The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

Pasco schools to drop mySchool Online option this fall

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Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning has announced that the school district is dropping its mySchool Online option in the fall.

Browning explained the district’s decision in a video and the district issued a news release, as well, to explain the coming change.

“Based on recent positive trends, we expect that there will no longer be the need for (the) mySchool Online option next school year,” Browning said, in the video. “We expect the vast majority of students to be back in the classroom for in-person learning and for our employees to return to the classroom or office.”

The superintendent also shared the district’s rationale for its decision.

“First of all, the Florida Department of Education only authorized Florida school systems to offer mySchool Online-type options for the 2020-2021 school year,” he said.

“Current indications are that such programs will not be authorized by the state for the 2021-2022 school year. In addition, the number of positive COVID-19 cases, involving our students or staff, have decreased dramatically, since the high mark of January,” Browning said.

He added: “We continue to monitor the numbers closely, both in our schools and in the community, at large.

“Finally, we have been very aggressive in making the vaccine readily available to our staff,” he said.

Because of the district’s partnership with the county health department, it has been able to vaccinate thousands of its employees, the superintendent said.

Browning also noted that the number of students choosing the mySchool Online option has been steadily declining.

Initially, 60% of the district’s students chose the in-person, bricks-and-mortar option this school year. That figure has increased to 76%. Twenty-one percent of the district’s students are enrolled in the mySchool Online option; the other 3% attend Pasco eSchool, according to district statistics.

Browning also noted: “Despite our best efforts, our data show that many students who opted for mySchool Online are not succeeding academically and would benefit from a return to in-person learning.

“There’s also a growing body of evidence regarding the mental health benefits of attending school in person, with classmates.”

Browning also addressed the issue of masks.

“We’ve all been looking forward to the time when we can all get back to something close to normal. That raises a question about masks.

“I know we are all looking forward to doing away with the masks. Right now, I can’t say for sure whether masks will be required or optional, or some other status.

“We will provide clear guidance on masks, when we have a better idea of what is possible.

“At this time, we expect we’ll be able to get back to normal in the fall,” Browning said.

Published April 07, 2021

Chalk Talk 04/07/2021

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(Courtesy of Patricia Serio)

‘Buddy’ bundles for students
The GFWC Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club has not been idle during this pandemic year. The women pursued even more than their usual portfolio of projects because the need has been so great. Faith Sincich delivered enough ‘snuggle buddy’ bundles for an entire first-grade class at Miles Elementary. Each bundle contained two books, a flashlight and a snuggly blanket. The club also donated clothing and supplies to the school. For information, visit the club’s Facebook page or its website at GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org.

Yea! Awards
Hillsborough County is accepting nominations for the Youth Excellence and Achievement (Yea!) Awards through 5 p.m., on April 12.

The awards recognize the positive contributions made by young people in the community.

Nominations, which will be reviewed by the Commission on the Status of Women, can be submitted for both middle and high school students in each of these categories:

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

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

Speaker series
Saint Leo University’s East Pasco Education Center will present a speaker series for students and prospective students interested in “helping” careers.

The topics for the Social Services Speaker Series will appeal to those interested in social work, education, criminal justice, psychology, and human services.

The series will include:

  • April 13: Peer Programs for Criminal Justice, at noon; Social Work Careers and Practices, 12:25 p.m.; and Questions and Answers, 12:50 p.m.
  • April 27: Substance Abuse/Mental Health from the Perspective of Children’s Protective Services, at noon; Working with Youths from the Perspective of Public Schools, 12:25 p.m.; and Questions and Answers, 12:50 p.m.
  • May 11: Suicide Prevention and Awareness, at noon; Benefits of Partnership Between Law Enforcement and Mental Health Professionals, 12:25 p.m.; and Questions and Answers, 12:50 p.m.

Registration is required for all sessions.

For information, email Derek Saunier, center director, at or 352-588-7451.

Victory High open house
Victory High School will host an open house on April 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., in the Calvary Chapel Worship Center, Room 111 and Room 112, 6825 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey.

The open house is for new students, ages 14 to 19, seeking recovery from addictions, interested in enrolling in the private high school.

Preregister by emailing .

For information on the school, visit VictoryHighSchool.net.

Scholarship deadline extended
The deadline to apply for college scholarships of up to $5,000 from Hillsborough County Social Services and the Community Action Board has been extended to April 16.

Application materials can be downloaded on the county’s scholarship application page, at Tinyurl.com/ffzrrth8.

Detailed instructions on how to apply also can be found on the page.

Students may submit completed applications online only. Recipients will be notified in writing prior to the fall semester.

For questions, call Irina White at 813-272-5074.

Prepaid scholarships
Hillsborough County Public Schools, in partnership with the Florida Prepaid College Program, is offering two scholarships to students worth a total of $9,000.

Superintendent Addison Davis’ Future of STEM Scholarship is a two-year Florida college plan worth $8,000, and is designed to encourage new teachers in areas with critical shortages. The scholarship will be awarded to a senior student attending Hillsborough County Public Schools who will study to become a teacher in a STEM subject.

