Archive for Blog Posts

Citrus County Schools Explores Aerospace Opportunities at Space Florida’s Launch Pad Summit

Citrus County Schools Explores Aerospace Opportunities at Space Florida’s Launch Pad Summit

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education and technology, Citrus County Schools is taking bold steps to prepare students for the future. Dr. Holli Herndon, Citrus County Schools Career and Technical Education Specialist, and I recently had the privilege of attending an exclusive event hosted by Space Florida in collaboration with the North Florida Economic Development Partnership. The Launch Pad Summit provided a deep dive into the groundbreaking initiatives led by Space Florida and its Space Florida Academy, showcasing how these resources are shaping Florida’s future workforce. This event brought together key leaders, including legislators, economic development organizations, school board members, superintendents, higher education institutions, and technical colleges, to explore the intersection of space, innovation, and workforce development.

One of the key highlights of the event was a presentation by Mike Miller, Space Florida’s Vice President of External Affairs and Workforce Integration. He shared details about the Space Florida Space Academy, a program developed in collaboration with aerospace industry leaders, the National Space Council, the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Commerce, and the Governor’s REACH Office (Reimagining Education and Career Help). The academy focuses on enhancing education programs in six target fields crucial to current and future industry demands: Aviation/Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Cybersecurity/IT, Logistics, and Semiconductors.

We were also thrilled to have astronaut Jerry Linenger make a surprise appearance at the event. Linenger, a former NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Navy officer, spent five months aboard the Russian space station Mir, playing a key role in groundbreaking scientific experiments. During his remarks, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the manufacturers and workers whose dedication ensured his safety during his missions in space. His inspiring presence highlighted the importance of teamwork and innovation in making space exploration possible, providing invaluable insight into the critical role of collaboration in the aerospace field.

Citrus County Schools’ engagement with space and technology education is not a recent development but a deliberate, ongoing strategy to provide students with opportunities in the aerospace and space industries. Approximately three years ago, I had the privilege of speaking at the Astronauts Memorial Foundation Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center during the launch of the Mission One STEAM initiative. This collaborative effort, involving various aerospace and community partners, aims to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).

Building on these efforts, last school year, Citrus County Schools, with the support of the Citrus County Education Foundation, brought more than 80 high school juniors and seniors to the AMF Center for Space Education for a College and Career Readiness Event at the Kennedy Space Center. This event provided students with invaluable exposure to career pathways in aerospace and related fields.

In January, Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert sent a small Career and Technical Education (CTE) delegation—including Assistant Superintendent Jen Greco, Director of CTE Debra Stanley, Dr. Holli Herndon, and me—to tour Eau Gallie High School’s Aviation Fabrication and Assembly Technician (AF/AT) Program. Under the instruction of Mr. William McInnish, this highly respected and successful program offers a sequence of courses, including Aviation Assembly Technician 1-3. The curriculum aligns with Florida state standards, emphasizing skills in high demand by aerospace leaders such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon/Collins Aerospace, and SpaceX. The program boasts nearly a 100% placement rate for students into jobs, college, or military service, demonstrating the potential for Citrus County Schools to implement similar programs that provide students with direct career opportunities.

The Space Florida Launch Pad Summit reinforced the importance of strategic partnerships and investments in education to ensure Florida remains a leader in aerospace and technology. Established in 2006, Space Florida is the state’s aerospace economic development agency, dedicated to positioning Florida as a global leader in the space industry. Through public-private partnerships and strategic investments, Space Florida supports commercial spaceflight, satellite production, space tourism, and other aerospace initiatives. The organization fosters business growth, infrastructure development, research, and workforce expansion, all of which contribute to the state’s thriving space and aerospace ecosystem.

These efforts align closely with the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program that Citrus County Schools was awarded last year to expand our high school welding and machinist programs. This initiative aims to enhance workforce development throughout Florida by offering students hands-on educational experiences in various high-demand fields, including aerospace, biomedical science, and aviation.

Citrus County Schools, under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Hebert and with the support of the School Board, continues to advance strategic educational offerings that prepare students for higher education, military service, and workforce opportunities. Through these initiatives and partnerships with industry leaders, Citrus County Schools is dedicated to equipping students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in Florida’s growing aerospace sector.

