The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

Academy at the Farm plans to launch high school

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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

Town Hall set for PHSC presidential finalists

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The public has the chance to learn more about the four finalists to become Pasco-Hernando State College’s next president during a Town Hall at the college’s Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC).

The Town Hall will be on Sept. 6 from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., at IPAC, 8757 Old Pasco Road, in Wesley Chapel.

A new president is being named to replace Dr. Timothy Beard, who is retiring in January 2024.

A presidential search committee made up of business leaders, community representatives and faculty and staff members from PHSC have selected these finalists to succeed Beard and to become the college’s fifth president.

The finalists are: Gilbert L. Evans Jr., J.D., Ph.D; Eric Hall, Ed.D; Jesse D. Pisors, Ed.D; and, Saul Reyes, Ed.D.

Lucy Miller, special assistant to President Tim Beard and to the District Board of Trustees (DBOT), provided details of what to expect during the Town Hall meeting.

Each of the four finalists will have about 40 minutes on the stage, Miller said, via email.

PHSC’s Faculty Senate President Dr. Misty Price will be the moderator, who will interview each of them in a casual “talk show” format.

Dr. Price will pose some introductory questions and then field questions from those attending the session and from those who are attending remotely.

The idea is to not only introduce the finalists to employees, faculty, staff, students and the community, but to provide an opportunity for constituents to interact with the candidates — and to ask specific questions about the candidates’ vision for PHSC, according to Miller.

The college’s DBOT is expected to name PHSC’s new president at its Sept. 19 meeting, during its meeting on the college’s Spring Hill Campus.

Published August 30, 2023

Chalk Talk 08/30/2023

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Student attends research experience
Diana Hernandez, a recent Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) graduate and Wesley Chapel native, attended a summer educational opportunity at Boston University.

Hernandez’s journey started with involvement in the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Leadership and Academic Enhancement Program (LSAMP) through PHSC.

Diana Hernandez, of Wesley Chapel, attended a summer educational opportunity at Boston University (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

The LSAMP program, named in honor of former congressman Louis Stokes, is a National Science Foundation funded program intended to support historically underrepresented students in the science, technology, engineering and math fields.

The program fosters student growth and gives opportunities for participation in a

variety of programs, such as Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU), which are highly competitive and prestigious programs having an acceptance rate of approximately 3%.

“Through the program, students have experienced valuable opportunities to expand their perspectives through travel experiences both in and out of state. They have attended conferences, participated in professional development workshops, taken part in college tours at the University of South Florida (USF), conducted water testing at the Crystal Springs Preserve, and explored the possibilities of humanoid robots at The Institute for Human & Machine Cognition,” said Courtney Dominique, pre-collegiate and LSAMP advisor at PHSC, in a news release.

Hernandez’s four-month summer REU at Boston University focused on The Fundamental Research in Chemistry Addressing Problems in Biology.

“I read many articles regarding my research consisting of the discovery and development of medicinally important compounds for the leishmaniasis parasite and worked under the supervision of Dr. Scott Schaus,” said Hernandez in the release.

Hernandez started her junior year at USF this fall where she plans to continue her

studies using her newly acquired experience to aid in her academic and professional journey.

During her time at Boston University, she also assisted graduate students in their research for their thesis. This consisted of creating imine reactions, running NMRs, using column chromatography, and many other incredible procedures that one doesn’t get to do during their undergraduate years.

Students interested in the program can apply at Equity-services.phsc.edu/students/student/lsamp. 

Reading Challenge
Pasco County Schools has introduced R.A.C.E. to Read, Pasco! This is a district-wide, pre-K through 12th grade reading challenge for the 2023-2024 school year. All students and staff can participate to collectively read 15 million minutes from Aug. 10 to May 24. Minutes will be logged via Beanstack and celebrations will be school-based. Check out https://zoobean.wistia.com/medias/qcrwyjtjs1?wtime=0 for details.

College Prep & Readiness
The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will host a College Prep and Readiness session on Sept. 2 at 3 p.m. Are you preparing to go to college? Do you require help navigating the application process? A guest speaker will talk about first-hand experience from working in college admissions and discuss the best practices and tips to writing the best application essay during this hour-long session. For information, call 813-929-1214.

Teen Republican Club
The Teen Age Republican Club of Trinity is inviting students from all local high schools to join this active, growing, national club. Members of the club volunteer and fundraise for Tunnel 2 Towers, veterans groups, and more. The club meets once a month. The next welcome/informational meeting is on Sept. 6 at 6 p.m., at Havana Dreamers Café, 3104 Town Ave., in Trinity (Longleaf). 

