The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

Chalk Talk 05/09/2018

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(Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

Helping to relieve the plight of students
Pasco County Schools recognized Dr. Rao Musunuru and Shayne George for their contributions to its Students in Transition program, which ensures the educational rights of homeless children and youth. Both made personal donations to the Pasco Education Foundation to help the district’s program for disadvantaged children and their families. From left: Kurt Browning, superintendent of schools; Michele Overland, SSPS-SIT homeless liaison; Kurt Conover, representing Shayne George; Dr. Rao Musunuru; Stacey Capogrosso, Pasco Education Foundation executive director; Michelle Barthel, school social worker; David Chamberlin, supervisor Student Services; and Cynthia Armstrong, school board member.

 Honor Day ceremony
Citizens Concerned for Students will recognize the public middle and high school African-American students who have earned the Honor Roll at least once during the current school year.

The annual awards ceremony, Honor Day, will celebrate almost 2,000 students who have earned the achievement on May 12 at 5 p.m., at the Pasco Schools Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel, 30651 Wells Road.

The fifth annual College and Career Fair also will take place at 3 p.m., in the adjacent Wesley Chapel High School gymnasium.

The fair will feature schools and career resources, including Florida State University, Pasco-Hernando State College, the United State Coast Guard, St. Petersburg College and more.

A voter registration booth also will be available.

Both the awards ceremony and fair are free.

For information, visit HonorDayPasco.org.

Teaching excellence awards
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that by 2024, there will be more than 1.5 million skilled trades job openings as Baby Boomers retire.

Harbor Freight Tools for Schools “Teaching Excellence” will award a combined $1 million in cash prizes to 18 outstanding public high school skilled trades teachers and programs.

Three first-place winners each will receive $100,000, with $70,000 going to the high school skilled trades program and $30,000 to the individual teacher or teacher team.

The 15 second-place winners each will be awarded $50,000, with $35,000 going to the program and $15,000 to the teacher/team.

Applications are open until May 16 and are due July 6.

Semifinalists will be announced on Aug. 15, and the first- and second-place winners will be announced on Nov. 15.

For information and to register, visit HFTForSchoolsPrize.org.

Community service hours
Life’s Treasures Thrift Store, 4910 S. Allen Road in Zephyrhills, is looking for teens age 14 and older to join its team.

Students can acquire volunteer hours toward the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship community service requirement, as well as develop their character, add new skills and increase their confidence.

For information, contact Anne Ferrell at (813) 357-5321 or .

Education assessment
Thirty-five years after “A Nation at Risk” was released, student achievement is either flat or dropping for many U.S. students, according to the results of the latest National Assessment of Education Progress, known as the Nation’s Report Card.

Scores from the 2017 NAEP administration saw no significant change from the prior 2015 assessment, except for a one-point increase in eighth-grade math scores.

The results were as follows:

  • Reading proficiency or above: Fourth grade, 37 percent; Eighth grade, 36 percent
  • Math proficiency or above: Fourth grade, 40 percent; Eighth grade, 34 percent
  • Math proficiency declined in 10 states

Florida, in particular, did see unprecedented gains statewide and in two of its largest districts — Miami and Duval counties.

Hillsborough schools honored
The National School Boards Association’s National Black Council of School Board Members presented its Recognizing Innovative Strategies in Equity (RISE) Award to Hillsborough County Public Schools during its annual conference.

The RISE Award honors a school board for its excellence in policies, practices and strategies that promote and enhance equitable outcomes and career readiness for African-American students.

The award is sponsored by McGraw-Hill Education, a learning science company that delivers personalized learning experiences that help students, parents, educators and professionals improve results.

For information about the council, visit NSBA.org and click on “services.”

For more on McGraw-Hill, visit MHeducation.com.

Pasco-Hernando ranks fourth
Pasco-Hernando State College has been ranked fourth overall best college among 28 state and community colleges by Schools.com.

Schools.com evaluated the 28-member institutions in the Florida College System, including traditional community colleges and state colleges that provide bachelor degrees, as well as associate degrees.

Florida’s efforts to develop a more well-trained and educated workforce have garnered national attention.

The statistical methodology used to rank colleges included affordability, graduation rates, transfer rates and student-faculty ratio.

PHSC ranked fourth behind Valencia College (Orlando), followed by Eastern Florida State College (Cocoa) and Lake-Sumter State College (Leesburg), respectively.

Looking for alumni, photos
Independent Day School/Corbett Prep is turning 50 and is looking for alumni who attended the Independent Day School in Tampa, for an anniversary celebration that will take place Aug. 18.

The school is asking for stories and photos from former students who were enrolled anytime between the school’s founding in 1968 to present day.

To share your memories, help with planning or attend the event, email Lisa Herscovici at , or join the Facebook group at Facebook.com/groups/IDS50.

Independent Day School changed its name to Corbett Prep in 2012, and is located at 12015 Orange Grove Drive in Carrollwood.

For information, call (813) 961-3087.

Chalk Talk 05/02/2018

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Teacher Appreciation Week
Students and the community can thank a teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 7 to May 11.

“Teachers play a key role in the development of our future leaders, and they have an invaluable impact on our education system and society as a whole… Their day does not begin and end when the first and final class bells sound,” said Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning, in a release.

Browning also is asking businesses throughout the community to use marquees, Facebook pages, and other social media accounts to say, ‘Thank you, Pasco County teachers.’

All-Florida Academic Team
Pasco-Hernando State College students were nominated to the 2018 Phi Theta Kappa All-Florida Academic Team.

