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Search Results for: Sanders Elementary School

Chalk Talk 01/06/2016

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Student musicians raise money for Joshua House
Crossing the Tangent, a band that just started up this past October, rented the clubhouse at Seven Oaks for a fundraiser for Joshua House on Dec. 20. The youth band put on two shows, charged a $5 entry fee, and played a variety of songs, including holiday music. The $543 raised was given directly to Joshua House, a safe haven for children in need.

Members of the band are Cody Somoano, Alyssa Somoano, Alexa Jewel and Genesis Castro-Garcia, Wiregrass Ranch High School; Ben Sajen, Freedom High; Josh Brett, Land O’ Lakes High; Kelly Mason, Benito Middle School; Arianna Toro, Steinbrenner High; and Sage Pope, New Port Richey Montessori.

Magnet school offers tour
Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School, 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes, will offer a school tour on Jan. 8, to show parents and prospective students the programs and facilities.

Principal Jason Petry and staff will lead parents through each grade level area, the collaboration center, outdoor classroom areas, boardwalk, and athletic facilities. Sanders is Pasco County’s first magnet school and was designed to focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

For information, call Kristie Newsome at (813) 794-1500.

STEM magnet school info meetings
Centennial Middle STEM Magnet School, scheduled to open in August, will host parent information sessions at 6 p.m., as follows:

  • Jan. 11 at Raymond B. Stewart Middle School, 38505 10th Ave., Zephyrhills
  • Jan. 12 at Pasco Middle School, 13925 14th St., Dade City
  • Jan. 13 at Thomas E. Weightman Middle School, 30649 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel
  • Jan. 19 at Dr. John Long Middle School, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel
  • Jan. 20 at Centennial Middle School, 38505 Centennial Road in Dade City
  • Jan. 21 at Chester W. Taylor Elementary School, 3638 Morris Bridge Road in Zephyrhills

Parents of sixth- and seventh-graders at the host schools, as well as those of current fifth-graders in the elementary schools that feed into them, are encouraged to attend.

The superintendent, the magnet school principal, and district staff will discuss the STEM magnet theme and programs that will be offered at the school. Parents also will hear about magnet school application timelines and options for transportation.

Thursday Musicale offers scholarships
The Thursday Musicale, a women’s choral group formed to promote music in Pasco and Hernando counties, offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors in Pasco and Hernando counties who plan to study music in college and make it a career.

The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Jan. 22. Auditions will be Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs in New Port Richey.

For applications, contact your high school career counselor and/or music director.

For information, email .

Take Stock in Children applications
Take Stock in Children scholarship applications are now being accepted online through Jan. 24 for Pasco County Schools’ students on free/reduced lunch in grades eight to 10.

The organization, a program with the Pasco Education Foundation and partnered with Pasco County Schools, has provided scholarships, mentors and hope since 1995.

For information and an application, visit PascoEducationFoundation.org.

School photographer celebrates with fundraiser
Paul Gigante, a professional school photographer since 1991 in Tampa Bay, has seen the need to help less fortunate homeless high school seniors, as they transition after graduation to start college careers. His goal is to raise $50,000 at a benefit to help as many students from the Class of 2016 in Pasco and Hillsborough counties as possible.

Gigante will host a “H4 Benefit” (Helping Our Homeless High Schoolers Achieve Higher Education) at Skipper’s Smokehouse, 910 Skipper Road in Tampa, on Jan. 24 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Entertainment will include the USF “HOT” Pep Band, The Butch Ryan Band, local disc jockeys, and others.

There also will be silent auctions, sports memorabilia, gift baskets, a 50/50 raffle, corn hole tournament, photo booth and more.

The cover charge is a birthday card for Paul with a donation payable to “H4 Benefit.”

Corporate/local business partnerships/personal and family sponsorships are available.

For information, contact Paul Gigante at (813) 340-4080.

Virtual tours available for Saint Leo
The Office of Admissions at Saint Leo University has begun using the latest trend in social media to reach prospective students from around the world. Student tour guides conduct a live video tour of university campus every Wednesday afternoon.

The office uses the Periscope program, which allows for real-time video sharing with student followers. It is interactive, as participants may submit questions, and the video hosts or tour guides can respond immediately. The tour’s content can be customized based on the users’ interaction and requests. The video tours are available for replay for 24 hours following the live broadcast.

To date, more than 1,000 prospective students have participated in the live Periscope broadcasts.

Viewers must follow Saint Leo’s Twitter account to access the video tour, and will receive additional enrollment messages after the tour has concluded for as long as they continue to follow the feed.

The live video tours are marketed to prospective students through email invitation, a Facebook campaign, Twitter advertising, and a website presence.

Potential future uses will include live interviews with faculty, live visits to classrooms, and other on-campus events.

2015 marked by growth, loss, compassion

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New construction captured many headlines during the year 2015 in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

But, so did traffic issues and changes happening in area schools.

Other news chronicled setbacks and tragic losses. But, there were inspiring stories, too.

Tampa Premium Outlets, a 441,000-square-foot mall with 100-plus designer brand shops, opened in October off State Road 56, near the Interstate 75 interchange.

Saint Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio held a dedication ceremony in February, to celebrate the school’s new brick classroom building. (File Photos)
Saint Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio held a dedication ceremony in February, to celebrate the school’s new brick classroom building.
(File Photos)

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel embarked upon a $78 million expansion project – 2 ½ years ahead of schedule — to add 112,000 square feet and renovate 11,000.

