The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

New Kirkland Ranch principal described as ‘a blessing’

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It surprised Dee Dee Johnson.

The longtime Pasco County Schools teacher and administrator was named 2021 Principal of the Year in November and all of it came as a shock, especially when Superintendent Kurt Browning showed up with a bouquet of flowers.

Dee Dee Johnson was named Pasco County School District’s 2021 Principal of the Year and is now principal of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation. The new high school is set to open in August. (Mike Camunas)

“Oh, it was very unexpected,” said Johnson, who has been with Pasco County Schools for 18 years. “It was pretty cool that my peers nominated and voted for me. There are so many great leaders in the area and so many great leaders that I’ve learned from and still reach out to. I felt great that everyone recognized that I worked hard and want to do what is best for the kids.

“I was very surprised to get the award.”

Those who know Johnson and her work, however, weren’t as surprised. As someone who worked her way up from math teacher to principal of the soon-to-be-opening Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, it was a long time coming. Especially to one of those leaders who has witnessed Johnson’s career firsthand.

“We are just blessed beyond blessings to have her,” said Dr. Kim Moore, assistant superintendent for Career and Innovative Programs. “She is a phenomenal leader with a proven track record. Every school she has gone to has improved because she is that phenomenal leader.”

Johnson is a product of the school system where she works. She attended Quail Hollow Elementary, Weightman Middle and Zephyrhills High.

At Zephyrhills High, she was a soccer star — earning a scholarship to Florida Atlantic University, where she graduated in 2000.

“She is from the community and knows the community,” Moore said. “So everyone knows her and she’s earned that trust as a person from the community.”

Johnson began her career as a mathematics teacher at Centennial Middle and then moved on to her alma mater, Zephyrhills High. Next, she became assistant principal at Wesley Chapel High, where she was named principal in 2017.

In the 2018-2019 school year, she became principal at Pasco Middle.

Superintendent Browning named her Kirkland Ranch’s first principal in September.

“I couldn’t think of a better person to be that school’s principal,” Moore added.

Johnson’s ties run even deeper with Pasco County’s school system, as her husband, Mike, is the football coach at Cypress Creek High in Wesley Chapel.

Now, Johnson’s days are filled with planning to open Kirkland Ranch, which includes visits to the construction site until the work is finished this summer.

“I’m ready for August,” Johnson said.

“But the kids will come and tour it in July, so I really just can’t wait until then,” she said.

Published April 13, 2022

Pasco school board talks ‘referendum for raises’

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The Pasco County School Board is expected to pursue placing a referendum on the ballot to give voters the opportunity to approve or reject higher taxes to support salary increases for teachers and district support staff.

During the board’s April 5 workshop, according to school board member Colleen Beaudoin, the board’s chairwoman, Cynthia Armstrong, told Superintendent Kurt Browning “there appeared to be a consensus for him to write up a resolution to bring back to the board for consideration.”

Beaudoin also said that Armstrong told Browning there didn’t appear to be a consensus among board members regarding the amount of a millage increase the board wishes to pursue.

The issue is expected to come up at the board’s April 19 meeting.

According to the workshop background materials, the board is considering these options:

  • A .5 mil increase, which would yield an average instructional increase of $2,000; non-instructional, $850
  • A .75 mil increase, which would yield an average instructional increase of $3,000; non-instructional, $1,275
  • A 1 mil increase, which would yield an average instructional increase of $4,000; non-instructional $1,700

Based on Pasco’s median home cost of $325,000, and assuming a $25,000 homestead exemption, a property owner would pay $150 a year, if the increase is .5 mil; $225 more per year, if the increase is .75 mil; or $300 more per year, if the increase is 1 mil, according to district workshop materials.

Based on district calculations, 1 mil would generate $37 million; .75 mil, would generate $28 million and .5 mil would generate $18.5 million.

Don Peace, president of the United School Employees of Pasco (USEP), addressed the board, earlier in the day, during its regular meeting.

“I’ve come to you over the past several months advocating that we do better for employees. I continue that conversation today.

“We have got to do better.

“Since the beginning of the school year in August, 1,354 employees have left the district, due to retirement or resignation. Seventy-three percent have been zero to 5-year employees; and 14% have been 12-plus year employees,” he said.

“We have got to do better to retain our employees.

“After this meeting, there will be a workshop to discuss a referendum. This initiative is no longer an option for this district, but a necessity for us to attract and retain experienced and highly qualified employees, into the future.

“I’ve advocated for this for almost five years and the time has finally come for us to make a collective decision.

“It is my hope that this board would move this conversation forward to a formal vote and take the necessary steps to get this initiative placed on the November ballot.

“I will state here today that USEP will fully support this endeavor.

“We need to make this happen for our employees, our students and our community.

“Together, let’s make positive changes for Pasco. Together, we can do better,” Peace said.

Beaudoin said she fully supports seeking a full mil increase.

She prepared notes for the workshop, which, when interviewed about the session, she offered to share with The Laker/Lutz News.

“I thought it was really important to give context — that these are people (who need the raises), Beaudoin said.

She took it upon herself to circulate about the community to talk to people, to glean examples of real-life situations.

Beaudoin said she spoke to a veteran 17-year teacher who was taking home $1,100 every two weeks in Pasco. That teacher now makes double that amount, in Hillsborough County.

Beaudoin spoke with another teacher, with 28 years of experience, who left Pasco to go to work in Hillsborough. That teacher received a $15,000 pay increase.

