The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

Chalk Talk (09-18-24): Give feedback on safe routes for schools

By

Residents can provide input on safe routes to five schools

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Hillsborough County is requesting feedback from residents about School Route Safety Improvements Projects at five schools in Ruskin, Seffner and Palm River in September.  

Seffner Elementary, Thompson Elementary, Giunta Middle, Mann Middle and Lennard High all were studied and prioritized for student walking and bicycling safety improvements based on traffic risks, historical crash data and socioeconomic factors.  

Each student safety project aims to address the risk to students and barriers to walking and bicycling to school using engineering solutions identified through data analysis, stakeholder input and community feedback.  

Improvements for student safety can include raised crosswalks, flashing beacons at crossings, bicycle lanes, new sidewalks, pedestrian signage, and speed management to slow drivers along school walking routes.

Residents are encouraged to learn about the school safety projects and provide feedback using the links below.  

  • Giunta Elementary: Participate through Sept. 18 at https://publicinput.com/x8101#tab-55177.
  • Seffner Elementary and Mann Middle: Participate through Sept. 19 at https://publicinput.com/i1057#tab-55228.
  • Thompson Elementary and Lennard High: Participate through Sept. 22 at https://publicinput.com/g7856#tab-55370.

Contact Public Works Customer Service at 813-635-5400 or email for details.

 

Wesley Chapel Lions Club sponsors superintendent forum

LUTZ – The Wesley Chapel Lions Club will host a forum featuring Chris Dunning and John Legg, candidates for Pasco County’s next school superintendent.

The Ultimate Candidate Forum will take place Oct. 7 at Denham Oaks Elementary School, 1422 Oak Grove Blvd. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 

Both candidates will be on stage for an hour, answering questions submitted by the public. After the forum, attendees will have the chance to engage with the candidates during a light reception. 

The Wesley Chapel Lions Club encourages attendees to bring lightly used books as donations for its Read-4-a-Ride. The program helps distribute books throughout Pasco County and Southwest Florida.

The club is also seeking event sponsors. They’ll be promoted on the event website and materials as well as have the opportunity to distribute promotional materials at the forum. 

On the web: www.wclions.org/current-events.

 

Phoenix RISE aids adults with intellectual disabilities

LAND O LAKES – Fred K. Marchman Technical College has launched the Phoenix RISE program, an innovative postsecondary transition program designed for adults with intellectual disabilities.

RISE, which stands for Remarkable Individuals Seeking Employment, will provide students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to earn industry certifications across various vocational disciplines. The program is set to begin in the fall of 2025.

Phoenix RISE is supported by the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities through the University of Central Florida. This partnership will empower students to gain the skills and certifications needed for successful employment and greater independence.

Contact Todd Byers at 727-774-1700 or to learn more about the program. 

 

Competition lets students explore the law 

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Bar announced the commencement of its annual High School Appellate Brief Writing & Moot Court Competition.

Registration is open for teams that would like to participate in the 2025 competition at floridabar.org/flmootcourt. 

This competition offers high school students the opportunity to gain a firsthand understanding of the appellate process by engaging in brief-writing and oral argument exercises based on a fictitious case.

The competition, sponsored by The Florida Bar’s Law Related Education Committee, is open to high school students across Florida. Students work in teams of two, coached by a teacher or qualified sponsor, to draft a brief for either the petitioner or the respondent, using only the cases, citations and legal authorities provided in the case problem.

 

IRS reminds teachers about classroom deductions for 2024

TALLAHASSEE – As Florida educators gear up for the new school year, the IRS reminds schoolteachers that the maximum deduction for classroom expenses in 2024 remains at $300.

This deduction allows educators to offset the cost of supplies, materials and other classroom essentials, providing some financial relief for those who spend their own money to improve their students’ learning experience.

Under federal law, this $300 cap is unchanged from 2023, continuing the adjustment for inflation that began in 2022 when the limit was raised from $250.

 

Pasco County assistant principal started career as substitute teacher

By

Michelle Jacobsen serves as an example of how it pays to never stop learning. 

Jacobsen started her education career at Pasco County Schools as a substitute teacher. She also served as an instructional assistant. 

Jacobsen went through the district’s SRP to Teacher program, which helps school-related personnel earn a bachelor’s degree in education to become teachers. 

She earned a degree from the University of South Florida and taught at Mary Giella Elementary School in Spring Hill and Bayonet Point Middle School in New Port Richey.

Marcy Hetzler-Nettles, assistant superintendent for middle schools, introduced Jacobsen to the school board Aug. 20 as the new assistant principal at Gulf Middle School in New Port Richey. She was promoted from the role of instructional trainer coach at Fox Hollow Elementary School in Port Richey. 

“She was an integral part of their team, turning that school’s grade around,” Hetzler-Nettles said of Jacobsen’s tenure at Fox Hollow Elementary. “We are super pleased to welcome her to Gulf Middle School, where we know she is going to bring excellent elements into literacy instruction and help lift literacy for our Buccaneers.”