Florida Hospital Center Ice, a new 150,000-square-foot sports facility, broke ground on Feb. 24. It will have an Olympic-sized hockey rink, four other rinks and the ability to accommodate other sports.

Lutz and Land O’ Lakes also saw their share of growth.

New homes and apartments are popping up along the State Road 54 corridor and along portions of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

A Lowe’s home improvement store opened on State Road 54, the Land O’ Lakes Community Park underwent a $2.3 million upgrade, and a new Pasco County Utilities Administration building opened off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, also known as U.S. 41.

Just outside Dade City, an aerial adventure park, known as Tree Hoppers, began operation, and a number of new businesses have settled into the downtown historic district.

Of course, the new development has added to the area’s traffic jams, which won’t be resolved in the short term.

But, there are efforts being made to address the issue.

The Florida Department of Transportation is exploring solutions to address traffic flow at U.S. 41 and State Road 54. There are efforts to extend State Road 56 between Meadow Pointe and Zephyrhills, and, construction work continues at the I-75 and State Road 52 interchange.

On the education scene, there was a changing of the guard in top leadership at Saint Leo University, just outside Dade City. Dr. Arthur Kirk retired, and Dr. William J. Lennox Jr. assumed the top post.

Pasco-Hernando State College also has a new president, with Dr. Timothy Beard being named to the post after the retirement of Dr. Katherine Johnson.

This photo, taken in the 2014-2015 school year, gives an idea of the crowding that Wiregrass Ranch High was experiencing before it went to a 10-period school day. The school went to a staggered schedule this school year, to reduce the impacts of crowding.
This photo, taken in the 2014-2015 school year, gives an idea of the crowding that Wiregrass Ranch High was experiencing before it went to a 10-period school day. The school went to a staggered schedule this school year, to reduce the impacts of crowding.

The state college’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch also hit a milestone, announcing that it would be surpassing the 3,000-student enrollment mark.

On another front, Sanders Memorial Elementary School reopened in Land O’ Lakes, as Pasco County Schools’ first magnet school. It is a STEAM school, with a curriculum that focuses on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.

Pine View Middle School also launched an effort to become the public school district’s first International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme.

And, Wiregrass Ranch High School in Wesley Chapel began operating on a 10-period school day, to reduce the number of students on campus at the same time.

A more permanent solution to Wiregrass Ranch’s overcrowding is expected to occur when the district opens a new school for grades six through 12 that is being constructed on Old Pasco Road.

In another change, the district adopted new boundaries for a new elementary school in Wesley Chapel, off Mansfield Boulevard, which is scheduled to open next fall.

The new school will relieve significant overcrowding at Seven Oaks Elementary. The boundary shifts, which were controversial, will increase enrollment at Denham Oaks Elementary in Lutz.

In other school news, St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lutz opened the Saint Paul II Youth Center and opened a new elementary school to house Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School.

Saint Anthony Catholic School also marked a milestone — dedicating a new brick classroom building in February.

While much of the news in 2015 was about progress and new beginnings, not all of the news was positive.

For instance, the GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club was forced to cancel its 36th annual arts and crafts show, because a sinkhole developed at Lake Park.

Chairman Ted Schrader, holding scissors, slices through the ribbon, as he and other dignitaries celebrated the opening of the Utilities Administration Building.
Chairman Ted Schrader, holding scissors, slices through the ribbon, as he and other dignitaries celebrated the opening of the Utilities Administration Building.

The annual two-day event, which has drawn about 30,000 shoppers a year, was the club’s biggest fundraiser. So, besides disappointing shoppers and about 300 vendors, the cancellation also will reduce the club’s ability to help scores of community organizations and charities.

The year also was marked by the passing of Land O’ Lakes cross country coach Kris Keppel and Laura Hauser, a former non-instructional employee of the year, who worked at Wesley Chapel Elementary before she became too ill to work. Both lost battles with cancer. And, car accidents claimed the lives of Pasco High student Jordan Ivie and Wesley Chapel High.

These deaths inspired demonstrations of respect, generosity, compassion and kindness — to help those grieving their loss.

In another show of support, the community of San Antonio rallied to hold a benefit for Lewis and Diane Riggleman, whose home was destroyed by fire.

Other uplifting moments involved Suellen Smith, the cafeteria manager at Zephyrhills High, who continues her tradition of collecting and giving away dress shirts, dress pants, gowns and dresses to help outfit young men and women for prom, homecoming, weddings and other special occasions.

Another big moment for 2015 involved Leigh Dittman, a Gaither High student from Lutz.

The 15-year-old recently reached a goal she set when she was 7: To raise $1 million for Shriners Hospitals for Children.

The young woman has a disorder known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease.

During a recent interview, she said she was motivated to raise the money for Shriners because of how giving it has been to her.

“They are such an amazing group of people, and they’ve given me so much, with my life. It seemed like the right thing to do,” Dittman said.

Published December 30, 2015

Connerton and Pasco on the path to new homes

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Kyle and Melody Marks fit in nicely with the demographics that are driving residential growth in Pasco County.

And, these young professionals are clear on the lifestyle they want for themselves and their two children, Amelia, age 5, and Brody, age 7.

In six months, they plan to move from a starter home to a new and larger home in Connerton, a master-planned community off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, also known as U.S. 41.