Dues includes a T-shirt. Adult advisors are available to assist the club. For information, call 727-316-5476 or 727-774-9327.

Early Release Days
Pasco County Schools will have eight early release days for students, according to its Pasco Post newsletter. Schools will be released two hours earlier than usual on these dates: Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1, Dec. 6, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 13 and April 10.

Saint Leo University welcomed students to the fall 2023 semester and new academic year. (Courtesy of Saint Leo University)

Saint Leo welcomes students
Saint Leo University welcomed new, transfer and returning students to its residential campus in Pasco County to begin the fall 2023 semester and new academic year. More than 800 new students — local and transfers from countries throughout the world — arrived at the campus in St. Leo. Classes began on Aug. 28.

A Family Respite Area was provided in the Student Activities Building lobby where families and students could have refreshments, ask questions, meet other students and family members, and interact with support staff. The university also hosted a Parent and Family Association Meeting to provide information on ways to get involved and how to stay connected, as well as a Q&A session.

In addition, international students participated in a parade of countries, there were student performances, and sharing of the university’s history and traditions.

Saint Leo’s Welcome Week, which runs through Sept. 2, includes First Day of School Pictures, Puppy Play, Rec the Night games, We’ve Got Your Six, Popsicle Pursuit, and more.

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.

 

Ray Gadd recognized for his leadership, accomplishments 

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The Pasco Economic Development Council’s policy council chooses to single out an individual every year for exhibiting exceptional leadership that has had a positive impact on Pasco’s economy and community.

The honor this year is being bestowed to Pasco County Schools Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd.

Gadd is set to receive the award — which will be accompanied by a video tribute — during the Pasco EDC’s 35th Annual Awards ceremony.

Ray Gadd

The event is set for Sept. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC), at 8657 Old Pasco Road, in Wesley Chapel. (For event ticket information, go to PascoEDC.com.)

Perhaps it is fitting that the ceremony will take place at IPAC, since Gadd was instrumental in the project becoming a reality.

When a grand opening was held for the building, Pasco County School Board member Cynthia Armstrong praised Gadd’s persistence, and his willingness to think out of the box — which she said played a big role in making the project happen.

For his part, Gadd credited former Florida Speaker of the House Will Weatherford’s desire to bring a performing arts center to the area.

Gadd said Weatherford called to ask for his help in the quest.

The deputy superintendent then set about collecting floor plans from various performing arts venues and getting cost estimates.

In the end, the state came up with some funding and Pasco County Schools and Pasco-Hernando State College created a partnership to bring the building to life.

Pasco County Schools Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd played an instrumental role in bringing various stakeholders together to collaborate on the creation of Pasco-Hernando State College’s Instructional Performing Arts Center, in Wesley Chapel. (File)

Now, the performing arts center offers students the chance to pursue careers in the performing and digital arts, and provides a venue for performances in Wesley Chapel.

That center is one example of the many collaborations involving Gadd, who has a vast network of connections that can help make things happen.

One of Gadd’s most notable accomplishments is the role that he played in helping to get the initial Penny for Pasco surtax approved by voters in 2004, and again in subsequent extensions.

Revenues from the voter-approved tax provide money to pay for new construction and renovations in district schools, as well as other projects.

Penny funds also cover costs for such things as infrastructure, environmental land and economic development in Pasco County, and various projects across the county’s municipalities.

Gadd also has played a key role in expanding options for students.

He advocated for the creation of Kirkland Academy of Innovation, in Wesley Chapel, where students can enroll in rigorous academic courses and prepare for technical careers.

He’s also been on the leading edge of planning for Angeline Academy of Innovation, which opened this year in the emerging community of Angeline, where Moffitt Cancer Center is developing its Pasco campus.

School district and Moffitt leaders began talking long before the new magnet school opened about ways they can work together to create unique opportunities for students.

Gadd also had a hand in a cooperative agreement between the school district and Pepin Academies regarding a new charter school that will be built on Kirkland Ranch Academy’s campus.

The agreement represents the first of its type in the state.

Ray Gadd, far left, stands with a group of people who helped realize the dream of creating a community stage in Land O’ Lakes. Gadd, who is the Pasco County Schools’ deputy superintendent of schools, was instrumental in pulling together various stakeholders to get the job done.

