The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

Chalk Talk 05/08/2024

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(Courtesy of Corey Dierdorff/Pasco County Schools)

New bike safety initiative launched
Pasco County Schools on April 19 at Rushe Middle School in Land O’ Lakes announced the launch of a new biking safety initiative and community partnership designed to enhance the well-being of its young riders. As part of the program, Pasco Schools has collaborated with professionals from Johns Hopkins Hospital to create a comprehensive safety video tailored specifically to students. Additionally, new safety signs will be installed at each school’s bike area to serve as a visual reminder for children to wear helmets while biking.

Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship available
Citizens Bank and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) announced the establishment of the first-ever Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship to build accessible pathways, providing opportunities of cultural awareness, understanding, and leadership nationally for high school students who are pursuing postsecondary education, according to a news release.

The program provides $50,000 in need-based scholarships to 10 high school students from underserved and historically underrepresented communities entering a two- or four-year accredited college, university or trade school in fall 2024.

Scholarship application is now open and students are encouraged to apply by midnight Eastern Time on May 13.

To learn more, visit https://tinyurl.com/4jrwvstz.

Local student wins service award
Chase Hartman, a senior at Walter L. Sickles High School, has been chosen from nearly 17,000 applicants to win the $10,625 National Honor Society Service Award.

Hartman is an entrepreneur and civic-minded leader passionate about educational equity and the environment, according to a news release.

He was inspired to serve his community after his chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society ran a book collection drive. The student co-founded an award-winning book distribution project — read.repeat. — when he was 10 years old, the release says.

The project evolved into the nonprofit Eco Brothers.

Hartman has focused on improving literacy rates and has distributed 220,000 books to 64,000 students in Hillsborough County and in all 50 states. He advocates for more diverse and dual-language books in schools and has spoken to the local board of education about the need for these books. 

He also has raised $120,000, mobilized hundreds of volunteers and provided 10,000 service hours to teens.

An Eagle Scout and Senior Patrol Leader in Troop 46, Hartman ran Scouting for Food for three years and donated 7,000 food units to a local pantry.

He also designed, planted and maintained a butterfly garden for his elementary school. 

Hartman is student body president, swim team captain, a Congressional Award Gold Medal recipient and a four-time gold-level honoree in the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Members of the winning Jesuit High School team are: Nicolas Miranda, Jacob Judson, Diego Tobon (captain), Daniel Dewey, Rhys Marriott and Hendrix Bromberg. (Courtesy of Caroline Jorgensen, Saint Leo University)

Students compete in Brain Bowl
Saint Leo University hosted its annual Brain Bowl, sponsored by the College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services. The competition pitted area Catholic high schools and one local private school against each other.

Topics ran from the Seven Deadly Sins to Tallest Building Throughout History, and categories from “Don’t Breathe in the Poisonous Gasses” to “No Such Thing as a Free Lunch.” 

Team members’ knowledge of languages, the arts, popular culture, physics, math, biology, history and more were tested.

Competing teams were: Santa Fe Catholic High School, Lakeland; Clearwater Central Catholic High; Jesuit High, Tampa; Trinity Catholic High, Ocala; St. Petersburg Catholic High; Bishop McLaughlin High, Shady Hills; Tampa Catholic High; and Academy of the Lakes, Land O’ Lakes.

Jesuit High claimed victory with a score of 315; Academy at the Lakes was runner-up with 210 points.

RAISE tutoring program
Hillsborough County Public Schools’ RAISE High School Tutoring Program is accepting applications for the summer. The goal of the program is to train, equip and support juniors and seniors as they work with kindergarten through third-grade students to support literacy acquisition, according to a news release.

The Summer 2024 tutors will work within the HCPS’ Summer Learning Academy classrooms in June and July.

Students can earn volunteer service hours and a New Worlds Scholar award from the Florida Department of Education (with 75 verified tutoring hours).

Requirements are: 

  • Completion of 10th grade or higher
  • 3.0 district GPA or higher
  • Two letters of reference from teachers or school staff
  • No history of expulsions or out of school suspensions
  • Own transportation to elementary site

For more information, email .