Pasco eSchool recently lost an English language arts teacher to Pinellas County, for a $7,500 pay increase.

Wesley Chapel High School lost a teacher to Hillsborough for $12,000 more. The teacher would like to return, but can’t afford the pay cut.

Those were just some examples of teachers changing counties for better compensation that were cited in Beaudoin’s notes.

She also reported the district is losing teachers to other industries.

“Businesses are seeing that teachers make great trainers. We want our teachers using their talents for our kids. We don’t want them leaving the profession. Pasco High lost a science teacher to go to Moffitt. This was a great teacher who was in tears and did not want to leave.  However, she has to provide for her family,” Beaudoin wrote.

The school board member said she realizes that Penny for Pasco and the referendum on pay raises would be on the ballot at the same time, but she believes the community will support its schools.

They are two different measures, Beaudoin said, noting the Penny for Pasco provides funding for school construction, remodeling and other capital needs. The referendum, on the other hand, addresses people needs.

Ultimately, Beaudoin said, it’s about providing quality schools for the county’s students.

“I am hopeful that our community sees the importance of good schools and what good schools do for our community — because they are the backbone of our community,” the school board member said.

Published April 13, 2022

Pasco Schools to end courtesy bus rides

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Pasco County Schools has decided to end courtesy bus rides for middle and high school students beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, as the district continues to grapple with issues posed by a shortage of bus drivers.

Steve Hegarty, public information officer for Pasco County Schools, said the district has decided to drop the rides for middle and high school students living within 2 miles of their schools because the state doesn’t cover the cost of transporting those riders.

There are about 3,000 bus riders that fall into that category, Hegarty said.

Discontinuing those services will take some of the strain off the bus driver shortage, which in turn should help with getting students to school on time and reduce wait times for students to catch a bus after school to head home.

The district is not dropping the courtesy rides it provides for elementary students, Hegarty added.

Hegarty said the district is getting pushback from parents whose children are losing their bus rides. However, he suspects there also will be parents who will be pleased when the district can improve being on time with its buses.

He also noted the district put the word out as soon as it could, to give parents more lead time to prepare for next school year.

While acknowledging the issue is an operational decision, some school board members said they’d been hearing from parents who are worried about safety, and they share those concerns.

At the school board’s April 5 meeting, board member Megan Harding said she understands that dropping those courtesy rides will free up many runs.

But Harding added: “I see people zooming through school zones and students not crossing at proper crosswalks.”

She rattled off a number of roads that she said are potentially dangerous for walkers.

She asked if the district could request traffic studies at intersections on particularly busy roads, to determine if crossing guards are warranted.

“I know that our families are really worried about their children’s safety, and I really am, too,” she said.

Board member Alison Crumbley said she feels empathy for parents and students who are concerned, but said she believes the district is doing the best that it can, with its resources.

On another matter, board members approved adding a job description for a program director for academic tutoring.

Vanessa Hilton, the district’s chief academic officer, explained the position relates to a state grant the board approved in January, and the position will be funded through the grant.

“This position would lead the effort of school-based tutoring that is going to be developed because of COVID. The grant provided by FDOE (Florida Department of Education) requires districts to implement a specific tutoring program using the state resources. It requires specific training, specific procedures, specific implementation.”

Board members wanted assurances that the position would not be funded beyond the grant.

Superintendent Kurt Browning said the position goes away, once the grant funds run out. If the district wants to continue with someone in that role, it will come back to the board for its approval, Browning said.

There are numerous positions in the district, now paid for with federal funds, that will go away once those COVID-19 related funds disappear, Browning said.

“We’re not going to be falling off the financial cliff,” Browning said.

In other news, school board member Colleen Beaudoin told her colleagues that she was delighted to hear that the district is expanding its early childhood programs to four additional elementary schools beginning next school year.

The additional schools are Connerton, Veterans, Trinity and Seven Springs, which will bring the district’s total number of schools with early childhood programs to 38.

On another item, the board voted to increase the price for some meals for the upcoming school year. These are the categories that increased: Elementary school breakfast, up from $1.35 to $1.60; elementary school lunch, up from $2.50 to $3; middle school breakfast, up from $1.50 to $1.75; high school breakfast, up from $1.50 to $1.75; high school lunch, up from $3.25 to $3.50; adult breakfast, up from $1.75 to $2.

Published April 13, 2022

Chalk Talk 04/13/2022

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Kevin D. O’ Farrell (File)

Provost leaves position
Kevin D. O’ Farrell, provost, Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, announced his upcoming departure from Pasco-Hernando State College, in an email letter.

O’ Farrell has served PHSC for the past 12 years, and has been serving as provost for the last 5 1/2 years.

In his new role as chancellor for Career and Adult Education at the Florida Department of Education, he will provide leadership to the Career and Technical Education Programs, Workforce Education, and Adult Education throughout the state.

O’ Farrell’s last day with PHSC will be April 22, and he and his family will relocate to Tallahassee.

Financial literacy
Pasco County Schools in collaboration with community partners is recognizing Financial Literacy Month by offering virtual experiences and opportunities.

Visit Pasco County Schools on Facebook for student, home/community, and teacher workshops, contests, and more.

Student news

  • Hope Lelekacs and Joshua Luther, both of Odessa, have been initiated into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, at the University of Tampa.
  • Payton VanNort, of Lutz, worked behind the scenes as an assistant stage manager in Marietta College’s (Ohio) production of “Reefer Madness.” VanNort is majoring in theater (BFA) directing track.