Davis’ Preparing Students for Life Scholarship is a Florida 529 Savings Plan worth $1,000. It will be awarded to a parent or guardian who attends a kindergarten registration event or begins the registration process prior to April 30. The eligible student’s name will be drawn at random.

For information about both scholarships, visit bit.ly/HCPSscholarship.

Student achievements
Mary Flook, of Land O’ Lakes, was named to the Dean’s List at North Greenville University in Tigerville, South Carolina, and Benjamin Tomas, of Lutz, was named to the Dean’s List at Peru State College, Peru, Nebraska.

Course fee adjustments
The Pasco-Hernando State College’s Board of Trustees will consider approving proposed adjusted course-related fees at its April 20 board meeting, at 6 p.m., at the West Campus in New Port Richey.

Many fee adjustments relate to vendor increases for workforce courses, laboratories, and program testing. Some fees may be covered by financial aid, scholarships and grants.

All fees charged by vendors are negotiated by the college, with additional fee increases and decreases expected in the coming academic year.

For details regarding proposed fee adjustments, justification for the fees and fee implementation details, visit Policies.phsc.edu, and click on the Policies and Procedures link.

Republican scholarships
The Republican Party of Pasco Scholarship Committee is now accepting applications for Pasco County Schools’ graduating seniors, including pubic, home-schools, charter and private schools.

Graduating seniors from any Pasco County high school are eligible if they meet this criteria:

  • Must be a registered or preregistered Republican
  • Have a cumulative 3.0 GPA
  • Complete a 650-word minimum essay on the topic: “What is the importance of conservative values for young people in today’s world?”
  • Extra points will be given for club and social activities, volunteer hours and campaign participation
  • Must be planning to attend an accredited community college/university or accredited vocational school in Florida

Applications can be found online at PascoGOP.org, at the individual’s high school career counselor’s office, or at the Pasco Republican Party office in Hudson.

Applications and essays must be emailed to , or to RPOP, 12043 Cobblestone Drive, Hudson, FL 34667, Attention: Sandy Graves, scholarship chair.

For information and questions, call 727-863-5400, or email .

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m., April 30.

Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded in May.

Chalk Talk 03/31/2021

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(Courtesy of Pasco Sheriff’s Office)

Sheriff’s office hosts training
While Pasco County schools were on Spring Break, several school crossing guards and traffic control officers spent part of the week becoming FDOT Certified School Crossing Guard Trainers. The training, hosted by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, included a classroom portion, and demonstrations and practice outside at Safety Town in Shady Hills. In addition to the PSO, five other agencies were in attendance as well. The PSO also is hiring school crossing guards. For information and to apply, visit JoinPSO.com, and click on ‘Current Openings.’

Shoe drive success
Victory High School, a recovery high school in Holiday, recently hosted a shoe drive asking the community to clean out their closets to donate.

Fifty-two large garbage bags of gently used and new shoes were collected.

Victory High will receive a check from Funds2Orgs for the donations.

Student achievement
Thais Jacomassi, of Lutz, was named to the fall Dean’s List at Emerson College, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Jacomassi is majoring in writing, lit and publishing, and is a member of the Class of 2022.

AP Capstone program
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in Spring Hill is one of approximately 2,000 schools worldwide to implement the AP Capstone Diploma program, according to a school release.

The innovative program allows students to develop the skills that matter most for college success, such as research, collaboration and communication.

The program consists of two yearlong courses taken in sequence: AP Seminar and AP Research.

Students who score a 3 or higher in both courses, and on four additional AP Exams of their choosing, earn the AP Capstone Diploma.

Students who score a 3 or higher in both classes, but not on the additional four exams, can earn the AP Seminar and Research Certificate.

Bishop McLaughlin will start offering AP Seminar in the fall. In this class, students choose and evaluate complex topics through multiple lenses — identify credibility and bias in sources, and develop arguments in support of a recommendation.

In the subsequent AP Research course, students design, execute, present and defend a yearlong research-based investigation on a topic of individual interest.

For information, visit BMCHS.com, or call 727-857-2600.

Need-based scholarships
Take Stock in Children, a need-based scholarship program with the Pasco Education Foundation, has announced that its application period for the 2021-2022 school year is now open to students currently in eighth grade attending Pasco County Schools.

The program is statewide, and provides scholarships, mentoring and hope, to help break the cycle of generational poverty through education.
Eligibility requirements and online applications are posted at TakeStockPasco.org or PascoEducationFoundation.org. The deadline to apply is April 15.

Selected students will be provided with a college readiness coach, a mentor, and College & Career Readiness Services.

How educated is Florida?
WalletHub has released its report on 2021’s Most & Least Educated States in America.

In order to determine the most educated states, WalletHub compared all 50 states across 18 metrics that examined the key factors of a well-educated population: educational attainment, school quality, and achievement gaps between genders and races.

Florida’s rankings are (1=Most; 25=Average):

  • First: Gender Gap in Educational Attainment
  • Fifth: Average University Quality
  • 29th: Percentage of Bachelor Degree Holders
  • 29th: Percentage of Graduate or Professional Degree Holders
  • 31st: Racial Gap in Educational Attainment
  • 32nd: Percentage of Associate Degree Holders or College-Experienced Adults
  • 33rd: Percentage of High School Diploma Holders

For a full report, visit WalletHub.com/edu/e/most-educated-states/31075.