Gadd is a fan of the arts.

Beyond helping to bring IPAC to the county, Gadd helped make a black box theater a reality at Cypress Creek Middle School.

Plus, he helped pull together a multitude of forces — from local government, private business, the community and state leaders — to construct the long-desired stage at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park.

Gadd also has worked closely with Chris Williams, the school system’s director of planning, to help the district secure land to serve future needs.

Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC’s president and CEO, praised Gadd’s contributions.

“I have had the privilege of working with Ray since I began working in Pasco County through his position with Pasco County Schools and work in passing the Penny for Pasco, which has been vital in improving the economic development landscape of our community,” Cronin said, in a news release.

“Ray’s eye to improving the community and dedication to the wellness of children are only a few of the reasons why he is being honored with this award,” the Pasco EDC executive said.

Superintendent Kurt Browning praised Gadd’s effectiveness.

“His ability to get things done is a testament to his work ethic and his commitment to the children and families of Pasco County,” Browning said, in the release.

“Ray is an incredible leader that has always had the best interests of Pasco County at heart.”

Published August 23, 2023

PHSC names four finalists in its search for a president

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Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) has announced its four finalists in the search for a new president, to replace Dr. Timothy Beard who is retiring in January 2024.

A presidential search committee made up of business leaders, community representatives and faculty and staff members from PHSC have selected these finalists to succeed Beard and to become the college’s fifth president.

The finalists are: Gilbert L. Evans Jr., J.D., Ph.D; Eric Hall, Ed.D; Jesse D. Pisors, Ed.D; and, Saul Reyes, Ed.D.

The finalists will be introduced during a town hall at the PHSC Instructional Performing Arts Center in Wesley Chapel on Sept. 6, according to a news release from the state college. (More details will come soon regarding the town hall meeting.)

The candidates will tour PHSC’s five campuses on Sept. 7, providing a chance for them to meet faculty and staff members.

The PHSC District Board of Trustees will make the final selection, expected later in September.

The search committee selected the finalists from among 50 of the most qualified candidates provided by Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting firm, the release said.

“This search committee has meticulously reviewed all applicants and we are confident PHSC’s District Board of Trustees’ final selection is amongst these distinguished candidates,” John Mitten, PHSC trustee and chair of the PHSC Presidential Search Committee, said in the release.

The college’s news release also provided information about each of the finalists. Here’s a condensed synopsis:

Gilbert Evans Jr.

Gilbert L. Evans Jr., J.D., Ph.D.: Evans is a native of Central Florida. He received his Associate in Arts degree from St. Johns River Community College. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degree in English and educational leadership from Florida State University, and a Ph.D. and J.D. from the University of Florida.

While at the University of Florida, Evans’ Ph.D. dissertation, “Job Satisfaction and Organizational Climate as Perceived by Community College Presidents,” was nominated Dissertation of the Year.

He graduated law school with distinction. 

His work also has been published in several professional and educational journals.

He has been at St. Johns River State College for 26 years, serving in various capacities. He currently is vice president for legal affairs/general counsel for the college.

He also served as an attorney at Lowndes, Drosick, Doster, Kantor, and Reed in Orlando, Florida, where he specialized in bankruptcy, family law, and probate. He is a member of the Florida Bar and is a Florida Certified Family Law mediator.

He is married to Detra Nicole Evans, and they have two children, Derrick and D’Asia.

Eric Hall

Eric Hall, Ed.D: Hall was raised in Pasco County, and has more than two decades experience serving in executive leadership, with extensive expertise in the fields of education, public safety and public policy.

Currently, he is secretary of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, a position he assumed through a November 2021 appointment by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Previously, he served as the state’s first senior chancellor at the Florida Department of Education (FDOE), where he oversaw multiple divisions, including the Florida College System.

Before joining FDOE, he was deputy state superintendent at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he led multiple divisions and initiatives within North Carolina’s education system.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary science education, a master’s degree in educational leadership, and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of South Florida.

He serves on several boards and councils including the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet, CareerSource Florida Board of Directors, and Special Olympics Florida, among others.

He is the son of two public school teachers. He and his wife, who is a school social worker, have two children.

Jesse Pisors

Jesse Pisors, Ed.D.: Pisors is a seasoned leader in the field of higher education. His 25-year career includes serving as vice president at Texas A&M University-San Antonio (TAMUSA) and at the University of Houston-Victoria (UHV).

