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Robyn White

Creating a culture for success at Wiregrass Ranch High

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Wiregrass Ranch High School Principal Robyn White was just 13 when she decided her path in life.

“The only question I had, honestly, was whether I wanted to teach music or math,” said White, who went on to teach mathematics at the middle and high school levels, before stepping into school administration.

Next month, on March 13, White will mark her 15th anniversary at Wiregrass Ranch High, at 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Wiregrass Ranch High School Principal Robyn White has seen a lot of change through the years, but she said students essentially remain the same: ‘They just want somebody to care. They just want to know that they’re making somebody proud.’ (The principal had been wearing a mask as a precaution due to COVID-19, but she removed it for this photo). (B.C. Manion)

The educator joined the school as an assistant principal, under the direction of Ray Bonti, the school’s first principal. Later, she was promoted to the school’s top post, to replace Bonti when he ascended to become an assistant superintendent for Pasco County Schools.

White said Bonti was one of the most important mentors in her career. He gave her a chance, she said, to learn about all aspects of school administration before she took the helm at Wiregrass Ranch.

Bonti, now executive director of the Hillsborough Association of School Administrators, said White excelled, and was his logical replacement.

“Robyn is one of the smartest administrators that I’ve worked with over my almost 30 years working in Pasco County Schools,” Bonti said. “Not only was she one of the smartest that I’ve worked with — she was a tireless worker. She put 100% effort into it.”

She also provides sound guidance, Bonti added.

“I learned a lot from her. A lot of people learned a lot from her. She mentored many teachers. She mentored many students,” Bonti said.

Over the years, Wiregrass Ranch High has developed a reputation for excellence, and during the 2019-2020 school year, White was selected as high school principal of the year by the Pasco County Council PTA.

Denise Nicholas, president of the council at the time, said White is known for running a tight ship, and for welcoming student ideas.

“She has an open-door policy for her students,” Nicholas said.

White listens, she said.

“The number of activities and groups for students, with whatever different interests — if they  have a plan and they have a sponsor, and it makes sense, she absolutely will support that.

“There is a tremendous number of clubs, for every different interest, which is phenomenal,” Nicholas said.

Bonti said that White “has always maintained that really good balance of setting high expectations and creating a culture that (makes) people want to be there.”

She didn’t set out to be a principal
When White was beginning her career, her only ambition was to teach.

“I just remember being in awe of teachers, and what they did and what they taught me,” White said, noting she was particularly influenced by Marita Noe and Shirley Holm, two of her high school math teachers.

White knew she had a knack for helping her friends and other students learn.

At one point, her mom recognized her math skills and suggested she pursue a career in accounting.

But, White didn’t want to sit behind a desk, she wanted to be personally involved in helping others.

So, after graduating from the University of West Florida, in Pensacola, White landed her first job, teaching mathematics at Dunedin Highland Middle School in Pinellas County.

Students across the nation walked out of classrooms on March 14, 2018, in a protest against gun violence and a call for greater action by Congress to keep students safe. The walkout was sanctioned at Wiregrass Ranch High. ‘I believe that students should have a voice to express their concerns, their opinions,’ said Wiregrass Ranch High Principal Robyn White. (File)

After that, she worked four years in a dropout prevention program, before returning to the classroom to teach sixth-grade mathematics.

Her next teaching stop was at Dunedin High School.

“I loved being a part of the classroom,” White said.

It never occurred to her to pursue a job in administration.

“Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever imagined that I would have been a principal of a school. I wouldn’t have even given it a consideration,” she said.

But, gentle nudging from Dr. Mildred Reed, her principal at Dunedin High School, changed that.

White was very involved at Dunedin High. Besides teaching, she was the athletic director, she sponsored multiple clubs and she chaired a committee involving small learning communities.

Reed came to her and said: “I don’t understand. You do all of this and don’t get any pay for it, Why wouldn’t you go back to school and consider getting into administration?”

White went on: “I really hadn’t thought of it, to be very honest. I loved being in the classroom.”

But Reed had planted a seed.

White began taking a class here and there, thinking perhaps someday she might explore an administrative role. After all, she already had a master’s degree and would just need certification.

When an assistant principal retired, White became an acting assistant principal — allowing her the chance to give it a try.

“I did that for a semester, thinking that position would be open the following year and it would be a nice, easy transition,” White said.

It didn’t play out that way.

“That was the year that Pinellas County cut 23 assistant principals, so, I went back to the classroom,” she said.

That didn’t bother her, because she loved teaching.

But because she had served as an acting assistant principal, she found herself being called upon repeatedly to fill in when another assistant principal was out.

“That got a little bit old,” White said, so she decided to apply in Pasco County, which was advertising for administrators.

Her first interview was for a job at Zephyrhills High, which she didn’t get.

Her next interview was for a job at Wesley Chapel High, which she landed.

“I’ll never forget the day I got the call. It was a Friday afternoon,” she said.

She was at a conference wrestling meet.

“I thought, ‘My goodness, how am I going to tell these kids that I’m leaving?

“I can just remember, going back and sitting up in the bleachers and literally putting up a newspaper in front of my face and crying.

“Mr. (Andy) Frelick (principal at Wesley Chapel) was very kind. He allowed (me) to have some flex days in finishing up at Dunedin High School, because I was involved in so much.”

She went to work at Wesley Chapel High on Jan. 31, 2005, but her stay there was short-lived.

Wiregrass Ranch High was opening and students from Wesley Chapel were being reassigned to that school. White’s job at Wesley Chapel High was cut.

She joined Bonti’s staff on March 13, 2006.

When the new high school opened, it had a total of 700 ninth- and 10th-graders, White said, and it operated in portables behind Weightman Middle School. Wiregrass Ranch relocated to its current campus over winter break.