Child care courses
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) is offering a course for child care directors to become credentialed and a course for those seeking a child care professional credential.

The Operation of an Early Childhood Center course will be offered as a remote, online class via Zoom, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., from May 17 to July 16.

The Childcare Professional Credential course will be offered as a hybrid course meeting via Zoom for 48 of the 120 class hours, on Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., from May 13 to Aug. 3. The remaining course hours will be delivered through online assignments.

Both courses are T.E.A.C.H. scholarship eligible (visit Teach-fl.org.) and Rapid Credential scholarship eligible (visit PHSC.edu/academics/job-training/scholarship).

Students need to apply as soon as possible, as T.E.A.C.H. takes six weeks to eight weeks to process, and Rapid Credential is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more about these courses, or to enroll, visit PHSC.edu/academics/continuing-education, or email .

Tuition assistance
CareerSource Tampa Bay has $4.6 million available to assist Hillsborough County youth and adults with tuition assistance scholarships to begin post-secondary training at local schools, according to a news release.

Scholarships are awarded in totals of up to $10,000 based on the program choice. Tuition assistance is awarded in the following in-demand industries: Health care, information technology, manufacturing and trades, professional services, and retail and hospitality.

The scholarships will be available to young adults ages 16 to 24 through the Young Talent Tampa Bay program, and adults age 18 and over through the Adult & Dislocated Worker program.

To be eligible to the programs, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a Hillsborough County resident
  • Meet certain age requirements
  • Meet U.S. citizenship or permanent resident requirements
  • Be registered for the Selective Service (males only)
  • Additional income eligibility applies

In addition to the scholarships, the programs also offer a designated career coach; employability skills training; financial literacy; assistance with resumes; national certifications for workplace training; limited supportive services; job placement assistance, including on-the-job training opportunities; career exploration and guidance; GED assistance (youth only); and placement assistance into Paid-Work-Experience (youth only).

Youth ages 16 to 24 can register for upcoming virtual information sessions at CareerSourceTampaBay.com/job-seekers/youth/.

Virtual sessions for those age 18 and older take place virtually every Wednesday at 10 a.m. To attend a session, email .

To apply to the Adult & Dislocated program, visit SurveyMonkey.com/r/N7QV576.

Republican scholarships
The Republican Party of Pasco Scholarship Committee is now accepting applications for Pasco County Schools’ graduating seniors, including pubic, home-schools, charter and private schools.

Graduating seniors from any Pasco County high school are eligible if they meet this criteria:

  • Must be a registered or preregistered Republican
  • Have a cumulative 3.0 GPA
  • Complete a 650-word minimum essay on the topic: “What is the importance of conservative values for young people in today’s world?”
  • Extra points will be given for club and social activities, volunteer hours and campaign participation
  • Must be planning to attend an accredited community college/university or accredited vocational school in Florida

Applications can be found online at PascoGOP.org, at the individual’s high school career counselor’s office, or at the Pasco Republican Party office in Hudson.

Applications and essays must be emailed to , or to RPOP, 12043 Cobblestone Drive, Hudson, FL 34667, Attention: Sandy Graves, scholarship chair.

For information and questions, call 727-863-5400, or email .

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m., April 30.

Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded in May.

Pasco County supports youth program

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a two-year lease to Youth Entrepreneurial Services Inc. (YES), for office space at the Stallings Building, at 15029 14th St., in Dade City.

The lease term begins on March 1 and ends on Feb. 28, 2023. Terms also include two additional one-year renewal options.

The YES program focuses on serving youths and young adults, between the ages of 11 and 25, to help them develop innovative thinking and entrepreneurial skills.

The lease covers 140 square feet of space, plus non-exclusive use of classroom 1, common parking and common areas.

In addition to the rent charge of $1 a year, the organization also will pay its pro-rata share of the utilities in the annual amount of $240.

Published March 24, 2021

Chalk Talk 03/24/2021

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Republican scholarships
The Republican Party of Pasco Scholarship Committee is now accepting applications for Pasco County Schools’ graduating seniors, including pubic, home-schools, charter and private schools.

Graduating seniors from any Pasco County high school are eligible if they meet this criteria:

  • Must be a registered or preregistered Republican
  • Have a cumulative 3.0 GPA
  • Complete a 650-word minimum essay on the topic: “What is the importance of conservative values for young people in today’s world?”
  • Extra points will be given for club and social activities, volunteer hours and campaign participation
  • Must be planning to attend an accredited community college/university or accredited vocational school in Florida

Applications can be found online at PascoGOP.org, at the individual’s high school career counselor’s office, or at the Pasco Republican Party office in Hudson.

Applications and essays must be emailed to , or to RPOP, 12043 Cobblestone Drive, Hudson, FL 34667, Attention: Sandy Graves, scholarship chair.

For information and questions, call 727-863-5400, or email .

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m., April 30.

Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded in May.