Audit finds issues with Bright Futures Scholarship Program

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(The Center Square) — The Florida auditor general has released a report detailing problems with the administration of the state’s scholarship and grant programs.

The audit was focused on the administration of both scholarship programs between June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2023.

The Bright Futures Scholarship Program disbursed $547,700,035 in fiscal year 2022-23. A slight drop over the previous FY of 2021-22, which disbursed $549,061,819.

(Brett Jordan/Unsplash)

The audit found three issues — this included the return of advances without identifying students who may be eligible, noncompliance with state law and Florida Department of Education (FDOE) policies, as well as the need to improve disbursement of funds in a timely manner.

The Legislature established the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program to provide scholarships to Florida high school students who merit recognition of high academic achievement, and enroll in a degree, certificate or applied technology program at an eligible in-state college or university.

The program, funded by the Florida Lottery, consists of four different awards: The Florida Academic Scholarship, the Florida Medallion Scholarship, the Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholarship, and the Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholarship.

Also part of the auditor general’s report was the Florida Public Student Assistance Grant Program, established to provide financial assistance to Florida resident students seeking a degree from Florida public universities or colleges.

The report states that Eastern Florida State College returned around $1.2 million worth of FSAG-Public Program advances, contrary to State Board of Education rules. The auditor general recommended that management at the college continue its efforts to ensure that all eligible students are able to receive the advance and records are properly reported to the FDOE.

The audit also found that the University of South Florida had failed to comply with state law regarding the refund of Bright Futures Scholarship Program funds from students who withdrew or dropped a course on time. The report adds that the university made 146 refunds to the FDOE that totaled $141,476, on average 99 days after the required date.

Lastly, the report found that Pensacola State College needed to improve its procedures to ensure that Bright Futures and the grant program funds received were more promptly put on record when funds are disbursed to students.

Published May 01, 2024

Leadership program graduates class of 2024

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The Youth Leadership Pasco Class of 2024 celebrated its graduation in March, at Timber Greens Country Club. More than 100 sponsors, school officials, parents and Leadership Pasco board members attended.

The organization is a leadership development program that informs, motivates and increases the awareness of selected high school-aged students (sophomores and juniors) through issue-oriented seminars and interaction with community leaders, according to a news release.

Sessions include Orientation and Team Building, Law Enforcement, Health Care/Community Services, Government/Economic Development, and Education.

Youth Leadership Pasco Class of 2024 (Courtesy of J. David Wright)

The program’s graduating Class of 2024 included: Colt Blancher, Angeline Academy of Innovation; Katarina M. Boglino, Gulf High School; Isabella C. Bowling, River Ridge High; Thomas Celotto Jr., Hudson High; Noah J. Downey, Sunlake High; Vincent J. Farides, River Ridge; Dominic Fusco, Wesley Chapel High; William C. Gantt, J.W. Mitchell High; Jake Giber, Genesis Preparatory High; Nadama N. Gilkerson, Pasco High; Sophie M. Giri, Wiregrass Ranch High; Nathan M. Grimes, J.W. Mitchell; Luiza Guryeva, Wesley Chapel; Allan Guzman, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation; Elissa A. Hill, J.W. Mitchell; Liam C. Hornung, J.W. Mitchell; Melodi Kazazi, Sunlake; Calina M. Levy,Wiregrass Ranch; Alina Manadyel, Dayspring Early College Academy; Ethan A. Mendez, Cypress Creek High; Alyssa B. Mintrone, Land O’ Lakes High; Montana T. Montayre, Wendell Krinn Technical High; Morgan T. Montayre, Wendell Krinn Technical; Alfonso E. Nava, Dayspring Early College Academy; Victoria Ogundeyin, Cypress Creek; Xiomig N. Ozorio Matias, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation; Trinity Perry, Wesley Chapel; Justyce P. Rice, Anclote High; Ethan Rubin, Hudson; Lilliana E. St Aubin, Hudson; Paul L. Steele, Land O’ Lakes; Hailey J. Suggs, Anclote High; and Gianna Walsh, Fivay High.