Kindergarten & VPK
Kindergarten registration for the 2022-2023 school year is on April 18, at all Pasco County elementary schools.

Requirements include:

  • The child must be 5 years of age by Sept. 1
  • Birth Certificate or other proof of birth date
  • Health Examination – HRS Form 3040
  • HRS Certificate of Immunization
  • Three different proofs of residency including deed or property tax assessment or lease, current utility bill, and an additional document supporting stated address such as auto registration, driver’s license, voter registration.

For more information on registration, visit tinyurl.com/p7txr4j4.

Pasco County Schools also offers free VPK (voluntary prekindergarten).

Children must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, to be eligible.

For information and instructions on how to apply, visit pasco.k12.fl.us, click on “News” and search for “VPK.”

Duke Energy grants
The Duke Energy Foundation and Duke Energy Florida have awarded more than $641,000 in grants to support a wide range of kindergarten through 12th grade initiatives focused on energy and engineering education, as well as programs serving underrepresented, low-income and diverse students, according to a news release.

This year’s grant recipients range from local education foundations to community organizations that provide unique learning opportunities for students, especially those with diverse backgrounds and abilities, to explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) concepts.

In The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, the Pasco Education Foundation Inc., was the recipient of $25,000. This foundation partners with Pasco County Schools, and the Energy and Marine Science Center (EMC) to help improve STEM curriculum and enhance its reach in providing the opportunity for underrepresented, low-income Title I students to visit the EMC.

Statewide, the Consortium of Florida Education Foundation received $50,000, to support local education foundations in Duke Energy Florida’s footprint in understanding the local landscape of career/technical education, college/career readiness and STEM education needs, and increase knowledge of capacity building tools for organizational stability, the release says.

In total, six organizations in the Tampa Bay area received grants; in the Greater Orlando area, nine; and in the Greater Tallahassee/Gainesville area, six.

Financial aid tip
As college students register for classes this fall, the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) encourages students to consider taking more classes.

A heavier course load helps to cut the total cost of college, because students will finish their technical or degree program more quickly, a KHEAA news release says.

A full-time load for undergraduates usually is 12 credit hours per semester.

Associate degrees usually require 60 credit hours to finish; bachelor degrees, 120 hours.

At 12 hours each semester, students will need five semesters to finish an associate degree and 10 semesters to finish a bachelor degree.

By taking 15 hours per semester, a student can finish an associate degree in four semesters and a bachelor degree in eight semesters, the release says.

Many colleges do not charge students more for 15 hours than they do for 12 hours.

The expanded course load may save students thousands of dollas in tuition and fees.

KHEAA is a public, nonprofit agency that helps to improve student access to college, and provides information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to students and parents.

For more information, visit KHEAA.com.

Helping principals develop their skills was his biggest joy

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Dave Scanga received a standing ovation during his final meeting with the Pasco County School board and district leaders, at the beginning of March.

Superintendent Kurt Browning lauded Scanga for his 27 years of service to the district.

“I’ll tell you, when Dave walks out the door, there’s going to be a great deal of institutional history that is walking out with him,” Browning said.

“His fingerprints are on so many things around here,” the superintendent added.

“Dave has been a rock,” Browning said, characterizing Scanga as “the voice of reason” during various staff discussions.

School board members praised Scanga’s ability to work through issues.

Dave Scanga recently retired from his post of assistant superintendent in Pasco County Schools. Regardless of his role during his 27 years in the district, his aim was the same: To help students to learn and to thrive. (B.C. Manion)

Board member Colleen Beaudoin recalled her first encounter with the assistant superintendent, which came when she was parent attending a board meeting, to call attention to an issue.

“He took me aside afterward and we problem-solved and worked together, and it was a really great experience,” Beaudoin said.

“He really listens to parents and community members, and I greatly appreciate that,” she added.

Board Chairwoman Cynthia Armstrong said the board could count on Scanga to be responsive, whenever it was warranted.

“I didn’t have to worry, you were going to be there, and you were going to handle it with such calm and reason and grace,” Armstrong said.

Board member Allison Crumbley said, the way Scanga worked through a problem, “everybody felt pretty good by the time it was solved.”

Board member Megan Harding appreciated Scanga’s presence — not only when a situation needed correction, but also to celebrate a success.

“You’ve always been there and you’ve been advocating for our kids,” Harding told Scanga. “I am unbelievably grateful for you.”

Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd weighed in on Scanga’s even temperament.

“Over the years, he’s come into my office a few times, just madder than heck about a few things. And, he was very calm, when he was mad,” Gadd said. “Rarely is he mad, but even when he is mad, he is calm.”

In his final role, Scanga was an assistant superintendent. Before that, he was director of research, a principal, an assistant principal and a behavioral specialist.

Scanga arrived in Pasco County after working overseas for 10 years in Saudi Arabia, Africa and Japan. He worked in student services in those schools.

Scanga grew up on a farm outside of Pittsburgh, in a family of nine children.

He said his international experiences broadened his perspective and deepened his understanding of himself.

He was attracted to Pasco County through a recruiting effort, and once he arrived had no desire to leave.

“At our core (in Pasco County Schools), we do believe in supporting the whole child and we do believe in connecting to the family,” Scanga explained.

He also admires that the district gives principals the autonomy to work with the community.

