A Great Morning on the First Day of School in Citrus County School District

The first day of school in the Citrus County School District for the 2024-2025 academic year was filled with excitement, energy, and a strong sense of community. I had the privilege of visiting several schools to welcome our educators, staff, and students back for what promises to be an exceptional year. The opportunity to visit schools and classrooms is one of the best parts of my role as a school board member, allowing me to witness firsthand the incredible work happening across our district.

My morning began at Citrus Springs Middle School (CSMS), where I had the pleasure of meeting with the school’s new principal, Kyle Jaecks. Principal Jaecks is full of enthusiasm and has some wonderful plans in store for the school. His vision for CSMS is inspiring, and I am eager to see the positive changes he will bring. During my visit, I also stopped by the Guidance Department and caught up with Denise Wells, the Guidance Secretary. Denise is someone I’ve known for years, as our children attended school together. She is a strong advocate for students and a trusted resource for families and educators alike. Her dedication to supporting our students is truly commendable.

Next, I headed to Central Ridge Elementary (CRE), where Principal Sarahy Ramallo and Assistant Principal Gillian Darby were buzzing with excitement about the new school year. It was clear that their enthusiasm was contagious, as parents were still enrolling students when I arrived. The energy in the school was palpable, and I could tell that CRE is ready for another year of growth and learning.

At Citrus Springs Elementary School (CSES), I had the joy of reconnecting with Amy Thompson, a first-grade teacher who has been a cornerstone of the school for many years. Amy shared with me that this year marks her 33rd first day of school as a teacher. It’s amazing to think about the countless lives she has impacted over the years. I also had the opportunity to meet with CSES’s new Principal, Bart Adams, and wish him a successful school year ahead. Additionally, I had the chance to stop by Kristel Nikole’s first-grade classroom and let her know that I look forward to reading to her students, as I have had the pleasure of doing many times before. Walking through the classrooms, I was reminded of the dedication and passion of our educators, who work tirelessly to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for our students.

At Crystal River Primary School (CRP), I had the pleasure of seeing the new outdoor dining area that the talented CRP team created over the summer. This wonderful addition provides students with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and socialize with each other in a fresh, inviting space. Principal Christina Touchton and Assistant Principal Constance Kane couldn’t be more excited about the start of the new school year, and their enthusiasm is clearly reflected in the positive changes around the campus.

My visit to Crystal River High School (CRHS) was particularly exciting as I explored some of the new technology being integrated into the curriculum. Drafting teacher Bill Linthwaite proudly showed me the new 3D printers and laser cutters that will be used in the AutoCAD drafting courses. These tools will provide students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge technology, preparing them for future careers. While at CRHS, I was lucky enough to walk in with Guardian Bateman and K9 Sammy while they were on patrol in Pirate Country. I couldn’t resist snapping a picture with our four-legged Guardian! Additionally, I had the pleasure of meeting Tami Corbin, the new Dental Assisting teacher. With over 20 years of experience as a dental hygienist, Tami is eager to share her knowledge with students and is already planning exciting job shadowing opportunities in local dental offices.

At Crystal River Middle School (CRMS), I joined Principal Brian Lancaster in the cafeteria, where students were receiving their digital learning devices (iPads) after finishing lunch. It was a busy and productive scene, showcasing the school’s commitment to integrating technology into the learning experience. I also checked in with several educators, including Title 1 Interventionist Ron Frink, who was a former School Resource Officer (SRO) and a high school classmate of my wife. It was great to catch up with Ron and hear about the work he’s doing to support students. Before leaving CRMS, I also had the chance to say hello to art teacher Jennifer Faust and Instructional TOSA Becky Harris, both of whom are talented educators and former colleagues of my wife.

While I wasn’t able to visit all 23 of our schools today, I will be making my way to them throughout the school year. I have always believed in seeing firsthand the amazing learning and opportunities happening in our classrooms. Every visit is a chance to connect with our dedicated educators, staff, and students, and to celebrate the incredible work being done across the district.

The first day of school is always a learning opportunity, not just for students, but for everyone involved. This year, thanks to the School Board’s decision to increase starting wages for bus drivers to over $20 an hour, the Citrus County School District is now among the top five districts in the state for bus driver starting wages. For the first time in a few years, we had a credentialed driver on every bus and route, eliminating the need for our credentialed office staff to drive. We were able to start the year with all routes covered, though we recognize that there may be some delays or missed routes as our new drivers and routes settle in. Additionally, we are preparing to start a new training class for incoming drivers next week, with 10 applicants already cleared to join. I am incredibly grateful to our transportation department for their diligent work in meeting the critical needs of our students and families.

As the afternoon approaches, after-school activities will be in full swing at many of our schools. These are exciting times, and I am deeply thankful for our committed educators, staff, leaders, and families. God bless each of you as we embark on this new school year together.