Water safety program
The Rotary Club of Trinity will visit the Tanglewood Learning Center in New Port Richey on March 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., to present the Josh the Otter Water Safety and Literacy Project to 60 preschoolers. The program promotes water safety and drowning prevention through the “Josh The Baby Otter” book.

The club partners with the drowning prevention nonprofit that created the program, the Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation, which was established in honor of 2-year-old Joshua who died in 2008 after falling into the family pool.

The Trinity Rotary is looking to expand its awareness of drowning prevention with the Josh the Otter program to other schools and groups serving children.

For information, contact Becky Bennett at 727-967-7509 or .

Student degrees
These local, Odessa students recently earned degrees from Western Governors University, Salt Lake City, Utah:

  • Kea Allen: Master of Business Administration
  • Aneta Budzinski: Master of Science, Nursing – Leadership and Management
  • Rachel Morrell: Bachelor of Science, Nursing

Saint Leo receives honors
Saint Leo University earned honors in three categories for providing the best online education bachelor’s programs in the United States, according to the 2021 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Programs edition, released earlier this year.

The school received honors in the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Business (tied for 65th), Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans (ranked 75th), and Best Online Bachelor’s Programs (tied for 93rd) categories.

Launched in December 1998, Saint Leo was one of the first institutions to embrace online education with the creation of the Center for Online Learning, according to a news release.

U.S. News assessed universities and colleges based on four categories:

  • Engagement, which ranked bachelor’s degree programs based on promoting student participation and interaction with faculty members
  • Services and technologies, which looked at how well institutions support technology, learning assistance, career guidance and financial aid
  • Faculty credentials and training, which ensures that online instructors’ credentials mirror those of campus-based bachelor’s programs and makes sure faculty have proper training to teach distance learners
  • Expert opinion, which enlists a survey of high-ranking academic officials who look at tangible factors affecting program quality

To view all the rankings, data and methodologies for the 2021 Best Online Programs, visit USNews.com/online.

Need-based scholarships
Take Stock in Children, a need-based scholarship program with the Pasco Education Foundation, has announced that its application period for the 2021-2022 school year is now open to students currently in eighth grade attending Pasco County Schools.

The program is statewide, and provides scholarships, mentoring and hope, to help break the cycle of generational poverty through education.

Eligibility requirements and online applications are posted at TakeStockPasco.org or PascoEducationFoundation.org. The deadline to apply is April 15.

Selected students will be provided with a college readiness coach, a mentor, and College & Career Readiness Services.

How educated is Florida?
WalletHub has released its report on 2021’s Most & Least Educated States in America.

In order to determine the most educated states, WalletHub compared all 50 states across 18 metrics that examined the key factors of a well-education population: educational attainment, school quality, and achievement gaps between genders and races.

Florida’s rankings are (1=Most; 25=Average):

  • First: Gender Gap in Educational Attainment
  • Fifth: Average University Quality
  • 29th: Percentage of Bachelor Degree Holders
  • 29th: Percentage of Graduate or Professional Degree Holders
  • 31st: Racial Gap in Educational Attainment
  • 32nd: Percentage of Associate Degree Holders or College-Experienced Adults
  • 33rd: Percentage of High School Diploma Holders

For a full report, visit WalletHub.com/edu/e/most-educated-states/31075.

Child care courses
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) is offering a course for child care directors to become credentialed and a course for those seeking a child care professional credential.

The Operation of an Early Childhood Center course will be offered as a remote, online class via Zoom, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., from May 17 to July 16.

The Childcare Professional Credential course will be offered as a hybrid course meeting via Zoom for 48 of the 120 class hours, on Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., from May 13 to Aug. 3. The remaining course hours will be delivered through online assignments.

Both courses are T.E.A.C.H. scholarship eligible (visit Teach-fl.org.) and Rapid Credential scholarship eligible (visit PHSC.edu/academics/job-training/scholarship).

Students need to apply as soon as possible, as T.E.A.C.H. takes six weeks to eight weeks to process, and Rapid Credential is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more about these courses, or to enroll, visit PHSC.edu/academics/continuing-education, or email .

Host an exchange student
The nonprofit organization International Student Exchange (ISE) is looking for volunteer families to host international high school students in the coming academic year.

Host families can expect to gain a new family member, experience a new culture, create lifelong friendships, and make a positive impact, locally and globally.

The exchange students are between the ages of 15 and 18, and come from countries such as Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Germany, Thailand, Brazil, Italy, Norway and more.

The deadline to match students with families is Aug. 31.

Families can select a student based on shared interests, hobbies, gender, etc.

Family screenings include a background check, an in-home interview, and a verification of personal references.

International students are English-speaking and have their own spending money.

Families will provide a caring environment, a room and daily meals.

Those who host ISE students are eligible to claim a $50 charitable contribution deduction on their itemized tax returns for each month they host a student.

For information, call 727-237-1885, or visit ISEusa.org.

Two new STEAM magnet schools coming to Pasco?

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The Pasco County school district is looking to convert Centennial Elementary School in Dade City and Marlowe Elementary School in New Port Richey, from traditional elementary schools into STEAM magnet schools.

The acronym STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

Students now assigned to Centennial and Marlowe would be reassigned to nearby schools, and a lottery system would be used to assign students to the new magnet schools.

