America at 250: A Journey of Freedom and Faith Across Generations

Posted on July 3rd, 2026 by

America at 250: A Journey of Freedom and Faith Across Generations

Today marks a milestone that feels both incredibly historic and deeply personal. As a nation, we gather to celebrate our Semiquincentennial, marking exactly 250 years since we declared our independence as a democratic republic. For many of my generation, this day naturally pulls our minds back to our youth. We can vividly remember as children in 1976 when our country celebrated its grand Bicentennial. So much has happened in those 50 years, with the world transforming in ways we could scarcely have imagined, yet one thing has not changed. That enduring constant is our deep love for our country, and that is what we try daily to instill in the hearts and lives of the next generation of Americans.

Growing up just outside of Boston, Massachusetts, I had a front row seat to history during that magical summer of 1976. The air felt charged with a unique, patriotic energy that unified neighbors and strangers alike. I can still remember the vast celebrations that echoed through the historic streets of Lexington and Concord, places where the first sparks of liberty were ignited. In the city of Boston, the harbor was alive with tall ships, and the night sky flashed with brilliant fireworks. It was a spectacular sight for a child, but what stayed with me was knowing that this same vibrant joy was happening throughout our many great cities and states. It was a moment that bound us all together.

Now, 50 years later, we stand at another monumental crossroads. The half century between the Bicentennial and today has brought incredible technological progress, societal challenges, and profound moments that tested our national resolve. Through every high and low, the core experiment of American democracy has endured. It survives because it is not a static set of documents under glass, but a living promise carried forward by everyday citizens who believe in the dream of liberty.

As we celebrate 250 years, let us honor the legacy of our founding fathers and all those who have sacrificed for our great freedom. We do this by continuing our belief that as Americans we are born with equal worth, and basic rights that should not be taken away. This truth remains our North Star, guiding us through turbulent times and lighting the path toward a more perfect union.

Instilling this legacy in the next generation is our most vital responsibility. The children of today will be the stewards of our future tricentennial, and they must understand that freedom requires active participation, education, and a commitment to justice. When we share stories of past celebrations, we are not just sharing nostalgia. We are passing down a torch, ensuring its flame burns just as brightly for them.

I pray that we let this historic day be a renewal of our vows to one another and to the nation we call home. We are a diverse people, yet we remain united by a shared inheritance. As we look back on two and a half centuries of independence, let us look forward together with hope, dedication, and faith in the American promise. Happy Semiquincentennial to my fellow citizens. May our next chapter bring true liberty, unity, and peace for every generation to come.

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Bridging Continents: How Local Citrus Students Are Empowering a Community in Ghana

Posted on June 28th, 2026 by

Bridging Continents: How Local Citrus Students Are Empowering a Community in Ghana

Education has long been recognized as one of the most powerful tools for changing lives. In Citrus County high schools, that belief extends far beyond the classroom.

Over the past several months, Ashley Shidner, Ph.D., who recently served as the International Baccalaureate (IB) Coordinator and IB Global Village Advisor at Lecanto High School, has led an inspiring humanitarian effort. This initiative has beautifully connected students in Citrus County with children thousands of miles away in Ghana, West Africa.

A Global Vision and Local Action

Working alongside Lecanto High School’s IB CAS Coordinator, Angela Rausch, and Yolanda Carlisle of YWAM and First Coast Global Servants, Dr. Shidner and the students of IB Global Village launched a service initiative to support the APAM Orphanage and Foster Home School in Ghana.

Their primary focus was providing essential educational resources and opportunities for children who face significant daily challenges. The APAM Orphanage and Foster Home, a recognized childcare facility under Ghana’s Department of Social Welfare, is located in Mayera, near Pokuase/Faase in the Greater Accra Region. Through its integrated educational programs, the home serves orphaned children living on campus, students from the surrounding community, and others who travel long distances each day, providing educational opportunities and resources to children facing significant daily challenges.

Through the dedication and compassion of Lecanto High School’s IB students, faculty, and volunteers, the team achieved remarkable results. Dozens of science kits were carefully assembled. In addition, critical school supplies and athletic equipment were collected to help enrich classroom instruction and extracurricular activities. These resources provide teachers with valuable new instructional tools while giving students greater opportunities to explore science, engage in physical activity, and develop life skills that extend beyond traditional academics.