Representing PHSC are Megan Best and Matthew Gadow, from the Spring Hill campus; and Elizabeth Merwin, from the East Campus in Dade City.

Students were selected based on outstanding academic achievement, leadership and community service, and had the opportunity to attend an awards ceremony on April 6.

For information, visit PHSC.edu.

Mental health symposium
Pasco County Schools student services staff and community mental health providers will take part in a Mental Health Symposium May 4.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so the district wants to raise awareness of students’ mental health needs, build capacity of staff to respond, and increase collaboration between schools and mental health providers.

The day will include a panel discussion, and cover topics such as eating disorders, anxiety, school-based violence prevention, trauma reduction and supporting recovery, non-suicidal self-injury, and connecting mental health services.

For information, email Cassandra Hall at .

Prom & talent show
Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host the ESE Prom (Exceptional Student Education) May 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the gymnasium.

The theme will be “Hollywood Stars: A Red Carpet Event.”

Student volunteers, Best Buddies and the Special Olympics club will team up for this fifth annual event.

The prom will include a disc jockey, a prom court, and voting for king and queen.

There also will be a talent show and participants will receive an “Oscar.”

For information, email Malisa Gonzalez at .

School safety meeting
A School Safety Town Hall meeting will take place May 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Participants will include Pasco County Schools, Pasco County Council of PTAs/PTSAs, local law enforcement, mental health providers, parents, students and local elected officials.

A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation. The community is encouraged to attend to give input.

Volunteer opportunity
Martial Arts Academy, 5268 Village Market in Wesley Chapel, has volunteer hour opportunities for high school students. The academy is affiliated with Global Humanitarian Resources.

To apply, visit the academy or email .

Summer registration
Registration for three summer sessions at Pasco-Hernando State College is underway.

Sessions include one 10-week term and two six-week terms, starting May 7 and June 19.

Currently enrolled and returning students should register as soon as possible.

The summer course schedule is online at PHSC.edu.

New students interested in taking summer or fall classes should visit the website for admissions information and to apply online.

Financial aid for the summer term may be available through Florida Bright Futures, Pell, Florida Pre-Paid, and Foundation Scholarships.

The application fee for new students is $25, and orientation and placement tests are free.

Kindergarten and Head Start
Pasco County Schools kindergarten preregistration for children who turn 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2018, is May 7, at all Pasco County elementary schools.

Required documentation includes: Child’s birth certificate or other proof of birth date; health examination HRS Form 3040; HRS Certificate of Immunization; and three official documents proving residency.

Those interested should contact their area school for details about orientation activities and times.

For information, call Danielle Varcardipone at (813) 794-2404.

Head Start and Early Head Start applications also are now available.

Expectant mothers, infants, toddlers and children through age 5 that meet income eligibility requirements may apply for the programs. Completing an application does not guarantee a child’s eligibility for services.

For information on minimum required documents, call Alexis Russell at (813) 794-2730.

Future business leaders
Pasco-Hernando State College students participated in the Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference and Competition.

PHSC West Campus student Charles Henderson IV placed first in Contemporary Sports Issues and second in Sports Management and Marketing, qualifying for national competition.

The Spring Hill Campus team of Rahul Kader and Mia Toner placed third in Hospitality Management. Kader also placed fifth in Computer Concepts.

Also from the Spring Hill Campus, Cameron Malone placed fourth in Impromptu Speaking.

North Campus student Emily Brock placed fourth in Desktop Publishing and fifth in Business Presentation.

The annual Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda National Competition will take place in Baltimore, Maryland in June.

Browning reports on school issues

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Practically no education-related topic was off limits during Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning’s recent visit with The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce.

At a recent breakfast meeting at the The Edwinola, Browning touched on everything from teacher pay and performance standards, to acceleration programs and school safety.

“We live in a crazy day and time in education,” said Browning, addressing dozens of chamber members.

Browning praised the district’s teachers as a whole, saying they’re “busting their tail ends trying to educate the kids.

Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning was the featured guest speaker at The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast meeting, at The Edwinola. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

“Being a teacher today is tough, tough work, and it is patience, particularly when you look at the schools. Every district has schools that range on one end of the spectrum to the other — from the low socioeconomic to the very affluent schools,” Browning said.

The Pasco County school district encompasses about 73,000 students across 90 schools, making it the state’s 11th largest district. Its annual operational budget is about $1.2 billion.

A call for more state funding
Browning mentioned he’s been visiting schools throughout the county to gather input from educators on “what’s right, what’s not right, what needs to be fixed, what’s working.”

In the same breath, he said there won’t be salary increases for teachers and other school base staff next school year.

That’s because any additional state funding for education has already been earmarked for school safety, mental health services and classroom supplies, he said.

“Once you take those three things out of there, there’s not a lot of flexible spending. So, when you start talking about pay raises…I can’t do it. I can’t do that next year because there’s not the money there for us,” Browning said.

“You’ve seen the reports on the national news about teachers walking out of classrooms, demanding more money, and I can sympathize with them on what they’re doing. But…in Florida we can’t do that, and I will advocate that,” he said.

Related to teacher pay, Browning stressed the state legislature “has got to get serious about how we’re going to fund education to the levels that it needs, so that we can address all the issues that we’re having to face.”

Browning also blasted the Florida Standards Assessment, the state’s accountability system, and the idea of assigning grades to schools and districts.

Though Pasco is labeled a ‘B’ district, Browning acknowledged the school system “has a lot of ‘C’ schools, fewer ‘B’ schools and even fewer ‘A’ schools.