Kyle Marks, left, Amelia, age 5, and Melody Marks sit on a couch in the Lennar model home that is similar to one where they’ll live. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)
Kyle Marks, left, Amelia, age 5, and Melody Marks sit on a couch in the Lennar model home that is similar to one where they’ll live.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)

Connerton is one of Pasco’s up-and-coming neighborhoods attracting eager buyers who want bang for their buck, a touch of the rural, and the amenities of big city life.

The Marks are saying goodbye to the temptation to cross the county line into Hillsborough or Pinellas, in search of a good restaurant or a shopping excursion.

“There is no more traveling back to Tampa for everything,” said Melody Marks.

The Marks set their sights on Connerton months ago, and became the first buyers of a Lennar-built home in the community.

Lennar is the newest homebuilder to offer homes at Connerton.

The Marks are part of an overall resurgence of home buying in Pasco County, which is recovering from the disastrous economic downturn in 2008.

Back then, new home construction constricted.

And, many residents saw their existing housing values plummet.

Some are still underwater, with mortgages that are higher than their property values.

But, that is changing, said Jeff Morin, vice president of sales for Lennar Homes.

“People wouldn’t sell before, because they were upside down,” he said. “This uptick has allowed people to be more comfortable that they can break even or make a little money.”

Developers are building more rooftops, and a growing population has hit critical mass and pay dirt for retail.

The sign at the entrance to Connerton is decorated for the holidays. The master-planned community is seeing an uptick in housing sales.
The sign at the entrance to Connerton is decorated for the holidays. The master-planned community is seeing an uptick in housing sales.

Tampa Premium Outlets is the most visible tip of an explosion of new shops, restaurants, hotels and offices that are here or on their way.

“We do everything over here,” Melody Marks reiterated.

When the Marks signed their contract, it wasn’t just for the shops and restaurants or because Kyle Marks’ parents already live in Connerton.

“It’s a lot more affordable here,” said Kyle Marks.

Statistics bear that out.

The year-to-date median price of a home in Hillsborough and Pinellas is about $218,000, while Pasco’s median price is about $154,000, according to data from My Florida Regional MLS.

Connerton’s housing prices generally begin in the low $200,000s, said Stew Gibbons, president and chief executive officer of Gibbons Group.

That price falls into the sweet spot for Pasco housing sales of between $140,000 and $250,000, again based on data from My Florida Regional MLS.

More than 350 families live in Connerton.

Connerton’s new home sales have averaged 100 or more annually in the past two years, and Gibbons anticipates that will increase by 50 percent in the next year.

Gibbons pioneered living in Connerton when he bought a home in 2006. He and a few other residents waited out the recovery.

“We knew ultimately it’s cyclical, even though this is one of the worst cycles ever seen and the worst downturn the nation has seen.” Gibbons said.

But, he said now, “That’s created pent up demand. It’s growing as confidence grows.”

For a time, the economic downturn turned the master-planned community into a poster child for a stalled future.

New construction of roads and streetlights stuck out in a neighborhood of blank spaces where hundreds of homes should be.

The future is much rosier now.

Kyle, Amelia and Melody Marks, left, will wait about six months for their new Lennar home to be built in Connerton. Stew Gibbons, president of Gibbons Group, and Jeff Morin, vice president of sales for Lennar joined them at the newly opened Lennar model home.
Kyle, Amelia and Melody Marks, left, will wait about six months for their new Lennar home to be built in Connerton. Stew Gibbons, president of Gibbons Group, and Jeff Morin, vice president of sales for Lennar joined them at the newly opened Lennar model home.

Plans for a town center and shops are back in the picture, likely to happen within two to five years, Gibbons said.

Pasco County owns about 20 acres that is set aside for a government center.

Connerton Elementary School is open, and Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM School, an elementary magnet school, is located to the south, off U.S. 41.

Residents currently can enjoy about two miles of nature trails.

Connerton is unique in pegging its housing numbers to job creation, as part of a state incentive program.

At 2,000 homes, for instance, 500 jobs must be documented within a one-mile radius.

More houses, shops, offices and hotels are on the way.

“Pasco should be pretty robust,” said Gibbons. “The number of rooftops relates to retail that can be supported. They withheld until the market returned. It’s rising everywhere.”

At the height of the housing bubble, 6,000 homes were selling annually. Gibbons said it hit a low of about 1,000 homes a year, but has risen to about 2,500 this year.

There is potential within five years to reach between 6,000 and 7,000 housing sales a year, he said.

Gibbons remains sold on Pasco’s economy, and Connerton, in particular.

“It’s easy to meet people. I’m still here. I still love it,” Gibbons said.

Published December 30, 2015

Pasco expands magnet options

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Pasco County Schools is expanding its magnet school options beginning next school year, and is holding a series of community meetings to explain the additional options.

Sanders Memorial Elementary School is Pasco County’s first magnet school. It offers a curriculum that focuses on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. The district is converting Centennial Middle School in Dade City into a science, technology, engineering and mathematics magnet school. (File Photo)
Sanders Memorial Elementary School is Pasco County’s first magnet school. It offers a curriculum that focuses on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.
The district is converting Centennial Middle School in Dade City into a science, technology, engineering and mathematics magnet school.
(File Photo)

The district is converting Centennial Middle School, in Dade City, into a STEM Magnet School. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

A series of community meetings, with each beginning at 6 p.m., will give parents a chance to learn more about the new middle school magnet program.