Scanga said he was attracted to serving in an administrative role because he desired a wider sphere of influence. He wanted to focus on helping others develop their leadership skills.

“The joy of my career has been working with principals, and the great ones … they create the context for everybody to feel like they’re part of the work,” Scanga said.

Role of principal complex, challenging
Scanga holds principals in high esteem.

“They are excited. You can barely contain them. They want to be so successful. But they also are stepping into a role that is very complex and very challenging — a lot of responsibility,” Scanga said.

“Every principal I’ve ever worked with has basically said: ‘I thought I knew what it was going to feel like. But I didn’t.’”

This is a group of new elementary principals that Dave Scanga worked with to help them develop their leadership skills. (Courtesy of Dave Scanga)

It’s a tough job, Scanga said.

“Principals are at the apex of everything below them and are a conduit to everyone above them,” Scanga said.

He said he  appreciated being able to be a mentor to new principals, and to help them build a network of support, where they could learn from one another’s experiences.

In a group meeting, Scanga said, one principal might say: “’I have this problem.’

“And everyone else in the room will go: ‘So, do I.’’

The quality of a principal’s leadership has a direct bearing on the effectiveness of a school,  Scanga added.

“It doesn’t matter, the context of the school — the socioeconomic level, high or low, (or) where you are geographically — a good principal will make a difference in whatever situation you put them in, whether it’s a brand-new school, or a school that’s been there for 100 years.

“Helping principals transition into the role is part of what I’ve been able to do and what I’ve enjoyed,” Scanga said.

Whether on the front lines, or working at a higher level, Scanga said his driving motivation has been same: To foster a culture where children had the opportunity to learn, and to thrive.

Although stepping away from Pasco County Schools, Scanga will remain active in education — continuing in his role as an adjunct professor at Saint Leo University.

He is passionate about public education.

“I believe it’s the bedrock of our democracy, and even though, we’re under attack sometimes, it’s the people in this (district board) room that are going to make the difference,” Scanga said, during his last school board meeting..

“They’re going to keep public education viable. They’re going to keep it so that every student has that opportunity that they need to have to become a strong, literate citizen in this country,” Scanga said.

Public educators must stay the course, he said.

“If we ever blink, it will be our fault because basically without it (public education), the country just won’t be what it is meant to be,” he said.

Published April 06, 2022

Chalk Talk 04/06/2022

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Saint Leo honors women
Saint Leo University recently recognized the contributions of women in social work at its “Influential Women of Social Work,” on International Women’s Day.

The event not only celebrated those who give back to their communities, but it also created new legacies in social work as four students received scholarships from Leven “Chuck” Wilson, president and CEO of The Renew Group.

From left: Anne Chaves, Alyssa D’Aiello, Megan Rowe and Natalie Vega each received a Leven ‘Chuck’ Wilson scholarship. (Courtesy of Saint Leo University)

Wilson donated and created the scholarships for undergraduate social work students, which were presented at the event.

These students received a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) scholarship, to be used in the fall 2022 semester:

  • Anne Chaves, sophomore at University Campus – $500
  • Alyssa D’Aiello, junior at University Campus – $500
  • Megan Rowe, junior at University Campus – $1,000
  • Natalie Vega, junior at the Tampa Education Center – $500

The theme for Social Work Month is “The Time is Right for Social Work.” Christina Cazanave, chair of the National Association of Social Workers Florida Chapter-Nature Coast, presented the following awards:

  • Brendan Bernsley, junior in the BSW program – Social Work Student of the Year
  • Feeding Tampa Bay – Rising to the Challenge award
  • Maria Santos, social worker since 2017 – Public Citizen of the Year
  • Sarah Shirina, supervisor of BayCare Behavioral Health’s Mobile Response Team-Hernando and Pasco counties – Social Worker of the Year

Cazanave, herself, was surprised with the Social Work Educator of the Year, presented by Ebony Perez, chair of Saint Leo’s undergraduate social work program.

To find out more about information sessions for Saint Leo’s Bachelor of Social Work degree programs, email or .

John Mitten
Lee Maggard

New elected board leaders
The Pasco-Hernando State College District Board of Trustees recently elected Trustees John Mitten and Lee Maggard, respectively, as chair and vice chair of the board.

The terms for both leadership positions, to begin on July 1 and conclude on June 30, 2023, will extend through the college’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Former Hernando County commissioner Mitten, of Brooksville, owns and operates Hernando’s only Chick-fil-A franchise. He serves on the Southwest Florida Management District Board and is actively involved in service and community organizations, including the Greater Hernando Chamber of Commerce, Jericho Road Ministries, Hope Children’s Home, MissioSERVE Alliance, and the Restoration Center of Florida.

Mitten is a PHSC trustee appointed in 2018 and succeeds previous chair Dr. Rao Musunuru.

Maggard, vice president/credit officer for BankFlorida in Dade City, has been employed in the banking industry for 12 years. He is a lifelong resident of East Pasco County and a PHSC alumnus.

Maggard has served on the board since 2018.

Grand opening
Saint Leo University will host the grand opening of its 59,500-square-foot Wellness Center on April 8 at 2 p.m., at 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.

The building is a physical representation of the university’s mission of serving students and the community in the growth of mind, body and spirit.

The facility is home to a fitness floor, multipurpose gymnasium, health suite, healthy café, recreational spaces, and an infinity edge pool.

Registration is required to attend the opening, at SaintLeo.edu/wellness-opening.

