schools Month and spotlights districts nationwide, showcasing their remarkable achievements across the five pillars of magnet education.

Ramin Taheri, CEO of Magnet Schools of America, visited the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation and delivered the $500 winning donation.

Magnet Mania runs from February through April — the ultimate prize awaits when a winner is announced at the National Conference on Magnet Schools in New York City.

To cast a vote for Superintendent Browning, visit Pasco.k12.fl.us, and click on the Magnet Schools 2024 Contest.

Purduettes on Tour
The Purduettes of Purdue Musical Organizations will make a stop on March 14 at 7 p.m., at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Drive in Lutz, as part of its spring tour.

The organizations’ mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through the power of music and its students are ambassadors of Purdue University, bringing its legacy of musical performance excellence and student success to people around the world, according to a news release. The ensemble hopes to connect with Purdue alumni during the tour.

For more information, visit Purdue.edu/events.

Rabbi Shai Held will speak about Judaism at Congregation Rodeph on March 21. (Courtesy of the Hadar Institute)

‘Judaism is about Love’
Saint Leo University’s Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies (CCJS) will present “Judaism is about love” on March 21 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 2713 Bayshore Blvd., in Tampa.

The event will explore the misconception that the Jewish tradition is about the law rather than love. The guest speaker will be Rabbi Shai Held, philosopher, theologian and Bible scholar, as he “recovers the heart of the Jewish tradition.”

Held will discuss how love is foundational and a part of true Jewish faith as well as the Jewish perspective on injustice and protest, grace, family life, responsibilities to neighbors and even enemies. His presentation will be based on his book, “Judaism is About Love,” which will be published this month.

There also will be a Q&A session.

For information, contact Laurie Gens at or 352-588-7711

The expo will take place on March 22 from noon to 7 p.m., and March 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Sims Park, Grand Boulevard and Bank Street, in New Port Richey.

For information, contact Aaron Ellerman, public information officer, at 727-816-3259 or .

Nominees must be residents of Michigan or Florida.

Those who receive the award are recognized for having a particular admirable trait as an educator.

Grants can be used for classroom supplies, subscriptions to online services, or anything that will positively impact the educational experience for students

This year, LMCU is celebrating educators who possess an outstanding attitude of optimism. Any teacher from pre-K through high school can be nominated for this award.

Students, peers, parents and community members are encouraged to nominate those teachers who are positive and have cheerful energy and have impacted their community for the better.

For details and full eligibility requirements, visit LMCU.org/TeacherGrant.

Nominations will be accepted through March 31.

HEART initiative launched
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) recently announced the HEART — Hear, Empathize, Assess, Respect, Talk — initiative in recognition of Teen Health Relationship Month (February), according to a news release.

The collaboration between DCF and the Department of Education aims to spread awareness of healthy relationship information for teens, and to equip Florida’s teenagers, schools and communities with resources to help students develop healthy relationship skills as they begin dating.

“As the (DCF) department secretary and a mom, our goal is for all young adults to know what healthy relationships look like from the very beginning,” said Shevaun Harris, in the release.

“Through the HEART initiative, we are able to create more awareness of what a healthy relationship entails, and through our partnership with the Department of Education we will be able to spread this messaging to every school district in the state. We are focused on early intervention, and we are prioritizing prevention programming for teens, parents, caregivers, and guardians,” said Harris.

This annual monthlong effort focuses on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts.

To access resources to use within schools and to learn more about the initiative, visit MyFLFamilies.com/HEART.

Published March 13, 2024

Community celebrates Benedictine Sisters

March 12, 2024 By Mary Rathman

The Saint Leo University community celebrated the 135th anniversary of the founding of the Benedictine Sisters of Florida on Feb. 28, the date in 1889 when five nuns arrived in rural East Pasco County from Pennsylvania to staff schools.

Sister Roberta Bailey, prioress, discusses the history of the Benedictine Sisters of Florida. (Courtesy of Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University)

At the request of Father Gerald Pilz, the nuns began teaching in San Antonio and St. Joseph, helping to create the school that would become Saint Leo University and to found the Benedictine Sisters of Florida.

