

Primrose School celebrates new location
WESLEY CHAPEL – Primrose School of Wesley Chapel celebrated the opening of its new location Jan. 22 on County Line Road.
Deanne and Rob Fitzpatrick are the franchise owners of this location, which marks the second Primrose school in Wesley Chapel and the 15th in the Tampa metro area. The 23-classroom school will serve up to 215 children ages six weeks to five years as well as create about 30 jobs.
“Wesley Chapel is growing fast, and we’ve heard from so many families who are looking for an early learning environment that they can truly trust,” Rob said. “Deanne and I have spent decades investing in children and education, including homeschooling our own kids when strong options were hard to find, so opening this school feels deeply personal. We’re excited to bring the Balanced Learning curriculum to more local families, creating a safe, nurturing place where children build confidence, character and a genuine love of learning.”
The event included a community diaper drive that collected 750 diapers for West Lakes Early Learning Center.
On the web: primroseschools.com/schools/wesley-chapel
PHSC converts program to degree
NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College announced the transition of its Surgical Technology certificate program to a full associate in science degree.
“The move to an AS degree ensures PHSC students receive a more comprehensive education that better supports their long-term success in the surgical technology field,” President Eric Hall said.
The program combines classroom instruction, lab simulation and hands-on clinical experiences in local hospitals and surgical centers. Students are prepared to assist in surgical procedures as vital members of the operating room team.
“PHSC’s transition of the Surgical Technology program to an associate degree better prepares our graduates to meet our regional workforce needs and enhances educational opportunities for students,” said Billie Gabbard, dean of nursing and health programs.
The next cohort is scheduled to begin in August. Applications close on March 30.
On the web: phsc.edu/academics/programs/health/surgical-technology
Quick Hits
- Jacquelyn C. Abanses, of Lutz, made the dean’s list at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Abanses, a senior majoring in business administration, had a grade point average of 3.6 or higher.
- Anna Adcock, of Lutz, and Keeton Burroughs, of Odessa, made the dean’s list at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
- Drew Balentine, of Wesley Chapel, made the president’s list at Riverland Community College. Balentine had a grade point average of at least 3.75.
- Robby S. Burton, of Lutz, made the dean’s list at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. Burton had a grade point average of 3.8 or higher.
- Alexander Noti, of Odessa, made the dean’s list at Western New England University in Springfield, Massachusetts. Noti earned a grade point average of 3.30 or higher.