By its third year, the high school was operating at its 1,650-student capacity.

Its enrollment has swelled through the years, causing the school to add portables, and for two years operated on a 10-period day — to limit the number of students on campus at one time.

Its enrollment also has been reduced with boundary shifts — which were adamantly opposed by parents and students, alike.

Now, the enrollment stands at 2,078 — but the campus feels more spacious this year because about 800 students have opted to learn remotely due to concerns about the potential spread of COVID-19.

Lessons she’s learned through the years
Besides being an educator, White has been a learner, too.

As a teacher intern, her supervising teacher gave her two pieces of advice.

“Piece No. 1:  Stay out of the teachers’ lounge because that’s where negativity breeds.

“And, Piece No. 2: When you don’t enjoy it anymore, get out.

“I tell people to this day: ‘If you’re not enjoying it, why are you staying?’”

She also learned how to manage her emotions.

When she was an acting assistant principal, she said, “I remember multiple times I got very emotional and she (Dr. Reed) told me, ‘Principals don’t cry.’”

White said she has a slightly different message for the people she mentors: “I say, ‘Principals do cry, but with the door shut.’”

She thinks her years in the classroom have helped her to be a better principal.

“You need to be able to relate to what teachers are going through,” she explained.

And, as a leader of a large school, she understands the importance of teamwork.

“There’s no way that I can do this job without the team I have around me. That’s everybody from my custodial, my non-instructional staff, my teachers,” White said.

She has confidence in them.

“They’re all smart people. So, they know what’s going to work for them and what works for their kids. So, I give them the autonomy to decide how that’s going to work,” she said.

Myriad decisions must be made, but White said: “Ultimately, it’s about what’s in the best interest of the kids.”

So much has changed over the years, but students are essentially the same, the principal said.

“They just want somebody to care. They just want to know that they’re making somebody proud.”

Published February 03, 2021

Finding a way to shine a spotlight on seniors

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During normal times, Marie Joles is busy at her day job, working as a dental hygienist.

And, typically during this time of year, high school seniors are gearing up for their final festivities in high school — prom, awards ceremonies, graduation.

But, the threat of a highly contagious and deadly virus — the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic — has upended life’s ordinary routines.

So, instead of going to work, Joles has been at home. And, instead of gearing up for traditional celebrations and hanging out with friends, seniors have been spending their final school days distance learning.

(Courtesy of Marie Joles)

Joles hated the thought that their senior year would end that way. After all, she remembered how special it was for her family to go through the festivities when her daughter, Samantha, graduated last year.

So, Joles, who is a board member of the Wiregrass Ranch High School’s PTSA and in charge of that group’s social media efforts, asked PTSA president Jennifer Kanyok, if she could do Senior Spotlights on their social media.

Once she got the go-ahead, she began soliciting the spotlights on her personal Facebook page and on the Seven Oaks Facebook page.

Then she reached out by text and email to Robyn White, the school’s principal; David Wilson, the athletic director; and to all of the school coaches.

She also reached out to Bobbie Gebhart, the band booster president, and Jeni Wiseman, the football team mom — to spread the word about the profiles.

The parents submit the photos and blurbs, which Joles tweaks and posts.

In less than 24 hours, she had seven profiles ready.

Now, there are dozens posted.

They convey a sense of pride of the parents who submitted the blurbs about their children.

The profiles offer a glimpse of the lives these members of the Wiregrass Ranch High Class of 2020 have led, and offer insights about their personalities and aspirations.

Some have earned college credits, a college diploma or industry certifications while still in high school. Others have volunteered hundreds of hours.

They’ve been in theatrical performances, in marching band and orchestra, in color guard and cheerleading.

They’ve competed in lacrosse, soccer, swimming, football, track, basketball, weightlifting, basketball and other sports.

They’ve been members of the National Honor Society, the Key Club, and Health Occupations Students of America, to name just a few clubs.

And, they have wide-ranging ambitions.

Some plan to pursue traditional careers, such as nursing, law and business administration. Others aspire to less common paths, such as becoming a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer, a makeup specialist or an animator.

Most graduates appear to be heading off to higher education in the Sunshine State, at such colleges as Pasco-Hernando State College, Saint Leo University, the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida, the University of Florida, Florida State University and Stetson University.

Regardless of what they’ve done, or where they’re going — they have made an impression.

One graduate is described as “a beautiful soul and a day of sunshine.”

Another is said to have “a musician’s heart.”

One “has a big heart, is a hard worker and knows how to live in the moment.”

Another has “a wicked sense of humor, amazing spirit and zeal for life.”

Joles said she wanted to do the spotlights because this is a special time for seniors and they deserve recognition.

“I wanted to let them know that we appreciate them,” she said.

Those wishing Joles to post a profile of a Wiregrass Ranch senior can reach out to her at  , or text her at (813) 830-8643.

How are you celebrating your graduating seniors?
The normal ceremonies that mark completion of high school are being postponed until later this year. Meanwhile, families and schools are getting creative in their efforts to help celebrate members of the Class of 2020.

What are you doing? We’d love to know. We’re planning to do a story sharing how families and schools within The Laker/Lutz News are rising to the occasion to make their high school seniors feel special.

Send your submissions to .

Thank you, in advance, for your help.

Published May 06, 2020

Celebrating diversity through literature

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As Kaila McAlpine spoke, her passionate tone filled the gymnasium, captivating the audience.

She was among a host of students and faculty members taking part in the Wiregrass Ranch High School’s Poetry Slam on Feb. 22.

With “Diversity Rules” as the theme, participants could share a poet’s work, or deliver their own literary creation, on stage.