Jacobsen’s husband, Eric, works for Pasco County. They have children in fifth and seventh grades.

 

Other notable appointments

Pasco County Schools appointed a handful of other employees last month to school leadership positions.

  • Jennifer Candiloro was an instructional trainer coach at Seven Springs Elementary School in New Port Richey. Candiloro is now assistant principal at Anclote Elementary School in Elfers.
  • Jessica Chmurzynski was an intervention specialist at Sand Pine Elementary School in Wesley Chapel. Chmurzynski will stay at Sand Pine as an assistant principal.
  • Lesley Kirkley was a senior instructional specialist with the district. Kirkley will serve as assistant principal at Chester W. Taylor Elementary School in Zephyrhills.
  • Laurie McKnight, a new hire within the district, was appointed as an assistant principal at Woodland Elementary School in Zephyrhills.

 

Chalk Talk (09/11/24): Grant to boost magnet schools

By

Grant to boost magnet schools

WESLEY CHAPEL – Pasco County Schools has received a $63,000 grant from the Suncoast Credit Union.

The contribution will help bolster the district’s ongoing magnet schools recruitment, retention and community engagement efforts.

Pasco County Schools hosts 36 magnet schools and programs with nearly 15,000 students. 

Schools offer an array of programs, including Cambridge, International Baccalaureate (IB), STEM and STEAM, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering and Cybersecurity. These programs are meant to spark passion in our students and connect their learning to real-world applications.

 

Student achievements

  • Zephaniah Johnson, of Land O’Lakes, maintained a 3.5 grade point average or better on a 4.0 point scale to make the dean’s list for the spring semester at Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana.
  • Evan Nelson, of San Antonio, made the dean’s list at Columbia College in Columbia, Missouri. Nelson attended online classes and scored at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0-point scale.

 

Pasco County Schools pays tribute to Ray Gadd

By

Ray Gadd

Pasco County Schools paid tribute to retiring Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd during the Aug. 20 school board meeting. Gadd will be retiring Sept. 20 after 44 years with the district. 

Gadd remembers when he was interning with the district as a psychologist that he had a job offer in Hillsborough County and a job offer at Pasco County Schools. Despite being a broke college kid, he passed on the higher-paying offer.
“Pasco County is where I want to work,” he remembered thinking at the time. “It was the best decision I ever made. I have no regrets.”

​​Superintendent Kurt Browning touted Gadd’s generosity, hard work, institutional history, disdain for bureaucratic red tape and courage to share a difference of opinion because he believes it’s the right thing for the district.

“I can not imagine having to serve as superintendent of this district for 12 years without having Ray Gadd by my side,” Browning said. 

He credited Gadd and former school board member Allen Altman for shepherding the Penny for Pasco campaign in 2004. From that campaign, voters approved a 1-cent sales tax that generated more than $320 million for education over 10 years. Voters supported the campaign again in 2012 and 2022. 

Browning said the district would not have been able to build, remodel or outfit schools with buses, technology and other resources had it not been for their work on the campaign.

“There was literally blood, sweat and tears put into that first campaign for the penny,” Browning said. “I’m grateful because I was able to reap the benefits of being the superintendent that had money that was able to build those schools.”

Gadd said he has worked with several superintendents but never had he worked with one with as much passion and compassion as Browning. Under Browning’s leadership, Gadd has had the opportunity to try new things. 

“When you engage in innovation, there’s a lot of failure,” Gadd said. “Every now and then when you engage in innovation, you get one right and it’s like yahoo. It takes a strong board and a strong group of peers to stick with it, because usually you hit a couple of failures and you quit. This school board, this school district and the team of people who work around me never give up on trying to innovate and do a better job.”

School board chair Megan Harding thanked Gadd for making sure the district always did what’s best for kids. Harding presented him with a plaque commemorating his 44 years of service to the district. 

District 1 rep Al Hernandez thanked Gadd for his friendship and mentorship. 

District 2 rep Colleen Beaudoin described Gadd as an innovator.

District 3 rep Cynthia Armstrong said Gadd has a rare talent to see past obstacles to get things done. It also helps that he has people skills and the ability to think outside of the box. 

“What you’ve been able to accomplish not only for the school district but also for the county itself has really made our district better,” Armstrong told Gadd. “It’s made the county a better place to live.”

 

School thanks Zephyrhills for its reading buddies

By

Principal Christina Twardosz thanked the City of Zephyrhills staff Aug. 26 for volunteering to read with students last year at West Zephyrhills Elementary School.

Twardosz presented the Florida Department of Education Commissioners Business Recognition Award on behalf of Pasco County Schools during the Zephyrhill City Council meeting. 

“City staff came at least once a week and read chapter books with our students, asking them comprehension questions,” Twardosz said. “Not only did it provide extra reading support but it built a unique bond and a mentorship opportunity for our students as well.”