Developing Caring Citizens

This ambitious project exemplifies the core mission of the International Baccalaureate Programme, which encourages students to become caring, knowledgeable, and principled global citizens. Rather than simply learning about world issues through textbooks, Lecanto High students took meaningful action to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Through IB Global Village, a student-led humanitarian organization, students gain firsthand insight into the realities faced by children in other parts of the world. They participate in internationally focused volunteer initiatives and cross-cultural partnerships that foster deep empathy and global awareness. Ultimately, they discover how service and compassion can create lasting change, learning that true leadership is measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by what we do for others.

Sharing Knowledge Across Continents

The impact of this partnership has extended well beyond the donation of physical supplies. The initiative has evolved into something even more profound: the sharing of knowledge, encouragement, and hope across continents.

Recently, Dr. Shidner was invited to lead a special virtual professional development session for teachers and upper-level students at the Ghanaian school. Her presentation, Motivation and Academic Ownership Through Discipline, focused on helping educators and students cultivate personal responsibility, perseverance, and a mindset that empowers academic success.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Shidner shared a deeply held conviction: “Education has the power to transform lives, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share.” Those words capture the very spirit behind the entire initiative.

Expanding the Vision to Crystal River

The success of this Ghana initiative demonstrates the remarkable impact that can occur when students are empowered to serve. It also highlights the steadfast dedication of educators who continue to inspire students to think beyond their own communities.

Dr. Shidner has transitioned to Crystal River High School, where she is expanding her commitment to international service by establishing the Global Village model on her new campus. Through this initiative, students will have meaningful opportunities to engage in humanitarian projects while developing leadership skills and a lifelong commitment to service.

Projects like these remind us that education extends far beyond the walls of a classroom, a campus, or even a country. It is about building bridges, fostering understanding, and empowering future generations to make a positive difference wherever they are called to serve.

Through the collaboration of dedicated educators and engaged students, meaningful opportunities to serve others, locally, nationally, and globally, become possible. Together, they have demonstrated that even from a small community in Citrus County, it is possible to create a lasting impact on lives around the world. Their collective efforts serve as a powerful reminder that kindness knows no borders, service has no limits, and education has the power to transform lives across communities and cultures.

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Summer Means Progress: Behind the Scenes with Citrus County Schools Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance Teams

Posted on June 21st, 2026 by

Summer Means Progress: Behind the Scenes with Citrus County Schools Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance Teams

While students and teachers enjoy a well-deserved summer break, another group of dedicated professionals is hard at work across Citrus County Schools. Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for our Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance Departments, led by Director Eric Stokes and his outstanding team.

Mr. Stokes brings more than 30 years of experience in the construction and facilities industry to Citrus County Schools. Over the course of his career, he has held numerous construction-related licenses and has spent roughly half of his professional life working in the private sector and the other half serving our school district. His expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence have helped ensure that our students and staff have safe, comfortable, and efficient learning environments.

The summer of 2026 has proven to be another productive season as Mr. Stokes, his teams, and the outside contractors they oversee continue to complete critical facility improvements throughout the district.

Among the major projects currently underway are re-roofing efforts at both Homosassa Elementary School and the Withlacoochee Technical College (WTC) campus. Roof replacement projects are essential investments that protect our facilities, preserve taxpayer resources, and ensure that classrooms remain safe and operational for years to come. Florida’s weather can be particularly demanding on school facilities, making these proactive improvements especially important.

Another significant project this summer is the installation of a new fire alarm system at Citrus Springs Elementary School. Safety remains our highest priority, and upgrading critical life-safety systems helps ensure that students, staff, and visitors are protected with modern, reliable technology.

One of the largest projects underway is a major HVAC upgrade at Crystal River Middle School. This project highlights the incredible work of our maintenance department, which has consistently maximized the lifespan of existing equipment. The HVAC units being replaced have served the school for more than 25 years, enduring multiple hurricanes and operating well beyond their anticipated life cycle. Through diligent maintenance, careful repairs, and responsible stewardship of district resources, our team was able to extend the usefulness of this equipment far beyond industry expectations. Simply put, we got our money’s worth. The new system will improve energy efficiency, reliability, and comfort for students and staff while reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Security enhancements also remain a top priority for Citrus County Schools. Each year, district leaders work closely with local law enforcement agencies to identify opportunities to strengthen campus security. This summer’s security project focuses on front office enhancements at Lecanto Primary School. These improvements are designed to provide additional layers of protection while maintaining a welcoming environment for students, families, and visitors.