The Poetry Slam on Feb.22 offered both students and faculty of Wiregrass Ranch High School a platform for reading literary work – and, in some instances, works they created. (Brian Fernandes)

The school’s Black History Club conceptualized the theme and coordinated the second annual event, which was timed to coincide with Black History Month.

“I think diversity was the best way to bring everyone together,” said Averi Willins, vice president of the club. “Black history shouldn’t just be for black people. I feel like it’s an awareness for everyone.”

Willins, along with club president Sa’Derrica Tate, welcomed the audience before Fiona Williams, of Saint Leo University, performed the national anthem.

A special tribute was given to Jimmy DuBose, a former assistant principal at Wiregrass Ranch, who also made an appearance at the event.

Posters displaying the faces of prominent African-American writers, such as Langston Hughes, Tupac Shakur, Alice Walker and James Baldwin, among others, flanked both sides of the stage.

Rose Daniels recited “My People” by Langston Hughes – conveying the value of humanity through the wonders of astronomy.

“The night is beautiful, so the faces of my people,” the sophomore recited. “The stars are beautiful, so the eyes of my people. Beautiful also, is the sun. Beautiful also, are the souls of my people.”

In another piece, Juanita Lamprea Garcia also spoke on the constellation of stars as they relate to people. The writing expressed that while each star is different, they all work together to brighten the dark sky.

One literary work used the analogy of a seed to emphasize the importance of human growth – breaking free from its shell in order to flourish.

Another drew a comparison between people and crayons: a diversity of colors, opposed to just one, combine to make a picture complete.

Even Wiregrass Ranch’s Principal Robyn White offered words of inspiration.

In the poem “You Stand Out,” she spoke of a world where unity outshines individual differences.

“What really stood out in that poem, was the commonalities that we all have – things that we enjoy.

Between poetry readings, the Wiregrass Ranch High step team displayed their unique marching style.

“No matter who we are or what we stand for, these are all beautiful things in our lives,” the principal said.

During an intermission, the school’s step team, led by McAlpine, put on a lively presentation.

The gym echoed with rhythmic hand claps and foot stomps as the team performed their march with precision.

With an energized crowd, the presenters kept the momentum going as they continued to speak with emotion.

William Cuebas presented another literary piece that told the story of a person’s introspective journey in life – peacefully interacting with different ethnicities.

The 16-year-old said he found this reading compelling because it exemplifies how society should coexist.

“We should be treating ourselves not only as equal, but we should celebrate our differences,” Cuebas stated.

After reading a quote, Wanda Diehm took the time to commend Wiregrass Ranch High.

“We do diversity here so well,” the social studies teacher said. “I see it in my classroom, in the hallways, in the cafeteria, and I love it.”

Writer Charles Bennafield’s words were eloquently recited as Willins read “I Am Diversity.”

“My name is Diversity and yes I stand tall,” the senior quoted. “Recognize me and keep me in the mix. Together there’s no problem that we can’t fix.”

Willins stated that the poem was moving because it gave her the opportunity to look at diversity not only as a concept, but as a person.

McAlpine admitted that poetry helped her discover a newfound appreciation for literature.

“When I write poems, I draw from my emotions and my perspective,” the 16-year-old explained.

That was evident as she presented her own literary work “Blend” at the Poetry Slam.

In the poem, McAlpine expresses her views as a young African-American lady while encouraging everyone to “blend” as one people.

Cuebas also acknowledged “Blend” stating that it “really took the crowd by storm.”

He added that, “Art is a way of presenting concern, our creativity, opening our imagination, and I feel like that’s what we’re doing with this.”

Published March 06, 2019

Wiregrass Ranch students join national walkout

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Students across the nation walked out of classrooms on March 14, in a protest against gun violence and a call for greater action by Congress to keep students safe.

In some cities, protests were marked by students leaving their school campuses, carrying signs and chanting for greater legislative action regulating the sale of guns, particularly assault-style rifles, such as the one used to kill 17 people in a Valentine’s Day shooting spree at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

A large contingent of Wiregrass Ranch High School students walked out of their classrooms on the morning of March 14, as part of a national walkout to protest gun violence and demand greater action by Congress to address the problem. (B.C. Manion)

During the walkout at Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd. in Wesley Chapel, the mood was subdued.

A large contingent of students gathered in the school’s courtyard, observing a minute of silence for each of the 17 people killed at the high school in Parkland.

At Wiregrass Ranch High, before reading the names, 16-year-old Bella Adams, who had organized the walkout, read a statement.

She recalled how Wiregrass Ranch High students celebrated Valentine’s Day that day.

At Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, however, she said, “a former student opened fire with an AR-15, which had been legally obtained, and killed 14 students and three teachers.

“More were injured, and all were terrified,” she said.

Students who were lucky enough to get home from school that day “went shaking and crying,” she said.

Adams said the walkout at Wiregrass Ranch was intended to honor those who had died and also to express “outrage at the relative inaction of our state and federal governments regarding gun control.

“This year alone, nearly 2,800 people have died due to gun violence or gun-related violence,” she said.

“This is not a partisan issue, nor is it something limited to adult discussion. Our schools are targets. Our lives are at risk. Nobody will stand up for us, the students of America. Nobody will speak for us, the children with long lives ahead of us. It now falls to us, the youth that are too often pushed aside and overlooked, to bring attention to gun control until our government finally acts. Starting today, we will be the change, and we will not stop until this purpose is fulfilled,” Adams said.

While Adams read the names of the victims, those in the courtyard remained silent.

Some, including Taylor Horvath and Marisa Paul, bowed their heads, signaling their respect for the victims of the shooting rampage.

Adams wasn’t the only one with a message that day.