She mentioned how City Manager William Poe provided release time to staff so they could be reading buddies at West Zephyrhills and Woodland elementary schools.

Twardosz attributed the partnership, as well as help from the community, for helping West Zephyrhills Elementary improve its academic grade from an F in 2021-22 to a C in 2023-24.

“Thanks to all of our staff that have done that,” Council President Kenneth Burgess said. “That’s a pretty good jump in grades there from an F to a C.”

Poe believes the reading buddies program is great for the community to get involved with children and serve as role models.

“I think it’s important for us to continue that and be part of the schools,” he said.

Poe pointed to the district’s increased security measures, which includes fingerprinting for volunteers. The district website mentions that Level 2 background screening is required every five years for volunteers and costs $41.25.

Poe said the city will pay those fees associated with the fingerprinting for its staff so they may continue volunteering without cost. 

Chalk Talk (09/04/24): Pasco County Schools feeds students

By

Summer Feeding reaches more

Pasco County Schools saw a huge increase in the number of meals served through its Summer Feeding program.

The district served 128,032 meals last year and 273,642 meals this year, according to Elizabeth Kuhn, assistant superintendent for support services.

Kuhn said the increase was attributable to curbside locations. 

Curbside sites were available at Connerton Elementary School in Land O’ Lakes, Watergrass Elementary School in Wesley Chapel, and Lacoochee Elementary School and San Antonio Elementary School in Dade City.

 

PCS buys risk insurance

Pasco County Schools has agreed to buy builder’s risk insurance from Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services for construction at West Zephyrhills Elementary School.

The insurance will cover the school in case of fire, wind damage, theft or vandalism, according to a staff memo. The amount is not to exceed $260,776.96.

The district is adding a two-story building with classrooms and a media center on the West Zephyrhills Elementary School campus. 

 

Firms picked for repairs

Pasco County Schools has selected three firms to provide architectural and engineering, permitting and construct administration services for projects under $7.5 million. 

The district selected Hepner Associates; Long & Associates Architects and Engineers; and Renker, Eich, Parks Architects.

Projects may include remodeling or renovations, heating and air replacements, general consulting services or emergencies.

 

Weeds treated at property

JT Cattle Company is working with the USDA on herbaceous weed treatment on property it leases from Pasco County Schools.

The district signed off on the treatment last month for the 40-acre site on Hicks Road in Hudson. JT Cattle Company has leased the site since 2015. 

 

School buses sold

Pasco County Schools has sold three school buses to Creation Foundation Inc. for $3. 

The district deemed the buses as surplus property after realizing they were not operational or cost too much to repair, according to a staff memo. Each was sold “as is” to the charter school for $1 each.

 

Music school open houses

Saint Leo University’s Community Music School will host several open house events for those interested in joining the community choir and band or participating in ballroom dance classes at University Campus, 33701 County Road 52 in St. Leo.

The music school was launched to offer Saint Leo’s neighbors and those in the Tampa Bay area a variety of opportunities to take classes to learn and practice music, dance and other arts under the direction of expert guidance of faculty members, who also are professional musicians, dancers and artists.

Open house events will be as follows:

  • Ballroom Dance Showcase & Open House – Sept. 6, 6:45 p.m., Wellness Center Dance Studio.
  • Community Choir Open House – Sept. 9, 7 p.m., Music Building.
  • Community Band Open House – Sept. 9, 7 p.m., Blackbox Theatre, Benedictine Hall.

Email Cindy Selph at to register for the choir or band events. Email 

Sergiy Borysov at to attend the ballroom dancing event.

 

Two Good Soles drive underway

The ninth annual Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway, through Oct. 23, with Pasco County government and constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County Schools.

Types of shoes and socks to consider donating include:

  • Children’s shoes sizes 9 and up
  • Adult shoes in all sizes
  • Socks in all sizes (neutral colors)
  • Closed-toe shoes, no flip-flops

More than 3,000 pairs of shoes and nearly 6,000 pairs of socks were collected in 2023.

Donations can be dropped in collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations and the Pasco County clerk & comptroller, property appraiser and tax collector offices.

All new shoes and socks will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October.

Chalk Talk 08/28/2024

By

Performing arts career fair

The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory will host its fifth annual Performing Arts College and Career Fair on Sept. 29 with workshops from 9 a.m. to noon and a meet-and-greet with college representatives from noon to 3 p.m.

A crowd of students and families visit with colleges at a previous career fair at the Straz Center. (Courtesy of Leslie Farrell/Farrell Communications)

The fair is designed for students interested in pursuing a college degree and/or career in dance, music or theater.

Workshops are accessible with a 2024 Performing Arts College & Career Fair Workshop Pass, available for $20 online (see link below). The pass will provide student admission to opportunities presented by visiting colleges and faculty. Parents may observe student workshops or attend parent-centric workshops with the purchase of an additional wristband.

All attendees, including guardians and guests, must register online at PatelConservatory.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=45238.