If the district proceeds with this plan, the change would not occur until the 2022-2023 school year, and boundary hearings would not occur until this coming fall, according to Steve Hegarty, district spokesman.

The issue came up at the Pasco County School Board’s March 2 meeting, when Don Peace, president of United School Employees of Pasco (USEP), complained about the district’s handling of future staffing for the two schools.

Peace objected to the new job description for STEAM magnet teachers.

“Normally, for contract waivers, major changes in curriculum — such as Wendell Krinn (Technical High School), Pine View (Middle) and Gulf Middle  — or school closings, as in Hudson Elementary, Ridgewood, and the Lacoochee proposal, USEP is invited to go to the school, along with district staff, to explain the contractual protocol for what is about to transpire.

“That did not happen with these two schools.

“In fact, when I first heard the details of what was transpiring, I had a district employee make a phone call to put a stop to what was going on. But that did not happen.

“Interviews took place, in an unacceptable manner, for jobs that do not yet exist, at schools that have not yet been voted to be closed, and for a job description that is yet to be approved.

“It appears the cart is in front of the horse,” Peace said.

Peace then told board members that approving the proposed job description would, in essence, create an elite position.

“Why would you want to create divisiveness among teachers?” the union president asked district officials.

“I would contend that with training, professional development and proper guidance, there are numerous teachers across this district that would be able to work in a STEM/STEAM school and be highly successful, if given that opportunity,” he said.

Peace suggested the board delay voting on the new job description, and instead hold a workshop to discuss the issue in greater detail.

Superintendent Kurt Browning responded to the assertions.

“I agree with Mr. Peace when it comes to the fact that any of our teachers, given the opportunity and the professional learning, could probably make it work in a STEM or STEAM environment.

“What Mr. Peace didn’t mention is what I call the ‘want to’ (factor). Do you want to put the effort into working at a STEM or STEAM school?

“We learned lessons when we converted Bayonet Point Middle and Centennial Middle. We did not have a separate job description for that. Honestly, it was more difficult to set the expectations for our staff.

“I will tell you that this job description, in no way, shape or form, is — as Mr. Peace has indicated — divisive. It is not intended to do that. It is merely to set expectations, for teachers that want to move to a STEM or STEAM environment.

“It is different, a lot more technology-driven, project-based learning.

“It is a choice school,” Browning said.

When the schools held faculty meetings to discuss the change, a number of teachers approached the principals and said, “I get it. I just don’t want to do it,” Browning said.

The new magnet schools will choose teachers based on the new job description.

While current teachers may be assigned to different schools, they will not lose their jobs, Browning said.

Before approving the new description, school board members asked for more information.

Board member Cynthia Armstrong asked for more details about how the job description was developed. Board member Alison Crumbley echoed that request.

Samantha Del Valle, assistant director of leading and learning, said “we knew we needed a job description to really be transparent with the staff that we’re going to hire and to share with them what would be expected, as they take those positions.”

So, the job description is based on the practices that happen in a STEAM classroom.

Hiring will mirror the process used in hiring teachers for Sanders Elementary STEAM Magnet School in Land O’ Lakes, Del Valle said.

The questions district officials asked, when drafting the new job description, included: “What is a STEAM teacher? What practices are happening in the classroom? What does STEAM look like and how do we make sure that that occurs in our two new schools?” Del Valle said.

School board member Colleen Beaudoin emphasized that she wanted it to be clear to district teachers that the new job description does not create an elite class of teachers.

“We’re not saying that these teachers are any better than any other teachers. These are just a specific skill set needed for these types of schools. I don’t want to give the impression that we’re saying that teachers at one school are any better than teachers at another school,” Beaudoin said.

Besides looking for teachers who have the attributes described in the job description, they also must be willing to undergo additional training, Del Valle said.

Plus, there is a preferred qualification related to computer science.

Browning reiterated Beaudoin’s point, noting the teachers are not better teachers.

“They’re different teachers.

“This job description was not designed to divide teachers,” the superintendent insisted.

He also said the shift to the STEAM magnet schools is intended to give parents additional options.

“Parents are wanting something different,” Browning said.

Published March 17, 2021

Chalk Talk 03/17/2021

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Need-based scholarships
Take Stock in Children, a need-based scholarship program with the Pasco Education Foundation, has announced that its application period for the 2021-2022 school year is now open to students currently in eighth grade attending Pasco County Schools.

The program is statewide, and provides scholarships, mentoring and hope, to help break the cycle of generational poverty through education.
Eligibility requirements and online applications are posted at TakeStockPasco.org or PascoEducationFoundation.org. The deadline to apply is April 15.

Selected students will be provided with a college readiness coach, a mentor, and College & Career Readiness Services.

Student wins third place for documentary
Eliza Lammers, a student at Charles Rushe Middle School in Land O’ Lakes, is a third-prize winner in C-SPAN’s national 2021 StudentCam competition, according to a news release.

The competition in its 17th year invited all middle and high school students to enter by producing a short documentary. Students were asked to join a national conversation on the challenges the country is facing, with the theme, “Explore the issue you most want the president and new Congress to address in 2021.”