Wiregrass Ranch High School students Taylor Horvath, left, and Marisa Paul, bow their heads as a sign of respect, as the 17 names are read, of the students and faculty members killed during the Valentine’s Day shooting spree at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

A group of several male students stood near the school’s flagpole, where two of them held a sign that read: “Why punish the responsible gun owner for the government’s failure to act?”

In another part of the crowd, Zachary Bosch held a sign that said “Disarming us will not protect us.”

Bosch said he thinks schools could prevent tragedies, such as the one in Parkland, by arming their teachers.

“Give them the option to be armed,” Bosch said, while noting that those who are armed should be properly trained.

Wiregrass Ranch High sanctioned the walkout.

“I believe that students should have a voice to express their concerns, their opinions,” said Wiregrass Ranch High Principal Robyn White.

Brenda Hodson, a school volunteer at Lacoochee Elementary in Dade City, made the trek from East Pasco to attend the Wiregrass Ranch High walkout.

“I’m here to support the students,” Hodson said.

In the aftermath of the Parkland shootings, Linda Cobbe, spokeswoman for Pasco County Schools, said the district has asked principals to be sure their buildings are as secure as possible, and asks everyone on school campuses to be vigilant.

“If you see something, say something,” Cobbe said.

Zachary Bosch held a sign expressing his belief that disarming people will not resolve the problem of gun violence. He thinks teachers should have the option of arming themselves, as long as they’re properly trained.

The district also is working with local law enforcement to comply with Senate Bill 7026, signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott. That calls for having a school resource officer in every school.

The district now has 37 school resource officers and will need 47 more to meet that requirement, Cobbe said.

She noted the state did not adequately fund the mandate, so that will mean “taking funds from other parts of our education budget, from classroom funds, other operating funds.

“Finding those qualified people and getting them trained in time to be in schools next year is going to be a huge challenge for the sheriff’s office,” Cobbe said.

Senate Bill 7026 also gave local school districts the option of arming nonteaching personnel, who meet training requirements.

Pasco County Schools won’t exercise that option, Cobbe said.

“We don’t plan to arm any of our staff,” she said.

After the Wiregrass Ranch High walkout, Adams said she was happy that it drew a big crowd.

“I was very glad that they maintained their silence, and that it was respectful and peaceful,” she said, despite the media presence, which had the potential of changing the tone of the gathering.

“There were some students who came out to protest our protest,” Adams said, but that didn’t bother her.

“I understand that other people have different views, and they are entitled to those views,” she said.

On the other hand, she said she’s been somewhat taken aback by some of the comments she’s read by adults that have been posted on social media.

“It’s interesting to see how many of them believe that us, teenagers, only participated in that event to skip class,” she said.

One comment she saw described protesting youths as being “liberal sheep.”

“The backlash of some people … is honestly inspiring me to do more,” Adams said. “It’s not a discussion limited to adults. This is affecting us as much as anyone else.”

She said she and other students from Wiregrass Ranch, Wesley Chapel and Wharton high schools all plan to participate in the March for Our Lives event planned for March 24.

Marches are planned in different locations, including Washington D.C.

The Tampa Bay version includes a rally and march beginning at 10 a.m., at Kiley Garden, the elevated section of Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, in downtown Tampa.

Published March 21, 2018

Local students in running for national scholarships

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Normally, a summons by the principal doesn’t involve cake and flowers — but that’s exactly what Lauren Payne and her parents encountered at Wiregrass Ranch High School on Sept. 14.

From left, Janet Payne, Lauren Payne and Greg Payne, stand in a conference room at Wiregrass Ranch High School, after Lauren found out she had been named a semifinalist in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)
From left, Janet Payne, Lauren Payne and Greg Payne, stand in a conference room at Wiregrass Ranch High School, after Lauren found out she had been named a semifinalist in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

Principal Robyn White and Assistant Principal Cindy M. Jack wanted to share good news with the student and her parents because the high school senior is on the list of semifinalists in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program.

She’s one of 16,000 scholars across the country that are semifinalists in the 62nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Semifinalists have an opportunity to compete for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships which are worth about $33 million.

Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level. About 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain a finalist standing, and about half of the finalists are expected to win a National Merit Scholarship.

Payne’s parents, Janet and Greg, were pleased by the school’s gesture.

“It’s a very nice surprise. It’s very exciting. It’s really nice that they put this together,” Janet Payne said.

“It’s exciting,” Lauren agreed.

Her dad is proud of her accomplishments. “It is a lot of hard work that she’s putting into it and hopefully, it will turn out well for her.”

Here’s a list of other local National Merit semifinalists:

Land O’ Lakes

  • Anmol Warman, Academy at the Lakes
  • Nathaniel W. Edgar, homeschool
  • Carter J. Bright, Land O’ Lakes High
  • Michael Gendreau, Land O’ Lakes High
  • Navya Jampani, Land O’ Lakes High
  • Nicholas R. Riley, Land O’ Lakes High
  • Maxwell Keenan, Land O’ Lakes High
  • Karina N. Armas, Sunlake High

Lutz

  • Elle D. Hazlett, homeschool
  • Joaquin Borggio, Steinbrenner High
  • Bailey M. Zinckgraf, Steinbrenner High

Tampa

  • Riley L. Troyer, Carrollwood Day School
  • Kaley A. Raabe, Gaither High School
  • Jordyn E. Bizzell, Sickles High
  • Henry M. Noell, Sickles High
  • Samuel L. Unger, Sickles High
  • April E. Olson, Wharton High

Published September 21, 2016

Pasco prepping to ring in a new school year

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Teachers headed back to Pasco County Schools this week to prepare for the first day of school on Aug. 15.

Opening day is a big deal on every campus every year, but it will be especially meaningful at Wiregrass Elementary School, at 29732 Wiregrass School Road in Wesley Chapel because that school is having its “first” first day.