This project is especially noteworthy because it was made possible largely through grant funding secured with the assistance of the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, former CCSB Police Chief Captain Montgomery, and our law enforcement partners. Their collaboration demonstrates the strong relationships that exist between Citrus County Schools and local public safety agencies. Together, we continue to seek innovative ways to improve school safety while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.

Another exciting project is taking place at the Crystal River High School Veterinary Pathway at the Academy of Health Careers. This enhancement project is being funded through Career and Technical Education (CTE) grant resources and will significantly expand and improve the program’s capabilities. Citrus County Schools has long recognized the importance of providing students with real-world career pathways, and the Veterinary Pathway continues to be a shining example of that commitment. The improvements will provide students with enhanced learning opportunities, expanded hands-on experiences, and greater preparation for future careers in veterinary medicine, animal science, and related fields.

Beyond these major construction projects, numerous smaller improvements are being completed throughout the district by our maintenance teams. While these projects may not always make headlines, they are essential to the daily operation and long-term success of our schools. From classroom repairs and painting to plumbing, electrical work, grounds maintenance, and facility upgrades, these teams address countless needs that help our schools function effectively.

Equally deserving of recognition are our custodial teams. Throughout the summer months, custodians work tirelessly to maintain construction areas while simultaneously preparing schools for the upcoming academic year. Floors are stripped, cleaned, and refinished. Classrooms are deep cleaned and refreshed. Buildings are inspected and prepared. Grounds are maintained and enhanced. Their work often occurs behind the scenes and outside normal school hours, yet it plays a vital role in creating welcoming learning environments for students and staff.

These dedicated employees are truly the quiet heroes of our school district. They work long hours under demanding schedules and often with tight deadlines to ensure every school is ready when students return in August. Their commitment to excellence helps provide safe, comfortable, and adequate learning environments where students can thrive.

As we look forward to the start of another school year, it is important to recognize and thank the many individuals who make these improvements possible. From Director Eric Stokes and his leadership team to our maintenance technicians, custodians, contractors, and community partners, their efforts are helping build a stronger future for Citrus County Schools.

While summer may appear quiet on our campuses, tremendous work is taking place behind the scenes. Thanks to these dedicated professionals, our schools will be ready to welcome students back to safe, modern, and well-maintained facilities for another successful year of learning.

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Kennedy Re-Elected: Thank you!

Posted on June 12th, 2026 by

Kennedy Re-Elected: Thank you!

I am deeply grateful to our community for once again placing its trust in me to continue serving as a School Board representative for our students, families, educators, staff, and the broader community.

These are pivotal and demanding times for public education. It is more critical than ever that we stay focused on providing a rigorous, engaging, and relevant education that prepares our students to succeed in an ever-changing world.

I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my wife, Thomasine, my children, and all of my friends and supporters who have stood with me, encouraged me, and supported me every step of the way.

God bless our students, staff, families, and God bless our great county.

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Florida K-12 AI in Education Task Force Continues Important Work

Posted on June 10th, 2026 by

Florida K-12 AI in Education Task Force Continues Important Work

Great insights shared this morning at the Florida K-12 AI in Education Task Force meeting in Tampa.

As a founding member of the Task Force, I am grateful to work alongside Dr. Maya Israel, Roberto Alonso, and the many dedicated educators and leaders who coordinated and presented today’s session. I am proud of the collaborative work taking place across our state to help school districts navigate innovation in a thoughtful, practical, and student-centered way.

Our mission has always been clear: share best practices, support educators, and provide resources that help schools confidently adapt to emerging technologies while keeping students at the center of every decision.

Technology will continue to evolve, and education must evolve with it. By learning from one another and working together, we can ensure our teachers have the support they need and our students are prepared for the future with the appropriate safeguards, skills, and opportunities in place.

Thankful for the many partners across Florida who continue to contribute their time, expertise, and commitment to this important work. Together, we are helping shape the future of education for all students.