  • Jan. 11 in the cafeteria at Raymond B. Stewart Middle School, 38505 10th Ave., in Zephyrhills
  • Jan. 12 in the auditorium at Pasco Middle School at 13925 14th St., in Dade City
  • Jan. 13 in the cafeteria at Thomas E. Weightman Middle School, at 30649 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel
  • Jan. 19 in the cafeteria at Dr. John Long Middle School cafeteria, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel
  • Jan. 20 in the cafeteria at Centennial Middle School, at 38505 Centennial Road in Dade City
  • Jan. 21 in the cafeteria at Chester W. Taylor Elementary School, at 3638 Morris Bridge Road in Zephyrhills

Parents of sixth- and seventh-graders at the host schools, as well as parents of current fifth-graders that feed into those schools, are encouraged to attend.

Elementary schools feeding into Centennial Middle School are Centennial, Cox, Double Branch, Lacoochee, New River, Pasco, Quail Hollow, San Antonio, Seven Oaks, Veterans, Watergrass, Wesley Chapel, West Zephyrhills and Woodland.

At each meeting, Superintendent Kurt Browning, the magnet school principal and district staff will discuss the STEM magnet theme and programs that will be offered.

Parents also will hear about magnet school application timelines and options for transportation.

Fifth- through seventh-grade students may apply for acceptance to the magnet school during the magnet school application period, Jan. 18 through Jan. 31, 2016. Students and parents not listed are welcome to attend the meetings, but will need to apply for acceptance through the regular school choice period, which begins Feb. 1.

In addition to the new middle school magnet, the district also has an elementary STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics) program at Sanders Memorial Elementary in Land O’ Lakes.

Parents of prospective students to Sanders are invited to tour the school, at 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes, on Jan. 8 at 10 a.m., and 1:30 p.m.

Parents will have a chance to learn more about the school’s programs, facilities and unique features.

Sanders has unmanned aerial systems, solar panels, and other high tech devices, as well as computers and iPads for each student.

Published December 30, 2015

Chalk Talk 12/30/2105

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Pasco School Board elects chairwoman
The District School Board of Pasco County elected Joanne Hurley (District 2) board chairwoman and Allen Altman (District 1) board vice chairman at its annual reorganization.

Hurley will serve a one-year term as chairwoman before her retirement from the school board next November. She was first elected in 2008, and was re-elected in 2012. Hurley served as chairwoman of the board once, and vice chairwoman twice.

Altman will serve a one-year term as vice chairman. He was elected to the school board in 2006, and was re-elected without opposition in 2010 and 2014. Altman has served as vice chairman and chairman of the board.

Bright Ideas contest
Belle of the Ball Project is supporting Bright House Networks’ program, “Bright Ideas STEM from Today’s Youth,” to help youth develop into innovative entrepreneurs. In the program, students are encouraged to submit a new idea, powered by STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) that can help make the world a better place.

By entering, high school students will vie for the opportunity to compete head-to-head on TV, in front of a studio audience in Orlando. The winner will have the chance to work with a leading innovation firm.

The program is currently open and available for students ages 14 to 19. The deadline to enter is Jan. 4.

To enter, visit BrightIdeas.BrightHouse.com/.

School board meeting cancelled
The District School Board of Pasco County has cancelled the regularly scheduled Jan. 5 board meeting due to winter break.

The district is closed from Dec. 21 through Jan.4.

Magnet school offers tour
Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School, 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes, will offer a school tour on Jan. 8, to show parents and prospective students the programs and facilities.

Principal Jason Petry and staff will lead parents through each grade level area, the collaboration center, outdoor classroom areas, boardwalk, and athletic facilities. Sanders is Pasco County’s first magnet school and was designed to focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

For information, call Kristie Newsome at (813) 794-1500.

STEM magnet school info meetings
Centennial Middle STEM Magnet School, scheduled to open in August, will host parent information sessions at 6 p.m., as follows:

  • Jan. 11 at Raymond B. Stewart Middle School, 38505 10th Ave., Zephyrhills
  • Jan. 12 at Pasco Middle School, 13925 14th St., Dade City
  • Jan. 13 at Thomas E. Weightman Middle School, 30649 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel
  • Jan. 19 at Dr. John Long Middle School, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel
  • Jan. 20 at Centennial Middle School, 38505 Centennial Road in Dade City
  • Jan. 21 at Chester W. Taylor Elementary School, 3638 Morris Bridge Road in Zephyrhills

Parents of sixth- and seventh-graders at the host schools, as well as those of current fifth-graders in the elementary schools that feed into them, are encouraged to attend.

The superintendent, the magnet school principal, and district staff will discuss the STEM magnet theme and programs that will be offered at the school. Parents also will hear about magnet school application timelines and options for transportation.

Still time to enroll for spring classes at PHSC

Currently enrolled and returning Pasco-Hernando State College students are encouraged to register for spring classes as soon as possible. Spring classes begin on Jan. 11.

New students interested in taking classes this spring should visit PHSC.edu/wise, for admissions information. The application fee is $25, with an additional $20 assessed during the late registration period, which is Jan. 11 through Jan. 15.

For more information, visit PHSC.edu, or contact the Student Development Office at a nearby PHSC location.

Lutz native performs at Belmont concert
Sarah Fechtel, a native of Lutz and commercial music major at Belmont University, performed in the “Christmas at Belmont” concert at Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The concert was taped live and aired nationally on PBS this holiday season.