During Saint Leo’s lunch and program, Father John McEvoy gave the opening prayer and Town of St. Leo Mayor Mike D’Ambrosio read a proclamation, recognizing the 135th anniversary and in honor of the sisters’ service to the community.

Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB, prioress of the Benedictine Sisters of Florida, acknowledged the significance of the occasion: “We are grateful for all that God has done for us throughout these 135 years since our founding sisters ventured forth from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Pasco County, Florida. We’ve opened and withdrawn from schools — all still a credit to our transitional skills as they continue in some form to serve the founding purpose. Some changes were welcome and settled in easily; some sat uneasy on the sisters’ shoulders as they responded to ‘the call of our times,’” said Bailey in a news release.

Saint Leo student Lili Kozlowski greets the Benedictine Sisters of Florida.

From 1929 to 1959, the sisters operated St. Benedict’s Prep school for boys. Holy Name Academy provided day and boarding programs for girls until 1964, according to the release.

“Shifting gears, we built new dormitories and a cafeteria to provide services to Saint Leo College students,” Bailey said. “In 2014, we made the courageous decision to ‘begin again’ the great adventure of the Benedictine Sisters of Florida. We sold our property north of Highway (County Road) 52 to Saint Leo University and built a one-level house on a former citrus grove across the highway.”

The prioress also noted the many careers the sisters have had: classroom teachers, principal, mission superior, CCD teachers and coordinators, and “mom” at Good Counsel Camp. The Benedictine Sisters of Florida have served as archivists, hospice volunteers, health care providers, laundry and kitchen staff, seamstresses, artists and more.

“The Benedictine Sisters, and the monks, offer an example of flexibility, perseverance and stability. Their many friends within and outside our community clearly pay tribute to our sense of radical Benedictine hospitality. In conclusion, the Benedictine Sisters of Florida continue to ‘do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, thanking God through him,” said Bailey.

Published March 13, 2024

Be on the lookout for SAT prep scams

March 12, 2024 By Mary Rathman

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) issued a scam alert in which scammers are tricking parents into paying for bogus SAT and ACT prep materials, according to a BBB news release.

The scammers make unsolicited calls and claim to be from the College Board, the company responsible for the PSAT, SAT and AP tests, or another educational organization. The caller claims to be confirming your address so they can send test prep materials, such as books, CDs or videos that a child requested.

The catch is: The caller needs you to pay a deposit, sometimes several hundred dollars, for the materials, and claims it will be refunded when the materials are returned after a set number of days.

If you provide your address and credit card details, the materials never arrive and the deposit will never be refunded. Scammers now have your credit card number and other personal information.

Several people have reported to the BBB Scam Tracker that the caller even had their child’s name, phone number, address, school information and/or the date and location of their child’s scheduled test, the release says.

The BBB offers these tips on how to avoid test prep scams:

Always be wary of unsolicited callers. If someone asks for payment, research their organization before sharing personal information or agreeing to receive services or products. Look up the business they claim to represent at BBB.org. Search the name, along with the words “scam” or “complaint.” Check BBB Scam Tracker to see if anyone else has filed a report about the company.
Double-check with your child. If scammers say they are calling because of a service a child requested, tell them you need to check with the child first and hang up. Do not send any money or make a payment if there is any doubt about the call.
Understand the College Board’s practices. The College Board will never ask you for bank or credit card information over the phone or via email. If a caller suggests otherwise, hang up. Visit CollegeBoard.org.
Use your credit card when possible. Credit card companies may refund your money if they spot a fraudulent charge or if you report one in a timely manner. The same protection may not be offered with a debit card or other payment options. Never agree to pay a stranger with a money wire, prepaid cards, or digital wallet such as Cash App or Venmo.

Whether or not you’ve lost money, if you have spotted a scam, report it to BBB.org/ScamTracker.

To find out more about scams and how to avoid them, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams.

Published March 13, 2024

State lawmakers wrap up session by passing school choice revision bill

March 12, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — Florida wrapped up its legislative session on Friday, March 8, and, before leaving Tallahassee, lawmakers passed a revision of the state’s school choice programs.

The bill passed the House by a vote of 89-18 on Thursday, and if signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the legislation would go into effect on July 1.