Technology teacher Dalton Smith and Assistant Principal Josh Borders are busy moving boxes — getting ready for the first day of classes at Centennial Middle School in Dade City. (Courtesy of Centennial Middle School)
Technology teacher Dalton Smith and Assistant Principal Josh Borders are busy moving boxes — getting ready for the first day of classes at Centennial Middle School in Dade City.
(Courtesy of Centennial Middle School)

The mood across campus during a teacher move-in day last week offered a glimpse into the significance. People were focused on getting things ready — but there was an obvious excitement, too.

Like many schools, Wiregrass been counting down the days, hours, minutes and seconds until school starts.

This label is above the ticking clock on its website: “Countdown until Wiregrass Elementary changes the world forever.”

The opening of Wiregrass Elementary, of course, caused a shifting of school boundaries. That means some Wesley Chapel children will be experiencing their first day of school this year at at Denham Oaks Elementary, at 1422 Oak Grove Blvd., in Lutz.

The 2016-2017 school year also marks the beginning of a new S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Magnet program at Centennial Middle School at 38505 Centennial Road in Dade City.

The school will be using the Learning Active Technology Infused Classroom model, said Principal Rick Saylor. That instructional approach centers around rigor, student engagement and student responsibility.

Centennial Middle also has been equipped with new technology, offering new opportunities for students. For instance, it now has flight simulators that it will be using in its technology education class.

And now, because it’s a magnet school, it will be drawing students from outside its traditional boundaries, as well.

Pasco Elementary School, at 37350 Florida Ave., in Dade City, will be adding 50 minutes of daily instructional time for students in grades four and five, to comply with a state requirement.

In a July 18 letter posted in English and Spanish on the school’s website, Principal Nena Green tells parents: “We see this as a great opportunity for us to provide students with the additional support that they need to be successful.”

As a result of the additional instructional time, the school day for Pasco Elementary students in grades four and five will be from 8:40 a.m. to 3:40 p.m., while student in prekindergarten through third grade will remain on the school’s 8:40 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., schedule.

Students stream out of the portable classrooms at Wiregrass Ranch High School during a class change last school year. The school will again have a 10-period day, to relieve crowding on campus by staggering the time that students arrive and leave the campus. (Fred Bellet/Photo)
Students stream out of the portable classrooms at Wiregrass Ranch High School during a class change last school year. The school will again have a 10-period day, to relieve crowding on campus by staggering the time that students arrive and leave the campus.
(Fred Bellet/Photo)

This will be a special year at Rodney B. Cox Elementary, at 37615 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Dade City, as the school celebrates its 90th anniversary — with festivities planned throughout the year.

While some schools are launching new initiatives, others are continuing on paths they began last year.

For instance, Wiregrass Ranch High, at 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will stick with a 10-period school day for the 2016-2017 school year. Next year, a new high school, now being built on Old Pasco Road, will open to relieve overcrowding.

By having a 10-period day, the school can provide a less crowded campus for most of the school day, according to Principal Robyn White

There will be some changes, though, White said. For instance, it will go back to having pep rallies during the day, instead of after school, because it found it had a higher participation rate.

It also has changed its schedule to close down one of its buildings later in the day because it found that most of the discipline issues it dealt with last year happened in that building later in the day, when there were fewer classes there.

“Typically, during passing, the teachers are standing outside the door,” White explained.  When there are just a couple of classes in a building, there are fewer teachers to supervise the area, she explained.

The school will be keeping the fifth lunch period it added last year because it helped make the lunch periods more manageable, White added.

At Pine View Middle, 5334 Parkway Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, the school will be entering its second year as an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme Candidate School. The program aims to expand learning opportunities for all children, and to broaden connections by providing instruction that’s deeper and wider.

Some schools will stick with tried-and-true traditions.

Wesley Chapel Elementary School, at 30243 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel, for example, will have its annual Boohoo Breakfast.

“Whether you are saddened or excited, we would love to see you in the cafeteria on the first day of school, beginning at 9:30 a.m.” the school’s website proclaims, referring to  the breakfast.

When children arrive on campus at Wesley Chapel Elementary, they’ll be greeted by Stan Mykita, the school’s new principal.

Parents who want to know more about their child’s school, how to get involved, how to help their child and details about such things as bus stops, school lunch prices and supplies, can find much of the information they need on their individual school’s website. Some information is also available on the district’s website, at Pasco.k12.fl.us.

Registration requirements
Students entering a Florida school for the first time at any grade level, will be asked to present the following items upon registration:

  • Current immunization records (vaccination requirements vary by grade level)
  • Proof of a physical examination dated and signed by a licensed health professional within the last 12 months
  • Proof of age, through a birth certificate or other acceptable documents
  • Social Security number, if one is available.
  • Proof of Florida residency, such as water, gas, electric or other utility bill; a properly executed lease agreement; or some other evidence
  • Copy of the student’s last report card, if applicable
  • Legal guardianship records, if applicable

Students entering kindergarten for the first time must be 5 years old before Sept. 1. Pre-kindergarten and Head Start/Early Start programs are available to students who are younger.

Help for parents
Useful information often can be found on the websites maintained by Pasco County Schools and Hillsborough County Schools. Local schools also often provide practical tips to help parents help their children succeed in school.

For instance, Connerton Elementary School, in Land O’ Lakes, offered these pointers for parents to help foster school success:

  • Ensure that your child is at school on time each day.
  • Attend parent/teacher conferences and school events.
  • Monitor your child’s homework daily.
  • Expect and support positive behavior at school.
  • Read with your child or encourage your child to read daily.