Lammers’ documentary was entitled, “Decreasing Maternal Mortality in the USA.”

More than 2,300 students across the country participated.

The most popular topics addressed were: health care (14.9%); environmental and energy policy (14.6%); equal rights and equity (13.5%); criminal justice/policing (7.6%); and education (7.5%).

Catholic school enrollment
Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School, 17524 Lakeshore Road in Lutz, has started new student enrollment for the 2021-2022 school year.

Mother Teresa is an elementary and middle school for children in kindergarten through eighth grade.

The school’s mission is rooted in the Catholic Faith. Students attend weekly Mass with student-led liturgies, attend spiritual retreats, learn about the Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching, discover and explore vocations, and participate in service projects.

For information or to make a virtual appointment with the admissions director, visit MTCTampa.org, or call 813-933-4750, ext. 105.

Student achievements
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most-selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines, has initiated these three Lutz students from Nova Southeastern University: Sasha Glasper, Jamie Thomas and Kairee Whitmore.

Also, Kaylyn Burr, of Land O’ Lakes, was named to the Honor List at Minnesota State University Mankato for the 2020 fall semester.

Virtual STEM Fair
More than 40 Tampa Bay student innovators showcased their inventions in the 41st Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair on March 3, virtually.

“Our students need the opportunity to apply the math, science and engineering they are learning,” said Larry Plank, the school district’s executive director for k-12 science education, in a news release.

“Tampa Bay is full of talented and bright young learners, and this celebration of invention gives students the opportunity to share what they have created….This competition gets students involved in authentic project-based learning while demonstrating creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking — all important 21st century skills,” said Plank.

Award-winners in the invention category are eligible to advance to the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals, at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, Michigan, in June.

School lunches
MealViewer is a tool to stay informed about school lunches. Those interested can locate a school and see what is on the menu at Schools.mealviewer.com.

Students also can use their meal account at school vending machines, to conveniently grab a variety of snacks and beverages, by using their student ID and PIN number — no cash is needed.

To learn more and add funds to an account, visit tinyurl.com/tnxnh69v.

Prodigy showcases
The University Area CDC (Community Development Corporation) will present Prodigy Showcases, both virtually and in person, safely and social distanced, throughout March.

Youth in grades one through 12 from the Area CDC’s Prodigy Cultural Arts Program in several counties (including Hillsborough and Pasco) will showcase dance, music, fine arts, theater, and spoken word presentations in free events. This year’s theme is “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop.”

Many students will be performing for the first time.

Additionally, visual art by Prodigy students will be on display at selected locations.

A full schedule can be viewed online at UACDC.org/prodigy.

Host an exchange student
The nonprofit organization International Student Exchange (ISE) is looking for volunteer families to host international high school students in the coming academic year.

Host families can expect to gain a new family member, experience a new culture, create lifelong friendships, and make a positive impact, locally and globally.

The exchange students are between the ages of 15 and 18, and come from countries such as Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Germany, Thailand, Brazil, Italy, Norway and more.

The deadline to match students with families is Aug. 31.

Families can select a student based on shared interests, hobbies, gender, etc.

Family screenings include a background check, an in-home interview, and a verification of personal references.

International students are English-speaking and have their own spending money.

Families will provide a caring environment, a room and daily meals.

Those who host ISE students are eligible to claim a $50 charitable contribution deduction on their itemized tax returns for each month they host a student.

For information, call 727-237-1885, or visit ISEusa.org.

Scholarship eligibility broadens
Hillsborough County Social Services and the Community Action Board again are partnering to offer scholarships up to $5,000 to eligible students. In response to the impact of COVID-19, the program will feature expanded eligibility criteria.

The Community Action Board Scholarship Program has broadened its household income eligibility from 125% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and lowered the GPA requirement from 2.5 to 2.0.

The changes to the program aim to help students who struggled academically because of the pandemic’s unprecedented impacts on schools, as well as students from households that saw a reduction in annual income.

The scholarships are awarded to students to help alleviate some of the financial burden of college tuition, so students can focus on furthering their education, not paying bills.

The scholarships can be used at trade schools, community colleges or four-year universities.

Both first-time students and students returning to school can apply. Applications for the 2021 scholarships will be accepted through March 31.

Recipients will be notified in writing prior to the start of the fall semester.

Application materials and detailed instructions can be found at tinyurl.com/fyner9md.

Students may submit completed applications online only.

For information, call Irina White at 813-272-5074.

Pasco School Board asks for reprieve from state accountability impacts

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The Pasco County School Board has passed a resolution asking for a reprieve from the state’s accountability standards this year, to avoid potential punitive consequences.

The board is seeking to avoid any negative outcomes on teachers, students or schools that could occur based on results of the Florida Standards Assessments, known as FSA for short.

Specifically, the board approved a resolution that requests the governor and commissioner of education “to provide safe harbor to students, teachers, schools, and districts, by pausing negative consequences of the accountability system based on statewide assessments for the 2020-2021 school year.”

The resolution was adopted on March 2, on a 4-0 vote, with Allen Altman, board chairman, absent.

The board’s action followed a discussion of the issue on Feb. 16, prompted by concerns raised by board member Alison Crumbley.