House Bill 1403 is sponsored by state Rep. Josie Tomkow, R-Polk City. It would revise both contributions and provisions for the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program, the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program, the Hope Scholarship Program, virtual instruction program providers, private school requirements and students in personalized learning programs.

Last year, Florida lawmakers passed one of the largest expansions of school choice in the nation, HB 1, which enables more parents to choose the education that meets the needs of their children. However, feedback from constituents has revealed that there have been issues with providing funds within an expected timeframe.

Scholarship program funds are able to be used by parents on a range of educational tools, including private schools, tutors and educational materials for homeschooled students. Students were also able to enroll in a school outside of their district.

During the bill’s passage through committee, Tomkow said that this bill would remedy some of the funding issues by establishing separate application and renewal deadlines for the various programs so that renewals can be funded earlier.

Applications received after the deadline would be considered for the next school year. Payment for full-time tuition and fees must be made by the scholarship funding organization within seven business days of approval.

To address concerns about educational options available to students, Tomkow said that the bill would allow personalized education program students to use their funds for when instruction is provided away from the school under a student learning plan.

Tomkow added that because of the popularity of the Family Scholarship Program for students with unique abilities, overall funding would increase the annual growth of new FES-UA scholarships from 3% to 5%. If demand ever exceeds 95% of capacity again, the bill allows for an additional 1% increase the following year.

The bill would also remove an age limitation, allowing three and four-year-old students with disabilities to access scholarships and further increase transparency by requiring scholarship funding organizations to report on performance metrics related to applications and reimbursements.

Published March 13, 2024

Florida bill would make it easier for dentists to be certified

March 12, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — Florida’s dental students could soon have help gaining their qualifications a little easier after a bill was passed by the Legislature and is headed to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ desk.

Senate Bill 938 is sponsored by state Sen. Clay Yarborough, R-Jacksonville, and would make changes to the dental industry in the Sunshine State. The bill passed unanimously in both chambers, most recently in the House on March 5.

Yarborough said during the bill’s passage through committee that the bill is agreed-upon language between the Florida Dental Association and the Florida Board of Dentistry to clean up the Dental Practice Act after various changes over recent years related to the dental license exam and the dental licensure process.

The bill updates the Dental Practice Act to reflect that Florida accepts the American Board of Dental Examiners exam, which is offered and accepted in 48 states. The bill creates uniformity and the dental exam process, regardless of whether the dental student takes their licensure exam in-state or out-of-state.

Dental students going through the curriculum in a graded format of the exam would be allowed to take different sections of the exam throughout their years at dental school, not just in their final year.

Furthermore, the bill adds language to take into consideration personal emergencies or special hardships when out-of-state applicants apply for dental licensure, which is currently not an option for the Board of Dentistry to consider. The bill would also delete outdated language throughout Florida laws.

The bill would require anyone who is applying for a dental license to meet certain criteria, including being older than age 18, a graduate of a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation or another entity recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and successfully passed the dental exam.

Other requirements to get a dental license in Florida include applicants providing sufficient evidence that they have never been convicted of or pled “nolo contendere” to a felony or misdemeanor related to the practice of a health care profession in any jurisdiction.

The board also would be able to excuse the mandatory 1,200-hour requirement in the event of a hardship. If the bill receives DeSantis’ signature, it will come into effect on July 1.

Published March 13, 2024

Chalk Talk 03/06/2024

March 5, 2024 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation)

Memorial scholarship established
Laura Raposa, Pasco-Hernando State College’s dean of accelerated learning, and her husband Ben established the Kimberly Ann Montgomery Scholarship in memory of Laura’s sister, who dedicated her life to nursing and caring for others. Kimberly’s calling was to be a nurse and care for others and she served 21 years as a nurse at North Bay Hospital. The family hopes the scholarship will help other like-minded students achieve their goals. To make a gift to the scholarship, visit Giving.PHSC.edu.

