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Oratory in Action: Judging the CSMS 4-H Speech Contest

Posted on February 11th, 2026 by

Oratory in Action: Judging the CSMS 4-H Speech Contest

There is a certain energy that fills a room when young people are given a platform and the courage to use their voices. On Wednesday, I had the privilege of returning to Citrus Springs Middle School to serve as a judge for the 4-H Public Speaking Contest. It is consistently one of the highlights of my year, and this morning’s school winners certainly did not disappoint.

Standing before a panel of judges is no small feat for a middle schooler, yet these students stepped up with poise, passion, and a level of preparation that was truly impressive. The range of topics was as diverse as the students themselves, moving from the wonders of the natural world to deeply personal reflections on family and modern technology.

The competition kicked off with a deep dive into the animal kingdom. Chasen Akes brought us into the Florida wetlands with a speech on Alligators, and Alexander Gonzales spoke with authority on German Shepherds. It was clear these students had done their homework, delivering facts with a confidence that kept the room engaged.

We also saw a wonderful mix of pop culture and personal interests. Bryce Johnson took the stage to discuss Gaten Matarazzo, while Aubree Pelletier shared insights on country star Morgan Wallen. It is always fascinating to see what captures the imagination of our youth. On the hobby front, Barrett Wickenheiser made a compelling case with Video Games – Good for the Brain, challenging traditional stereotypes with logic and enthusiasm.

Some of the most impactful moments came from speeches rooted in personal experience. Maria Canter shared the grit and perspective of My Experience Being a Soccer Goalie, and Karson Lemon offered a mature take on sportsmanship in Beyond Wins and Losses. Oriah Sola gave us a glimpse into a bustling household with Living in a Big Family, while Trenton Martin brought a unique perspective with Having Two of Everything.

We were also moved by speeches that touched on deeper social and personal journeys. Demarco Evans spoke powerfully on Foster Care Adoption – Making Your Child’s Life Better, a topic of immense importance. Jerome Aponte inspired us with Finding My Fire, and Cayden Kresho transported us underwater with Mesmerizing Ocean Life. Finally, in a world where technology is rapidly evolving, Lisa Wan provided a timely and thoughtful look at How AI Is Changing Our World. Seeing a student engage with such a complex and modern topic with clarity is exactly why these contests are so vital.

A huge thank you to the teachers, Ms. Splitt, Mr. Martin, Ms. Roach, and Ms. Smith, for fostering an environment where these students can thrive. I also want to extend my gratitude to Media Specialist Ms. Michele Vann for serving as emcee and sharing fun facts between the speeches. Special appreciation goes to this year’s 4-H contest coordinator, Ms. Valerie Anderson, our Instructional Coach and Testing Coordinator. Her leadership and organization are what make opportunities like this possible for our students.

Congratulations to our top finishers. First place was awarded to Demarco Evans for Foster Care Adoption – Making Your Child’s Life Better. Second place went to Maria Canter for My Experience Being a Soccer Goalie. Third place was earned by Lisa Wan for How AI Is Changing Our World.

To all the speakers, your bravery and hard work were on full display. Citrus County is in good hands with leaders like you.

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Thomas Kennedy files for Re-Election 2026

Posted on February 11th, 2026 by

Thomas Kennedy files for Re-Election 2026

Today, I am proud to announce that I have officially filed to seek re-election to continue serving Citrus County as the District 1 School Board Member for my final term. It has been an honor to serve, and I look forward to building on our many successes while continuing to work every day for the students, families, staff, and community who rely on Citrus County Schools.

The Citrus County School District has a strong and respected record of achievement, earning recognition at both the state and national levels. Even in recent years marked by significant challenges for students, families, and staff, the district has continued to move forward with resilience, purpose, and measurable success.

What I am most proud of is the collective work that has expanded innovative and meaningful opportunities for Citrus County students. Our focus must remain on delivering rigorous, engaging, and relevant learning experiences that prepare students to thrive in an increasingly advanced and technology driven world. This commitment to student success is the foundation of our progress and guides every decision we make.

During my service, I have been humbled to receive several honors that reflect this shared effort and community focus, including:

  • The Florida School Boards Association’s Bridge Builder Award for positive initiatives implemented throughout our community and state (2023)
  • The STAR Florida School Board Member of the Year by the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, the only statewide annual award presented to one school board member (2018)
  • The Phil Royal Legacy Foundation’s Heart of Gold Award for advancing the Phil Royal Emergency Medical Technician Program (2021).