National scholars

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced 91 scholarships awarded through the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program, one of the department’s efforts to develop the next generation of diverse food and agriculture professionals, according to a news release.

The national scholars program is a partnership between the USDA and the 19 historically Black land-grant universities that were established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890 and is administered by the USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), the release says.

The scholars took part in an orientation and a swearing-in ceremony at USDA headquarters in Washington D.C.

“The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is an important pathway for careers in agriculture, nutrition, food, development – and at USDA,” said OPPE Director Lisa Ramirez in the release.

Through the program, the USDA partners with 1890 universities to provide scholarship recipients with full tuition, fees, books, and room and board. Recipients must attend one of the 1890 universities and pursue degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The 91 recipients will be placed at USDA agencies and offices.

The scholarship program is available to high school seniors entering their freshman year of college, as well as rising college sophomores and juniors.

For more information, visit www.USDA.gov.

Student achievements

  • Joshua Carr, Dade City: Master of Business Administration, University of Texas at Tyler
  • Owen James, Lutz: Dean’s List, Hartwick College, New York
  • Abby Suarez, Lutz: Intern, Wacker Chemical Company, Charleston, Tennessee. Suarez is pursuing a degree in environmental science with minors in sustainability and Spanish at the University of Florida.
  • Thea Wangsness, Dade City: Dean’s List, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Classroom equipment donated

AdventHealth Heart of Florida presented 24 world globes, recess equipment and school supplies to the teachers at Bethune Academy in Haines City. Unity in the Community reached out about the need teachers had for classroom equipment, wall maps, globes, recess equipment and a variety of other items.

AdventHealth Heart of Florida COO Julie Hess (fourth from left) presented the donations to Bethune Academy teachers, staff and Principal Robin Hewitt (second from right).
(Courtesy of AdventHealth)

“We were more than happy to help by purchasing some of the items on their list. We donated recess equipment and world globes. The hula hoops, jump ropes and other games align with AdventHealth’s whole-person care approach — and we love the fact that students will be able to go outside and exercise and participate in group events and just have fun. We also know that exercising and being outdoors can reduce stress and help with your mental health,” said Julie Hess, chief operating officer for AdventHealth Heart of Florida, in a news release.

Hess also explained the reason behind buying the globes: AdventHealth, a non-for-profit, faith-based hospital system, sponsors and participates in mission projects around the globe.

AdventHealth team members also donated school supplies including crayons, pencils, folders and notebook paper.

LPN program ranked

Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) recently was ranked as the best Licensed Practical Nurse program in Florida, both online and on campus, by NursingProcess.org. Out of more than 160 programs approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, PHSC ranked first place, according to a news release.

Nursing Process uses a system that takes factors such as enrollment rate, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, National Council Licensure Examination – Practical Nurse pass rates, and affordability into account when ranking the programs.

The organization is comprised of a team of health care professionals who are dedicated to navigating information around nursing education and careers, focusing on decreasing the gap in easily accessible expert-driven information, the release says.

For more information, visit PHSC.edu/academics/porgrams/health/practical-nurse.

Subaru donates for education

Subaru of Wesley Chapel recently made a donation of $15,000 and 25 school supply kits to Pasco County Schools’ Thomas E. Weightman Middle School. The contribution, made in partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org as part of the Subaru Loves Learning initiative, will benefit more than 1,240 students by providing essential supplies to help ensure a successful school year, according to a news release.

The funds allow teachers to buy much-needed supplies for their classrooms, easing the financial burden that many educators face, aligning with the school’s ongoing efforts to create a positive and effective learning environment for all students.

For more about the Subaru initiative, visit Subaru.com/learning, or follow #SubaruLovesLearning on social media.

Scholarship opportunity

Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful is offering a scholarship to high school seniors or college students who have a passion for the environment.

Those interested can apply for the scholarship by completing volunteer hours through cleanups, tree plantings or beautification projects.

Application deadline is Sept. 23. Visit Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful on Facebook and click the link in its bio for more information.

Golden Grants program

Applications are now open for the 2024 McDonald’s Golden Grants program.

McDonald’s owner/operators across South Carolina, Georgia and Florida will be selecting deserving educators, nonprofit organizations, and the like, who represent programs that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students, as recipients of a McDonald’s Golden Grant, according to a news release. The program is entering its fourth year and has awarded $300,000 in the first three years.

This year, grants will be awarded in the amounts of $10,000, $5,000, $2,500 and $1,000 based on creativity and hands-on application of projects.

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

Educators, programs and organizations serving kindergarten through 12th grade can apply.

Applications close Oct. 13. Recipients will be announced in November.

For more information and to apply, visit mcdgoldengrants.com/florida.

Two Good Soles drive underway

The ninth annual Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway, through Oct. 23, with Pasco County government and constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County Schools.