“I am not sold on the idea that we tag a school with an ‘A, B, C, D or F’ — and that is going to really set the course for that school,” Browning said.

“Realtors, they will sell property based on the grade that school is given. It’s grossly unfair. I’ve asked realtors, ‘Please do not sell homes to folks, No. 1, based upon a school grade; and secondly, they think that is the school they’re going to attend.’”

Browning also criticized the state’s evaluation system for teachers.

It doesn’t add up that approximately 98 percent of the district’s teachers are graded “effective or highly effective” yet the school district still has a ‘B’ grade, he said.

“A lot of it’s based on student outcomes, student data, which some of it should be. But, we’re still arguing about how we come up with a system that truly evaluates instructors, teachers and district staff for that matter,” Browning said.

Some type of measure is needed to truly delineate great teachers from subpar ones, Browning suggested.

“I want great teachers, and I want to keep great teachers in our schools.,” he said. “Our kids, our communities do not need mediocre teachers in our classrooms.”

Rigorous academies, technical programs
Meanwhile, Browning proudly discussed the district’s school acceleration and technical programs.

He highlighted the success of the “high rigor” Cambridge International Programme in place at five schools — Pasco Middle and Pasco High since 2014; and this year introduced at San Antonio Elementary, Paul R. Smith Middle and Anclote High.

Pasco County Schools was recently awarded the District of the Year — Medium Sized Cambridge District. The district was recognized for expanding access to Cambridge exams by more than 100 percent and achieving a pass rate of 76 percent. The district also had 31 students who received a Cambridge Learner Award.

The Cambridge curriculum can be compared to Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate curricula, whereby students in the high school program can earn college credits and an international diploma. Those who earn the diploma also qualify for a Florida Bright Futures College scholarship.

“If you set the bar high, those kids will achieve it,” Browning said, later adding he will continue to “press hard” for more rigorous academic programs district-wide.

Additionally, Browning was upbeat about the many career and technical academies the district currently offers, such as Zephyrhills High’s aviation academy and Wesley Chapel High’s automotive technology academy, along with academies at other schools ranging from health to finance to robotics engineering, and more.

Said Browning, “We’ve just opened up a lot of choices for kids — getting kids the opportunity to get a taste of what it is in the real world, and make those connections about what they’re learning in the classroom and how that applies to real life.”

He also observed: “When you can make that connection of what it is and how does this really impact you as an adult, then they start seeing.”

Many graduates of Wesley Chapel High’s auto academy are making as much as $75,000 to $80,000 working at local car dealerships, Browning said.

“We know that not all kids in our system are college bound. Does that mean they shouldn’t be successful? No. Does that mean they shouldn’t make good salary? No,” the superintendent said.

The school superintendent also talked about the possibility of a technical high school in east Pasco, noting it’s on the district’s five-year facilities work program.

The district’s only two technical offerings — Marchman Technical College and Wendell Krinn Technical High School (replacing Ridgewood High in 2018-2019) — are located in New Port Richey.

He said plans call for another such school to be built on a 125-acre, district-owned tract of land on Handcart Road in the Dade City area — to serve students living in Dade City, Zephyrhills and Wesley Chapel.

“We are trying our darnedest to find money to build that facility,” the school superintendent said.

Elsewhere, Browning spoke extensively about school safety measures, from the district’s active threat plan to beefing up school security.

He also noted that he’s staunchly opposed to arming teachers and other school personnel.

“There’s something inside me that tells me anytime I introduce a gun in a classroom, on a school campus, it’s just another opportunity for someone to get hurt or killed,” Browning said.

Published April 25, 2018

Pasco school district considers hiring security officers

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Budget restrictions could prompt Pasco County Schools to hire armed school security officers to work in the district’s 47 elementary schools.

The district is considering using that approach — instead of using certified law enforcement officers — because of finances, said Kurt Browning, superintendent of schools.

“The money that they’ve (the Florida Legislature) given us is not enough to go the full-blown SRO (School Resource Officer) program,” he said.

The district has School Resource Officers at its middle schools and high schools, but needs to add armed security at its elementary schools to comply with a new state law, which was passed in response to the slayings at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

The estimated cost for a single SRO during the first year would be $145,000, which includes a car and necessary equipment, Browning said.

“You’re talking a lot of money that we do not have,” the superintendent said.

A school security officer would be less expensive because the district would not provide a car, and he or she would be a district employee working the 180-day school calendar year.

Using school security officers also would require 132 hours of training and a psychological evaluation before the employee could be hired.

New Port Richey Police Chief Kim Bogart urged Pasco County School Board members to be very careful in making their security plans.

“This is a tough situation. I get it. I’ve been a cop a lot of years, and I’ve never seen anything quite like this, this mandate that we have,” Bogart said. “It is so important that we get it right.

“I lean toward the SRO system, because I want the best that we can possibly do, but I don’t know if we can afford it,” Bogart said.

He also told board members that the district must be sure its plan includes officers who can fill in when others are out.

“if you go with the security officer concept, if you have turnover, when is the next academy for that? Do you have people lined up, if there’s an absence at a school, that somebody else can fill in? The next academy could be three months away,” Bogart said.

He also noted that SROs working in New Port Richey cannot leave school campuses, unless they have someone there to relieve them.

Once the law was signed, Bogart said he made it a mandate: “The officers can’t leave to go for lunch. They have to bring their lunch. If they have to leave because of court, or they’re ill, or anything, there will be another officer that relieves that person.