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

Saul Reyes

Saul Reyes, Ed.D: Reyes has served as vice president for enrollment management and student affairs of the College of Central Florida since January 2015.

The college, which serves Marion, Citrus and Levy counties consistently has been recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the top 150 community colleges in the nation.

Reyes’s 35-plus years of higher education experience includes 14 ½ years in the Florida College System.

He previously served at Polk State College, as dean of student services and center manager for the JD Alexander Center. Before that, he worked at the University of South Florida.

He’s had extensive involvement in leading student-centered programs and services to promote enrollment, retention, completion, transfer, and employment.

He holds a doctorate in higher education leadership from the University of South Florida and a master’s in counseling from West Virginia University.

He has participated in numerous educational leadership programs.

He serves as board chairman for the Marion County Cultural Alliance and is on the national board for the Higher Education Research and Development Institute.

Reyes, born to Cuban immigrants, is a first-generation American and first in his family to graduate from college.

Reyes and his wife, Sharon, have been married since 1986. They have sons, daughters-in-law and four grandsons.

Published August 23, 2023

Pasco public schools add capacity, make improvements

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As Pasco County’s public school system begins the academic school year, students aren’t the only ones who are busy in the district.

The school district continues to add, expand and upgrade its facilities to meet current and future needs.

During the 2022-2023 budget year, the district began or completed a number of sizable projects.

Those included:

  • Construction of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
  • Traffic improvements at Oakstead Elementary
  • Traffic improvements at River Ridge Middle and River Ridge High 
  • Food service renovations at Moon Lake Elementary
  • Safety and security improvements at various schools
  • Completion of Locke Early Learning Academy
  • Heating, ventilation and air conditioning projects at various schools

The district’s 2023-2024 capital budget includes these major projects:

  • Construction of Kirkland Ranch K-8
  • An addition of a classroom wing at Starkey Ranch K-8
  • Construction of Gulf High School
  • Design and construction of a new K-8 school in southwest Land O’ Lakes
  • Design and construction of West Zephyrhills Elementary School
  • Construction of the Angeline Athletic Complex
  • Design and construction of the cafeteria and an additional classroom wing at Pasco High School
  • Structural upgrades and roofing design and construction at Marchman Technical College
Kirkland Ranch K-8 is taking shape on a campus it will share with Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, off Curley Road in Wesley Chapel. The new K-8 school is slated to open next school year. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)
A look at construction activities involving a charter school that will be operated by Dayspring Academy, and an athletics facility that will be used by Angeline Academy of Innovation. The site is off U.S. 41, in Land O’ Lakes.

Projects included in the district’s new budget were outlined during a Pasco County School Board workshop held July 18.

In addition to outlining proposed projects for the coming budget year, the district also included its 10-year capital plan summary, for 2023 to 2033, in a 51-page report provided in the board’s workshop agenda materials.

That report notes that “capital needs continue to outpace revenues, expanding the potential need for debt issuance.”

It also notes that the district’s current debt is $574.4 million.

On a bright note, the district’s local capital collections are increasing because of a 17.5% increase in the tax roll. That tax roll is projected to be $54.9 billion, which will generate approximately $79 million, according to the report.

Also, recent Penny for Pasco collections remain at their highest level since the Penny for Pasco began. The revenues are projected to be $48.3 million for 2023-2024.

The district’s capital budget for 2023-2024 includes about $241.5 million for construction projects. Those break down this way:

  • $210.7 million for new schools
  • $22 million for major remodeling projects
  • $462,000 for cafeteria renovations
  • $6.3 million for HVAC Repairs & Replace
  • $2.1 million for traffic improvements

The budget also includes about $16.2 million for maintenance projects. Those include:

  • $226,680 for fire alarm systems
  • $382,066 for flooring renovations
  • $67,480 for generator replacements
  • $4.9 million for other renovations
  • $134,288 for outside improvements
  • $475,000 for exterior painting
  • $1.1 million for pavement sealing
  • $8.6 million for roofing
  • $272,085 for water and sewer

Other capital projects include:

  • $2.2 million for athletics
  • $4.5 million for buses and motor vehicles
  • $113,340 for compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act
  • $235,000 for compliance with environmental regulations
  • $120,000 for energy retrofit programs
  • $180,876 for fencing
  • $67,480 for Habitat for Humanity

The budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year includes carryover funding, as well as new funding.