Student achievements

Zoe Adkins, Lutz: Dean’s List, Muhlenberg College, Allentown, Pennsylvania
Kenza Brown, Lutz: Dean’s List, Kennesaw State University, Georgia
Justus Espinoza, Odessa: The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Florida State University
Flagler College has recognized these area students to its President’s List: Mikayla Croissant, Lutz; Niamh Kirkwood, Odessa; and Madeline Rodriguez, Lutz.
The Florida Institute of Technology named these area students to its Dean’s List: Lance Fales, Land O’ Lakes; Anika Futo, Lutz; Daniel Vassallo, Lutz; Max Martino, Lutz; Jackie Figueredo, Lutz; and Madison Rooth, Odessa.
Jaeden Lowther, Odessa: President’s List, Kennesaw State University, Georgia
Jacob Statman, Lutz: Dean’s List, Rochester Institute of Technology
The University of Tampa named these students to the school’s Dean’s List: Samantha Park, Odessa; Robert Cooper, Lutz; Cole Benjamin, Odessa; Hope Lelekacs, Odessa; Tristan Hilson, Lutz; Michelle Loefstrand, Odessa; Madison McElhone, Odessa; Angelina Santana, Lutz; Lindsey Reed, Lutz; Zoe Papageorgiou, Odessa; Margret Gudmundsson, Lutz; Ashley Mantei, Odessa; Gabrielle Reim, Odessa; Charles Pals, Odessa; Alyssa De La Sala, Lutz; Makenzie Reynolds, Lutz; Olivia Jacinto, Lutz; Andrea Centeno, Odessa; and Timothy Chen, Odessa.
Payton VanNort, of Lutz: attended the Musical Theatre Intensive (MTI) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and competed in the MTI competition in late January. VanNort is majoring in Theatre-Directing.
Claudia Vitale, of Lutz, to its Dean’s List, Georgia Institute of Technology

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
The East Pasco Education Academy, 35830 County Road 52 in Dade City, will host Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on March 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The event also will include pictures with the Easter Bunny, a petting zoo, Bunny Express tractor ride, and an Egg Scramble.

Admission is $10 for children ages 2 and older. Adults are free (breakfast is $5). All proceeds will benefit the students at the academy.

For information, call 352-524-5700.

Five for Five Dinner
The Republican Party of Pasco will host its fourth annual Five for Five Dinner on March 14, at the Timber Greens Golf & Country Club, 6333 Timber Greens Blvd., in New Port Richey, to benefit the party’s $5,000 scholarship fund. Check-in and cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m.

Special guests will include Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco, Sen. Ed Hooper, Rep. Brad Yeager, Commissioners Seth Weightman and Gary Gradford, and school board member Colleen Beaudoin.

Individual tickets and a la carte Host a Toast are $100. Table sponsorships are available.

For tickets and information, call Sandy Graves at 813-817-3011 or 727-863-5400.

Women in Education
NOTE TIME CHANGE: Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) will host an Empowered! Women in Education Conference on March 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the PHSC Instructional Performing Arts Center, 8657 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel.

Participants can explore leadership, confidence, empowerment, and engage in networking opportunities. There also will be a celebration of Women’s History Month.

To view the agenda, visit PHSC.edu/empowered/agenda. To register, visit PHSC.edu/about/events/campus/empowered-women-education-conference.

For information, contact Jessica White, associate dean student life and leadership, at 727-816-3764 or .

Community Action Board Scholarships
The Hillsborough County Community Action Board Scholarships are available to eligible Hillsborough County students who want to continue their post-secondary education. Scholarships are worth up to $5,000, can be used to accredited trade schools, community colleges, or four-year universities, and are awarded to students to help alleviate some of the financial burden of tuition.

All applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

Applicants must be between 16 and 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent (16-year-olds may apply if they are a graduating senior).
The candidate must have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Applicants must reside in Hillsborough County.
The applicant’s household income must fall within 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines of the Community Services Block Grant.
Students seeking a master’s degree or a second bachelor’s degree do not qualify.

Students are encouraged to read through the Community Action Board Scholarship Application Package online, at http://tinyurl.com/3entyf4e, before applying.

Students can apply online at https://form.jotform.com/233123786503151.

For questions, email .

Giving students a voice
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) is giving students a voice in the democratic process to influence the decisions that affect them most.

To help students make their voices heard nationwide, NASSP is establishing the National Student Council, an assembly of student leaders from across the country to serve as powerful advocates for their peers at the federal level, according to a news release.