You are best represented by someone in leadership positions within their organization. In 2022, I was elected the 55th President of the Florida School Boards Association, becoming the first Citrus County School Board member to hold this position. I continue to provide a strong local voice at the state level by building meaningful relationships with legislative and education leaders. This role created new opportunities to showcase Citrus County students, staff, schools, and programs to education leaders across Florida.

As the parent of two Citrus County Schools graduates and the husband of a teacher with more than thirty years of classroom experience in our district, I understand firsthand the needs and challenges facing our students, families, and staff. I am a strong supporter of parental choice and parental voice in education. I will continue to advocate for meaningful parent involvement through School Advisory Councils, Student Code of Conduct development, the Student Progression Plan Team, the School Calendar Committee, state curriculum adoption input, and many other opportunities for engagement.

I remain committed to continuing expanding programs and pathways for students who are not college-bound, while also strengthening opportunities for those who are. Citrus County Schools is a statewide leader in workforce certification programs, offering more than 150 Career and Technical Education courses that lead to over 60 industry certifications. These programs connect to 34 program-of-study pathways across our three high schools, our public charter school, and through dual enrollment at Withlacoochee Technical College. These programs benefit both direct-to-career and college-bound students, fill critical workforce needs in our community, and change lives. This past year, a Citrus County Schools CTE teacher was named a top-five finalist for Florida Teacher of the Year. We must continue to recruit, retain, and support world-class educators. Over the past four years alone, we have seen the largest expansion of CTE programs in district history, including the Academy of Health Careers expansion with the Phil Royal EMT Program, Certified Veterinary Assistant, welding at each school, Citrus High School Construction Academy, and the districtwide Space Florida Space Academy. This year, we are building on this by developing additional pathways in aerospace, Fire fighter and EMT at Withlacoochee Technical College.

I proudly support our district’s deep commitment to honoring our country and state. That love of country is woven into the very fabric of Citrus County Schools. I was serving as School Board Chairman when our district became the nation’s first Purple Heart School District, a distinction that reflects our enduring respect for military service and sacrifice. Today, Citrus County remains a beacon of patriotism and service, with all 23 schools designated as Florida Purple Star Schools. We support outstanding Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs at each high school, all of which have earned the Distinguished Unit Award. One of the largest Veterans in the Classroom programs in the country brings local veterans into our schools to teach students that patriotism is demonstrated through action, not just words. Veterans Day celebrations, student-led initiatives, flag ceremonies, and schoolwide events continue to reinforce service, gratitude, character, and civic pride throughout our district.

Together, we have ensured that Citrus County not only provides students with critical digital skills and tools, but also leads the state in the responsible use of artificial intelligence in education. I was honored to serve as a founding member of the Florida K–12 AI in Education Task Force and as Chairman of the FSBA AI in Education Committee. In these roles, I have worked to ensure that critical thinking and human judgment remain central in every classroom as we prepare students for the world they must enter and succeed in.

Accessibility and communication remain essential to serving our community effectively. Since being elected, I have worked diligently to remain accessible and transparent. I have written and published nearly 1000 columns highlighting successes of our students in our classrooms, schools, and public education system, as well as addressing challenges and needs. Through an active blog and social media presence, my communications reach nearly 10,000 readers each month. I have also worked with local newspaper editorial boards to better inform the public about public education issues locally and statewide.

Together, we will continue working to meet the needs of our students, families, staff, and schools. I respectfully ask for your continued support in this election and in the important work ahead.

Thomas Kennedy

www.Kennedyforkids.com

thomas@kennedyforkids.com

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Preparing Our Students for the Workforce: Celebrating CTE Month

Posted on February 1st, 2026 by

Preparing Our Students for the Workforce: Celebrating CTE Month

February is Career and Technical Education Month, an ideal time to recognize the vital role CTE plays in preparing Citrus County students for life beyond graduation. In Citrus Schools, CTE is not a secondary option or an alternative track. It is a core component of how we equip students with the knowledge, skills, confidence, and purpose they need to succeed in college, careers, military service, or a combination of all three.

Citrus Schools remains firmly committed to delivering a high quality education that connects learning to real world opportunities. Across our district, students have access to more than 171 CTE courses offered at our three main high school campuses, along with dual enrollment opportunities through Withlacoochee Technical College. These offerings span 63 distinct career and technical subject areas, lead to 41 industry certifications, and support more than 24 clearly defined program pathways aligned directly with workforce needs. This breadth of opportunity allows students to explore interests, build technical skills, and discover career possibilities while still in high school.