Chalk Talk 08/23/2023

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Southport Springs Golf & Country Club collected school supplies and set up a makeshift store for teachers to shop in prior to the new school year. (Courtesy of Joe Grigelevich)

‘Christmas In July’ benefits teachers
Residents of Southport Springs Golf & Country Club in Zephyrhills had their annual ‘Christmas In July’ on Aug. 8 to collect much-needed school supplies for the teachers at Chester Taylor Elementary and the new school year. 

The community set up a Christmas tree in the lobby decorated with handmade ornaments that had various school supplies written on them. Residents would take one or more of the ornaments and purchase the needed items. 

Members of Southport’s Women’s club delivered four truckloads of supplies to the school and were greeted by school principal Julie Marks. Marks, along with club members, set up the school’s media center with all of the supplies and invited the teachers to the center to shop for their classrooms. 

“It’s an annual event that everyone at Southport really looks forward to,” club leader Carol Dziki said. “We’re thrilled that we’re able to lend a helping hand to our hardworking and dedicated teachers here at our local elementary school.”

Local firm Davron collected more than 2,000 school supply items to benefit Christian Social Services in Land O’ Lakes. (Courtesy of Davron)

Annual tradition helps Christian Social Services
Davron, a Land O’ Lakes-based executive search and outplacement firm, hosted a back-to-school supply drive to benefit Christian Social Services (CSS), a nonprofit that provides food, clothing and other services to disadvantaged families in Pasco and northern Hillsborough counties.

Davron collected more than 2,000 individual items, filled 200 backpacks, and donated $2,500 to CSS.

The back-to-school drive has become an annual tradition for Davron and its employees. “We are proud to be able to support Christian Social Services and the important work they do,” said David Coreen, president of Davron, in a news release. “We know that these donations will make a real difference in the lives of children in Pasco,” said Coreen.

To help CSS, those interested can donate school supplies, food pantry items, or make financial contributions through its website, at CSS-helpinghands.org. The nonprofit relies on the generosity of local churches and private donors, and also welcomes volunteers.

Donations currently are being accepted Tuesdays through Fridays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Student Life Retreat
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) hosted its annual Student Life Retreat at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club from Aug. 1 to Aug. 3.

This year’s retreat themed “Level Up” focused on building student skills that will assist them in future academic and life endeavors. The event highlighted ways to level up skill sets of executing, influencing, strategic thinking and relationship building.

New to this year’s event was an opening community resource expo featuring more than 50 booths where students could get resources and network with local colleges and universities, businesses and nonprofit organizations, and PHSC groups and clubs.

The annual retreat is open to all PHSC students with an emphasis on those about to enter the college environment. This year, nearly 100 students stayed on site throughout the three-day retreat to participate in team-building exercises, attend workshops, and hear from keynote speaker Derrick Brooks.

Electrical line program
Hillsborough Community College (HCC) and Tampa Electric (TECO) have partnered to invest in the new Electrical Line Worker Program through the HCC Foundation and the Institute for Corporate and Continuing Education, according to a news release. Program training will take place on the HCC Brandon Campus and starts this fall.

TECO has pledged more than $300,000 annually for scholarships and relevant program equipment for the training.

Qualifying students will have the opportunity to learn the fundamental skills needed to pursue a career in the electric utility industry as a line worker trainee. The program will include 420 hours of training over a four-month period.

Upon completion, students will earn certifications in OSHA 10-hour, Bucket Truck Rescue, CPR & AED, Pole Top Rescue, and First Aid. Students who complete the program will have a chance to interview with TECO for an entry-level electrical line worker position.

For information and to apply, visit TampaTraining.com/Electrical-Line-Worker.

Florida school system one of the best
The personal-finance website WalletHub released its report on 2023’s States with the Best & Worst School Systems, according to a news release.

WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 32 key measures of quality and safety. The data set ranges from pupil-teacher ratio and dropout rate to media standardized-test scores.

Florida ranked as follows (1=Best; 25=Average):

  • First – Existence of Digital Learning Plan
  • Seventh – Reading Test Scores
  • Eighth – Bullying Incidence Rate
  • Ninth – Dropout Rate
  • 15th – Percent of Threatened/Injured High School Students
  • 17th – Math Test Scores

To view the full report, visit WalletHub.com/edu/states-with-the-best-schools/5335.

Pasco’s Angeline Academy begins its inaugural year

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JoAnne Glenn began ordering furniture months ago.