Types of shoes and socks to consider donating include:

  • Children’s shoes sizes 9 and up
  • Adult shoes in all sizes
  • Socks in all sizes (neutral colors)
  • Closed-toe shoes, no flip-flops

In 2023, more than 3,000 pairs of shoes and nearly 6,000 pairs of socks were collected.

Donations can be dropped in collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations and the Pasco County clerk & comptroller, property appraiser and tax collector offices.

All new shoes and socks will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October.

Video game design contest

The U.S. National Science Foundation announced the NSF Game Maker Awards “Life in 2010” competition for kindergarten through 12th grade students, to commemorate the agency’s 75th anniversary milestone.

Students are invited to create video games that imagine life 75 years from now (in the year 2100) and compete to win up to $7,500 in various prize categories. Their games will be featured in NSF’s 75th anniversary activities. Additional prizes can go to mentors, teachers or parents/guardians who aid teams in application and game development, according to a news release.

The students are challenged to dive into game design and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) to think critically and creatively about the future and contribute unique perspectives to the ongoing dialogue about our planet’s trajectory.

The competition encourages students to explore NSF-supported research areas, including sustainable ecosystems, futuristic cities and advanced medical technology.

Award winners will be invited to an in-person event to showcase their games.

Deadline for submission is 5 p.m., Jan. 31. Details and more information can be found at new.nsf.gov/75years/game-maker-awards.

Chalk Talk 08/21/2024

By

Saint Leo prepares for student arrivals
As Saint Leo University prepares for the arrival of students to its Pasco County campus, several new programs are making earning a college degree more accessible and affordable, too.

A new student, with help from her family, carries items into her residence hall in 2023. (Courtesy of Saint Leo University)

New and transfer students will move into residence halls on Aug. 22, at the campus at 33701 County Road 52 in St. Leo. The school expects to welcome more than 800 new students for the fall semester. Classes will begin on Aug. 26.

To help a college education be more attainable, Saint Leo offered two new financial aid awards — the Local Promise Award to provide undergraduate students free housing for up to two academic years and the Nursing Promise Award to provide free housing renewable for up to four years for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

This fall, Saint Leo also introduces two new degree programs as well as an online version of a bachelor’s program previously only offered at University Campus.

A Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration Program will be offered, as well as a minor in entrepreneurship. 

The Master of Science in artificial intelligence can be pursued online through Saint Leo’s College of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science (CARDS), as a STEM-designated degree targeted to individuals currently working in the technology field or engineering in order to “upskill,” and to those just coming out of a bachelor’s degree program.

To learn more, visit SaintLeo.edu.

Nominate a young student
Hillsborough County is accepting nominations for its annual Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards) to recognize the positive contributions made by young people in the community.

All awards recognize one middle and one high school student. Nominations can be submitted for both middle and high school students in each of these categories:

Leadership: This award recognizes students who have demonstrated 21st century skills including: critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity in how they led others academically, in extracurricular programs or in service to the community.

Success Despite Difficult Odds: This award recognizes students who have persevered through challenges to make a positive impact on others.

Volunteer or Community Service: This award recognizes students who have dedicated substantial time to serving their community.

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

The deadline for nominations is Sept. 12. Submission forms can be found online at HCFL.gov/YEA.

Dr. Michael Tkacik, associate professor, teaching course on Second Vatican Council. (Courtesy of Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University)

Doctoral students share mission
Saint Leo University welcomed students from many career fields to its first two cohorts in its Doctor of Theology in Applied Theology Program. This was the first residency experience for the online Doctor of Theology (ThD) degree, which launched in August 2023 with its first cohort.

Saint Leo’s Doctor of Theology degrees focuses on applied theology, “so not only does it include academic research, but it also offers practice knowledge and skills for those who serve in various ministries and organizations within the Church and the wider community,” said Dr. Stephen Okey, associate professor and director of the program, in a news release.

The doctoral degree is offered online and most students attend the summer residency in person at the university’s campus in St. Leo.

The summer residency featured Dr. Michael Tkacik, associate professor of theology and religion, teaching a course on the Second Vatican Council for the first cohort, while Okey taught the second cohort theological research and writing.

For more information about admissions to the program, email , or call 888-875-8265.

FIRE Academy graduation
Tampa Fire Rescue, in collaboration with CDC of Tampa, celebrated the graduation of the fifth annual FIRE Academy on July 26. The ceremony marked the culmination of a summer program where graduates not only explored potential careers, but also acquired life-saving skills, according to a news release.

CDC of Tampa hosts the Fire Introduction Resources and Education (FIRE) Academy to inspire high school students, ages 15 to 18, to consider diverse career paths. The initiative aims to address the challenge of youth unemployment by equipping students with industry-recognized certifications and college readiness, the release says.

“Our FIRE Academy program, launched in 2020, was created to increase awareness about firefighting as a career and to facilitate interaction between students, public servants, and firefighters,” said Alexandria Andrade, coordinator, in the release.

“Nearly 70 youths have benefitted from this program, with some choosing to pursue careers in first response after high school,” said Andrade.