What makes CTE especially powerful is its relevance. Students are not simply learning concepts from a textbook. They are applying knowledge through hands on, practical experiences that reflect real workplace environments. Whether a student plans to enter the workforce immediately, pursue higher education, enlist in the military, or follow a blended path, CTE provides a strong and transferable foundation for long term success.

Our academies and programs reflect both student interests and the economic realities of our region and state. The Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School prepares students for careers in healthcare, one of Florida’s fastest growing and most essential industries. The Academy of Computers at Citrus High School develops skills in information technology and cybersecurity, fields that continue to expand across nearly every sector of the economy.

Students interested in the skilled trades can enroll in welding programs at Citrus High School and Lecanto High School, gaining experience in a field where demand consistently exceeds supply. The Construction Academy at Citrus High School introduces students to building trades, project management, and modern construction technologies. Additional school based academies in agriculture, culinary arts, drafting, JROTC, and business ensure students throughout Citrus County can pursue pathways aligned with their interests and strengths.

Several of our programs also partner with Space Florida’s Space Academy, providing students with exposure to advanced industries that may once have seemed distant or out of reach. These partnerships help students see clear connections between classroom learning and high wage, high skill careers, often without leaving their home community.

Workforce development efforts in our community continue to gain momentum beyond the K-12 system. Withlacoochee Technical College has unveiled plans for a new aviation maintenance and training program, marking a significant step forward for our region. The proposed program includes Airframe and Powerplant training, along with advanced specialty pathways that prepare students for in demand roles such as aircraft mechanics, avionics technicians, and non destructive testing professionals. In addition, WTC and Citrus County Fire Rescue are collaborating on new opportunities to expand workforce training that benefits both students and public safety professionals.

Industry certifications are a critical component of these efforts. These credentials benefit students regardless of their post graduation plans. For students entering the workforce, certifications signal readiness and competence to employers. For those pursuing college or technical training, certifications provide practical experience and a clearer understanding of career expectations. Even students heading directly to colleges and universities gain an advantage by arriving with technical skills and industry recognized training already in hand.

As we celebrate CTE Month, we recognize the students who are taking ownership of their futures, the educators who guide and inspire them, and the community partners who invest their time and expertise. Career and Technical Education in Citrus County represents opportunity, preparation, and pride. It ensures every student has access to meaningful pathways that lead to success, and that commitment remains strong as we build an even brighter future together.

 

 

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A Productive Week in Tallahassee Focused on Florida’s Students and the Future of Learning

Posted on January 31st, 2026 by

A Productive Week in Tallahassee Focused on Florida’s Students and the Future of Learning

This past week in Tallahassee was a powerful reminder of how policy, practice, and innovation intersect on behalf of Florida’s students. Two major events I participated in took place concurrently, each reinforcing the importance of thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and forward-looking decision-making in public education. The Florida School Boards Association’s Days in the Legislature coincided with the second annual Classroom of the Future, hosted by the University of Florida CS Everyone Center and the Florida K–12 AI in Education Task Force. Together, these events highlighted both the immediate legislative priorities facing our schools and the longer-term vision needed to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

I was honored to participate in the opening Fireside Chat at Classroom of the Future, titled “Advocating for Florida’s Students: Empowering Legislation to Safeguard Florida Schools and Student Access.” As a founding member of the Florida K–12 AI in Education Task Force led by the UF CS Everyone Center, this conversation was especially meaningful to me. The session was expertly moderated by Dr. Maya Israel, Professor and Director of the UF CS Everyone Center for Computer Science Education, whose leadership continues to elevate Florida’s national role in computer science and AI education.

I was joined on the panel by an strong group of education and industry leaders: Gary Brady, Chief Academic Officer for Hillsborough County Public Schools; Manuel Castañeda, Executive Director of Analytics and Intelligence for Broward County Public Schools; and Adam Hall, Senior Account Executive for Education at Microsoft. Our discussion focused on how Florida can safely and effectively integrate artificial intelligence into K–12 education while maintaining strong student protections, supporting educators, and ensuring equitable access.

The conversation emphasized three core areas. First was job readiness and workforce alignment. AI is not a distant concept for our students; it is already reshaping the skills demanded by employers across industries. While automation may displace 92 million roles by 2030, the shift is projected to create 170 million new positions. This net gain of 78 million jobs represents a paradox where opportunity is abundant but remains inaccessible without specific training. Preparing students to understand, use, and think critically about AI is now part of responsible workforce preparation.