“That was the first thing I was doing once I got the job,” said Glenn, who is Angeline Academy of Innovation’s first principal.

First, it was about ordering furniture, then devices and equipment for the school and classrooms.

Angeline Academy of Innovation seventh-grader Gabrielle Laiso, 11, exits her parents’ car to enter Pasco County’s newest school in Land O’ Lakes on the first day of school on Aug. 10. The $52.7-million magnet school opened for sixth- through 10th-graders, but will be phasing in grades 11 and 12. JoAnne Glenn is the school’s first principal. (Mike Camunas)

“After those first two big purchases, it was then getting the books and then hiring the teachers, so it would all be ready for today,” Glenn said, as she and her staff of teachers, administrators, bookkeepers, secretaries and more welcomed hundreds of students to the county’s newest magnet school, which had its first opening day on Aug. 10.

The $52.7-million school, which ultimately will serve students in grades six through 12, is in the heart of the emerging community of Angeline, where Moffitt Cancer Research Center is developing its Pasco campus.

Before school started, cars lined the road out to Ridge Road as Glenn and Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning ushered in students through the front doors.

“The excitement for the teachers and students is palpable because we’ve spent months preparing for today,” Glenn said. “We finally have our students here, and you can’t beat (this feeling).”

The academy, at 8916 Angeline Way, is on an 18.8-acre site, which is south of State Road 52, north of the Ridge Road extension and west of Sunlake Boulevard.

Angeline Academy of Innovation Principal JoAnne Glenn welcomes students to inside Pasco County’s $52.7-million magnet school, which had its inaugural opening day on Aug. 10.

It is a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) magnet school that features four primary career academies at the high school level.

It will have a Biodesign Academy; a Computer Science and Applied Cybersecurity Academy; an Engineering and Applied Robotics Academy; and, an Entrepreneurship Academy. Students can pursue other pathways, which will enable them to leave school to become their own businesses and be their own bosses.

There are two primary magnet pathways at the middle school. They’re broad and intended to support the work in each of the high school pathways.

“I spent months interviewing and selecting teachers who believe in our mission about cultivating curiosity, encouraging students to explore,” Glenn said. “We’ve attracted students who are interested in technology, engineering, science, math —  and to bring those two key groups together and get started, the sky’s the limit!”

Angeline Academy is the third school of this type in Pasco, joining its sister institutions: Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation in Wesley Chapel and Wendell Krinn Technical High in New Port Richey.

Angeline Academy of Innovation sixth-grader Isaiah Upshaw, left, and Pasco County eSchool Assistant Principal Erin Senior work on finding out the location of Upshaw’s first class on the first day of school on Aug. 10.

The school is expected to have strong partnerships with both Moffitt and with Pasco-Hernando State College. 

Unlike its sister schools, Angeline Academy will, in fact, have athletic teams. The teams — named the Archers — will play on fields still being constructed on a parcel of land in front of the Land O’ Lakes subdivision, Tierra Del Sol, just off U.S. 41.

“That was actually one of the first calls I got,” Glenn admitted. “Our district was hearing from parents that they didn’t want their kids to have to choose between a magnet school or sports. I think sports are great for kids and I’m excited to have those athletic fields open, and it gives a little more importance to our colors and mascot — the Archers!”

Glenn — who was named Pasco County Schools’ Principal of the Year in 2019 and the 2020 Digital Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals — is ready to see what the school year brings.

“Literally, since November, I have been completely engrossed with the nitty-gritty,” said Glenn, who helped open Wharton High in 1997 and Pasco’s eSchool in 2009. “It was a lot of fun to look through it all, go over everything, from the equipment, to the teachers we wanted to hire.

“Kids here are going to be solving the world’s problems, I really believe that,” Glenn added. “I’m excited that my teachers, in this setting, will be able to use their time and expertise a little differently than in a traditional setting.”

Published August 16, 2023

Students of Angeline Academy of Innovation, also known as the Archers, make their way to their first class on the first day of school at Pasco County’s newest school in Land O’ Lakes.
Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning is all smiles as he welcomes students to the county’s newest school: Angeline Academy of Innovation in Land O’ Lakes.
Angeline Academy of Innovation is Pasco County’s newest magnet school. The $52.7-million school ultimately will serve sixth-graders through 12th-graders, but opened its doors for the first time this year with students in grades six through 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Angeline Academy of Innovation in Land O’ Lakes has its mascot: the Archers.
Angeline Academy of Innovation students head into Pasco County’s newest $52.7-million school in Land O’ Lakes.