For more information and questions, contact Andrade at 813-587-9505 or .

America’s Field Trip winners
America 250 has announced the winners of its inaugural America’s Field Trip contest, a nationwide competition for elementary, middle and high school students in grades three to 12. Students were asked to share their vision of America through artwork, videos and essays, according to a news release.

The organization’s mission is to “to commemorate and celebrate our 250th anniversary with inclusive programs that inspire Americans to renew and strengthen our daring experiment in democracy,” its website says.

Seventy-five awardees from across the nation will have the opportunity to go on special field trips exploring some of America’s iconic landmarks, historical sites, and cultural treasures, from the Statue of Liberty and the National Archives to the canyons and rivers of Yellowstone National Park. Another 75 second-place winners will receive a cash award, the release says.

Three teachers associated with the top-scoring entry in each grade level category, were recognized, too, and will receive a $1,000 cash award. The Florida winner was high school teacher Yindia Cruz, Crooms Academy of Information Technology in Sanford.

Students or teachers interested in participating in the next round of the America’s Field Trip contest can visit https://america250.org/fieldtrip/application/.

Chalk Talk 08/14/2024

By

Business leadership recognitions
Pasco-Hernando State College’s (PHSC) Collegiate Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) received honors at the National Leadership Conference in Orlando, in June. 

From left: Caleb Barnhart, Samantha Mutter, Emmalise Feliciano, Joe Conte, Krista Knowles, Nicole Miller, Holland Haley, and Gilberto Mattei-Fernandez (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

The PHSC state finalists who attended the conference were Caleb Barnhart, Emmalise Feliciano, Holland Haley, Krista Knowles, Gilberto Mattei-Fernandez and Samantha Mutter, according to a news release.

The school’s Collegiate FBLA was recognized as an outstanding chapter due to the collective efforts of the group and its detailed work documenting their accomplishments.

Feliciano was awarded first place in the nation for public speaking, out of 50 competitors.

Mutter received first place for business presentation, out of 42 competitor teams.

Haley and Knowles were awarded eighth and ninth place, respectively, for foundations of hospitality management, the release says.

“We are beyond PHSC proud of these accomplishments and how the team handled themselves at the conference. They are all future leaders, and their legacy will live on. The accomplishments here also reflect on the programs and the faculty at the college,” stated Nicole Miller, associate dean of academic affairs, in the release.

“To compete and win on the national stage, including competing against the university level students is so impressive,” said Bob Bade, senior vice president and chief student affairs officer, in the release.

Stellar grades for Pasco County Schools
The State Board of Education recently voted to approve the Florida Department of Education’s updated school grading scale, which is used to determine school grades.

The board voted on amendments to the rule that adjust the school grading scale so that elementary schools are graded using the scale, which was previously used from 2014-2015 and 2021-2022, and all other school types are graded using a new scale. This approach considers the components included in the school grade formula for different school types, the release says.

School grades for the 2023-2024 school year demonstrate that Pasco County Schools continue to show improvement over last year, according to a news release.

Pasco County Schools maintained a B grade for 2023 as it has since 2017. Eighty-eight percent of Pasco schools earned an A, B or C grade, and nearly half of Pasco’s schools earned As and Bs.

Twenty-six percent of Pasco’s 95 schools received As, and two schools moved up from Bs to an A, the release says.

This year, 14 schools increased their overall grade.

Three Pasco schools received an I (incomplete) and Pasco County Schools will be looking at appeals. Often, an “I” is given to schools that do not meet the participation rate.

For more information on school-by-school and district level grades, visit https://www.fldoe.org/accountability/accountability-reporting/school-grades/.

Arwen Arriaga, left, took first place in high school cosmetology at the National SkillsUSA Championships. (Courtesy of Corey Dierdorff/Pasco County Schools)

A spotlight on student skills
Arwen Arriaga, a student from Fred K. Marchman Technical College, secured first place in the high school cosmetology competition at the National SkillsUSA Championships in Atlanta, according to a news release.

SkillsUSA is known for being one of the largest hands-on workforce development events globally, with more than 6,000 state champions competing in 115 skilled and leadership contests, the release says. The competition aims to reward student excellence, involve industry in evaluating performance, and ensure that training remains relevant to employers’ needs.

Arwen’s victory featured rigorous assessments of her technical skills and creative flair.

Earn community service hours
A Safe Haven for Newborns is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to preventing infant abandonment and supporting mothers in need through education, direct assistance and community involvement.

By educating the younger generation, the organization aims to foster a more informed and compassionate community who can contribute to spreading awareness and saving lives, according to a news release.

Safe Haven has developed a community service mobile app to educate high school and college students about this life-saving program, while they earn their required hours from wherever they are, the release says.