“These are things I think you really need to be thinking about now because the clock is ticking,” Bogart said.

School board member Alison Crumbley told Bogart she appreciated his comments. “We are now in the security business,” she said.

Regardless of the option that the district pursues, it will be difficult to find enough qualified people to fill the slots, Browning said.

“To be frank, it’s going to be a concern for us to find 50 people to fill 50 slots between now and Aug. 1 that will meet the criteria,” the superintendent said.

Community meetings on school safety
Representatives from Pasco County Schools will give a presentation on school safety and will field questions from the public.

First meeting:

  • May 2 at 6 p.m., at River Ridge High School cafeteria, 11646 Town Center Road in New Port Richey.

Second meeting:

  • May 7 at 6 p.m., at Wiregrass Ranch High School cafeteria, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Published April 25, 2018

Sunlake High student named Foot Locker scholar-athlete

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Sunlake High School’s Andrea Wallace is more than just a star basketball player who can score and rebound at will, and dazzle in the post, with her 6-foot-1 frame.

She’s also a standout in the classroom, maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average all through high school.

Besides athletics and academics, Wallace, too, strives to make an impact in the community. It’s why she founded a school club her junior year called Pass It Forward, which focuses on empowering young girls in Land O’ Lakes to use their voice, display their strengths and encourage one another.

“She’s that kid that wants to be great,” said Reesa Hendrix-Pledge, Sunlake athletic director and girls head basketball coach.

Sunlake High’s Andrea Wallace was one of just 20 student-athletes nationwide honored this year in the Foot Locker Scholar-Athletes Program, selected from a competitive pool of over 13,000 applicants. Wallace was recognized for her academic and athletic excellence, along with her service to the community. She will play basketball next season at St. Petersburg College, with plans to transfer to a university in a year or two. (Courtesy of Sunlake High School)

In her seven-plus years at Sunlake, Hendrix-Pledge says no student-athlete better exemplifies “excellence” in all aspects of life than the senior forward.

“She’s kind of the model student,” the coach said.

Wallace’s leadership skills, too, “are like no other” — evidenced in being a three-time team captain on the girls varsity hoops team.

“A coach couldn’t ask for somebody else that can actually talk it then back it up at the same time,” Hendrix-Pledge said.

To other Sunlake teachers and administrators meanwhile, Wallace is simply “an awesome kid.”

To those who know her, it’s not far-fetched that Wallace recently became one of just 20 student-athletes nationwide honored this year in the Foot Locker Scholar-Athletes Program. She was selected from a competitive pool of over 13,000 applicants.

As a Foot Locker Scholar Athlete, Wallace was awarded a $20,000 scholarship in a surprise lunchtime ceremony on April 18 at the high school.

Wallace was told she’d be giving a presentation to district board members on her school club, Pass It Forward. However, while giving her speech in an administration room, Wallace was abruptly overcome with emotion when a pair of Foot Locker representatives entered the room and diverted her attention with a large check — literally — that read “Twenty Thousand (dollars.)”

Wallace recalled the eventful moment afterwards: “It was actually pretty funny, because when I walked in everybody had their cameras out. I was like, ‘I’m not anybody. I’m not that special.’ But, because I thought it was for the district board — that’s what I was told — so I came in and gave the speech, but when they brought the check I almost started crying. …It’s amazing. I didn’t even think that I’d be able to get that.”

Wallace’s mother, Anne-Marie, was also in attendance at the ceremony and was likewise shocked by the scholarship reveal. She used her lunch break to visit the school even though she wasn’t given the reason.

“I was completely caught off guard,” Wallace’s mother said. “This is going to be so much of a big help for her, because with (college) loans, at least it’ll be less on her.  I am very grateful; very grateful. I was not expecting this…”

Though remaining humble about her daughter’s accomplishments, Anne-Marie noted her academically and athletically gifted daughter has always displayed strong work ethic and leadership qualities.

“She’s a pretty good girl,” Anne-Marie said. “Andrea, she just works very hard, and she’s disciplined, and she has such a good attitude.”

Wallace applied for the scholarship in mid-November at the behest of Hendrix-Pledge. Her coach received a call from Foot Locker on a random Friday evening, five months later.

“It was kind of out of sight, out of mind, and then she had been chosen,” said Hendrix-Pledge, who noted she wasn’t totally taken aback, as her star pupil met all the qualifications to win the prestigious scholarship.

Wallace will play basketball next season at St. Petersburg College, with intentions to transfer to a university in a year or two. She plans to study pre-law with hopes of becoming a lawyer and a judge someday.

It all follows what’s been a momentous four-year varsity career, including her senior campaign, where she averaged a double-double (13.3 points, 10.6 rebounds) en route to Sunlake’s first 20-win season and the 7A regional finals. After the season, Wallace was awarded the Sunshine Athletic Conference East Girls Basketball Player of the Year, along with first team All-Conference honors.

Wallace made major strides on the court after her freshman season, motivated to improve after the team lost in the first round of the district playoffs.

“I was upset that we lost…so I was like, ‘I really like playing basketball, and I like being on the team, so what is a good way for me to get better?’ So, I just kind of worked that whole summer just to get better and be in a position to play.”

That she did — developing into one of the Bay Area’s top post players, and leading the Seahawks to three straight winning seasons and regional appearances.

Of her 81 career games played, one she’ll never forget is defeating Land O’ Lakes High her sophomore year in the district semifinals, 54-20. (Sunlake later defeated Springstead to capture the Class 6A district title). Said Wallace, “That was like a moment that I’ll always remember forever because we’d never, ever won anything like that. …To win our district championship and beat Land O’ Lakes High School was like really, really big.”