Partnership provides training
Saint Leo University’s East Pasco Education Center and the Center for Alternative Pathway Program (CAPP) partnered to provide professional development sessions for teachers at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in Pasco County.

Topics focused on conflict reduction and resolution techniques, as well as tools for effective parent-teacher relationships.

The CAPP at Saint Leo offers continuing professional development courses for working adults.

These courses are offered in an online format, and more recently in collaboration with the East Pasco Education Center, now are offered in person, in customized professional development sessions to meet the unique needs of businesses and organizations in Pasco and Hernando counties.

For information about CAPP, email .

Deadline extension
The Hillsborough County Community Action Board Scholarships are now available to Hillsborough County students who want to continue their post-secondary education.

The scholarships can be used at trade schools, community colleges, or four-year universities, and are awarded to students to help alleviate some of the financial burden of tuition.

Interested students should read through the full Community Action Board Scholarship Application Package (visit tinyurl.com/2p95vwc6) before applying online, to ensure all documents are complete and requirements are met.

Students can apply online at tinyurl.com/yc46uy6p, once all the information and documents have been collected.

Application deadline now has been extended to April 15 at 5 p.m.

For information and questions, call 813-272-5074, ext. 55316.

Internship program
The eight-week summer program RISE (Redefining Internships for Student Empowerment), in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools, is accepting internship applications until April 16.

Rising seniors can have the opportunity to explore career paths and earn money, while working full-time with Hillsborough County.

Interns are placed in county departments, such as Parks & Recreation, Pet Resources, Emergency Management, Library Services, and others.

The interns will work with mentors and learn professional development skills such as writing resumes, interviewing and networking.

For information and to apply, visit tinyurl.com/4we39twn.

FAFSA verifications
The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) encourages students and famlies to take the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) verification seriously, according to a news release.

The federal government requires many students who submit the FAFSA, to verify the information they report.

The U.S. Department of Education chooses the students whose FAFSA information is verified; parents also may be required to provide information, the release said.

Verification ensures that the students who really need financial aid to pay for college or technical training receive it.

Students chosen for verification must complete the process before they can receive financial aid, so families should prepare to provide the requested information as quickly as possible.

As soon as students are notified their FAFSA is being verified, they should begin the process.

Many colleges do their own verification, and others have an agency handle the process.

The KHEAA provides verification services to more than 30 colleges and universities in the United States.

For more information, visit KHEAA.com.

Chalk Talk 03/30/2022

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(Courtesy of Shantel Meyers)

Goin’ green for a cause
The GFWC Wesley Chapel Woman’s Club recently hosted a St. Patrick’s Bunco for Educational Scholarships fundraiser. Forty-six players joined the event to try to win baskets for most buncos, mini buncos, most wins, and most losses. The club will select a scholarship recipient within the next two months. From left: Linda Jenkins, Liz Chavez and Cindi Nalon. Sitting at the table in the background is Marie Ambrosino.

Student achievements

  • Scott Abramson, of Odessa: Dean’s List, Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington
  • Grace Ackermann, of Lutz; Omicron Delta Kappa, Elon University, Lexington, Virginia
  • Christian Licea, of Lutz: Dean’s List, Le Moyne College, Syracuse, New York
  • Sarah Perciavalle, of Lutz: Omicron Delta Kappa, Elon University, Lexington, Virginia
  • Thea Wangsness, of Dade City: Dean’s List, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis/St. Paul

Grand opening
Saint Leo University will host the grand opening of its 59,500-square-foot Wellness Center on April 8 at 2 p.m., at 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.

The building is a physical representation of the university’s mission of serving students and the community in the growth of mind, body and spirit.

The facility is home to a fitness floor, multipurpose gymnasium, health suite, healthy café, recreational spaces, and an infinity edge pool.

Registration is required to attend the opening, at SaintLeo.edu/wellness-opening.

Pasco school news

Pasco County Schools has announced the following:

  • A second window of opportunity to apply for the Kirland Ranch Academy of Innnovation will be open from April 11 to April 18, according to Pasco County Schools’ Facebook page.
  • The next Early Release Day will be on April 13; students will be released two hours early. All bell times can be found online at Pasco.k12.fl.us/site/pcs_bell_schedule.
  • ESS (Extended School Services) is hiring qualified substitute teaching staff to work in Pasco County Schools. ESS is an education management company that has partnered with Pasco shools to provide substitute teaching staff support. Apply online at Jobs.willsubplus.com, and search “Pasco County.” For questions, email Jenny Hacker at .

Deadline extension
The Hillsborough County Community Action Board Scholarships are now available to Hillsborough County students who want to continue their post-secondary education.
The scholarships can be used at trade schools, community colleges, or four-year universities, and are awarded to students to help alleviate some of the financial burden of tuition.
Interested students should read through the full Community Action Board Scholarship Application Package (visit tinyurl.com/2p95vwc6) before applying online, to ensure all documents are complete and requirements are met.
Students can apply online at tinyurl.com/yc46uy6p, once all the information and documents have been collected.
Note: Application deadline now has been extended to April 15 at 5 p.m.
For information and questions, call 813-272-5074, ext. 55316.

Internship program
The eight-week summer program RISE (Redefining Internships for Student Empowerment), in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools, is accepting internship applications until April 16.
Rising seniors can have the opportunity to explore career paths and earn money, while working full-time with Hillsborough County.
Interns are placed in county departments, such as Parks & Recreation, Pet Resources, Emergency Management, Library Services, and others.
The interns will work with mentors and learn professional development skills such as writing resumes, interviewing and networking.
For information and to apply, visit tinyurl.com/4we39twn.