“The Youth Leadership Pasco program is truly one of a kind. Throughout the program, I have made lifelong friendships, restored old ones, and got a much deeper grasp of what happens in Pasco County. My favorite part of the program was the sheriff’s department. We got to see just how big the department truly is and the amazing technology they are incorporating into their line of work. I used to only want to leave Pasco County, but throughout this program, I have found a new love for it and all of the amazing opportunities it has to offer…,” said Noah J. Downey, of Sunlake High School, in the release.

The student fee is kept at $35 due to the support from its sponsors.

Applications for the Class of 2025 will open for sophomores and juniors at the beginning of the school year.

For more information, visit LeadershipPasco.com/Youth_Leadership_Pasco_Program.

Published May 01, 2024

Chalk Talk 05/01/2024

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A member of a mariachi band welcomes students to a cultural event at Seven Oaks Elementary. (Courtesy of Corey Dierdorff/Pasco County Schools)

Around the World in a Day
Students in kindergarten through fifth grade at Seven Oaks Elementary School in Wesley Chapel recently grabbed their passports and ventured through four different countries to celebrate cultural diversity.

While the children bustled around campus, a mariachi band played, welcoming the students to the start of Around the World in a Day: Seven Oaks’ Cultural Extravaganza.

Students listen to a presentation about the country of Italy.

The carnival helped to educate the students on different countries such as India, Italy, Colombia and Venezuela, as they ‘visited’ each place to learn about the variety of sports and fashions of each culture and sample food.

Italy showcased a soccer ball, stone from ancient buildings, a coffee maker, and handmade lace for clothing. 

Colombia displayed a rain stick and passed it around for students to see. Venezuela showed off instruments and toys, and demonstrated how to say the names of the items in Spanish.

Students traveled across the school grounds to experience each diverse culture.

Join Leadership Pasco
The Leadership Pasco Recruitment Committee is now accepting applications for the upcoming Class of 2025. 

Since 1990, Leadership Pasco has introduced business and local leaders to major facets of the Pasco County community through an intensive 10-month course. Class members participate in full-day program sessions, tours, and candid conversations with community leaders to broaden their local understanding of the ever-changing needs of Pasco County. Topics include criminal justice, tourism, health care, education, government, infrastructure, media, and business industries.

The class also is responsible for organizing a Class Project that brings charitable people and resources together to address a particular social, educational, economic, environmental or cultural need in the county.

Applications are available online at LeadershipPasco.com and are due by May 15.

The recruitment committee will review all applicants. All selected 2025 class members will be notified by the end of June.

Monthly program sessions begin with orientation in August and conclude with a graduation ceremony in May 2025.

For questions or concerns, contact Laura Raposa at 727-858-6452 or .

History center to celebrate Emancipation Days
The Tampa Bay History Center will present the following:

• Tampa Emancipation Day
A Tampa Emancipation Day will take place on May 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at St. James at ENCORE, 1202 N. Governor St., in Tampa, to observe the historical impact of the Emancipation Proclamation in Florida. The free event will include music, food and new USF research. Guest speakers will include Dr. Elizabeth Horge-Freeman, Dr. Cheryl Rodriguez and Dr. Tomaro Taylor from the University of South Florida (USF), and Fred Hearns, curator of Black History with the Tampa History Center. The event will feature a special reading of the Emancipation Proclamation by several dignitaries. Also included will be performances by local artists and speakers. Seating is limited to the first 100 guests to RSVP at TampaBayHistoryCenter.org.
• Florida Emancipation Day
The Chinsegut Hill Historic Site, 22495 Chinsegut Hill Road in Brooksville, will host a Florida Emancipation Day on May 18 starting at 10 a.m., with discussions on the historical significance of the location by Dr. Gary Ellis and Rodney Kite-Powell. Dr. Michael Jones also will speak about the implications of recent archaeological findings, and Dr. Jesse Pisors, president of Pasco-Hernando State College, will give free tours of the Chinsegut historic house. This free event aims to educate and inspire by celebrating historical milestones in the fight for freedom and equality.

For more information about these events, visit TampaBayHistoryCenter.org.

New president/CEO named
The Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) has announced Anna Corman as its new president and chief executive officer (CEO). Corman has served as interim CEO since September 2023.