Meanwhile, Wallace said balancing all her commitments and responsibilities—academically, athletically, socially — at times “gets really, really difficult.”

But, she doesn’t let the pressure rattle her.

“It’s really easy to just say, ‘You know what, I’m not going to do that today.’ Like, it’s super easy to give up, so you just have to stay focused on the bigger goal,” she said.

It’s a message she often bestows on others, including her fellow teammates on achieving their dreams: “If you want to be the best, then you have to do something about it. …What can you do to push yourself to a bigger level?”

The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes program began in 2011, which has resulted in

140 total scholarship recipients over that time.

Published April 25, 2018

Charter school offers tech-rich, nontraditional approach

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A new charter public school is under construction in the Union Park subdivision, in Wesley Chapel, that will offer a nontraditional approach to education.

For one thing, it will be technology rich.

For another, it won’t have traditional classroom spaces or furniture.

Tracy Ware is principal of the new charter school that will open in the Union Park subdivision, in Wesley Chapel. (B.C. Manion)

And, even though it encourages the use of technology, students won’t be allowed to bring cellphones to school.

Union Park Charter Academy, being built at 32775 Oldwoods Ave., is set to open for kindergarten through sixth grade this fall. It will add seventh grade the following school year, and eighth grade the year after that, said Tracy Ware, principal.

Because it’s a charter school, it is open to applications from throughout the Pasco County school district, as well as students from adjacent districts.

“We went through the lottery process,” Ware said. Applications are still being accepted for all grades, but there is a wait list for kindergarten and fifth grade.

“We’ve been encouraging parents to get the information in as soon as possible,” she added, so the school can reserve a spot for their child or children.

“What sets us apart is really the design of the school,” she said. “Instead of having separate classrooms, there are learning communities.”

For example, all third-graders are in a single learning community. There also will be learning labs within those learning communities.

Some learning labs will accommodate groups of around 25 students, which allows a teacher to focus on a particular learning standard; others are designed for smaller groups, to encourage collaboration between students.

The furniture is different, too. Instead of traditional desks and chairs, children will have choices.

Union Park Charter Academy, being built at 32775 Oldwoods Ave., will use a technology-rich, nontraditional approach to schooling.

“They can work at high tables, for instance, or can sit with their legs crossed on the floor, with a little stand to use their iPad in front of them. The tables that we have are actually writeable surfaces on their top,” she said.

Teachers in each learning community will work together as a team, sharing the entire group of students. That arrangement fosters the opportunity to tailor instruction to each individual student, Ware said.

Teachers and students work together to create a Personalized Learning Plan (PLP). The plans are used at each grade-level and are designed to track an individual student’s strengths, weaknesses and progress in attaining a year’s worth of learning (or more), according to information provided by the school.

This process empowers students to establish and track learning goals, conduct student-led conferences, and make informed decisions as learners. Most importantly, students are challenged with the responsibility of understanding their data and learning needs in meeting or exceeding grade-level standards.

Ware, who spent the past five years in Abu Dhabi, is excited about opening the new school in Wesley Chapel.

Many parents have told her they’re pleased to have a new school within walking distance, she said.

Teachers will help children discover how they learn best, she said. The idea is to identify their learning styles and give them opportunities to embrace it, she said, “versus a more traditional way of doing school.

“There’s one-on-one technology for third grade and up,” she added.

The school will have certified teachers, and students must meet all of Florida’s standards. The school also will follow Pasco County’s school calendar and will use the school district’s meal service.

After school, there will be many options for children, she said, including a variety of clubs which could include theater, music, cooking, karate or other pursuits.

“We’ll send a survey to find out what the children’s interests are,” she said.

“Parents have asked for a little time for homework,” Ware said, so that will happen.

The school day lasts an hour longer than the district’s school day, so children attending Union Park will receive an extra hour of instruction, she said.

The before-care program starts at 6:45 a.m., in response to parent feedback, she said.

Dismissal starts at 2:45 p.m., for kindergarten through second-grade and their siblings. It begins at 3 p.m., for third grade through sixth grade.

“We’ll work with the local day care programs,” she added.

“The ultimate goal is innovation. I want our children to be given the opportunity to create. I also want teachers to be empowered to make decisions based on the children that are in front of them right now, what their needs are, how to best pull from all of this technology,” Ware said.

The school wants to set a tone that encourages parents to be involved in the Parent Teacher Cooperative, Ware said.

The aim is to create a culture that invites a close working relationship between the school and parents, said Ware, who noted that it’s already evident that parents want to be involved.

“Parents are ready. They want to participate,” the principal said.

For more information about the school, visit UnionParkAcademy.org.

Published April 25, 2018

Chalk Talk 04/25/2018

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(Courtesy of Melonie Monson)

Students receive citizen honors
Students from across the community were honored by The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Month program. Each honoree was chosen by teachers and administration for their exemplary effort, achievement and contribution to their school, family and community. Those recognized in April were: Nicholas Dester, The Academy of Spectrum Diversity; Jordan Parrmore, The Broach School; Christian Clement, Chester W. Taylor Elementary School; Hayden Anderton, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Sabrina Mraz, Heritage Academy; Gabriel Thomas, Raymond B. Stewart Middle; Natasha Wallinger, West Zephyrhills Elementary; Sam Levenson, Woodland Elementary; and Madison Shipley, Zephyrhills High.