Crumbley said it wouldn’t be fair to use the FSA results for anything other than a diagnostic tool to identify strengths and weaknesses, because of COVID impacts.

Other board members agreed noting teachers shouldn’t be held responsible for testing results, especially for MySchool Online students who had failed to participate.

At the same Feb. 16 meeting, Crumbley questioned how school grades could be “considered accurate, during these COVID-related times.”

In other action at the March 2 meeting, the board:

• Renamed the James Irvin Education Center and Harry Schwettman Education Center. The new names will be the East Pasco Education Academy, James Irvin Campus and the West Pasco Education Academy, Harry Schwettman Campus.

These schools will begin offering voluntary placements options with diploma pathways for students. The Harry Schwettman complex will be relocated to the former Hudson Elementary School site. Additionally, the programs at Achieve Center of Pasco will be relocated to these schools.

• Superintendent Kurt Browning reported that the Department of Health-Pasco County had agreed to 2,500 doses of vaccine, expected as early as the weekend of March 6 and March 7, to vaccinate school district employees, who are at least 50 years old.

Those vaccines are in addition to the 500 second doses for district personnel, scheduled the same weekend.

Board member Cynthia Armstrong said she has been vaccinated, and encouraged others to get vaccinated when they can. “It brings you wonderful peace of mind, to go ahead and get the vaccine,” she said.

• Don Peace, president of United School Employees of Pasco, announced that both school-related personnel and instruction staff overwhelmingly approved this year’s contracts. The SRP contract passed with 98% approval; instructional passed with 95% approval, he said.

Peace thanked the superintendent and the board for their part in the negotiations.

“I think that the results show that this was a fair and equitable contract,” Peace said.

Published March 10, 2021

New partnership aims to prepare tomorrow’s workforce

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Pasco County Schools has launched a new CTE Career Advisory Council aimed at helping the district’s graduates prepare for the world of work — while, at the same time, giving employers a chance to weigh in on what skills are needed for employees to be successful.

The advisory council also aims to give local businesses a chance to help develop the community’s future workforce.

Kristine Hensley, a career counselor at Wiregrass Ranch High School and Jennifer Batchelor, a career specialist in the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) division, explained the new advisory council during a recent breakfast Zoom session, and invited members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber to get involved.

The advisory council’s work has the potential to affect thousands of students enrolled in career and technical courses and programs across the district, Batchelor said.

“Currently in Pasco County, we have programs of study, or academies, that fit into 13 of the National Career Clusters. Within CTE — Career and Technical Ed — in Pasco County Schools, we’ve got 574 courses that are specific to those programs.

“We’ve got 17,000 middle and high school students — over 17,000 middle school and high school students — that are currently enrolled in one of these courses, or programs of study,” she said.

Previously, schools had their own advisory councils. This new approach puts the focus on career fields, with the aim to improve the district’s preparation of students, as well as expand their opportunities to get real-world experiences.

Concerns about keeping people safe during COVID has had an impact on opportunities that are currently available, but once things open up, the district hopes that will change, Batchelor said.

“We’re going to be looking for experiential learning opportunities. We need our students to get hands-on experience,” said.

Besides learning about occupations and jobs, the idea is to get students out to see how what they’re learning plays out in the workplace.

“They need to be out there seeing what it’s like in the real world,” Batchelor said.

There will be many different ways to get involved — through sharing expertise or providing suggestions on curriculum, to job-shadowing or offering other ways for students to get a real feel for the world of work.

“Work-based learning experiences are key for these students,” Batchelor said.

Hensley, career specialist at Wiregrass, told the chamber members, via Zoom: “Your involvement will be key to making sure that we are actually aligning what we’re teaching to what all of you need.”

Besides inviting chamber members to get involved, both Batchelor and Hensley encouraged them to put out the word to others who might want to get involved.

The advisories are career-focused and will help students across the district, rather than at any particular school, Batchelor said.

She added: “There are a lot of ways to help these students figure out what they are going to do, once they leave high school.”

Those interested in getting involved, or learning more, should contact Pam Willoughby at or Jen Batchelor at .

Published March 10, 2021

Chalk Talk 03/10/2021

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(Courtesy of Molly Anderson/Collegis Education)

Rasmussen changes its name
Rasmussen College on Feb. 18 completed its transition to Rasmussen University. The Central Pasco campus, 16418 State Road 54 in Odessa, opened last December, with classes beginning in January. The new campus is a result of merging the New Port Richey/West Pasco and Land O’ Lakes/East Pasco campuses into one centralized location. Rasmussen features new health sciences and nursing labs, simulation equipment, and expanded offices, lounges and study spaces – both indoors and outdoors.

Catholic school enrollment
Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School, 17524 Lakeshore Road in Lutz, has started new student enrollment for the 2021-2022 school year.

Mother Teresa is an elementary and middle school for children in kindergarten through eighth grade.

The school’s mission is rooted in the Catholic Faith. Students attend weekly Mass with student-led liturgies, attend spiritual retreats, learn about the Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching, discover and explore vocations, and participate in service projects.

For information or to make a virtual appointment with the admissions director, visit MTCTampa.org, or call 813-933-4750, ext. 105.