The Launch Pad Summit was an invaluable experience, reinforcing our district’s commitment to preparing students for the careers of tomorrow. As we continue to explore innovative educational opportunities, Citrus County Schools remains dedicated to fostering student success and economic growth by aligning our programs with industry needs. The future of Florida’s space and aerospace industries is bright, and we are excited to be part of shaping the next generation of professionals in these critical fields.

Advocating for Education: 2025 FSBA Day in the Legislature

Advocating for Education: 2025 FSBA Day in the Legislature

This week, I had the privilege of traveling to Tallahassee to participate in the 38th Annual Florida School Board Association (FSBA) Day in the Legislature. This event serves as a crucial opportunity for school board members across Florida to engage directly with state legislators, gain insights into education policies under consideration, and advocate for the needs of our students, families, educators, and communities.

Advocating for Citrus County Schools

As part of the Citrus County School Board delegation, I joined fellow board members in meeting with key legislators and state leaders. Our discussions focused on the pressing needs of our students, families, schools, and the broader community. We had meaningful conversations with Florida Senator Blaise Ingoglia and Florida House Representative J.J. Grow, sharing our perspectives on how legislative decisions impact education in Citrus County.

I am especially grateful to Senator Ingoglia and Representative Grow for their passion and commitment to our students and educators, particularly for their invaluable support in expanding career and technical education opportunities in our high schools. Programs such as our Academy of Health Careers—highlighted in this year’s legislative funding request—are essential. They provide industry certifications and real-world experiences that not only prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce but also create pathways that strengthen and benefit our communities.

These discussions provided a vital platform for advocating policy changes and securing resources to help our schools thrive. We emphasized the importance of continued investment in public education, ensuring students have access to high-quality learning experiences, and supporting educators in their mission to guide the next generation.

Commissioner Manny Díaz Jr.’s Address

Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Díaz Jr. addressed FSBA members, sharing his insights and encouragement for the future of education in Florida. He urged us to continue reassuring families, educators, and communities that, despite potential changes at the federal level, Florida remains committed to educational excellence. Commissioner Díaz encouraged school districts to embrace innovation, explore new ways to enhance student learning, and expand educational offerings. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Florida Department of Education, reaffirming the department’s commitment to supporting local initiatives and ensuring the best possible outcomes for students, families, and communities.

The Classroom of the Future

A highlight of this trip was my participating in the ‘Classroom of the Future’ event, hosted by the Florida K12 AI Task Force at the Tallahassee State College Center for Innovation. This event explored the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education and how AI tools can enhance teaching and learning experiences.

As the Chairman of the FSBA AI/IT in Education Committee, I had the opportunity to co-present a Fireside Chat alongside Dr. Demetrius Rice, Director of Strategic Operations for FSBA. Our discussion focused on “Five Best Practices for Implementing AI Tools into Your Workflow,” a topic of growing importance as AI continues to shape the educational landscape.

We highlighted the benefits of AI in streamlining administrative tasks, enhancing personalized learning experiences, and supporting educators in delivering high-quality instruction. The session provided valuable insights into how schools can responsibly and effectively integrate AI technologies while addressing ethical considerations and data privacy concerns—all while ensuring that we prepare students to succeed in an increasingly AI-driven world.

The Florida K-12 AI Task Force is composed of over 80 dedicated members, including University of Florida faculty and staff, Florida district and school administrators, district information and instructional technology leaders, parent groups, school board members, community college administrators, industry professionals, and nonprofit leaders, and teachers. I am honored to work alongside these educators and innovators as we shape the future of AI in education, ensuring that technology enhances learning experiences while maintaining ethical and practical considerations.

Key Legislative Developments

In addition to meetings and presentations, we closely reviewed numerous filed bills and their potential impact on Florida’s students and school districts. Among the many legislative proposals, two bills stand out as particularly promising:

SB 166 – Administrative Efficiency in Public Schools

Sponsored by Senator Simon, this bill continues efforts to deregulate public education initiated last year in the Florida Senate. A key provision modifies high school graduation requirements. Instead of the 10th Grade English Language Arts (ELA) assessment and Algebra I End-of-Course (EOC) exam serving as standalone barriers to graduation, the bill proposes incorporating these scores into students’ final grades.

This shift could create new opportunities for students by reducing high-stakes testing pressure while maintaining rigorous academic standards. It acknowledges that a single test should not define a student’s educational journey and allows for a more holistic assessment of academic achievement.