 

Getting ready for Day 1

  • Before doing your back-to-school shopping, check your school’s website to find out out what supplies are needed.
  • Also, check the website to find out what time school begins and ends, the code of conduct and dress code for the school, and applications for free or reduced-price lunch.
  • Information also is available through individual and district websites regarding child care, the school year calendar and transportation.

Published August 10, 2016

New coaching staff leads Wiregrass Ranch softball

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Wiregrass Ranch High made a coaching change for its softball team at the end of its last season, following complaints from parents and players about the “loosey-goosey” structure of the team.

The new head coach, Yamani Vazquez, and assistant coach, Tyler Finn, have spent the past several years coaching rec league and travel softball in Wesley Chapel.

The first-time high school coaches are using their respective military and law enforcement backgrounds to implement a culture change—better organization, more positivity and more discipline.

The Wiregrass Ranch softball team has two first-time high school coaches in Yamani Vazquez, left, and Tyler Finn. They have spent the past several years coaching rec league and travel softball in Wesley Chapel. (Kevin Weiss/Staff Photo)
The Wiregrass Ranch softball team has two first-time high school coaches in Yamani Vazquez, left, and Tyler Finn. They have spent the past several years coaching rec league and travel softball in Wesley Chapel.
(Kevin Weiss/Staff Photo)

Coach Vazquez said he’s incorporated “little things,” such as having players do more fieldwork, having players hustle in between practice drills, and ensuring players remove their headgear before shaking hands with opposing teams at the end of games.

“I have to say they’ve been very receptive and welcoming of our system,” said Vazquez, an eight-year military veteran who currently teaches science at John Long Middle School in Wesley Chapel. “It’s definitely a change from last year.

“One of the things (Wiregrass Ranch principal) Robyn White mentioned was the amount of (negative) emails she got from the softball side more than any other sport, and we were like, ‘Okay, we’re going to change that.’ It was a great opportunity for us, because we knew the state of the program and how it was left, so we felt we could get it back up, and change a few things.”

Junior Samantha Hiley, one of the Bulls’ top hitters, said the new coaching staff is paying more attention to details, such as making sure the team’s uniforms are clean, the field is maintained better and team is better equipped.

Junior catcher and Florida International University softball commit Kameron Aitken said the new coaches “have done everything to make our experience better.”

“They’re great coaches,” Aitken said. “They work well with us.”

While the team “practices a lot more,”—five days a week—than prior years, Bulls players enjoy the new staff’s willingness to listen, and value their input on team matters.

“These coaches listen to our opinions and they take into consideration some of the things we say,” junior second baseman Alexis Ridolph said. “They are much friendlier.”

“I really like how they’re open to letting us play how we want to. It’s not, ‘You must do this, this and this,’” said senior third baseman Tylah Remaley, a Florida Tech softball commit.

Junior centerfielder Jaime Valenta noted the new coaches are “really nice and funny” and “listen to us a lot more.”

Finn, a retired New York state trooper and former Saint Leo University baseball player, said taking over the program and working alongside Coach Vazquez has been a “thrill” and a “dream.”

“The great thing for me is I’ve coached almost every one of these kids since they were little,” said Finn, who has two daughters, Karlye and Taryn, on the roster.

“When you get to the high school level, especially with the talent here, you’re not doing a heck of a lot of coaching.

“These kids are seasoned players. We just sit there and guide them, and call the offensive plays when they get up. …These girls are extremely talented, and very bright athletes,” he said.

With a 3-5 record as of Feb. 28, the team is not off to the start they expected.

One reason for the slow start can be attributed to the departures of ace pitcher Lindsey Snyder and three of the top four run producers from last year’s lineup.

With the loss of Snyder, the new coaches have been forced to use three freshmen in the pitching circle, with shaky results.

“We’ve tried out a bunch of young pitchers that are being tested a little bit,” Finn said. “We had no experienced pitchers. Lindsey was a workhorse; we don’t have that right now.”

Alexis Ridolph added the youthful pitching staff is trying to “get into a rhythm.”

“I know the pitchers are working really hard,” the second baseman said. “It’s just the fact they’re young and aren’t as experienced in high school situations. But, I think they’ll be better by the end of the year.”

As the Bulls go through some early season growing pains with the green pitching rotation, they’ll be forced to rely on their hitting prowess to pick up the slack.

Six players currently sport averages of .300 or better, including sophomores Kacie Lemanski (.471), and Keanna Harris (.417). Hiley (.458), Aitken (.364), Remaley (.348) and Ridolph (.304) are the others.

“Hitting is our fine point. There’s no doubt about it,” Finn said.

As the pitching staff gets more comfortable, the team feels they have a legitimate shot to win their conference and district.

“I know the girls believe it. We’re not going to settle for being a .500 team,” Finn said. “We see good things in the future,” Finn said.

Published March 2, 2016

Big changes in store for Pasco schools

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A lot of change is in store for Pasco County Schools during the 2015-2016 school year.

Students arriving at Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School will find not only a new campus, but a new way of learning, too.

Wiregrass Ranch High School is expecting nearly 2,500 students this year. To reduce crowding, the school will operate on a 10-period day, with some students arriving earlier and leaving earlier, and others arriving later and leaving later. All of the student body will be on campus during three periods a day. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)
Wiregrass Ranch High School is expecting nearly 2,500 students this year. To reduce crowding, the school will operate on a 10-period day, with some students arriving earlier and leaving earlier, and others arriving later and leaving later. All of the student body will be on campus during three periods a day.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

They’ll be attending classes in the Pasco school district’s first magnet school program, with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.

Students arriving at Quail Hollow Elementary School, will find a school that’s undergone a massive makeover — replacing the formerly “open” space with traditional classrooms, with doors and windows.

The school’s makeover isn’t entirely complete, but district officials don’t expect the work that’s yet to be done to disrupt the opening of school.