Schools across the region ring in a new school year

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Schools across The Laker/Lutz News region have begun or will soon begin the 2023-2024 academic year.

First-year crossing guard Patricia Welch holds traffic on Weeks Boulevard, as Lake Myrtle Elementary students exit their school on Aug. 10, the first day back in classrooms for Pasco County. (Mike Camunas)

Students in the Pasco and Hillsborough public school districts had their first day of school on Aug. 10.

Many scenes playing out across the Pasco school district were similar to ones that happen every school year.

Kids were hopping on their bikes to ride to campus, following the lead of crossing guards at crosswalks, or boarding a school bus.

Schools used signs to help welcome their first-day crowds.

Arriving students were eager to catch up with old friends and begin to make new ones.

This year, free breakfasts and lunches are being served in Pasco district schools.

The school board also has tightened up rules regarding the use of electronic devices.

New to the district this year is Angeline Academy of Innovation, a magnet school in Land O’ Lakes that welcomed its inaugural crop of students.

And those arriving at Land O’ Lakes High School, at Gator Lane and U.S. 41, found a host of improvements aimed at making it easier for them to get around.

Of course, it almost goes without saying that schools are in the business of helping individuals to expand their horizons through learning.

We, at The Laker/Lutz News, are extending our best wishes to all students, teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, other district staffers, school administrators, elected school district leaders, and parents for a 2023-2024 school year that’s stimulating, safe and fulfilling.

Published August 16, 2023

Lake Myrtle Elementary fifth-grader Kendall Cave, 10, walks her bike across Weeks Boulevard on Aug. 10, the official first day of school for Pasco County. Kendall, and thousands of other students made their way back to their respective elementary, middle and high schools throughout the district. This school year marked the inaugural year for Angeline Academy of Innovation, a magnet school in Land O’ Lakes.
Lake Myrtle Elementary kindergarten teacher Angela Proietto leads 5-year-old Liam Webb to his parents, who are eager to greet him following his first day of school.
Pine View Middle students climb aboard their departing school bus following the first day of school in Pasco County on Aug. 10 in Land O’ Lakes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students at Pine View Middle in Land O’ Lakes wait to board their buses after school, on the first day of the 2023-2024 school year.
This sign, at Pine View Middle School, offers students and staff a warm welcome, as they arrive at the Land O’ Lakes campus for the first day of school.
Nicole Well, a first grade teacher at Lake Myrtle Elementary, hugs her son, Christopher, who is a third-grader, after the first day of school in Pasco County.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land O’ Lakes fourth-year crossing guard Carlos Tavarez holds up traffic on Parkway Boulevard, as Pine View Middle students head home after their first day of school.
Lake Myrtle Elementary students in Land O’ Lakes are heading home, finishing up Day One of the 2023-2024 school year.
Lots of children rode their bicycles to school for the beginning of a new academic year at Lake Myrtle Elementary, in Land O’ Lakes.

Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel High charter approved

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The Pasco County School Board has approved a charter application for Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel High School, at 33347 State Road 54, in Wesley Chapel.

The approval is for a five-year period, which began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2028.

The approval includes a provision that the term shall be automatically extended on a month-to-month basis until the charter has been renewed, non-renewed, or terminated by the sponsor, according to background materials in the Pasco County School Board’s July 25 agenda packet.

The school is authorized to serve students in grades nine through 12. 

The following is the student enrollment capacity by year: 

  1. Year 1 (2023-2024): Grade nine up to a maximum of 200 students 
  2. Year 2 (2024-2025): Grades nine to 10 up to a maximum of 550 students 
  3. Year 3 (2025-2026): Grades nine to 11 up to a maximum of 900 students 
  4. Year 4 (2026-2027): Grades nine to 12 up to a maximum of 1,250 students 
  5. Year 5 (2027-2028): Grades nine to 12 up to a maximum of 1,400 students

The charter approval allows the school to recruit throughout all segments of the community, using direct mailings, public advertisement, information in the local and community press, and informational meetings at various locations and in English or other languages, as appropriate.

If the number of applications exceeds the capacity of the program, class, grade level, or building, all applicants shall have an equal chance of being admitted through a random selection process. 

Students at the school also are eligible to participate in an interscholastic extracurricular activity at the public school to which the student would be otherwise assigned, the background materials say.

Published August 16, 2023