To ensure accountability for hours earned and project completion, students can choose one or more of the projects listed, including:

  • Create a Safe Haven awareness video and earn up to six community service hours
  • Create a Safe Haven article and earn up to three community service hours
  • Create a Safe Haven poster and earn up to three community service hours

Students will receive a letter of completion and a certificate of appreciation for their portfolio, while raising more awareness to help save the lives of innocent newborns.

To learn more and to be part of the solution, visit ASafeHavenForNewborns.com, or email .

Emily Peake represented Girls Nation in Washington D.C. (Courtesy of Jennifer Donovan/American Legion Auxiliary)

Local student takes on role of ‘senator’
Emily Peake, of Land O’ Lakes, was one of 100 high school seniors selected to attend American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Girls Nation in Washington D.C. The weeklong program, founded in 1947, provides civic education to thousands of students, teaching them how the federal government works, according to a news release.

Peake was one of two participants representing Florida as a “senator” at ALA Girls Nation and took part in mock Senate sessions complete with caucuses and debating bills that range from personal to political interests.

Other activities included a visit to Arlington National Cemetery to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a visit to Capitol Hill to meet with U.S. senators from their state, and a tour of D.C. monuments.

Peake is a rising senior at Cambridge Christian School. She also participates in the Student Leadership Institute, Ovation Ensemble, STEM Club, Speech and Debate, Future Lancer Business Leaders, Key Club, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Science Honor Society, English Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and volleyball.

To learn more about ALA Girls Nation, visit https://www.legion-aux.org/ALA-Girls-Nation.

Student graduations

  • Zoe Adkins, Lutz: Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, Muhlenberg College, Pennsylvania
  • Taylor Marie Morja, Lutz: Master of Science-Management, University of Maryland Global Campus
  • Lisa Demos, Master of Arts-Happiness Studies, Centenary University, New Jersey
  • Ellis Erickson, Lutz; Bachelor of Arts in Communication-Organizational-Corporate and Bachelor of Science in Sports Management, Northern Illinois University
  • Jesse Filippelli, Land O’ Lakes: Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management, magna cum laude, Southwestern College, Kansas
  • Hannah Houser, Odessa: Master of Business Administration, The University of Alabama
  • Jack Houser, Odessa: Master of Business Administration, The University of Alabama
  • Noah Kilpatrick, Lutz: Master of Arts, The University of Alabama
  • Alexandra Koch, Bachelor of Arts-Individualized Studies, summa cum laude, Centenary University, New Jersey
  • Jameson Miller, Lutz: graduate, Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Elliott Morales, Wesley Chapel: Master of Science-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Vraj Patel, Lutz: graduate, Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Vedant Ruia, Odessa: graduate, Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Giselle Sang, Land O’ Lakes: Bachelor of Science-Cell Biology/Chemistry, Bucknell University, Pennsylvania
  • Marissa Reyn Schabes, Lutz: magna cum laude, Furman University, South Carolina
  • Sanjana Srinivasan, Lutz: graduate, Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Shania Tjhang, Lutz: graduate, Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Christiana Till, Odess: Bachelor of Science-Communication & Business Administration, The University of Alabama
  • Marcos Tolentino, Odessa: Bachelor of Arts, Harding University, Arkansas
  • Allison Trask, Lutz: Bachelor of Business Administration, Harding University, Arkansas
  • Payton VanNort, Lutz: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater-Directing, Marietta College
  • Claudia Vitale, Lutz: Faculty Honors, graduate, Georgia Institute of Technology

Chalk Talk 08/07/2024

By

A lesson in being ‘upstanding’

Fifteen schools in Hernando County were among nearly 300 schools throughout Florida that participated in the 2023-2024 Holocaust Learning Experience (HLE), “a program designed to educate students about the importance of being ‘upstanders’ instead of bystanders when confronted with hate, bigotry and prejudice from others,” according to a news release.

Leigh Routman speaks at the 2023-2024 Holocaust Learning Experience. (Courtesy of the Holocaust Learning Experience)

“This program is more than just a history lesson about the Holocaust,” said HLE Executive Director Leigh Routman, in the release. “It’s a multi-sensory documentary that lets students watch historical footage and hear directly from Holocaust survivors who experienced the horrific consequences of unchecked hate and intolerance,” said Routman.

Since 1994, Florida has required public school districts to include Holocaust lessons to help students understand the consequences of racism, prejudice and stereotyping, as well as develop respectful and responsible behaviors accordingly.

To date, at least 35 Florida school districts have enrolled in the 2024-2025 Holocaust Learning Experience and hundreds of teachers have already received access to the instructional program, the release says.

For more information, visit HolocaustLearningExperience.org.

Meal eligibility provision

The District School Board of Pasco County has announced the district will participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) during the 2024-2025 school year, providing meals, regardless of eligibility category, at no charge for all students at all schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, according to a news release.

CEP serves breakfast and lunch to all children at no charge and eliminates the collection of meal applications for free, reduced-price and paid student meals, the release says.

This new approach reduces the burdens for both families and school administrators and helps ensure that students receive nutritious meals.