School safety meeting
A School Safety Town Hall meeting will take place May 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Participants will include Pasco County Schools, Pasco County Council of PTAs/PTSAs, local law enforcement, mental health providers, parents, students and local elected officials.

A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation. The community is encouraged to attend to give input.

School honors couple for devotion to the environment
Deer Park Elementary School administration, teachers and students celebrated 28 years of school beautification projects, recognizing Nancy and George Pratt for their devotion to the school and teaching students environmental stewardship.

The event included a parade of student council members wearing 29 years of Earth Day buttons, songs by the chorus, a presentation/reflection, and a butterfly release.

The Pratts created a garden in the center of the school for outdoor lessons and for families to have lunch with their children. Nancy also created a character, “Mother Earth,” to teach students to do their part in keeping the earth clean.

Other programs started were a recycling committee called “Earth Patrol” and an art competition to design an Earth Day button, which the school sells for fundraisers.

Students began fundraising last August to create a special student outdoor area to be known as Pratt’s Place. There is a shade tree with a circular wooden bench, known as the buddy bench; and four additional trees have been added to the children’s play area in the Pratts’ honor. There also is a stone dedication plaque.

Leadership seminar
Registration is open until May 31 for the 2018 Florida Student-Athlete Leadership Seminar, which is slated for Aug. 1 at West Port High School in Ocala.

The event will include keynote addresses, breakout sessions, a student-athlete panel, and presentations in competition, leadership, social media and other topics.

The first session will begin at 8 a.m., and the seminar will last until 2:45 p.m.

All registrations take place through GoFan, FHSAA’s digital ticketing provider.

The cost is $30 per student, and includes a shirt, lunch and a commemorative gift.

The seminar is open to the first 100 student applicants.

Schools may register students at tinyurl.com/y82b42yr.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/yc4tgrvx.

Musicians Association winners
The Florida Orchestra Musicians Association announced the winners of the annual Justine LeBaron Young Artist Competition, named in memory of the former principal horn of the orchestra, Justine LeBaron.

Local winners were Alexey Heroux (age 10), of Lutz, third place Junior Instrumental, violin, Seitz’ Violin Concerto No. 5, third movement; and Jithen Shriyen (age 12), of Land O’ Lakes, third place Junior Piano, Chopin’s Grand Waltz No. 4 and Biotti, “The Firefly.”

Local student achievements

  • Brendan Gonzalez, of Lutz, was inducted into the Western Kentucky University chapter of Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. The induction confers a lifetime membership.
  • Em Ovalle, of Lutz, has been named to the fall Dean’s List at Centre College, Danville Kentucky. Ovalle is a graduate of Freedom High School.
  • Genna Aspres, of Odessa, was inducted into Phi Eta Sigma at Coastal Carolina University, South Carolina.
  • Loredana Di Cosola, of Odessa, has been initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the University of Tampa.
  • Kristen Barry and Harrison Weeks, both of Odessa, and Alanah Cranwell, of Lutz, were inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at Florida State University.
  • Benjamin Brown, Aldo Colon and Taylor Masters, all of Odessa, and Sean Flynn and Jiain Xie, both of Lutz, were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the University of Florida.

Looking for alumni, photos
Independent Day School/Corbett Prep is turning 50 and is looking for alumni who attended the Independent Day School in Tampa, for an anniversary celebration that will take place Aug. 18.

The school is asking for stories and photos from former students who were enrolled anytime between the school’s founding in 1968 to present day.

To share your memories, help with planning or attend the event, email Lisa Herscovici at , or join the Facebook group at Facebook.com/groups/IDS50.

Independent Day School changed its name to Corbett Prep in 2012, and is located at 12015 Orange Grove Drive in Carrollwood.

For information, call (813) 961-3087.

Hillel now offers preschool
Hillel Academy, Tampa’s only accredited Jewish day school, and the Tampa JCCs and Federation have announced that Tampa JCC Preschool will be offered at Hillel Academy starting this fall.

This will be the first time preschool will be offered at Hillel, which was founded in 1970 for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

The Hillel Academy location, in Carrollwood, will be the third for Tampa JCC Preschool, with others located in Citrus Park and South Tampa.

The new preschool is for children ages 3 and 4, who have turned age 3 by Sept. 1, 2017.

The program will run August through May, from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., weekdays.

For information, contact Jen Goldberg at or (813) 769-4738.

Seeking a sensory room to serve students with autism

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Dan Reyes has often witnessed the benefits of a sensory environment for his 13-year-old son, Jacob, who has autism.

Each Sunday, his family attends LifePoint Church in New Tampa, which has a sensory room devoted to children with special needs.

“He absolutely loves going into that room,” Reyes said. “He’s happy in there. He’s active, and it’s a very engaging room when sometimes other environments are not.”

Weightman Middle School seventh-grader Jacob Reyes is one of many students with autism who could benefit from a sensory room. (Courtesy of Dan Reyes)

The caring parent also wants a similar setting made available for Jacob and his fellow classmates at Weightman Middle School, in Wesley Chapel.

So, earlier this month, Reyes launched a GoFundMe page to build a sensory room at the school, where his son is a seventh-grader.

Throughout the school year, Reyes worked closely with school administration and teachers to develop a budget plan for a fully equipped sensory room — something he hopes “will have a lasting impact for years to come.”

A sensory room is a specially designed room that combines a range of stimuli to help individuals develop and engage their senses. These can include lights, colors, sounds, sensory soft play objects, and aromas within a safe environment that allows the person using it to explore and interact without risk.