Second, we discussed the importance of thoughtful implementation, ensuring that AI tools enhance teachers and instruction rather than replace the human relationships that define effective teaching and learning. AI has the potential to provide every teacher with not one, but many additional instructional supports for students. Finally, we addressed how AI can improve operational efficiency and analytics, helping school districts better serve students while remaining responsible stewards of taxpayer resources.

At the same time, I joined my school board colleagues from across the state at the 39th annual FSBA Days in the Legislature. These days are invaluable because they provide dedicated opportunities for school board members to sit down one-on-one with state policymakers and speak directly about the needs of our students, families, educators, staff, and communities. These conversations are not theoretical; they are grounded in the day-to-day realities of Florida’s classrooms and campuses.

For me, the focus during these meetings was clear and intentional: workforce readiness, flexibility for differentiated instruction and curriculum, and education innovation. Florida’s districts are diverse, and our policies must reflect that reality by allowing flexibility while maintaining high standards and accountability.

During the week, we spent meaningful time meeting individually with our state legislators and leaders, particularly Senator Ralph Massullo and Representative JJ Grow. Both took the time to listen closely to our local concerns and needs. What I especially appreciate is that Senator Massullo and Representative Grow are deeply familiar with our schools and students. They regularly visit our campuses and engage directly with students, educators, and administrators. That firsthand experience matters, and it shows in the way they approach education policy discussions. I am grateful for the strong working relationships they have built with our district leadership and school board.

Equally important are the dedicated professionals who support them and our district. A special thank you is owed to Senator Massullo’s team, including Adele Hembree and Tobey Cyr, and to Representative Grow’s team members Michael Schenck and Dawn Faherty. Their responsiveness, professionalism, and commitment to serving our district, and most importantly our students and families, do not go unnoticed. Effective policy work is always a team effort, and their role is critical.

During the week, FSBA also provided comprehensive legislative updates, detailed bill reviews, and opportunities to meet with additional legislative and state leaders. They brought in leading experts to help school board members better understand proposed policies and legislative priorities for the year ahead. This context is essential as we evaluate how legislation may impact local districts and the students we serve.

Overall, it was a productive and energizing week in Tallahassee. I returned home grateful for the opportunity to advocate for Citrus County students and encouraged by the thoughtful conversations taking place at both the legislative and innovation levels. As always, our focus remains here at home: continuing to meet and exceed the needs of our students and schools, preparing them not just for today, but for the future they will inherit.

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Turning the Page Together: Celebrating Literacy Week in Citrus County Schools

Posted on January 26th, 2026 by

Turning the Page Together: Celebrating Literacy Week in Citrus County Schools

Throughout Florida classrooms, and more importantly right here in our Citrus County Schools, we will be celebrating Literacy Week from January 26–30, 2026. Literacy Week is a statewide initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of reading and to remind all of us, students, families, educators, and community members, that literacy is the foundation for lifelong learning. This annual event encourages reading not as a school assignment, but as a daily habit that opens doors, sparks curiosity, and builds confidence.

This year’s theme, “Read, White and Blue: Celebrating 250 Chapters of America,” honors the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. It is a fitting theme that connects literacy with history, civic responsibility, and our shared national story. Throughout the week, Citrus County schools will focus on books and literacy activities centered on American history, civic duty, and national landmarks. These lessons go beyond memorizing dates and facts. They invite students to explore ideas such as leadership, perseverance, service, and what it means to be an engaged citizen.

One of the great strengths of Literacy Week is how it brings learning to life. Reading about historical figures, important moments, and everyday people who shaped our country allows students to see history as a collection of real stories, not just chapters in a textbook. Through books, students can imagine themselves in different times and places, ask meaningful questions, and better understand their role in shaping the future.

On Monday, I will have the privilege of reading at Citrus Springs Elementary in Ms. Kristel Frati’s second grade classroom. This will mark the ninth year I have read in her class during Literacy Week, and it remains one of the highlights of my year. Walking into that classroom, seeing the excitement on students’ faces, and sharing stories together is a powerful reminder of why this work matters. It gives me the opportunity to connect with some of our remarkable students and to reinforce that reading is something to be enjoyed and celebrated.