At Pine View Middle, students and staff will be embarking on a quest to become the first school in the district to be designated as a Middle Years Programme by the International Baccalaureate Organization.

It typically takes a candidate school about three years to meet the requirements to receive the designation.

Across the United States, there are 45 private and 538 public MYP programmes, including 65 in Florida and four in the Tampa area, including Carrollwood Day School and Corbett Preparatory School of IDS.

Pasco County Schools are set to begin classes on Aug. 24. (File Photo)
Pasco County Schools are set to begin classes on Aug. 24. (File Photo)

At Wiregrass Ranch High School, the school district is using a 10-period day to cope with soaring enrollment.

The school was built for 1,675 students, and its projected enrollment in 2015-2016 is 2,438.

To alleviate crowding, the district is having students arrive and depart from campus in two shifts.

Sophomores through seniors will begin and end the school day at the same time they do now, 7:25 a.m. and 1:56 p.m., respectively. Freshmen will begin at 10:25 a.m., and end at 4:50 p.m.

All of the school’s students will be on campus for three periods each day, but that is manageable because roughly 500 kids are at lunch at any given time, according to Robyn White, the school’s principal.

Wiregrass Ranch has had four lunch periods each day, but is adding a fifth one because of the anticipated enrollment increase.

Besides changes in facilities and programming at some schools, students also will be greeting new administrators at several Pasco schools.

Jason Petry is leading Sanders Elementary in Land O’ Lakes, and Kara Smucker is the principal at Quail Hollow in Wesley Chapel.

Angie Stone, the new leader at Zephyrhills High, is returning to the place where she began her career in Pasco County Schools.

Students attending Pasco Middle School in Dade City will be greeted by Principal Jeff Wolff, and those arriving at San Antonio Elementary School will be welcomed by Principal Kim Anderson.

In another big change, district employees will be heading into a new school year with a settled contract.

The contract, which has not yet been ratified, calls for an average 3 percent raise for district employees.

While details are still being finalized, the district’s plan is for district employees to receive their raise in their paychecks beginning Sept. 4, which is the first pay date for teachers.

The contract also calls for no increases in the employee contribution in the single employee health plan. The district is one of the few districts in Florida that offers a fully paid single employee health option.

A new benefit in this year’s contract is a Voluntary Sick Leave Donation program, set to begin in October. This program allows district employees to donate their sick leave to other district employees who are experiencing a documented major medical emergency, illness, accident or injury (or whose spouse, minor child, or dependent child under legal guardianship has a document major medical emergency, illness, accident or injury).

Helpful info
Transportation issues?
Pasco County Schools has set up a special Transportation Call Center during the first week of school.

If you have a problem, call the numbers listed below, on Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

(813) 794-2500; (727) 774-2500; or (352) 524-2500

Want to buy breakfast or lunch?
The current meal prices are:

Reduced price breakfast: 30 cents

Reduced price lunch: 40 cents

Full price breakfast: $1.35 (elementary) and $1.50 (secondary)

Full price lunch: $2.25 (elementary) and $2.60 (secondary)

Want to register?
Students entering a Florida public school for the first time need:

  • Current immunization records
  • Proof of a physical examination, dated and signed by a licensed health professional within the last 12 months
  • Evidence of age, such as a birth certificate
  • Social Security Number, if available
  • Proof of Florida residency, such as a water bill, electric bill, gas bill, or an executed lease agreement
  • A copy of the student’s last report card, if applicable
  • Legal guardianship records, if applicable

Note: Students entering kindergarten for the first time must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1 to attend kindergarten. Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start/Early Start programs are available to students who will not make the deadline.

Published August 19, 2015

Wiregrass Ranch High lays groundwork for 10-period day

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It’s not official yet, but Wiregrass Ranch High School officials are moving ahead with planning for a 10-period school day.

The Pasco County School Board is expected to vote on the issue in December. But the school can’t wait to start planning until then, because if it did that, it wouldn’t have time to properly plan, school principal Robyn White said.

Wiregrass Ranch High School assistant principal Shauntte Butcher compares the swarm of students passing through the corridors to the traffic jam at State Road 56 and Bruce B. Downs Boulevard at 5 p.m. (Courtesy of Wiregrass Ranch High School)
Wiregrass Ranch High School assistant principal Shauntte Butcher compares the swarm of students passing through the corridors to the traffic jam at State Road 56 and Bruce B. Downs Boulevard at 5 p.m. (Courtesy of Wiregrass Ranch High School)

School officials have looked at other ideas, she added, but the 10-period day seems to be the best approach for dealing with the school’s burgeoning enrollment.

“While that seems to the most feasible and logical solution right now, we have stayed open to other possibilities,” White said. “We have looked at every suggestion that anybody has given. So far, we haven’t come up with anything better.”

By having a 10-period day, the school can provide a less crowded campus for most of the school day, said White, who has been the school’s principal since it opened in 2006.

When it opened, it had just freshman and sophomores, for a total enrollment of 752. As of last week, the enrollment was 2,333. That figure is expected to grow by least 175 students next school year, bringing the total to nearly 2,500.

Wiregrass Ranch High was built for an enrollment of 1,633. It already has 30 portable classrooms to address the overflow.

The 10-period day would work like this: Sophomores through seniors would begin and end the school day at the same time they do now, 7:25 a.m. and 1:56 p.m., respectively. Freshmen begin at 10:18 a.m., and end at 4:44 p.m.

All of the school’s students would be on campus for three periods each day, but that is manageable because roughly 500 kids are at lunch at any given time, White said. The school now has four lunch periods each day, but will need to add a fifth one next year because of the anticipated enrollment increase.

School officials are aware the new schedule will pose some challenges for parents and for students who are involved in after-school activities. Working parents have voiced concerns that they won’t be able to drop off their children at school because of the later bus runs for freshmen.