HB 261 / CS/SB 296 – Middle and High School Start Times

Another significant legislative proposal is HB 261 in the Florida House, co-sponsored by Representatives Booth, Mooney, Tendrich, and Weinberger, and CS/SB 296 in the Florida Senate, sponsored by Senator Bradley. These bills seek to repeal or provide local autonomy over the state-mandated school start times set to take effect by July 1, 2026. Currently, middle schools must begin no earlier than 8:00 AM and high schools no earlier than 8:30 AM.

The mandated statewide implementation presents logistical challenges for districts, including transportation constraints and budgetary concerns. This bill would return decision-making authority to local school districts, allowing them to determine start times based on their unique needs and circumstances.

Moving Forward

The 2025 FSBA Day in the Legislature reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders in shaping the future of education in Florida. As we move forward, the school district remains committed to advocating for policies that enhance student success, respect our families, support educators, and strengthen our school system.

I look forward to continuing these discussions with our legislators, colleagues on the Citrus County School Board, FSBA members, and stakeholders in our community. Together, we will work to ensure that every student in our district has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

2025 Citrus Schools Math Field Day: A Celebration of Excellence and Teamwork

2025 Citrus Schools Math Field Day: A Celebration of Excellence and Teamwork

On Saturday, March 15, 2025, Citrus High School buzzed with energy as students from across the county gathered for the 2025 Citrus Schools Math Field Day. This annual event, hosted by the Citrus County Education Foundation and sponsored by Suncoast Credit Union, provided middle and high school students with an opportunity to showcase their mathematical talents in a spirited and engaging competition.

A Celebration of Math and Problem-Solving

“This competition is a testament to our love for Mathematics in Citrus County. We value perseverance, strategic thinking, teamwork, and creativity,” said Melanie Brodsky, 2025 Math Field Day coordinator and Citrus School District Math Specialist.

Throughout the day, students tackled a series of challenges spanning algebra, geometry, and logic. From solving complex equations to tackling intricate puzzles, participants stretched their intellectual abilities, learning from one another while honing their problem-solving skills.

Teamwork and Camaraderie Take Center Stage

Math Field Day is about more than just numbers—it’s about collaboration. Many events required students to work in teams, emphasizing communication, cooperation, and strategic thinking. This friendly competition fostered mutual respect among students from different schools, reinforcing the idea that mathematics is both a challenge and a shared passion.

Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert praised the students and organizers, “Today was a fantastic day as we celebrated our math students. I was excited to be a part of this event again this year. Our amazing staff did a wonderful job organizing and running an enjoyable event!”

Recognizing Excellence

Students who demonstrated outstanding mathematical abilities were recognized with ribbons and medals, with the most prestigious honor—the High Point Award—going to the schools with the highest cumulative scores. This year, Inverness Middle School and Lecanto High School claimed the coveted awards in their respective divisions, a testament to their students’ dedication and hard work.

Creativity Shines Through Art

Beyond numbers, Math Field Day also celebrated student creativity through the annual t-shirt design contest. This year’s winning design, created by Danielle Meeks, a ninth grader at Seven Rivers Christian School, added an artistic flair to the event and was proudly worn by participants and supporters alike. Each 1st place student received a t-shirt with young Meeks’ design on it.

Behind the Scenes: The People Who Made It Happen

The success of Math Field Day was made possible by the dedication of school coordinators, volunteers, and district staff. “It was an honor to work with an amazing team, including school coordinators, volunteers, district staff, and community sponsors, who all came together to make this a success for the students and families of Citrus County,” said Brodsky.

A special thanks goes to District Curriculum Supervisor Dr. Balk and LMS Assistant Principal Mr. Ben Davis, who ensured accurate and efficient result tabulation. The event also received strong support from Director of Specialty Programs Darrick Buettner, Chief Academic Officer Amy Crowell, and the school Math Field Day coordinators, including Jaime Mays (Crystal River Middle), Veronica Vaughn (Citrus Springs Middle), Amber DeFiore (Inverness Middle), Shanda Cairns (Lecanto Middle), Rachel DeBeer (Seven Rivers Christian School), Mr. Lambert (Academy of Environmental Science), Eugene Gagne (Citrus High School), Ty Hamilton (Crystal River High School), and Melissa Mitchell (Lecanto High School). Their passion for education and commitment to fostering a love for mathematics in students were evident throughout the event.