Essay contest
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano will accept entries through April 22 (at 5 p.m.), for his annual essay contest for high school students.

Students enrolled in Pasco public/charter, private, parochial, nonpublic, and home-school programs can participate.

In 500 words or less, students must answer the question, “Since the 1980s, Pasco County has seen a steady growth in population that now has us nearing 600,000 residents. To accommodate this growth, we have seen many additions made to our county’s general infrastructure (expanded roads, public transportation, additional shopping venues, etc.). What is one addition that has been made that was most beneficial to Pasco County, or what is one addition that you believe should be made to further accommodate our county’s growth?”

The winner will be notified no later than May 13, and will receive a $500 gift card.

Students in public/charter schools should submit their essays to their principal.

Students in private, parochial, nonpublic or home-school programs should send their essays directly to Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano, c/o Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526.

Entries also can be hand-delivered to the tax collector’s office at 4720 U.S. 19 in New Port Richey.

For questions, call Jose Rodriguez Sierra at 727-847-8165, ext. 3826.

Clean Tech competition
Students from around the world are invited to share their innovative solutions as part of the 2022 Spellman High Voltage Electronics Clean Tech Competition. The event engages students in identifying and solving real-world environmental challenges by creating innovative solutions.

Each year more than 40 countries participate.

The first-place winner will receive $7,000 in prize money; $5,000 for second place; and $3,500 for third place. Fourth place through 10th place each will receive $1,000.

Prize money will be awarded on Aug. 11 to the top student teams at the competition finals.

Registration is open through April 22. Students must submit their papers by April 29.

Ten finalist teams will be announced online on June 9.

For more information, visit CSTL.org/cleantech, email , or call 516-764-0045.

Chalk Talk 03/23/2022

By

Nick DeMarinis

Leadership program
Saint Leo University will host a free event on March 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., at its University Campus, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo, and online via Zoom.

“Mission-Driven Leaders: Conversations on Purpose” will feature guest speaker Nick DeMarinis, vice president of sales at WeWork, a former LinkedIn executive, and a Saint Leo alumnus.

The program also will include an interactive, interview-style conversation with DeMarinis.

Registration is required online at SaintLeo.edu/mdl.

Water Days
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), 4801 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa, will host Tampa Bay Water Days on March 25 and March 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The program on March 25 will focus on serving third- to fifth-grade students.

The general public, scouting organizations and homeschool groups will be the focus on March 26.

Water Days is a community event organized by MOSI, to celebrate water conservation, storm water management, and environmental stewardship.

Guests can explore the MOSI Backwoods, learn about local resources and participate in hands-on environmental science activities with MOSI educators, as well as many community organizations.

The first 1,000 people to register also will get free admission into MOSI.

Preregistration is online at MOSI.org.

Route safety
The pedestrian and bicycle routes that students use to get from their residential neighborhoods to Gaither High School and Claywell Elementary in Hillsborough County are being studied by engineers to create safer routes to the schools, according to a news release.

The Hillsborough County School Route Safety Improvement Program aims to address gaps in the pedestrian and bicycle networks that students use to get to schools, and enhance safety by improving the engineering and design of the routes students take.

Proposed improvements for these schools include: High-visiblity crosswalks; new sidewalks; wayfinding; streetlights; raised crosswalks; sidewalk maintenance; improved pedestrian signal timing at traffic signals; pedestrian signage and pavement markings; intersection improvements to manage speed of drivers turning across crosswalks; clearing vegetation along walking paths; and bicycle facilities, the release says.

‘Dorothy in Wonderland’
Union Park Charter Academy in Wesley Chapel will present “Dorothy in Wonderland” on March 29 at 6:30 p.m., at the Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel, 30651 Wells Road.

Tickets are $10. Children age 3 and younger are free.

The event includes a pre-show art exhibit by Union Park art students.

For information, call 813-358-7306.

Musical performance
The Saint Leo Singers, Saint Leo Chamber Singers, Saint Leo Rhythm Machine, and the Saint Leo Ensemble will perform a spirited musical program showcasing tunes of the 20th century on March 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the Selby Auditorium in Lewis Hall, at University Campus, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.

Guests should see the attendant at the box office on the second floor.

Seating is first-come, first-served.

Admission is a donation in the amount the guest chooses. Cash and credit cards will be accepted.

For information, email .

Eagle Scout award
Greater Tampa Bay Area Council Eagle Scouts who are currently registered in an active unit and are graduating from high school this year can apply for the Dadez Family Eagle Scout Values Award.

The award is presented to an Eagle Scout who has lived a life of honesty, integrity, respect, responsibility and leadership with a demonstrated commitment to the ideals of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, according to a news release.

The selected recipient will receive a $1,000 cash award, a medal and a certificate.

Application deadline is March 30.

For information and to apply, visit tinyurl.com/5b2kt5bw.

Essay contest
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano will accept entries from March 28 through April 22 (at 5 p.m.), for his annual essay contest for high school students.

Students enrolled in Pasco public/charter, private, parochial, nonpublic, and home-school programs can participate.