With more than nine years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Corman has been instrumental in promoting positive social change and fostering community impact, particularly in youth development and volunteerism, both locally and globally, according to a news release.

Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs from the University of South Florida and a Master of Science in Global Technology & Development from Arizona State University.

In addition, Corman is an active member of the community and a distinguished alumna of both Leadership Tampa (Class of ’23) and Leadership Florida (Education Class 8).

In her new role, Corman will oversee HEF’s strategic direction, partnerships and programs, and she will work with the board, staff and community stakeholders to further the organization’s mission of strengthening public education in Hillsborough County.

Chalk Talk 04/24/2024

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(Courtesy of Krista Roberson)

Looking skyward
Students of the Classical Conversations homeschool group in Lutz look skyward, with eye protection of course, at the solar eclipse on April 8. Classical Conversations was started in 1997 and has campuses all over the world; the Lutz campus has been around since 2018. Students range from preschool to 10th grade. The group has community day once a week to learn new material, do art and music projects, and science experiments. Field trips correspond to study material and have included The Ringling museum, Bok Tower park, Medieval Times, various Straz Center orchestra and theater productions, and the Edgecomb Courthouse in Tampa for a mock trial competition. Visit info.classicalconversations.com for more information.

Student achievements

  • Ella Langiotti, Odessa: Dean’s List, Ohio University College of Fine Arts
  • Marissa Schabes, Lutz: Dean’s List, Furman University, Greenville, South Carolina
  • Kit VanNort, Lutz: Cast member for Marietta College’s performances of “The Rising of the Moon,” a play being showcased during the school’s annual One Act Festival. VanNort is majoring in theater-directing and will perform as Sergeant.

Florida Bar competition winners
The final rounds of the 2023-2024 Florida Bar High School Appellate Brief Writing & Moot Court Competition took place in Tallahassee earlier this month.

The two-part program offered an opportunity for students to learn about the appellate process and what it is like to present a case in a true-to-life court experience. Participants wrote briefs on a fictitious case involving student discipline and evidence, which were graded by practicing attorneys. Six teams were invited to present oral arguments before appellate judges of the First District Court of Appeal. The two top teams took part in a final round at the Florida Supreme Court.

The state champion was the team of Matthew Rodriguez (also named best oralist) and Jacob Zeng. The team from American Heritage School in Broward County was judged best in Florida. Locally, Bell Creek Academy in Hillsborough County competed in the preliminary rounds.

For more information, visit https://www.floridabar.org/about/cmtes/cmte-cm470/high-school-appellate-moot-court-program/.

(Courtesy of Scholar Education)

A furry meet-and-greet
Students got a break from school at Dayspring Academy in Pasco County when, during a teacher workshop session, the classroom had “gone to the dogs.”

Tampa EdTech startup Scholar Education brought two Bernedoodles that inspired the company’s avatar dogs — BaxterBot and Professor Bruce — for a visit.

The visit was part of a workshop day to help teachers “fill their cups” with self-care and knowledge to finish out the school year strong.

The teachers enjoyed a little puppy love and learned about Scholar Education’s artificial intelligence platform.

The Scholar program rolled out in Dayspring’s sixth and seventh grades this school year.

With the help of the virtual versions of the dogs, the program serves as a personalized tutor — answering students’ questions and providing teachers with suggestions for lesson planning.

Scholar Education plans to expand to more locations next school year.

Imaginary Friend contest
B&B Theatres – Wesley Chapel The Grove 16 invites students to submit original artwork for its “Imaginary Friend” illustrative contest, for Pasco elementary-level students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Artwork is limited to 11-inches by 14-inches in size and should be submitted by May 4. Any art medium is welcome.

Submissions will be featured in the theater. Winners will receive a popcorn party for their class and a movie pack for two.

Entries should be submitted with the student’s name, school and grade level and delivered to the theater at 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Dayspring team headed to world competition
Pasco County charter school Dayspring Academy’s Odyssey of the Mind team from its Jazz campus (a Title I school) took first place in the state competition in Orlando in March. The team’s head coach is kindergarten teacher Jennifer Garie.

This first-place team will go on to the world Odyssey of the Mind competition in Iowa, in May. Dayspring’s team also qualified and competed at world’s last year.