Community and Leadership Support

The event would not have been possible without the continued support of Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert and the School Board, whose leadership ensures that initiatives like Math Field Day continue to thrive. A special thank you also goes to Citrus High School Principal Mark Kahler and his team for their hospitality in hosting this year’s event.

Shaunda Burdette, Executive Director of CCEF, highlighted the impact of Math Field Day: “The partnership between Citrus County Education and the Citrus County School District’s Math Field Day, presented by Suncoast Credit Union, is a powerful investment in our students’ futures. By fostering a love for mathematics and problem-solving, this collaboration empowers young mathletes to build confidence, sharpen critical thinking skills, and embrace the challenges of STEM education. Together, we are inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders in Citrus County.”

Looking Forward to Next Year

Math Field Day is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of students’ skills, creativity, and perseverance. As the event concluded, it was clear that students had not only deepened their mathematical understanding but also built valuable skills for their future academic and professional endeavors.

As Melanie Brodsky enthusiastically summed up, “I cannot wait for next year!”

Young Athletes Shine at the 12th Annual TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon

Young Athletes Shine at the 12th Annual TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon

The 12th Annual TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon, held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Bicentennial Park in Crystal River, FL, was a celebration of athleticism, perseverance, and community spirit. Over 500 kids, volunteers, and spectators participated in the event, which was sponsored by Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Crystal River and hosted by the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF). Managed by DRC Sports, this USA Triathlon-sanctioned competition brought together young athletes from across the region to compete in swimming, biking, and running.

With three divisions—Junior, Senior, and Tri4Fun—children aged 5-15 showcased their determination and resilience. The event emphasized personal achievement and sportsmanship, providing a platform for kids of all abilities to challenge themselves in a supportive, multisport environment.

Event Coordinator and CCEF Treasurer Amy McLaughlin, who has been involved since the inaugural race, spoke about the event’s deep roots in the community. “The Citrus Kids Triathlon is one of my favorite events. It’s more than just a fundraiser for CCEF—it’s a celebration of community. Seeing kids of all ages and abilities, along with families and volunteers, come together to support and cheer each other on is heartwarming. Every year, it reminds me how special our community truly is.”

McLaughlin reflected on her personal journey with the event, from supporting her son and daughter as first-time triathletes to becoming a dedicated organizer. “This was the 12th annual Citrus Kids Tri, and I’ve been part of it since the very first one—first as a parent when my son and daughter wanted to try something new, and ever since as either a parent or a volunteer. I hope to see this event continue to grow and benefit everyone involved.”

This year marked a significant milestone with the introduction of Tampa General Hospital as the title sponsor, further strengthening the triathlon’s mission to promote health and wellness among youth. Jennifer Siem, TGH Senior Director of Strategic Growth and Governmental Affairs, highlighted the event’s alignment with TGH’s dedication to fostering lifelong healthy habits. “At Tampa General Hospital, we believe in fostering healthy, active lifestyles from an early age, and this event perfectly embodied that mission.”

Linda Stockton, TGH Senior Vice President & TGH Crystal River Hospital President, emphasized the deeper impact of the triathlon beyond physical activity. “The TGH Crystal River Citrus Kids Triathlon was about more than just swimming, biking, and running—it was about determination, sportsmanship, and celebrating the incredible spirit of our young athletes. We look forward to additional opportunities to support education in Citrus County through our important and evolving partnership.”

Among the standout performances of the day was Senior Girls Age 14 Division 1st place winner—and fastest female competitor of the day—Jocelyn Daugherty, an eighth grader from Crystal River Middle School. A year-round swimmer for the Sun Coast Swim Team, which trains at Bicentennial Park Pool, Jocelyn shared her enthusiasm for the competition. “I love the sense of accomplishment, pride, and exhilaration after crossing the finish line. I also enjoy meeting other athletes from different areas who come to compete.”

With experience in multiple triathlons at both Whispering Pines and Bicentennial Park, Jocelyn has gained extensive multisport experience. Offering advice to aspiring young triathletes, she encouraged them to take the leap. “For anyone thinking about doing a triathlon, just go out and do it. It is a challenging feat, but just finishing the race is an accomplishment in itself. You may not place, but knowing you can train harder and push yourself more for the next one is what makes it worthwhile.”