In 500 words or less, students must answer the question, “Since the 1980s, Pasco County has seen a steady growth in population that now has us nearing 600,000 residents. To accommodate this growth, we have seen many additions made to our county’s general infrastructure (expanded roads, public transportation, additional shopping venues, etc.). What is one addition that has been made that was most beneficial to Pasco County, or what is one addition that you believe should be made to further accommodate our county’s growth?”

The winner will be notified no later than May 13, and will receive a $500 gift card.

Students in public/charter schools should submit their essays to their principal.

Students in private, parochial, nonpublic or home-school programs should send their essays directly to Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano, c/o Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526.

Entries also can be hand-delivered to the tax collector’s office at 4720 U.S. 19 in New Port Richey.

For questions, call Jose Rodriguez Sierra at 727-847-8165, ext. 3826.

Dr. Amy-Jill Levine

Public webinar
Saint Leo University’s Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies will present the webinar, “Understanding Jesus and Paul Means Understanding Judaism: Pharisees, Prayer, Parable, and Practice,” on March 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., via Zoom.

The guest speaker will be Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, a scholar of the New Testament and Jewish studies.

There also will be a Q&A session, and Bishop Gregory Parkes of the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg and a trustee of Saint Leo University will offer closing comments.

The webinar is free. Registration is online at SaintLeo.edu/understanding.

For information, email .

Fish art contest
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is hosting the annual Florida State Fish Art Contest.

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can compete in the free contest for a chance to win state and national honors, and prizes.

The program inspires creativity, while developing the next generation of anglers and conservationists.

Florida winners will be selected by the FWC in four grade categories: Kindergarten through third grade; fourth grade through sixth grade; seventh grade through ninth grade; and 10th grade through 12th grade.

State winners will advance to the National Competition to be judged for top prizes, including Best of Show.

The deadline to enter is March 31.

For entry guidelines and information, visit WildlifeForever.org/home/fish-art/.

Pasco school news
Pasco County Schools has announced the following:

Zephyrhills High ushers in a brand-new look

By

Like many in this small town, it’s a longtime resident.

Zephyrhills High School.

The second-oldest school in Pasco County recently celebrated the end of a two-year, $33-million renovation.

The $33-million renovation at Zephyrhills High included adding a two-story, 17-classroom building, increasing the school’s capacity to about 1,950 students. (Mike Camunas)

Now, the school is practically unrecognizable to even deeply-rooted alumni and members of the community.

“My parents went here,” said senior athlete and student council vice president Kamil Mehrab.

He remembers how the school looked, not only since arriving there as a freshman, but from his growing-up years, near the school.

Long-timers reminisce about what it used to look like and are just like, ‘Nothing’s there anymore’, he said.

Overall, the campus remains the same — but it has been updated, relocated or improved, and in some cases, there have been additions.

The main entrance, for example, has changed drastically. The School Resource Officer’s office has been moved. And, the school’s massive trophy case now is in the main commons area — creating a visually stunning display.

“The eye is really drawn to that right away,” said principal Dr. Christina Stanley, in her third year at the school’s helm.

Zephyrhills High underwent a two-year, $33-million renovation, which included redesigning the common area to make it more spacious and to provide a prominent location for the school’s massive trophy case.

“And this city — it loves this school. Many of the residents and community leaders are deeply invested in it because many of them either went here, too, or their children now go here.

“And there’s been a lot of feedback in the form of questions of where everything is now or how it can look so different. Once they get over that and realize just how great everything is and its importance, they fall in love with it all over again,” the principal said.

The high school also added a new two-story, 17-classroom building, bringing its capacity to about 1,950 students.

The media center was remodeled, too. It now features small group conference rooms, circulation desks, flat-screen technology, and numerous outlets.

It has the feel of a university’s collaborative space.

“It’s all state-of-the-art,” Mehrab said. “It definitely doesn’t look like a high school because it’s so sleek and modern, but it’s very impressive, too.”

A redesign of the media center was part of the $33-million renovation at Zephyrhills High.

The classrooms and school have been equipped with enhanced safety measures to meet requirements in a “post-Parkland era,” Stanley said.

It also offers career and technical education opportunities.

The school’s criminal justice program features a 911 communications center, while the health occupation classroom resembles a hospital wing, equipped with multiple beds, sinks and curtains.

The school’s science, agriculture and building construction technology programs now have enlarged spaces for better hands-on learning, and the JROTC program has an indoor firing range in a classroom that includes a large garage door for easy trailer access.

Other improvements include a larger cafeteria area, additional restrooms, upgrades to the commons area, and an updated teacher’s lounge and administration suites.

Tampa-based Peter Hepner Architects and Clearwater-based Creative Contractors completed the project. They took feedback from staff and administration, and incorporated many suggestions into the plans.

“They gave me everything,” said Cat Burgess, a longtime fine arts teacher. “I asked for electric to come from the ceiling, and they came back and did that. I made out great, and with much more space. It’s so great that we were able to get this kind of update to everything.”

Buildings also were overhauled with a new air conditioning system, fire sprinkler system and energy-efficient LED lighting.

Plus, Stanley said, “there’s new windows everywhere letting in more light.

“I even have one in my office now.”

One difference, though, raised eyebrows of alumni, students, staff and community residents, alike.

“Where is Gus?!” they wanted to know.

There’s no need to worry: The school’s 500-pound brass bulldog, donated by Fred Gore from the Class of 1948, isn’t missing or gone.

Gus has just been moved.

He used to stand in the commons area: Now, he’s in the gym lobby.