The charter school is expected to open a Land O’ Lakes campus this fall, located in the Angeline development, 2 miles north of Land O’ Lakes High School, on U.S. 41.

DeSantis signs education reform bill into law

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(The Center Square) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed an education reform bill into law that will have long-reaching implications for the state’s education system.

House Bill 1285 does several things, including addressing school districts with “Turn-Around” status, repeals the Florida College System’s employment equity and accountability program, and requires the State Board of Education to establish specialized teaching certificates for classical school educators.

(Kenny Eliason/Unsplash)

DeSantis said during a news conference in Jacksonville that Florida has a reputation for giving parents the leading hand in how they choose to educate their children, as well as keeping the public school curriculum transparent so parents are aware of what is being taught.

DeSantis noted that the Legislature has enacted many other education-related bills — one in particular now has every school district in Florida involved in civics education, as well as the civics and debate initiative, which only had around 12 schools participating five years ago.

“We’ve also increased teacher salaries every year since I’ve been governor. We now have in this budget that I will be signing… the biggest increase in teacher compensation,” DeSantis said.

In-state tuition for higher education in the Sunshine State has also remained affordable, and according to DeSantis, Florida is number one out of all 50 states for lowest tuition and number two in the U.S. for two-year graduation rates, and fourth for four-year college graduation rates.

“Part of the reason why you’re able to get people through in four years is because we’re not charging an arm and a leg,” DeSantis said. “We’re not trying to keep them for six years just to make more money off that, we want you to go get your degree and then move on.”

DeSantis noted that he and the Legislature have ensured that colleges and universities do not become “cauldrons of ideological indoctrination,” instead, lawmakers are focused on core subjects.

“So this (bill) has a huge number of things that are really gonna make a difference,” DeSantis said. “One, we really believe in supporting military families when it comes to our school system, and we believe in creating pathways for students who may want to go into the military as a career.”

The bill further requires school districts and charter schools to provide 11th- and 12th-grade students with the opportunity to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test.

“With the signing of House Bill 1285, Gov. DeSantis has further solidified Florida’s higher education system as number one in the nation,” said Ray Rodrigues, chancellor of the State University System of Florida. “HB 1285 establishes additional accountability measures and creates opportunities for universities to enhance research and innovation to meet the workforce and economic demands of our state.”

Published April 24, 2024

Closing the STEM skills gap to create new possibilities for kids

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Over the next decade, it’s projected that nearly 3.5 million manufacturing and STEM-related jobs will be available, yet 2 million are expected to go unfilled due to a skills gap, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Advocates are addressing systemic educational barriers that impact student success in order to fill this skills gap and expand opportunities for young people.

(Kevin Jarrett/Unsplash)

That’s the idea behind Driving Possibilities, a $110 million STEM career readiness and community engagement initiative of the Toyota USA Foundation. Its unique approach brings industry and academia together, while coordinating nonprofit services that address barriers and societal disparities—all to prepare youth for successful futures.

“From machine learning and connected technologies to autonomous vehicles and electrification, the career opportunities of tomorrow will be boundless for those with STEM skills. During this time of rapid industry advancement, it’s more important than ever to give all young people an equal opportunity to access rewarding careers in high-growth industries tomorrow,” says Colleen Casey, executive director, Driving Possibilities.

With the goal of increasing student awareness, excitement and interest in STEM learning, the multi-pronged approach of Driving Possibilities includes innovative, hands-on STEM programming from pre-K to 12th grade levels, professional and leadership development for teachers, and industry exposure and mentorship opportunities for students. The program also addresses students’ essential needs to ensure they have the food, transportation, mental health services, after-school programming and early intervention literacy support they need to succeed.

This long-term initiative is already making a huge impact for thousands of families in such high-need locations near Toyota’s operations in Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana and Alabama. And while the program looks a little different in each location because it is based on the unique needs of each community, the mission remains the same: to level the playing field for students facing educational barriers.

“Young people are tomorrow’s problem-solvers, makers and innovators. But they can face many roadblocks on their journey. Listening to what students need and then working within their communities to come up with solutions, will contribute to thriving communities, stronger local economies and limitless possibilities for all,” says Casey.