CCEF Executive Director Shaunda Burdette echoed the sentiment that the event is about more than competition. “The Citrus Kids Triathlon, presented by Tampa General Hospital, is an opportunity for young athletes to build confidence, embrace a healthy lifestyle, and experience the joy of perseverance. At the Citrus County Education Foundation, we are proud to support an event that challenges students to push their limits while fostering a strong sense of community. We are grateful to Tampa General Hospital and all our partners for making this incredible experience possible for our kids.”

The enthusiasm and support from families, volunteers, and sponsors turned the 12th Annual TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon into a truly unforgettable event. With each passing year, the event continues to grow, inspiring young athletes to push their boundaries and celebrate the joy of sport. As the finish line banners came down and medals were awarded, one thing was clear: the spirit of triathlon in Citrus County is stronger than ever.

Jennifer Siem summed up the day’s impact perfectly: “Watching the kids challenge themselves, push their limits, and cross that finish line was truly inspiring. No matter their speed or skill level, every participant was a winner because they had the courage to step up, take part, and give it their all.”

2025 12th Annual TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon Results

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Senior Division (Born 2010-2014)

Male Age 11

  1. J. Coimbra – Wesley Chapel – 21:44.2
  2. A. Logvinov – Sarasota – 30:42.2
  3. M. Trail – Crystal River – 35:41.1

Male Age 12

  1. N. Schechter – Ocala – 24:13.1
  2. G. Lowe – Lecanto – 28:07.2
  3. J. Beauvais – Homosassa – 31:58.7

Male Age 13

  1. Landon Black – Lecanto – 28:44.1
  2. Thunder Ballantine – Gainesville – 29:07.0
  3. Davis – Clearwater – 31:12.5

Male Age 14

  1. Jake Bahner – Beverly Hills – 23:05.1
  2. Chang Lin – Inverness – 36:07.2

Male Age 15

  1. Konner Gonsalves – Inverness – 30:02.7
  2. Marcus Duey – Dunnellon – 40:01.2

Female Age 11

  1. M. Herrera – Beverly Hills – 29:10.9
  2. K. Hammond – Homosassa – 31:01.4
  3. H. Ballantine – Gainesville – 37:33.4

Female Age 12

  1. S. Hatley – Hernando – 41:16.3

Female Age 13

  1. Miroslava Logvinova – Sarasota – 27:49.7

Female Age 14

  1. Jocelyn Daugherty – Homosassa – 25:35.2
  2. Lilia Stone – Orlando – 29:36.3
  3. Rebecca Wilson – Lecanto – 36:32.9

Female Age 15

  1. Xiwen Liu – Homosassa – 30:09.7
  2. Madison Teitel – Inverness – 32:24.7

Junior Division (Born 2015-2020)

Male Age 6

  1. B. McKay – Orlando – 24:55.2
  2. T. Moore – Lecanto – 25:06.3
  3. R. Cummins – Inverness – 25:28.8

Male Age 7

  1. W. Lowe – Lecanto – 16:44.5
  2. E. Heron – Beverly Hills – 17:52.8
  3. H. Wright – Inverness – 20:13.5

Male Age 8

  1. S. Szymanski – Safety Harbor – 14:13.2
  2. C. Balmert – Crystal River – 17:03.8
  3. B. Mungovan – Hernando – 18:55.1

Male Age 9

  1. N. Garcia – Wesley Chapel – 12:49.9
  2. J. Ballantine – Gainesville – 15:58.5
  3. F. Rodrigues – Land O Lakes – 16:52.2

Male Age 10

  1. M. Beauvais – Homosassa – 15:49.6
  2. A. Russel – Land O Lakes – 15:50.6
  3. A. Lowes – Lecanto – 15:56.5

Female Age 7

  1. E. Stanton – Wesley Chapel – 22:34.8
  2. E. Rodrigues – Land O Lakes – 23:01.5
  3. A. Manoukas – Homosassa – 24:00.2

Female Age 8

  1. D. Coimbra – Wesley Chapel – 16:55.6
  2. S. Wester – Beverly Hills – 18:54.5
  3. D. Logvinova – Sarasota – 19:28.3

Female Age 9

  1. O. Maltas – Inverness – 17:48.3
  2. P. Clark – Inverness – 19:21.3
  3. S. Bender – Inverness – 20:54.3

Female Age 10

  1. A. Muller – Gainesville – 12:38.6
  2. E. Szymanski – Safety Harbor – 13:06.6
  3. S. Parulekar – Lutz – 14:41.9

 

Honoring Service: Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon

Honoring Service: Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon

I had the distinct honor of joining Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert, Citrus County Schools staff, and my fellow School Board Members at the annual Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon. This special event served as a heartfelt tribute to our local veterans, who generously dedicate their time and experiences to enriching students’ lives through the Veterans in the Classroom (VITC) program.