More than 700 student musicians joined the Belmont School of Music faculty and the Nashville Children’s Choir for the concert. This year’s edition featured the University Symphony Orchestra, Belmont Strings, University Singers, Belmont Chorale, Percussion Ensemble, Musical theatre, Jazz Band, Jazzmin, Southbound and Company, and mass choirs.

Thursday Musicale offers scholarships
The Thursday Musicale, a women’s choral group formed to promote music in Pasco and Hernando counties, offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors in Pasco and Hernando counties who plan to study music in college and make it a career.

The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Jan. 22. Auditions will be Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs in New Port Richey.

For applications, contact your high school career counselor and/or music director.

For information, email .

Take Stock in Children applications
Take Stock in Children scholarship applications are now being accepted online through Jan. 24 for Pasco County Schools’ students on free/reduced lunch in grades eight to 10.

The organization, a program with the Pasco Education Foundation and partnered with Pasco County Schools, has provided scholarships, mentors and hope since 1995.

For information and an application, visit PascoEducationFoundation.org.

Chalk Talk 12/23/2015

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Bigger Oct 2015 COM (450x295) rgbChamber honors Citizens of the Month
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce recognized these students as Citizens of the Month for October: Bryce Hewell, Academy at the Farm; Elizabeth Franklin, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Faith Quinn, Saint Anthony Catholic School; Hannah Ditomasso, Centennial Elementary; Hailey Hitts, Lacoochee Elementary; Adrian Sandoval, Pasco Elementary; Jair Pantoja, Rodney B. Cox Elementary; Logan Dyal, San Antonio Elementary; Anissa Wilson, Centennial Elementary; Juan Pablo Benavides, Pasco Middle; Diamond Diaz-Cherry, James Irvin Education Center; and Yocia Abney, Pasco High.

Chamber honors students
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce recognized these students as Citizens of the Month for November: Brock McKendree, Academy at the Farm; Daniel Rivera, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Hannah Fox, Saint Anthony Catholic School; Gabriella Philipsen, Centennial Elementary; Sophia Alvarez Martinez, Lacoochee Elementary; Jazlyn Torres Rodriguez, Pasco Elementary; Juan Serrato, Rodney B. Cox Elementary; Sadie Williams, San Antonio Elementary; William Harrison Barker, Centennial Middle; Kelly Rose, Pasco Middle; Andres Limas, James Irvin Education Center; and Diana Ryan, Pasco High.

Sen. John Legg recognized by Children’s Home
The Children’s Home Society of Florida recognized Senator John Legg as Legislator of the Year during a luncheon on Dec. 9 at Joshua House in Lutz.

Legg was honored for his leadership as an advocate for community schools. As chair of the Education Pre-K-12 Committee, Legg was instrumental in the appropriation of additional funding to expand the model throughout Florida, including future placement at Mort Elementary School in Tampa.

For information on the Children’s Home Society of Florida’s legislation priorities, visit CHSFL.org/issues.

Bright Ideas contest
Belle of the Ball Project is supporting Bright House Networks’ program, “Bright Ideas STEM from Today’s Youth,” to help youth develop into innovative entrepreneurs. In the program, students are encouraged to submit a new idea, powered by STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) that can help make the world a better place.

By entering, high school students will vie for the opportunity to compete head-to-head on TV, in front of a studio audience in Orlando. The winner will have the chance to work with a leading innovation firm.

The program is currently open and available for students ages 14 to 19. The deadline to enter is Jan. 4.

To enter, visit BrightIdeas.BrightHouse.com/.

School board meeting cancelled
The District School Board of Pasco County has cancelled the regularly scheduled Jan. 5 board meeting due to winter break.

The district is closed from Dec. 21 through Jan.4.

Magnet school offers tour
Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School, 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes, will offer a school tour on Jan. 8, to show parents and prospective students the programs and facilities.

Principal Jason Petry and staff will lead parents through each grade level area, the collaboration center, outdoor classroom areas, boardwalk, and athletic facilities. Sanders is Pasco County’s first magnet school and was designed to focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

For information, call Kristie Newsome at (813) 794-1500.

Still time to enroll for spring classes at PHSC
Currently enrolled and returning Pasco-Hernando State College students are encouraged to register for spring classes as soon as possible. Spring classes begin on Jan. 11.

New students interested in taking classes this spring should visit PHSC.edu/wise, for admissions information. The application fee is $25, with an additional $20 assessed during the late registration period, which is Jan. 11 through Jan. 15.

For more information, visit PHSC.edu., or contact the Student Development Office at a nearby PHSC location.

Thursday Musicale offers scholarships
The Thursday Musicale, a women’s choral group formed to promote music in Pasco and Hernando counties, offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors in Pasco and Hernando counties who plan to study music in college and make it a career.

The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Jan. 22. Auditions will be Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs in New Port Richey.

For applications, contact your high school career counselor and/or music director.

For information, email .

PHSC receives disability support gift
Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation received a $10,000 gift from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to help pay for the cost of assessment testing for students with a disability and need assistance to be successful in the classroom.

The PHSC Access to Success program is designed to help provide financial support to pay for psycho-educational testing for enrolling recent high school graduates with a learning disability, psychiatric or neurological condition, and who show a financial need.

The program also provides support to students for academic success to obtain an education, and develop work force skills that lead to employment.

For information about the Access to Success program, call (727) 816-3737.