Published April 17, 2024

Chalk Talk 04/17/2024

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The smiles on the faces of Carter Bass, Tyrell Galloway and Madison Alvarez reflect friendship and kindness during a special event at Wiregrass Elementary. (Courtesy of Corey Dierdorff/Pasco County Schools)

Messages of kindness abound
Wiregrass Elementary School was abuzz during its Spring Fling Spirit Week, which included a Kindness Day, an event dedicated to spreading goodwill and cheer throughout the campus.

From vibrant hats adorned with messages of love to kindness coupons promising acts of goodwill, the students’ creativity knew no bounds. Signs that served as beacons of positivity were posted in the school hallways.

The kindergarten class also took center stage with a Kindness Parade, marching through the corridors.

Wiregrass Elementary is committed to fostering an environment where kindness is not just a lesson, but a practice lived out loud.

School Choice window opens
The Pasco County Schools’ school choice application window opened on April 15 and will close on April 19 at 4:30 p.m. This second time frame is for families who may have missed the January window or who have recently moved to Pasco County.

Applications are for select schools, grade levels, and programs including STEM and STEAM magnet schools, Wendell Krinn Technical High School, International Baccalaureate (IB), the Cambridge Programme, and the new Kirkland Ranch K-8.

To see a full list of what is currently available, visit PascoSchools.org/schoolchoice.

Early Learning seminar
The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will host “Early Learning Transition to Kindergarten” on April 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 352-567-3576.

Saint Leo casino fundraiser
The Saint Leo University Athletics Department will host a Casino Night fundraiser on April 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at its Wellness Center, on the west side of the campus at 33701 County Road 52 in St. Leo, for guests ages 21 and older. Proceeds will benefit the school’s athletics department.

Tickets are $70 and include playing chips, hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets for beer or wine. Guests can “dress to impress” in cocktail attire. There also will be a live DJ for dancing, a raffle and silent auction, as well as a photo booth. Casino games include blackjack, roulette, slot machines, craps, Texas Hold’em, and a Big Money Wheel.

For tickets, visit SaintLeoEvents.totalcamps.com/shop/EVENT.

For more information, email Dawn Boltin, associate athletic director of Business & Finance/SWA, at .

Earth Day contest
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is celebrating Earth Day by hosting its annual Earth Day Poster Contest, for grades four to 12. The theme is “Clean is Green: Preserving Florida’s Future.”

Artwork will be selected from each grade group (fourth to fifth grade; sixth to eighth; ninth to 12th) in each of DEP’s six district regions and winners will receive day passes for Florida State Parks. District winners will be entered into a statewide contest. The winning entries also will receive a full-size printed poster of their artwork.

For complete rules and guidelines, visit https://floridadep.gov/comm/comm/documents/earth-day-2024-rules-and-guidelines.

Poster submissions are due by 5 p.m., April 22. Winners will be announced in May.

Arts Impact Grants
The Hillsborough County Arts Council’s Community Arts Impact Grant Program offers grants of up to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations to support projects of an arts and cultural nature. Projects funded by these grants in the past have included:

  • Offering free art programs for area veterans
  • A hunger awareness event at a local food bank
  • Creating murals for the community at an intersection in Temple Terrace
  • Providing musical instruments for local elementary and middle school students

To learn more about the program and eligibility requirements, visit https://hillsborougharts.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FY25-Community-Arts-Impact-Grant-Guidelines-2.pdf.

The deadline to apply is April 26.

Chalk Talk 04/10/2024

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Unique nursing partnership
Saint Leo University nursing program’s Dedicated Education Unit’s (DEU) partnership with AdventHealth Zephyrhills provides hands-on training for students in the program. Those participating receive one-on-one training with nurse preceptors (mentors), to prepare future nurses and possible employees, according to a news release.

Saint Leo University nursing student Grace Lundfelt, a junior, listens to the heart of ‘patient’ Kim Manning, clinical nurse educator, at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. (Courtesy of Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University)

Saint Leo’s first group of nursing students completed their first clinical rotation at the hospital on March 20 and March 21, getting hands-on experience in multiple areas and specialties.