Since its inception in 1993, VITC—an initiative of Citrus County Schools—has fostered meaningful connections between students and former military servicemen and women. Over the years, it has positively impacted approximately 250,000 students, offering firsthand accounts of history, service, and sacrifice. This year alone, nearly 8,000 students across elementary, middle, and high schools had the privilege of learning from nearly 90 dedicated veterans. Through their personal stories, these veterans provide profound insights into how military service shaped their character and worldview. As one of the nation’s largest initiatives of its kind, the VITC program stands as a testament to our district’s commitment to honoring and learning from those who served.

The stories shared during these classroom visits offer students a deeper, more personal understanding of military life—the challenges faced, the resilience required, and the dedication it takes to serve our nation. By participating in the program, veterans bring history to life, allowing students to connect with the realities of service in a way that textbooks alone cannot convey.

The appreciation luncheon was a moving celebration of our community’s deep gratitude for these veterans. The ceremony began with an honor guard entrance, as veterans walked beneath crossed swords held by the Crystal River High School Navy JROTC and Lecanto High School Army JROTC cadets. The Citrus High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard presented the colors, setting a tone of dignity and respect. Hailey Story, a seventh grader from Inverness Middle School, led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation delivered by VITC veteran Michael Belkin. Attendees were then treated to a stirring performance by the Citrus High School Chamber Choir, whose harmonious voices added a special touch to the event. Meanwhile, Culinary Arts students from Withlacoochee Technical College prepared and served a delicious meal, showcasing their skills while honoring those who have served.

One of the most poignant moments of the luncheon came when each veteran took the stage, one by one, to introduce themselves and reflect on their military journey. These heartfelt exchanges highlighted not only the camaraderie among these brave men and women but also their shared passion for educating the next generation.

One VITC veteran spoke about the importance of sacrifice and respect, sharing a powerful story about escorting the caskets of three fallen soldiers. He described how students listened in complete silence, absorbing the weight of the moment as he explained to the students a special slow salute and the meaning behind its reverse—a gesture symbolizing the deepest respect for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Another VITC volunteer, Kristine Overacker, a young retired Marine Corps veteran, recounted speaking to a group of elementary students about why we have a military in an age-appropriate discussion. She used simple yet impactful examples to illustrate the vital role of those who serve in protecting our country. She described how the students were captivated, and when she finished, a brief silence filled the room before a few heads nodded—an acknowledgment that the lesson had truly resonated.

As a token of appreciation, each veteran received a thank-you pin from Dr. Hebert and the Citrus County School District, along with a handmade thank-you picture crafted by elementary students. These personal gestures added a heartfelt touch to the celebration, reminding everyone present of the deep connection between past generations of service members and the young minds they continue to inspire.

Citrus County Schools remains deeply committed to honoring veterans and ensuring students understand the significance of their sacrifices. The Veterans in the Classroom program is more than just a series of classroom visits—it is a living tribute to our community’s dedication to preserving veterans’ stories and passing them on to future generations. Veterans who participate in this program contribute to a lasting legacy of honor, remembrance, and education, while students gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of history, service, and sacrifice.

The program is expertly coordinated by Dr. Al Balk, Supervisor of Instructional Materials for Citrus County Schools, in collaboration with Dr. Mark Bodenheim and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Their dedication ensures that this invaluable program continues to thrive and inspire students year after year.

If you are a veteran interested in joining the 2025-2026 Veterans in the Classroom program, we encourage you to reach out! Please contact Dr. Balk at (352) 726-1931 ext. 2490 or email balka@citrusschools.org. You can also connect with Citrus County MOAA via their website at https://moaafl.org/chapters/citruscounty/.

17th Annual African-American Read-In Celebrates Community, History, and Literacy

17th Annual African-American Read-In Celebrates Community, History, and Literacy

The 17th Annual African-American Read-In transformed the Curtis Peterson Auditorium on February 23, 2025, into a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and history. Centered on the themes of community, history, and literacy, the event invited participants to experience the power of the spoken word while honoring the rich contributions of African-American authors, poets, and thinkers.