Land O’ Lakes senior gets free ride to college
Bethashley Cajuste, a Land O’ Lakes High School International Baccalaureate Programme senior, was awarded the Questbridge National College Match Scholarship. The scholarship covers the entire cost of her college tuition, books, housing, expenses and incidentals for all four years of study.

Cajuste was chosen as one of the 657 honorees, out of 13,264 applicants.

She will attend Colby College in Augusta, Maine.

 

Chalk Talk 12/16/2015

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(Courtesy of Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller's Office)
(Courtesy of Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office)

Patriotic fifth-graders give their thoughts on Constitution
The Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office’s annual Constitution Essay Contest drew in 82 entries from eight schools in Pasco County. Reporter Tom Jackson, author Gail Diederich and former Chief Deputy Clerk Barbara Rulison served as judges. Students had to answer the question, ‘Why is the U.S. Constitution Important?’ From left, Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning; Pasco Clerk & Comptroller Paula O’ Neil; first-place winner Eric Ly, Wesley Chapel Elementary; second-place winner Dakota Lambert, Deer Park Elementary; third-place winner Jenny Delcastillo, West Zephyrhills Elementary; author Gail Diederich and School Board Chairman Joanne Hurley.

Lacoochee students get civics lesson
Sen. Wilton Simpson visited Lacoochee Elementary School fifth-graders and staff on Dec. 7 to teach a civics lesson.

Lisa Mazza’s fifth-grade class had been studying the three branches of government and recently went on a tour of the state capitol. Simpson discussed government, the Constitution and his experience in Tallahassee as a state legislator. He also shared his perspective and explained to students how to become more involved in state government.

PHSC receives support for health programs
The Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation received a $71,500 gift from Hernando Healthcare Foundation to support its health programs. The gift will be used to purchase equipment for the EMS and nursing programs, and provide annual and endowed scholarship support for Hernando County residents enrolled in a PHSC health program.

HHF is a Florida Blue matching funds partner for annual scholarship support provided through the Florida College System Foundation.

To date, HHF has provided 150 scholarship awards to 96 PHSC students.

Bright Ideas contest
Belle of the Ball Project is supporting Bright House Networks’ program, “Bright Ideas STEM from Today’s Youth,” to help youth develop into innovative entrepreneurs. In the program, students are encouraged to submit a new idea, powered by STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) that can help make the world a better place.

By entering, high school students will vie for the opportunity to compete head-to-head on TV, in front of a studio audience in Orlando. The winner will have the chance to work with a leading innovation firm.

The program is currently open and available for students ages 14 to 19. The deadline to enter is Jan. 4.

To enter, visit BrightIdeas.BrightHouse.com/.

Magnet school offers tour
Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School, 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes, will offer a school tour on Jan. 8, to show parents and prospective students the programs and facilities.

Principal Jason Petry and staff will lead parents through each grade level area, the collaboration center, outdoor classroom areas, boardwalk, and athletic facilities. Sanders is Pasco County’s first magnet school and was designed to focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

For information, call Kristie Newsome at (813) 794-1500.

Thursday Musicale offers scholarships
The Thursday Musicale, a women’s choral group formed to promote music in Pasco and Hernando counties, offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors in Pasco and Hernando counties who plan to study music in college and make it a career.

The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Jan. 22. Auditions will be Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs in New Port Richey.

For applications, contact your high school career counselor and/or music director.

For information, email .

Toy drive for Mort Elementary
The Children’s Home Society of Florida is hosting a “Holiday Toy Drive” for students at Mort Elementary, on Bearss Avenue in Tampa. The drive’s goal is to collect 1,500 toys for more than 1,000 students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Donations can be dropped off at Joshua House, 1515 Michelin Court in Lutz on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Those donating should ask for Rachelle Duroseau.

For information, visit CHSFL.org/HolidayDrive, or email Duroseau at .

 

Chalk Talk 12/09/2015

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Toy drive for Mort Elementary
The Children’s Home Society of Florida is hosting a “Holiday Toy Drive” for students at Mort Elementary, on Bearss Avenue in Tampa. The drive’s goal is to collect 1,500 toys for more than 1,000 students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Donations can be dropped off at Joshua House, 1515 Michelin Court in Lutz on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Those donating should ask for Rachelle Duroseau.

For information, visit CHSFL.org/HolidayDrive, or email Duroseau at .

All-stars football classic
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is hosting the 2015 Pasco County East-West Classic, showcasing the best players from every position and school. It will feature “the best of the East” versus “the best of the West.” The event will be on Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., at Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

For information, call Amy Lipovetsky at (813) 794-2112.

Saint Leo hosts info session
Saint Leo University’s Adult Education Center at University Campus, 33701 State Road 52, will offer an information session on Dec. 10 at 6 p.m., in the School of Business building.

The session is designed for working adults and those just starting a college career to explore the associate, bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degree programs.

To RSVP, call (352) 588-7544.

Magnet school offers tours
Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School, 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes, will offer school tours on Dec. 11 and Jan. 8, to show parents and prospective students the programs and facilities.

Principal Jason Petry and staff will lead parents through each grade level area, the collaboration center, outdoor classroom areas, boardwalk, and athletic facilities. Sanders is Pasco County’s first magnet school and was designed to focus on science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

For information, call Kristie Newsome at (813) 794-1500.

Honor roll students recognized
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in Spring Hill has recognized the following students to make honor roll for the first quarter: Jacob Alcantara, Carissa Brand, Bryson Carroll, Raymond Cordova, Brielle Downing, Sean Florendo, Jake Hracho, Hannah Holliday, Logan Janning, Madison Janning, Danielle Jones, Michael Keough, Joseph Mastrino, Stephen McGowan-Iannone, Charles Nyberg, Owen Ryan and Alexis Singh.