These rooms are credited with helping those who have learning difficulties, such as   developmental disabilities or sensory impairments, to learn to interact with the world around them, and build up their confidence.

Such rooms often include a variety of items with vestibular input (items that allow users to spin, swing or hang), visual input and lighting, olfactory (smell), proprioception (items that allow the user to be squished or hugged), tactile, touch, feel, and auditory output.

Some examples include swings, bouncing chairs, lava lamps, fluorescent light filters, scented oils, scented playdoh, therapy balls, mini trampolines, textured puzzles, vibrating kids toys, sound pillows, and indoor wind chimes.

Several of those items will be purchased to meet the needs of current, as well as incoming, students.

As of April 16, nearly $4,000 of the $35,000 goal has been raised on the GoFundMe page.

Additionally, the school has held a beanie baby sale, sponsored dinners and set up other fundraisers at local restaurants to make the sensory room project a reality.

Weightman Middle has about 30 students in its Access Points Social Behavior Communication Program, geared toward students with severe and continuous behavioral needs, communication and sensory needs associated with autism spectrum disorder.

For the time being, the school is utilizing a makeshift sensory space that accommodates just one student at a time. It includes a handful of donated and purchased sensory items like a piano mat, drumsticks and tumble balls, along with some other handmade playthings.

But, Weightman staff hopes to have a full-size sensory room ready by the start of the 2018-2019 school year.

This is an image of a sensory room, which is specially designed to combine a range of stimuli to help individuals develop and engage their senses. The rooms are credited with helping those who have learning difficulties, such as developmental disabilities or sensory impairments, to learn how to interact with the world around them, and build up their confidence. (Courtesy of Edutopia)

The designated room would take the place of a regular-size classroom situated in the school’s Exceptional Student Education (ESE) unit, where it’s expected to exhibit a “nature theme” on walls and carpeting.

Teachers would have the possibility of scheduling classes in the sensory room, or could take students there, as needed. The room could also be utilized at the beginning of the school day or in 30-minute break periods.

Assistant Principal Laurie Johnson, who supervises the school’s ESE department, said such a space would allow special-needs students to self-explore and find items that best meet their sensory needs to calm their behaviors.

For instance, one student may relax by spinning. Another may enjoy a swinging motion. Others, moreover, may utilize a punching bag to release frustration.

“If their sensory needs are not met, then often they can start to experience behavioral problems,” Johnson said.

Without that sensory input and output, students with autism may exhibit aggressive behaviors, such as biting and self-harm, educators explained. Others may resort to crying or the inability to stop moving.

“It’s not that they’re acting out ‘just because.’ They are acting out because they have a need and it’s not being met,” said varying exceptionalities teacher Loretta Seekins.

Having those sensory needs met helps those students become more attentive during lessons, Seekins said.

“You’re not going to get any educational benefit by a student that can’t focus,” she said.

The teacher added a sensory room would also reinforce and enhance communication and socialization skills among the school’s autistic population.

Seekins said the idea is to help students become more acclimated to being in environments where others are doing things, talking and socializing.

“It’s not something that will happen overnight, but you’re building toward that,” she said.

School behavioral specialist Leslie Monticco agrees such a room is imperative for nonverbal students to better express themselves and self-regulate. “To have somewhere to go as an escape is huge,” she said. “It is a need.”

Weightman Middle Principal Rachel Fowler has fully endorsed the sensory room.

She stressed the importance for students to receive support for all their needs, not just academically.

“We do a lot for social interaction and having that space outside of a regular classroom is essential, so they can remove themselves and truly use those other senses to help their brain,” Fowler said.

To donate to the sensory room project, visit GoFundMe.com/sensory-room-for-children-wautism.

Published April 18, 2018

Chalk Talk 04/18/2018

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Robert W. Judson Jr.

President emeritus honored
Pasco-Hernando State College honored Robert W. Judson Jr., Ed.D., PHSC president emeritus, with a Pasco Proud award during the Black History Month celebration at its East Campus in Dade City.

The award recognizes an African-American citizen of Pasco County who has made an impact in the community.

Judson holds the distinction of being named the first African-American president of a Florida community college in 1994 and served in that role for 11 years.

Under his leadership, the expansion of the West Campus in New Port Richey was completed, which included the opening of a child care center.

Judson also launched new programs, including radiography, drafting and design, and the first four-year degree program through a partnership with the University of South Florida and Hodges University.

Top Dogs recognized
The Pilot Club of Zephyrhills honored Top Dog students from Stewart Middle School. Through the program, students are recognized for academics and their leadership roles in the school.

The third quarter recipients were Cassidy Thompson, Jacob Smith, Natalie O’Donovan, Dayanora Ortega, Nic Batto, Lillian Rapp, Jacob Cruz, Ariana Stone and Chiara Antonucci.

Each student received a certificate and a gold dog tag at a Hungry Howie’s luncheon.

Student art exhibit
Pasco-Hernando State College’s Rao Musunuru, M.D. Art Gallery will exhibit “A Student Showcase” April 18 to May 16, at its West Campus in New Port Richey.

The annual event highlights diverse talent achieved without influence from staff or faculty. Visitors can experience completed works of photography, drawing and mixed media, from past and present art students.

For information, call (727) 816-3231, or visit PHSC.edu.

Friendship Walk
The Best Buddies Club of Dr. John Long Middle School in Wesley Chapel will participate in the Friendship Walk on April 21 along the Tampa Riverwalk.

For information and to register, visit tinyurl.com/yabt7qhv.

The event is free, but donations can be made when registering.