NASSP’s National Association of Student Councils (NASC), formerly known as NatStuCo, will administer the National Student Council.

“It’s incredibly rare for policymakers to ask my classmates and me for our opinions,” said Shreeya Gogia, an NASC member and senior at Carroll Senior High School in Southlake, Texas, in the release. “NASC’s National Student Council will finally give students like me a seat at the table so we have a say in the decisions that will have the biggest impact on our schools and futures.”

Elections and appointments to the National Student Council will take place from March to September, after which the representatives will identify the most pressing challenges facing students and then advocate for solutions.

In addition to the National Student Council, the NASSP will give away $100,000 in new scholarships to NASC members each year.

For more information, visit NatStuCo.org.

Schools of Distinction
Pasco County Schools has announced three of its schools have been recognized as National Merit Schools of Distinction. Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools, awarded the title.

The schools earning the commendable designation are Hudson High School’s Cambridge Programme, Sunray Elementary’s Cambridge Programme and Sanders Memorial STEAM Elementary, according to a news release.

Each school has distinguished itself through its dedication to integrating specialized themes into curricula and instructional methods, ensuring students don’t just learn but thrive through enriched educational experiences that are both engaging and challenging.
By achieving this distinction status, these schools have demonstrated their effectiveness in raising student academic achievement, providing diverse educational environments, and fostering continuous improvement through evidence-based instruction aligned with their theme, the release says.

Men of Excellence
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) hosted its first Men of Excellence event on Feb. 20, at the PHSC Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch in Wesley Chapel.

The event featured a panel discussion and vendor fair, and was designed around a barbershop-style concept aimed at encouraging men to come together and openly share and discuss a wide array of topics and how to incorporate excellence into their lives, according to a news release.

“When you’re presenting yourself, whether it’s on the job, in the community, or in the classroom, you want to reflect a standard of excellence and helping young men and women be able to identify, understand and exhibit excellence is critical,” said Nathaniel Brown, PHSC linking in faith and education (LIFE) coordinator, in the release.

Several community leaders addressed current challenges facing youth by offering personal stories, advice and encouragement.

Javon Parker, a sophomore at Wharton High School, was in attendance and said he enjoyed gaining knowledge from the speakers and hearing about the variety of experiences and challenges they overcame. The event was open to the community as well as PHSC students.

PHSC plans to host additional similar events. For more information, visit PHSC.edu/about/events.

Bill that would revise the state’s pre-kindergarten program advances

February 27, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — Florida lawmakers have advanced a bill this week that would allow young students and those who teach them the tools to be successful.

State Rep. John Snyder, R-Palm City, sponsors House Bill 1353. It would revise Florida’s laws on the state’s pre-kindergarten programs known as early learning coalitions and other specified early learning programs.

While introducing his bill to the House PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee, bill sponsor Snyder said that the bill would better support children, providers and early learning coalitions.

Snyder stated that Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program instructors — who have completed a 60-hour micro literacy credential or have scored a 3 or higher on the instructional support domain of the program assessment — would be allowed to teach the summer VPK program.

The bill also prohibits students from using electronic devices in these programs as instructional tools. At the same time, parents would be required to be notified if a student is falling behind in their learning.

“[The bill] prohibits the use of one child to one device for instruction in the VPK setting, and it also requires a VPK provider to notify each parent of a VPK student if they have not met the minimum performance metrics,” Snyder said.

When the bill was originally drafted, Snyder stated that the bill had made provisions to authorize early learning coalitions to increase the administrative percentage fee that they take from the providers, an increase from 4% to 5%. However, the fiscal impact was not able to be included in this year’s fiscal budget and was amended out of the bill.

A second amendment removed another program, the VPK summer-bridge program. Snyder stated that the program was removed because it is included in HB 5001, the state’s General Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2024-25.

Snyder added that the bill would add tools needed to capture those students who may struggle with their early learning and pointed out that one only has to look at literacy rates to know how important this is for young students.

“The data does show that the sooner we can get the students who are having those learning gain issues, the better it is,” Snyder said. “So there’s no greater tool in my opinion, than to make sure our earliest learners are set up for success as they enter kindergarten.”

Published February 28, 2024