All students are members of Our Lady of the Rosary parish in Land O’ Lakes.

ROTC program grows at Saint Leo
After the revitalization of the U.S. Air Force ROTC program at Saint Leo University, the school now offers two college programs for students who are training to become military officers.

The renewed Air Force ROTC joins the existing U.S. Army ROTC program.

The Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, offered at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the United States, prepares students to becoming commissioned Air Force officers while earning college degrees.

The AFROTC offers a variety of scholarships to relieve the financial burden of a college education. Full and partial scholarships are available and cover tuition and most lab fees, an annual textbook allowance, and a monthly cash stipend. Certain scholarships have specific requirements.

For information on the Air Force ROTC, contact Adam Beck at (813) 974-0147 or .

For information on the Army ROTC, contact Fernando Sostre Aleman at (352) 588-8685 or .

USF students win composition contest
Two University of South Florida composition students were winners in the “mini music demo” competition, sponsored by The Florida Orchestra and the USF School of Music, for their unique arrangements of classic holiday carols.

Hooman Rafraf won for his arrangement of “Fum, Fum, Fum” for woodwinds, and Francesco Sclafani for his orchestration of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman” arranged for strings.

The orchestra will perform the winning pieces during the 27th annual Children’s Holiday Concerts, presented by The Steinbrenner Family Foundation and the New York Yankees, Dec. 8 through Dec. 10.

Sunlake teen helps move against tobacco
MyKenzie Robertson of Sunlake High School has been named the vice chair of the Youth Advocacy Board for Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT).

The vice chair’s responsibilities include communicating information from the statewide program to the members of SWAT in Florida, and working with the chair to ensure that the YAB is meeting set goals and objectives.

SWAT aims to empower, educate and equip Florida youth to revolt against Big Tobacco and take a stand through education and action.

Members of the SWAT Youth Advocacy Board will serve a term through June 30, 2016.

Tampa Bay Lightning launches regional partnership

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A $6 million initiative to expand the game of hockey regionally in Tampa Bay is beginning to play out in local schools.

The Tampa Bay Lightning, the National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players’ Association are collaborating on a five-year program that aims to develop hockey players and provide life skills lessons to area youth.

As part of that initiative, schools throughout the region are beginning to have street hockey clinics to teach children about the game.

Chester Taylor Elementary students learn about the game of hockey during a recent street hockey clinic led by personnel from Tampa Bay Lightning. (Photos courtesy of Pasco County Schools)
Chester Taylor Elementary students learn about the game of hockey during a recent street hockey clinic led by personnel from Tampa Bay Lightning.
(Photos courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

Pasco County plans to offer the program to all of the district’s fourth- and fifth-graders, said Amy Lipovetsky, program coordinator for kindergarten through 12th grade physical education.

The school district was approached by Tampa Bay Lightning and was glad to participate, she said.

“It fits nicely with our standards in the physical education program,” Lipovetsky said.

There is a standard that calls for being able to strike with an implement, which you can do with a hockey stick.

“I know the teachers are excited, and the kids like something different,” said Lipovetsky, who also oversees Pasco’s athletic programs.

The Lightning plans to provide the street hockey clinics at 500 schools throughout the region.

“This semester they had openings for maybe 10 of our schools. And, we’re going to open up next semester for any remaining spots that they have,” Lipovetsky said.

Additional schools will participate as openings become available, she said.

Makenna Rice, of Chester Taylor Elementary School, focuses as she handles her hockey stick during a street hockey clinic at her school. The Tampa Bay Lightning is trying to increase awareness about the game of hockey through a partnership with Tampa Bay area schools.
Makenna Rice, of Chester Taylor Elementary School, focuses as she handles her hockey stick during a street hockey clinic at her school. The Tampa Bay Lightning is trying to increase awareness about the game of hockey through a partnership with Tampa Bay area schools.

When the clinics are held at a school, the Lightning sends in about five staff members to teach the game to the school’s fourth- and fifth-graders.

They come in for a day, and they work with all of our fourth- and fifth-graders. Generally, that takes five to six sessions.

“We want it to be effective. We don’t want any more than 60 kids out at one time, so that they can get the most out of the event,” Lipovetsky said.

Some former Lightning players are involved, and the school district’s physical education teachers are involved, too, she said.

“The cool thing is that each of these kids gets to walk away with a hockey stick and a voucher (for a game).”

The program is going an additional step at Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM Magnet School, the district’s only magnet school.

Sanders students will learn about the concepts of geometric constructions, energy and force — through a computer game on the sport of hockey.

Schools that have participated in the street hockey clinics so far include Chester Taylor and San Antonio elementary schools.

Besides Sanders, other area Pasco schools scheduled to have clinics this semester are Seven Oaks Elementary in Wesley Chapel and Denham Oaks in Lutz.

The street hockey clinics also take place in other Tampa Bay area schools, including schools in Hillsborough County.

Published November 18, 2015

 

Chalk Talk 11/11/15

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IB programme info sessions
The Land O’ Lakes High School International Baccalaureate Programme will host three community information nights for prospective applicants seeking ninth grade admission in the 2106-2017 school year.

Parents and guardians of current eighth-grade public, charter and private school students can attend. All sessions are at 6:30 p.m.