Scholarship benefit
The Amelia Foundation Benefit Concert will take place April 21 at 6 p.m., at Blanton Baptist Church, 17351 Hyland Lane in Dade City.

The cost is $10. All proceeds will go toward scholarships for graduating Pasco High School seniors.

Tickets will be available at the door.

For information, call The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce at (352) 567-3769.

Pancake fundraiser
The Land O’ Lakes High School FFA will host a pancake breakfast fundraiser April 22 from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Wilderness Lakes Beef O’ Brady’s, 7040 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 108.

The cost is $7 per person, and includes pancakes, scrambled eggs and bacon served by the school’s FFA members.
Tickets can be purchased at Beef O’ Brady’s or through the LOLHS FFA.

For information or to make a donation, call (813) 230-2254.

College planning workshop
Thrivent Financial will offer a College Planning Strategies Workshop April 24 at 6:30 p.m., at the Oakstead Clubhouse, 3038 Oakstead Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

This is a 90-minute presentation designed for parents and students in seventh grade and higher, to learn about academics, admissions and financial strategies to help save money on college.

There will be tips on the FAFSA; what COA, OOP and EFC are; timelines for taking the SAT/ACT; and, strategies for selecting a college.

Admission is free. Space is limited.

To RSVP, call (813) 626-5489, or email .

Essay contest
Gary Joiner, Pasco County property appraiser’s office, will accept entries, as part of the Clerk & Comptroller Paula O’ Neil’s Constitutional Officers Essay Contest, through April 27.

The contest is for Pasco County eighth-grade students of public/charter, private, parochial, nonpublic and home-schools.

Students must answer the question, “What are the effects property taxes can have on schools?” and submit essays to their principals.

Students in private, parochial, nonpublic or home-schools can email submissions to .

Essays must be 500 words or less, and should include the student’s name, school, grade and contact information.

The winner will be notified by phone on May 18.

Teacher of the Year nominations
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis is accepting nominations for his annual Teacher of the Year awards, to honor the outstanding educators of Florida’s 12th District.

Teachers and educators from all schools, and all grades, in District 12, are eligible.

Nominations should be emailed to , and include the name, school and contact information of the nominee.

The deadline is April 27.

An awards ceremony will take place in May.

Pine View Middle School continues journey toward IB designation

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An International Baccalaureate team recently visited Pine View Middle School, to determine if the Land O’ Lakes school has met the requirements to become an authorized IB Middle Years Programme World School.

The team spent two days at the school, interviewing staff, students and parents, and observing classrooms to ensure that the IB framework has been embedded in Pine View’s learning environment, according to Jennifer Warren, the school’s principal.

Elsie Morales and her peers are learning how to properly care for cattle during the Livestock Production and Care Unit at Pine View Middle School. (Courtesy of Pine View Middle School)

The team’s report will be forwarded to IB officials for their review, she said, noting she expects to receive an answer on the school’s authorization within 60 days to 90 days.

Pine View, at 5334 Parkway Blvd., has been a IB Middle Years Candidate School since May of 2015 and has been implementing the program since the beginning of the 2015-2016 school year.

As it awaits word on its designation, Pine View also is preparing for next school year, when it will join the list of magnet schools in the Pasco County school district, Warren said.

And, it will be shifting to a seven-period school day to better accommodate its curriculum, according to Becky Cardinale, the middle years programme coordinator.

The seventh period allows students greater opportunity to explore courses, Cardinale said.

“A seven-period day allows for more teacher planning time and for more professional development time,” Warren said. “A lot of planning work is required of teachers.”

Students at Pine View have four traditional core classes: Individuals and societies (social studies), science, math, and language and literature. They also have an arts class, language acquisition (which is foreign language), and a combination physical education and design.

As the school converts to a magnet school beginning next school year, it will be accepting students from throughout the district.

It received 89 applications for its inaugural magnet year, with applications coming from charter school students, out-of-county students and 15 of the district’s middle schools. Ultimately, 49 of those students chose to attend Pine View.

“Those living within Pine View’s attendance boundary, have first choice,” Warren said. Then, slots are opened up to students from outside of the school’s boundaries.

Although the school’s curriculum meets the Florida standards, the delivery of instruction is different.

For instance, “one of the standards with the middle years programme is that students have both a visual and a performing art component, sometime in their time at Pine View,” Cardinale said.

“For incoming students, we’re going to be combining students who are interested in band or chorus as a performing art, we’re going to be combining a visual art in with that class.

“So, they’re going to be learning about visual art through the lens of a performing art,” she said.

The school also has a new barn, and students associated with the agricultural program have garnered numerous awards, Warren said.

Overall, parents have been responding positively to the school’s IB curriculum, both the principal and Cardinale said.

“We’re preparing kids for jobs that don’t necessarily even exist yet,” Cardinale said.

“You can tell a parent: Your child is learning skills they can apply in whatever job they choose…

“We want our students to be collaborators. We want them to love learning. We want them to be problem-solvers.

“Show me a career that doesn’t require students to do all of those things,” Cardinale added.

At the middle school level, the program is for every student, Warren said.

“You hear IB, and it has a very elite connotation to it, that it’s only certain students, of a certain caliber,” she said. “Well, really every student, no matter what their IQ is, can be an acquirer, or a thinker, or a problem-solver, or caring.

“I think it is just teaching them all of the things that make for a well-rounded adult,” she said.

Students attending Pine View, “have the broadest liberal arts opportunity of any (public middle school) student in the county,” Warren said.

Published April 11, 2018