For questions regarding the Community Eligibility Provision or the school food program, call 813-794-2480, or email .

Recycling art contest

Hillsborough County’s second annual Recycling and Waste Reduction Art Contest is now open. Students are asked to submit creative pieces that connect the art world with the recycling world.

The theme of the contest is “What Can We Do to Help the Community Reduce Waste, Reuse What We Have, and Recycle More?”

Using the theme as a framework, students can submit a drawing using drawing tools, including programs such as Photoshop. They also can submit a collage using drawings, photographs, or other material. Other types of submissions will not be judged. Students cannot use artificial intelligence (AI) programs to create the art.

To enter, students must work alone, create original art, live in Hillsborough County, and be entering fourth through 12th grade by the start of the 2024 school year.

Winners in grade categories will receive countywide recognition and sustainable-themed prizes.

Once artwork is finished, students must submit a Recycling & Waste Reduction Art Contest form found online at https://hcflgov.formstack.com/forms/hillsborough_county_recycling_waste_reduction_art_contest.

Artwork can be submitted until Aug. 31. For questions, email .

Marilyn Pearson-Adams (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

New board leadership

The Pasco-Hernando State College Board of Trustees (DBOT) recently elected new board leaders. Trustees Marilyn Pearson-Adams and Rebecca Schulkowski were elected to respectively serve as chair and vice chair of the board for the 2024-2025 academic year, according to a news release.

Pearson-Adams, owner and CEO of Century 21 Alliance Realty-Hernando County, was appointed to the DBOT in 2014, marking 10 years served. During this tenure, she has served as board chair in 2020-2021 and vice chair in 2022-2023. She succeeds previous board chair Lee Maggard.

Rebecca Schulkowski (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

 

Schulkowski, first president of BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel, was appointed to the DBOT in 2021. She has served as director of operations and director of surgical services at BayCare Health Systems, director for surgical services at Riverside Health System in New Port News, Maryland, and director of pharmacy at Cardinal Health in Baltimore, Maryland.

Gilberto Mattei-Fernandez (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

 

The board also reelected Gilberto Mattei-Fernandez as the executive statewide president for the Florida College System Student Government Association, to serve a second term as the DBOT student representative, the release says.

 

 

Science education option

Discovery Education has announced the Science Techbook for Florida has been added to the Florida Department of Education’s initial list of adopted instructional materials for science, according to a news release.

Among the courses now available for use in classrooms statewide are Science for grades K-5; Earth/Space Science, Life Science, Physical Science, and Comprehensive Science 1,2 and 3 for grades six to eight.

Accessible through Discovery Education’s digital platform, Science Techbook empowers Florida school systems to integrate an innovative digital-print-kit blended curriculum into instruction to create unique, student-centered learning experiences. Included in the core curriculum are engaging digital resources, print student and teacher editions, hands-on activity kits, and virtual investigations.

The Science Techbook for Florida curriculum includes ready-to-use, phenomena-driven lessons that motivate students with powerful technology tools — such as toggle-on authentic Spanish translation — that personalize the student experience, and labor-saving teacher tools that streamline preparation and grading.

Studies show that regular use of Science Techbook in the classroom has many positive academic results for educators and students across a variety of districts and populations in the United States, the release says.

All educators using Discovery Education’s digital resources have access to the Discovery Educator Network.

To learn more, visit DiscoveryEducation.com.

 

University of Tampa recognitions:

Dean’s List: Rowdie Maloney, Lutz; Makenzie Hershey, Odessa; Tristan Hilson, Lutz; Samantha Parker, Odessa; Ashley Mantei, Odessa; Alexander Ruhe, Lutz; Michelle Loefstrand, Odessa; Robert Cooper, Lutz; Charles Pals, Odessa; Alyssa De La Sala, Lutz; Madison McElhone, Odessa; Hope Lelekacs, Odessa; Zoe Papageorgiou, Odessa; Jenna Delgado, Lutz; Echo Prescott, Lutz; Tanner Dishman, Lutz; Gabrielle Reim, Odessa; Margret Gudmundsson, Lutz; Ntalia Katsaros, Odessa; Jack Federman, Lutz; Kaitlin Price, Odessa; Makenzie Reynolds, Lutz; and Dominick Rappa, Odessa.

Graduates: Angelina Santana, Lutz; Becca Turner, Lutz; Bhavya Priya Akula, Lutz; Cole Benjamin, Odessa; Hope Lelekacs, Odessa; Isabella Zabaneh, Lutz; Jacey Fennell, Odessa; Jessica Valente, Lutz; Kranthi Kumar Manda, Lutz; Kristina Roberts, Odessa; Lindsay Castro, Lutz; Livia Bezerra Costa, Lutz; Madison McElhone, Odessa; Makenzie Hershey, Odessa; McKenzie Grimshaw, Odessa; Molly Schmidt, Lutz; Sarah Jones, Lutz; Tristan Hilson, Lutz; and Vanessa Sanchez, Odessa.