Board appointments
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the reappointments of Lee Maggard and Robin Schneider to their existing terms on the Pasco-Hernando State College District Board of Trustees. Both terms will run through May 31, 2022.

Maggard, of Zephyrhills, is an associate vice president and commercial relationship manager with CenterState Bank. He has been involved with the Rotary Club of Zephyrhills and serves on the board of the Academy at the Farms.

Schneider, of Spring Hill, is the marketing coordinator at the Medical Center of Trinity. Previously, she was director of marketing at Spring Hill Regional Hospital.

Both reappointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

School lunches
MealViewer is a tool to stay informed about school lunches. Those interested can locate a school and see what is on the menu at Schools.mealviewer.com.

Students also can use their meal account at school vending machines, to conveniently grab a variety of snacks and beverages, by using their student ID and PIN number — no cash is needed.

To learn more and add funds to an account, visit tinyurl.com/tnxnh69v.

Saint Leo food truck
Saint Leo University is taking dining services on the road, as it has officially opened its new food truck, The Hungry Lion.

University President Jeffrey Senese was looking for a way to not only help students, but to be a community service – and spread the word about Saint Leo University, according to a news release.

The 33-foot truck features photos of University Campus in St. Leo and a distinctive logo featuring a lion, Saint Leo’s mascot.

Presently, The Hungry Lion is open to students, faculty and staff at lunchtime on Tuesdays through Thursdays, with the goal to offer night-time dining for students, too.

Future plans call for the food truck to frequently be stationed at Saint Leo’s Tampa Education Center, 1403 N. Howard Ave., to be there for events that are open to the public.

When fully staffed and operational, The Hungry Lion will begin serving at community events.

To learn more and to inquiry about availability, email .

Prodigy showcases
The University Area CDC (Community Development Corporation) will present Prodigy Showcases, both virtually and in person, safely and social distanced, throughout March.

Youth in grades one through 12 from the Area CDC’s Prodigy Cultural Arts Program in several counties (including Hillsborough and Pasco) will showcase dance, music, fine arts, theater, and spoken word presentations in free events. This year’s theme is “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop.”

Many students will be performing for the first time.

Additionally, visual art by Prodigy students will be on display at selected locations.

A full schedule can be viewed online at UACDC.org/prodigy.

Host an exchange student
The nonprofit organization International Student Exchange (ISE) is looking for volunteer families to host international high school students in the coming academic year.

Host families can expect to gain a new family member, experience a new culture, create lifelong friendships, and make a positive impact, locally and globally.

The exchange students are between the ages of 15 and 18, and come from countries such as Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Germany, Thailand, Brazil, Italy, Norway and more.

The deadline to match students with families is Aug. 31.

Families can select a student based on shared interests, hobbies, gender, etc.

Family screenings include a background check, an in-home interview, and a verification of personal references.

International students are English-speaking and have their own spending money.

Families will provide a caring environment, a room and daily meals.

Those who host ISE students are eligible to claim a $50 charitable contribution deduction on their itemized tax returns for each month they host a student.

For information, call 727-237-1885, or visit ISEusa.org.

SAT School Day
The District School Board of Pasco County will provide the SAT School Day free of charge to all juniors on March 24, according to the Pasco County Schools Facebook page.

The district will register all juniors for the test; it is not necessary for students to register on the College Board website.

For more information, students should contact their respective school counselor.

Essay writing challenge
“Dear Evan Hansen” is a contemporary Broadway musical that had a breakout song entitled, “You Will Be Found.”

During the past year, finding connection has been more integral to our daily lives, and has also required more creativity to maintain it.

With that theme in mind, Gotham Writers Workshop is inviting students in 11th grade and 12th grade to write a college application-style essay that describes how the student has managed to ensure those around him or her were a little less alone in recent months, or, alternatively, a moment where the student has found comfort in connection.

Entries will be judged by a panel of writers and theater professionals.

The winner will receive a $10,000 college scholarship from “Dear Evan Hansen” lead producer Stacy Mindich and a free six-week Gotham Writers class.

The essay must be 650 words or less. There is no entry fee.

The deadline to enter is 11:59 p.m., on April 5.

For specifics and how to enter, visit WritingClasses.com/contests.

Scholarship eligibility broadens
Hillsborough County Social Services and the Community Action Board again are partnering to offer scholarships up to $5,000 to eligible students. In response to the impact of COVID-19, the program will feature expanded eligibility criteria.

The Community Action Board Scholarship Program has broadened its household income eligibility from 125% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and lowered the GPA requirement from 2.5 to 2.0.

The changes to the program aim to help students who struggled academically because of the pandemic’s unprecedented impacts on schools, as well as students from households that saw a reduction in annual income.

The scholarships are awarded to students to help alleviate some of the financial burden of college tuition, so students can focus on furthering their education, not paying bills.

The scholarships can be used at trade schools, community colleges or four-year universities.

Both first-time students and students returning to school can apply. Applications for the 2021 scholarships will be accepted through March 31.

Recipients will be notified in writing prior to the start of the fall semester.

Application materials and detailed instructions can be found at tinyurl.com/fyner9md.