In a typical clinical model, a nursing instructor in the hospital mentors eight nursing students and each student is assigned to one patient. The instructor then rotates from student to student each shift. 

With a DEU model, because the student is paired with their mentor, the student actually works alongside that nurse, who usually is assigned a caseload of patients.

Saint Leo students worked side by side for 12-hour shifts with their mentors and university nursing instructor Paige Porter for 12-hour shifts.

Student Martina Encomienda said, in the release, she was focused on becoming an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse, but after her experience and training she is now interested in becoming an orthopedic nurse.

The DEU could help ease the nursing shortage for AdventHealth Zephyrhills (and AdventHealth Dade City) as the students are prepared and ready to work.

The partnership will pick up again for the next academic year, providing students with new experiences and training.

Career & Tech Expo
Pasco County Schools will present a Beyond Career & Tech Expo on April 16 from 9 a.m. to noon for high school seniors and juniors, and from noon to 1 p.m., for middle school students, at Hudson High School, 14410 Cobra Way.

The event aims to connect Pasco County graduating seniors with certificate programs, apprenticeship programs, one-the-job training opportunities, employment opportunities and armed services opportunities.

For more information, email Jennifer Batchelor at or Jesy Rodriguez at .

Saint Leo casino fundraiser
The Saint Leo University Athletics Department will host a Casino Night fundraiser on April 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at its Wellness Center, on the west side of the campus at 33701 County Road 52 in St. Leo, for guests ages 21 and older.

Proceeds will benefit the school’s athletics department so its programs can provide a great experience for student-athletes and allow them to compete at the highest level of the Sunshine State Conference and NCAA Division II.

Tickets are $70 and include playing chips, hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets for beer or wine. Guests can “dress to impress” in cocktail attire. There also will be a live DJ for dancing, a raffle and silent auction, as well as a photo booth.

Casino games include blackjack, roulette, slot machines, craps, Texas Hold’em, and a Big Money Wheel.

For tickets, visit SaintLeoEvents.totalcamps.com/shop/EVENT.

For more information, email Dawn Boltin, associate athletic director of Business & Finance/SWA, at .

Earth Day contest
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is celebrating Earth Day by hosting its annual Earth Day Poster Contest, for grades four to 12. The theme is “Clean is Green: Preserving Florida’s Future.”

Artwork will be selected from each grade group (fourth to fifth grades; sixth to eighth; ninth to 12th) in each of DEP’s six district regions and winners will receive day passes for Florida State Parks. District winners will be entered into a statewide contest. The winning entries also will receive a full-size printed poster of their artwork.

For complete rules and guidelines, visit https://floridadep.gov/comm/comm/documents/earth-day-2024-rules-and-guidelines.

Poster submissions are due by 5 p.m., April 22. Winners will be announced in May.

HERricane Summer Camp
Pasco County Emergency Management is calling on high school students to step up and take part in its second annual HERricane Summer Camp, scheduled for July 15 to July 19 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Pasco County Emergency Operations Center, 8744 Government Drive, Building A, in New Port Richey.

The free, weeklong program was developed in Arlington County, Virginia, and offers an opportunity for young women in grades nine to 12 to explore emergency management-related careers.

Female students enrolled in a Pasco County high school in August 2024, including incoming ninth-graders, can apply.

The program includes multiple sessions and activities with speakers from various fields. Upon completion, students will receive Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training and 40 volunteer hours.

Interested students need to fill out an application, which includes a short essay question, and apply no later than May 3. Students younger than age 18 will need a parent/legal guardian signature.

To submit an application, visit https://pasco.rja.revize.com/forms/8319.

Chalk Talk 04/03/2024

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(Courtesy of Stacy Moors)

Sunlake Academy unveils improved playground
Sunlake Academy of Math and Science announced with the monies raised the past two years through its Raise Craze fundraiser, along with funds from Charter School Associates, the school was able to renovate and improve its playground area.

Raise Craze encourages students to pay it forward with acts of kindness to raise money for the school. Acts of kindness could be individual things, like inviting another student to join them at lunch or reading to a younger sibling.

There were also school-wide projects including a donation drive for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, a donation drive of new socks and underwear for a foster closet, and this year, 75 students with family members sorted donations at Feeding Tampa.