Principal Stanley had this message for the Zephyrhills High faithful: “Gus isn’t going anywhere — he’s staying right here.

“We just need to find the right spot for him,” Stanley said with a laugh. “Gus is family.”

Published March 13, 2022

Chalk Talk 03/16/2022

By

Student achievements

  • Krystin Hust, of Lutz: Doctor of Physical Therapy in Army-Baylor Physical Therapy, Baylor University, Texas
  • JoAna Mucklow, of Odessa: Chancellor’s Honor Roll at the University of Mississippi
  • Jason Petyo, of Lutz: Master of Science in counseling and psychology, Troy University, Alabama
  • Jorge Zequeira, of Odessa: Bachelor of Applied Science, University of Arkansas-Little Rock

Fall Dean’s List students

  • Augustana College, Illinois: Daniel Higgins, Odessa
  • Baylor University, Waco, Texas: Emily Rogers, Lutz
  • College of William & Mary, Virginia: Kaitlyn Ferguson, Lutz
  • Emerson College, Massachusetts: Thais Jacomassi, Lutz
  • Florida Tech: Jacqueline Figueredo, Lutz; Vasant Ramnarine, Lutz; Max Martino, Lutz; Braden Contreras, Lutz; Zachary Watson, Trinity; Rodrigo Sandoval Sanchez, Trinity; and Tyler Vermillion, Trinity
  • Georgia Tech, Atlanta: Rajshree Bhogshetty, Lutz
  • Mars Hill University, North Carolina: Roland Anthony Chacon, Lutz; and Mykayla Christine Parise-King, Lutz
  • Minnesota State University, Mankato: Kaylyn Burr, Land O’ Lakes (High Honor)
  • Mississippi College, Clinton: Jaelyn Evans, Odessa
  • Norwich University, Vermont: Molly Grace Flanagan, Lutz
  • Rochester Institute of Technology, New York: Jacob Statman, Lutz
  • South Dakota State University: Matthew William Durrance, Lutz
  • Tallahassee Community College: Jacob Alvarado, Lutz; Ryan Bogdanski, Odessa; Wiliam Brockman, Lutz; Matthew Daniels, Lutz; and Skylar Barnes, Lutz
  • Tufts University, Massachusetts: Emara Saez, Lutz
  • University of Mississippi: Madeleine Hendron, Odessa
  • University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Jacquelyn Claire Abanses, Lutz
  • University of Southern Mississippi: Joel Perdomo, Lutz
  • University of Tampa: Joshua Luther, Odessa; Leigh Dittman, Lutz; Madison McElhone, Lutz; Hope Lelekacs, Odessa; Cole Benjamin, Odessa; Noah Doble, Odessa; James Gerakios, Odessa; Gianna Mangiaracina, Odessa; Trevor Puleo, Lutz; Lindsey Marzo, Lutz; Victoria Nelson, Lutz; Rye Gapinski, Lutz; Ashley Mueller, Lutz; Emma Sack, Lutz; Jacey Fennell, Odessa; Atlanta Foskey, Odessa; Tristan Hilson, Lutz; Robert Cooper, Lutz; Gavin Cooper, Lutz; Zoe Papageorgiou, Odessa; and Alyssa Gomez, Odessa

Pasco school news
Pasco County Schools has announced the following:

Clean Tech competition
Students from around the world are invited to share their innovative solutions as part of the 2022 Spellman High Voltage Electronics Clean Tech Competition. The event engages students in identifying and solving real-world environmental challenges by creating innovative solutions.

Each year more than 40 countries participate.

The first-place winner will receive $7,000 in prize money; $5,000 for second place; and $3,500 for third place. Fourth place through 10th place each will receive $1,000.

Prize money will be awarded on Aug. 11 to the top student teams at the competition finals.

Registration is open through April 22. Students must submit their papers by April 29.

Ten finalist teams will be announced online on June 9.

For more information, visit CSTL.org/cleantech, email , or call 516-764-0045.

Essay contest
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano will accept entries from March 28 through April 22 (at 5 p.m.), for his annual essay contest for high school students.

Students enrolled in Pasco public/charter, private, parochial, nonpublic, and home-school programs can participate.

In 500 words or less, students must answer the question, “Since the 1980s, Pasco County has seen a steady growth in population that now has us nearing 600,000 residents. To accommodate this growth, we have seen many additions made to our county’s general infrastructure (expanded roads, public transportation, additional shopping venues, etc.). What is one addition that has been made that was most beneficial to Pasco County, or what is one addition that you believe should be made to further accommodate our county’s growth?”

The winner will be notified no later than May 13, and will receive a $500 gift card.

Students in public/charter schools should submit their essays to their principal.

Students in private, parochial, nonpublic or home-school programs should send their essays directly to Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano, c/o Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526.

Entries also can be hand-delivered to the tax collector’s office at 4720 U.S. 19 in New Port Richey.

For questions, call Jose Rodriguez Sierra at 727-847-8165, ext. 3826.

Musical performance
The Saint Leo Singers, Saint Leo Chamber Singers, Saint Leo Rhythm Machine, and the Saint Leo Ensemble will perform a spirited musical program showcasing tunes of the 20th century on March 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the Selby Auditorium in Lewis Hall, at University Campus, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.

Guests should see the attendant at the box office on the second floor.

Seating is first-come, first-served.

Admission is a donation in the amount the guest chooses. Cash and credit cards will be accepted.

For information, email .