The school district is responding to that concern by providing all freshmen the opportunity to ride the bus to school. Normally, those who live too close to school do not qualify for free transportation.

School officials also want to work with parents whose children have special concerns about starting and dismissal times, White said.

There may be a student, for instance, who is heavily involved in dancing or gymnastics after school, White said. It may be impossible for that student to attend practice because of the later dismissal.

There are ways to address that, such as online learning for a period or more, to create flexibility for students to continue pursuing those outside interests, while still meeting academic requirements, White said.

In some cases, the parent would have to provide transportation, in others, it may be possible for the student to ride into school late but leave early.

Every situation will be considered individually, White said, with the aim to be as flexible as possible.

By revising the schedule, the school will be able to take advantage of classroom space that frees up when older students are at lunch or have left the campus for the day, said the school’s assistant principal Shauntte Butcher, who oversees the school’s master schedule.

The overlapping schedule allows students from all four classes to be on campus at once, which White thinks is important. She doesn’t want the freshman class to feel isolated from the rest of the student body.

Relief is needed, though. Between classes, the corridors are so crowded that Butcher has likened them to State Road 56 and Bruce B. Downs Boulevard at rush hour.

Even such things as pep rallies get more complicated at a school the size of Wiregrass Ranch, White said.

“Our gym only holds 1,200 seating,” she said. “Right now, when we do a pep rally, like we did last Friday, we have to do two pep rallies. We barely fit in there this year with two. We know next year, we definitely have to go to three.”

The longer school day also will have impacts on athletic practices. For one thing, White is expecting to need to rent portable lights to use for football and soccer practices when it begins to get darker earlier in the day.

To help make sure they are taking a comprehensive approach, a committee meets twice a month to consider the various impacts of a 10-period day. People involved with the planning include teachers, parents and students who have experienced a 10-period school day and those who haven’t, White said.

The idea of using a 10-period day is not new. Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel high schools successfully used the approach before Wiregrass Ranch opened, White said.

Those wanting to find out the latest news also are invited to visit the school’s website at WRHS.Pasco.k12.fl.us, and click on the “overcrowded information” tab.

Published November 19, 2014

See this story in print: Click Here

In Print: Something funny happening at Beef’s?

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Football and hockey might be the first thing that comes to people’s minds when they think of Beef O’Brady’s. But comedy? That might be something new.

Yet, the Beef’s at 7040 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., is welcoming comedians to the sports-themed restaurant once a month. And coming up Nov. 21 is a teacher-turned-jokester from Pinellas County, Mike Rivera.

Rivera’s comedy fits with Beef O’Brady’s desire to put on a show that is adult-oriented, but not vulgar. (Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)
Rivera’s comedy fits with Beef O’Brady’s desire to put on a show that is adult-oriented, but not vulgar. (Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)

“There’s nobody else who has a comedy show in the area,” Beef’s general manager Mike Connor told reporter Michael Murillo. “We just thought this was something different.”

The show begins at 9 p.m., to allow a more adult audience to enjoy Rivera’s humor. But if anyone is expecting to hear material that would make many people blush, it’s not part of what Connor is trying to do at Beef’s.

“Dropping the f-bomb every other word is not funny,” Connor added.

Get all the details about how Beef O’Brady’s is turning to comedy in this week’s print edition of The Laker/Lutz News, available on newsstands and driveways right now, or for free in our online e-edition by clicking here.

Getting to Beef’s might be a little easier for residents living in the Silver Lakes community after learning a developer wanting to build more than 100 homes near the shores of Curve Lake is changing that community’s main entrance.

Southern Crafted Homes had originally looked to use the small and quite rural Fletch Road as the main entrance to Pristine Lakes, forcing residents there to travel through a small community to Barcellona Road to finally get to Land O’ Lakes Boulevard. This was not a popular idea by residents who lived along those roads, including Bobbi Smith, who had pushed for developers to acquire enough land to move the entrance to Ehren Cutoff.

That wish appears to be granted, with developers proposing to do just that.

“All we wanted was for the traffic to go a different way,” Smith told reporter Michael Hinman. “That’s the answer to everybody’s concern.”

Yet, Smith might not be ready to take a breath quite yet. Pristine Lakes wants to still use Fletch Road as an emergency entrance. What does she think of that? Find out in this week’s print edition of The Laker, available right now. Or read it right here online for free in our e-edition by clicking here.

Wiregrass Ranch High School students might be looking at a bit of a longer day soon. School officials need to deal with some overcrowding issues on campus, and one way to do that is through a 10-period school day.

“While that seems to be the most feasible and logical solution right now, we have stayed open to other possibilities,” school principal Robyn White told reporter B.C. Manion. “We have looked at every suggestion that anybody has given. So far, we haven’t come up with anything better.”

Wiregrass Ranch was built for an enrollment of 1,633, but currently has 2,333 students in the hallways and in 30 portable classrooms. It is expected to have as many as 2,500 students by the time next fall rolls around.

How would the 10-period day work? Find out in this week’s Wesley Chapel print edition of The Laker. Or read it online right now in our free e-edition by clicking here.

And finally, photojournalist Fred Bellet has some great pictures to share from the U.S. Marine Corps birthday celebration at Harbor Terrace Restaurant at Heritage Harbor Golf and Country Club. See it online by clicking here.

All of these stories and more can be found in this week’s The Laker/Lutz News, available in newsstands throughout east and central Pasco County as well as northern Hillsborough County. Find out what has your community talking this week by getting your local news straight from the only source you need.

If The Laker/Lutz News is not coming to your door, call us to see where you can get your copy at (813) 909-2800, or read our free e-edition by clicking here.