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School Advisory Council Collaboration: Crafting School Improvement Plans

Posted on June 8th, 2026 by

School Advisory Council Collaboration: Crafting School Improvement Plans

Summertime in Citrus County Schools often conjures images of empty hallways, quiet cafeterias, and vacant playgrounds. However, behind the scenes, this season is actually a vibrant hub of strategic activity. One of the most important of these activities is the development of our schools’ annual School Improvement Plans (SIPs). This crucial period sees dedicated stakeholders, including our School Advisory Councils (SACs), coming together to help shape the future of our educational institutions.

Parents, teachers, staff, and administrators unite to review school achievement data and survey results. Together, they collaborate on customized plans designed to address the unique needs of each school.

One of the most impressive aspects of the SAC SIP process is the commitment to taking a deep dive into data and the specific needs of students and schools. Rather than using a generic, one-size-fits-all approach, each SAC reviews a comprehensive analysis tailored to the challenges and opportunities present at its individual campus. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that improvement plans are not only relevant but also highly effective in making a genuine impact on student outcomes.

When a council sits down to evaluate a school year, members examine a multifaceted picture of student life. They review state assessment scores to gauge academic proficiency, analyze attendance records to better understand student engagement, and study climate survey results completed by students, families, and staff to assess the overall sense of safety, belonging, and school culture.

During these meetings, SIP team members examine achievement data and gather feedback through comprehensive surveys. They gain valuable insights into the strengths and areas for growth within their schools. This thorough examination allows them to identify targeted opportunities for improvement. They look closely at curriculum design, instructional strategies, student support services, and parent engagement initiatives. This data-driven approach helps ensure that proposed improvements are backed by evidence and aligned with the evolving needs of each individual school’s population.

This week, I had the distinct privilege of participating in SIP meetings at Central Ridge Elementary School and Citrus Springs Middle School. I will be attending and participating in several others in the coming weeks. The experience is always enlightening and underscores our district’s deep commitment to continuous improvement and student success.

At Central Ridge Elementary, discussions naturally centered on foundational skills and nurturing early learners. Meanwhile, at Citrus Springs Middle School, conversations focused on preparing young adolescents for the academic rigors of high school, including expanding career and technical education opportunities and industry certification pathways available to middle school students. Seeing these tailored approaches in real time highlights the power of both the SIP framework and the SAC stakeholders who help guide it.

The collaborative nature of SAC SIP meetings is another standout feature of our district. These sessions foster a profound sense of shared responsibility and ownership among all stakeholders. Parents bring a unique perspective from home. Teachers share daily classroom realities. Administrators provide a broad, systems-level view. During these planning meetings, everyone’s input is valued and considered, ensuring that diverse perspectives help shape these important improvement plans.

This inclusive approach not only strengthens the effectiveness of the plans but also promotes a strong sense of community within our schools. It is incredibly heartening to see parents, teachers, and administrators working together toward a common goal: providing the absolute best education possible for Citrus County students.

Participating in the SAC SIP process has been a deeply rewarding experience for me, first as a parent representative and now as a School Board member. It provides a firsthand look at the dedication and hard work that go into planning and implementing school improvements. The commitment of SAC members to meticulously analyze data and craft tailored strategies is a testament to their unwavering dedication to student success. Their efforts clearly demonstrate our district’s commitment to continuous improvement.

SAC SIP meetings are a powerful reminder of the positive change that can be achieved when we work together and focus on the specific needs of our schools. By examining data, gathering feedback, and collaborating on effective strategies, we can create nurturing and supportive educational environments that foster student success at every grade level. This process underscores the importance of stakeholder involvement in education and highlights the collective effort required to ensure the best outcomes for all students in Citrus County.

As we move forward with finalized School Improvement Plans, I am optimistic about the future of our schools. The dedication and collaborative spirit of SAC members inspire confidence that we are on the right path.

When our students return to classrooms this fall, they will benefit directly from the quiet and diligent work completed during the summer months. The strategies developed today will become the engaging lessons, supportive interventions, and thriving school cultures of tomorrow. Together, we can continue making strides in providing a high-quality education and supporting the growth and development of every student in our district.

I look forward to seeing these plans come to life and watching our students soar.

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