Ron Daly served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the audience through a meaningful and inspiring program. The Lecanto High School JROTC Color Guard opened the event with the presentation of colors, followed by Adilee M. Barnes’ stirring rendition of the National Anthem. The opening ceremonies concluded with a moving performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Chozen, filling the auditorium with palpable energy.

A Tapestry of Voices and Performances

The program showcased diverse readings that highlighted both historical and contemporary African-American voices:

George Ann Jackson captivated the audience with “We Write,” while Adam Chang shared his passion in “I Reached for a Book.” Keshawn Harrison delivered “For Poets,” and Kamari Harris moved hearts with “Sympathy.”

Young voices made a powerful impact as Colton Wilson read “Saturday’s Child,” Caden Moore performed “Dream Variation,” and X’aeveon Bunch brought “Dream Keeper” to life. Kevon Jefferson followed with “Motto,” establishing a reflective atmosphere. After a musical interlude by the Forest Ridge Owls, Amya Francois delivered “Lineage.”

Delvon Johnson and Elijah Morgan collaborated on “I Am Every Good Thing,” while Donna Lucas gave a stirring recitation of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise.” The Journeymen performed an inspiring musical piece before Judy Redd delivered “Holla,” and Colette Nichols-Watson shared her “Fifth Grade Autobiography.”

The literary journey continued with Hunter Robbins’ “Seeds,” Tom Gotterup’s “Mule,” and Ron Daly bringing the character of Boy Willie to life. Earl Barnes moved the audience with “Waiting on a Heartbeat,” while Antoinette St. Martin’s “Now That I Am Forever with Child” resonated deeply.

Laurie Bryant explored intergenerational connections in “Magnitude and Bond,” and classically trained performer Bret Thom delivered a breathtaking rendition of “Amazing Grace.” Nicolette M. Ferguson and Monique Williams collaborated on “Life Dancers,” while Sheila Clark’s “Where I’m From” evoked a powerful sense of identity.

Additional highlights included Cherrietta Prince’s “A Twice Named Family,” Marguerite Beckford’s “Uncles,” and BJ Ezell’s “Reunion.” Roy & Revelation uplifted spirits with a musical interlude before Michael Allen delivered “Surrender Your Hate” and Waymond Glover shared “Why the Willows Weep.”

Honoring Young Voices and Community Support

The event celebrated emerging writers through the Afro-American Club MLK Essay Contest, with Will Lucas presenting awards to Suzie Speight (CHS, 1st place), Carter Cox (CRHS, 2nd place), and Trevor Bowman (LMS, 3rd place).

Vicky Iozzia’s “One Central Truth” reinforced themes of unity, while Bret Thom’s performance of “The Impossible Dream” inspired the audience. The program culminated with young Taylor Jacobs from Forest Ridge Elementary School delivering a powerful excerpt from “I Have a Dream” that earned a standing ovation.

In a surprise presentation, the event’s student readers each received laptops through a generous grant partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Florida—the largest Black-owned business in Florida and a dedicated supporter of education and Black history initiatives—and the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF).

A Dedicated Team Behind the Scenes

Chaired by Doug Wright, the organizing committee worked tirelessly to create an educational and inspiring experience. Committee members Earl Barnes, Sandy Counts, Andrea Cuccaro, Ron Daly, Tom Gotterup, Tracy Hadlett, Taylor Keeran, Donna Lucas, Will Lucas, and Karen Slaska collaborated to develop a program that celebrated African-American literary excellence.

Community Partnerships Making a Difference

The event succeeded through partnerships with the Citrus County School District, Citrus County Education Foundation, Citrus Libraries, Friends of the Library – Citrus County, Old Courthouse Heritage Museum, Citrus County Historical Society, Inc., Afro-American Club of Citrus County, Tom Gotterup, Citrus County Chronicle, Honorable Sandy Counts, Habitat for Humanity of Citrus County, Theodore & Patricia Holmes, Democratic Women’s Club of Citrus County, Janice A. Warren, and Willie Joyner.

The 17th Annual African-American Read-In stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature and storytelling in fostering understanding, resilience, and hope. As attendees departed the Curtis Peterson Auditorium, they carried a renewed appreciation for the voices that have shaped African-American history and the stories that continue to inspire future generations.