  • Nov. 12 at John Long Middle School, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel
  • Nov. 17 Weightman Middle, 30649 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel

For information, contact Jeff Morgenstein at (813) 794-9429, (352) 524-9429 or .

Hockey clinics for students
The Tampa Bay Lightning will host Street Lightning Hockey Clinics for the fourth and fifth graders at these schools:

  • Nov. 13 at 9:50 a.m.: Pine View Elementary School in Land O’ Lakes
  • Nov. 16 at 8:50 a.m.: Sanders Memorial Elementary School in Land O’Lakes

Every participating student receives a hockey stick and a Lightning game voucher.

For information, call Amy Lipovetsky, Office for Teaching and Learning, at (813) 794-2246.

PHSC book drive
The Pasco-Hernando State College Synergy Sociology Club will host its annual “Plant a Seed Book Drive” through Nov. 13. The club is looking for new and gently used books for ages 3 to young adult, with appropriate content. Collected books will be donated to local Title I schools, youth shelters, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters throughout Hernando and Pasco counties.

Donation boxes will be located in the student activities office, library and student lounge on each of the campuses:

  • East Campus, 36727 Blanton Road in Dade City
  • West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey
  • Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel
  • Spring Hill Campus, 450 Beverly Court

For information, visit PHSC.edu.

Perry Outreach Program
The Medical Center of Trinity is collaborating with the Perry Initiative to present the Perry Outreach Program on Nov. 14 at the Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54.

The program is a free, one-day, hands-on experience for high school and college-age women who are interested in pursuing careers in medicine and engineering. Students will hear from women leaders in these fields and try it for themselves by performing mock orthopedic surgeries and biomechanics experiments.

Participants should be in grades 10 and higher with an interest in science, medicine and/or engineering.

Applicants should fill out an online application in advance of the Nov. 14 program. Applications can be found at PerryInitiative.org/programs/student-online-application.

For information about the Perry Initiative, visit PerryInitiative.org.

Middle school math contest
Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo, will host the American Mathematics Contest 8 for middle school students Nov. 17 at 5:30 p.m., in TECO Hall in the School of Business.

Parents, teachers and students interested in this opportunity should contact Monika Kiss of the Department of Mathematics and Science. She can be reached at (352) 588-8836 or .

Citizens of the Month
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce recognized student Citizens of the Month for September and October.

Those honored in September were Madison Gunn, Academy at the Farm; Alexandre Isaac, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Landry Samuels, Saint Anthony Catholic School; Cassidy Grubbs, Centennial Elementary School; Johana Morales Perez, Lacoochee Elementary School; Angelita Capetillo-Navejar, Pasco Elementary; Alexis Tillis, Rodney B. Cox Elementary; Joseph Hancock, San Antonio Elementary; Abagahale Wincott, Centennial Middle; Nashaw Roberts, Pasco Middle; Cheyanne Stone, James Irvin Education Center; and Hannah White, Pasco High.

Students honored in October were Bryce Hewell, Academy at the Farm; Elizabeth Franklin, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Faith Quinn, Saint Anthony Catholic School; Hannah Ditomasso, Centennial Elementary; Hailey Hitts, Lacoochee Elementary; Adrian Sandoval, Pasco Elementary; Jair Pantoja, Rodney B. Cox Elementary; Logan Dyal, San Antonio Elementary; Anissa Wilson, Centennial Middle; Juan Pablo Benavides, Pasco Middle; Diamond Diaz-Cherry, James Irvin Education Center; and Yocia Abney, Pasco High.

Winter Art Showcase and Book Fair
Wiregrass Ranch High School will have a “Winter Art Showcase and Book Fair” at Barnes & Noble at The Shops at Wiregrass on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. There will be a jazz quartet, carolers and drama performances, “Artist in Action,” storytelling, face painting, art exhibits, free gift wrapping and more. Come and show your support and win prizes like a GlowLight Nook, PTSA gift bag and original paintings.

If you cannot make the event, shop online from Dec. 3 to Dec. 7, using voucher code 11704327 at BN.com/bookfairs, and a percentage of your Barnes & Noble purchases will benefit the fine arts department at Wiregrass Ranch High School.

Mock debate and election
Students and residents interested in national electoral politics are invited to see a mock presidential debate Nov. 13 at 7 p.m., in the Greenfelder-Denlinger Boardrooms of the Student Community Center, Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo. Two student debaters are playing the roles of fictitious Republican and Democratic presidential candidates.

This debate culminates a semester project shared among nine different college classes involving students in realistic roles, including campaign strategists, media representatives, and debate moderators. The audience gets to vote at the end.

To find out more, contact Greg Kunzweiler at (352) 588-6578 or .

Corbett Prep open house
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS, 12015 Orange Grove Drive in Tampa, will have an Admissions Open House Nov. 17 at 8:30 a.m.

Headmaster Dr. Joyce Burick Swarzman will discuss academic curriculum, fine arts, sports and STEM programs. Swarzman also will explain how and why Corbett Prep uses brain-based teaching strategies in classrooms and the regular in-house and national training for teachers.

For information or to RSVP, contact Jennifer Clark at (813) 961-3087 or .

Admissions open house
Academy at the Lakes, 2331 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, will host an Admissions Open House for grades 5 to 12 on Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on the McCormick Campus.

To RSVP, visit AcademyAtTheLakes.org/rsvp-open-house.

For information, call (813) 909-7919.