The students completed 3,603 acts of kindness this year, 3,063 last year, and raised $52,948 this year, $56,503 last year.

The playground was officially opened to students after a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 19.

The project included:

  • Removing over 5,000 square feet of mulch
  • Cleaning and refurbishing current playset
  • Adding new artificial turf surface
  • Adding four new pieces of play equipment

Five new playground musical pieces are expected to be installed in the coming weeks. The area is used daily for all (500+) elementary students during recess.

STEMapalooza in Lakeland
The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s annual STEMapalooza will take place on April 6 at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland, for girls of all ages and their families.

The event is an opportunity for girls to learn about the world of science, technology, engineering and math, as well as discover what Girl Scouts has to offer. Guests can explore STEM careers, chat with leading women in the STEM field, and take part in hands-on activities.

Any girl with an interest in STEM can attend. Tickets are $5. Attendees can pre-register online at GSWCF.org/stemapalooza, or register at the event. Walk-ups are welcome.

Head Start ribbon-cutting
Hillsborough County Head Start and Early Head Start had a ribbon-cutting on March 25 for the new state-of-the-art early childhood education center at Church Park Head Start and Early Head Start Center, 5657 Webb Road in Tampa.

The new facility is equipped with the latest technology, including computers and smart boards. It has two Head Start classrooms, two Early Head Start classrooms, and an outdoor classroom where children will be able to explore math, science and reading with nature as the backdrop, to help stimulate brain development and build motor skills, according to a news release.

The center also features a playground with educational activities that will be used for exercise and learning.

The new center has capacity for 40 preschoolers and 16 infants and toddlers.

Early Head Start is for children 6 weeks to 3 years old; Head Start is for children ages 3 to 5. Classrooms have a teacher-to-child ratio of one teacher to 10 children in Head Start and one caregiver to four infants or toddlers in Early Head Start.

Head Start programs also provide medical, dental and mental health services; nutrition; parental involvement opportunities; and family support services specific to men, women, relationships and expectant mothers.

For more information, visit HCFL.gov/HeadStart, or call 813-272-5140.

Career & Tech Expo
Pasco County Schools will present a Beyond Career & Tech Expo on April 16 from 9 a.m. to noon for high school seniors and juniors, and from noon to 1 p.m., for middle school students, at Hudson High School, 14410 Cobra Way in Hudson.

The event aims to connect Pasco County graduating seniors with certificate programs, apprenticeship programs, one-the-job training opportunities, employment opportunities and armed services opportunities.

For more information, email Jennifer Batchelor at or Jesy Rodriguez at .

Saint Leo casino fundraiser
The Saint Leo University Athletics Department will host a Casino Night fundraiser on April 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at its Wellness Center, on the west side of the campus at 33701 County Road 52 in St. Leo, for guests ages 21 and older.

Proceeds will benefit the school’s athletics department so its programs can provide a great experience for student-athletes and allow them to compete at the highest level of the Sunshine State Conference and NCAA Division II.

Tickets are $70 and include playing chips, hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets for beer or wine. Guests can “dress to impress” in cocktail attire. There also will be a live DJ for dancing, a raffle and silent auction, as well as a photo booth.

Casino games include blackjack, roulette, slot machines, craps, Texas Hold’em, and a Big Money Wheel.

For tickets, visit SaintLeoEvents.totalcamps.com/shop/EVENT.

For more information, email Dawn Boltin, associate athletic director of Business & Finance/SWA, at .

Honor Society scholarships
The National Honor Society (NHS) is awarding $2 million in scholarships to 600 NHS students, according to a news release.

The program is supported by NHS’ parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, which also administers the National Association of Student Councils.

The scholarships recognize students who exemplify the four pillars of NHS membership: scholarship, service, leadership and character.

One national winner will receive $25,000 and four others will receive $10,625 for embodying each pillar. In addition, 20 finalists each earn $5,625 scholarships, and 575 semifinalists receive $3,200 scholarships.

To view the list of finalists and semifinalists, searchable by state, visit NationalHonorSociety.org/advisers/the-nhs-scholarship/most-recent-winners/.