One of the books I am reading with students is George Washington and the General’s Dog by Frank Murphy. This book tells the true story of George Washington’s beloved dog, a gift from a fellow general during the Revolutionary War. It is a wonderful example of how history can be made relatable and engaging for young readers. Through a simple story about kindness, responsibility, and loyalty, students learn about leadership and character in a way that resonates with them.

Literacy Week is organized by the Florida Department of Education through the Just Read, Florida! office, and each year it brings renewed focus to the simple but powerful act of reading together. Whether it is a student discovering their first favorite book, a family sharing a bedtime story, or a classroom diving into a new topic, these moments matter. They shape how children see themselves as learners and how they engage with the world around them.

Literacy Week is about more than one week on the calendar. It is a reminder that reading should be woven into everyday life at school and at home. I encourage families to take time this week to read together, talk about books, and visit your local library. In Citrus County, we are fortunate to have dedicated teachers, supportive families, and a community that values education.

As we celebrate Literacy Week and look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, let us continue writing strong chapters for our students. By fostering a love of reading, we are helping them build the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed, not just in school, but in life.

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Building Confidence Through 4-H Public Speaking

Posted on January 20th, 2026 by

Building Confidence Through 4-H Public Speaking

This time of year always brings with it a special kind of energy into our schools. Classrooms become stages, students become storytellers, and ideas that have been carefully practiced at kitchen tables finally find their voice. Across our district, 4-H Public Speaking Contests are taking place, and through the years I have been honored to have both the privilege and the genuine enjoyment of serving as a school judge.

This week, that privilege brought me to Central Ridge Elementary School for their school finals. Walking into the building, you could feel the anticipation. Students waited patiently, some rehearsing quietly, others smiling nervously, all preparing to stand up and speak in front of their peers and adults. It is no small thing to do, especially at such a young age.

These contests matter because they build skills that extend far beyond the podium. Public speaking through 4-H helps students develop clear communication, quick thinking, idea expression, confidence, and poise. Those skills stay with them, whether they later find themselves in a classroom discussion, a job interview, or a leadership role in their community. What begins as a short speech often becomes a foundation for lifelong confidence.

This year’s Central Ridge Elementary 4th and 5th grade finalists brought an impressive range of topics and perspectives. Each student spoke with passion about something that mattered to them.

The finalists were:

  • Elanora Ernst, “Sourdough! Sourdough! Sourdough!”
  • Netra Ly, “Spiders”
  • Reed Curtis, “Mr. YouTube”
  • Matthew Skarupski, “Screen Time”
  • Caleb Sackwell, “Wooly Mammoths”
  • Carries Brewer, “Dreams”
  • Kynleigh Maynard, “Life Without Electricity”
  • Kendra Alvarado, “What Would Happen If All Humans Disappeared?”
  • Alice Richey, “How Dogs Think”
  • Kiersten Jensen, “Use Less Plastic Waste”
  • Milena Baylis, “The History of Pop Culture Fashion”
  • Logan Breese, “The Benefits of Learning a New Language”

Listening to these speeches, it was clear how much thought and preparation went into each one. Some were informative, some imaginative, and some challenged us to think differently about the world around us. All of them reflected courage.

4-H public speaking is judged on two main areas. Composition focuses on content, organization, and language. Presentation evaluates voice, eye contact, poise, and appearance. Judges score against established standards, with penalties for exceeding time limits. The emphasis is always on clear delivery, strong knowledge of the topic, and confidence.

After careful consideration, this year’s top three winners were:

  • First Place, Kendra Alvarado, “What Would Happen If All Humans Disappeared?”
  • Second Place, Milena Baylis, “The History of Pop Culture Fashion”
  • Third Place, Logan Breese, “The Benefits of Learning a New Language”

Congratulations to each of these students, and truly to every participant. Standing up and speaking takes bravery, and every finalist demonstrated it.

I would also like to extend a sincere thank you to Ms. Nikita Ward, Central Ridge Elementary teacher and the 2026 4-H Coordinator. Her leadership, organization, and commitment to students make opportunities like this possible. Events such as these do not happen without dedicated educators who are willing to invest extra time and care to help students succeed.

The top two winners from each elementary and middle school will now advance to the 4-H Regional Public Speaking Contest hosted by UF IFAS Extension Citrus County. I look forward to seeing these students continue to grow and represent their schools.

Programs like 4-H remind us why student voice matters. When we give young people the opportunity to speak, we help them discover confidence, clarity, and the belief that their ideas truly matter.

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