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Securing the Future: Legislative Success Brings Critical Funding to the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS

Governor Approves $150,000 for Capital Improvements, Enhancing Pathways and Addressing Healthcare Workforce Needs

We are thrilled to announce that a significant portion of Citrus County Schools’ 2024 legislative appropriation budget request for the Academy of Health Careers (AHC) at Crystal River High School (CRHS) has been approved by Governor DeSantis in the final budget. This approval includes $150,000 for capital expansions and improvements for the AHC at CRHS. This investment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community leaders, particularly Florida House of Representative Dr. Ralph Massullo and Florida Senator Blaise Ingoglia, whose advocacy was instrumental in securing this funding for our program and addressing the broader health needs of our community and state.

In June, we learned that a large portion of the original request was vetoed, but not all of this important appropriation was lost. Thanks to the unwavering support of Senator Ingoglia and Representative Dr. Massullo, the full requested amount was passed by both chambers during the legislative session, though not all was included in the final approval. This week, Citrus County Schools received the remaining approved funding, marking a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the Academy of Health Careers.

The approved funding will allow for strategic long-term capital expansions and improvements to the Academy, enhancing its pathways and ensuring that our students receive the best possible education in health careers. One of the most exciting developments is the future planned inclusion of Firefighter 1 certification within the EMS/EMT pathway, which will broaden the scope of career opportunities available to our students. Additionally, we are eager to introduce new programs in Radiology, pharmaceutical, EKG, phlebotomy, and health management. These additions will complement our existing pathways in Certified Nursing Assistant, BioMedical Technician, Dental Assistant, EMS/EMT, and Veterinary Assistant, further enriching the curriculum and providing our students with valuable, industry-standard skills.

The healthcare industry in Citrus County and across Florida is facing a critical shortage of professionals. Recent state reports highlight an impending need for 1,000 medical professionals in our region and 50,044 statewide in the coming year. By investing in the AHC and its programs, we are not only preparing our students for successful careers but also addressing this urgent workforce demand.

As we enter the 31st year of the Academy of Health Careers, we are excited to welcome our incoming freshmen and returning students. These students will continue their studies toward state licensing or industry certifications in one of our five incredible medical pathways. We are deeply grateful to the district, school educators, city and county leaders, and community members who have supported this effort. Special thanks go to Citrus County Schools Assistant Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert, Director of Career & Technical & Adult Education Debra H. Stanley and her CTE team, along with Gene McGee, who has been a tireless advocate for this initiative on behalf of our community.

The Academy of Health Careers at CRHS is the oldest magnet program within Citrus County Schools and is arguably the most successful high school Career Technical Education program in our district and region. Over the past three decades, the Academy has produced thousands of nurses, doctors, first responders, engineers, military leaders, and other health professionals. We are committed to continuing this legacy and expanding opportunities at the Academy of Health Careers, as well as high school CTE/Workforce programs across all our high schools and Withlacoochee Technical College.

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Citrus County Schools Kick Off 2024-2025 with “Joy in the Journey” Staff Event

Today marked the annual welcome back staff event for Citrus County Schools, titled “Joy in the Journey.” This much-anticipated event, sponsored by the Citrus County Education Foundation and its strategic community partners, serves as a cornerstone for kicking off the new academic year. The event highlighted the importance of community support, collaboration, and the shared commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for all students.

The day began with a hearty breakfast, prepared by the talented Mr. William Bunch and his Oysters of Crystal River Restaurant team. School and district administrators were on hand to serve the meal, creating a sense of camaraderie and unity among the attendees. This gesture emphasized the collaborative spirit that drives the district’s success, where everyone plays a role in the journey of educating and nurturing the students.

The event also featured a Vendors Hall, where various community partners set up booths to showcase their services and opportunities available to educators and staff. This provided a valuable platform for networking, learning about new resources, and securing some exciting giveaways. The Vendors Hall was a bustling hub of activity, reflecting the strong ties between the district and the broader community.

The centerpiece of the day took place in the Curtis Peterson Auditorium, beginning with a Color Guard presentation by the Withlacoochee Chapter Sons of the American Revolution. This patriotic display set a respectful and inspiring tone for the proceedings. Dr. Scott Hebert, Assistant Superintendent, opened the event by welcoming the crowd and introducing Superintendent Sandra “Sam” Himmel.

Superintendent Himmel then called Citrus County School Police Chief David Vincent to the stage, who introduced each of the School Guardians and School Resource Officers (SROs) serving at the district’s schools. As each school’s Guardians and SROs were announced, the auditorium echoed with cheers, with each school trying to outdo the others in celebrating their safety teams. This moment underscored the critical role that these individuals play in maintaining a safe and supportive environment for learning.

Before introducing the keynote speaker, Superintendent Himmel took a moment to recognize the school board members and then brought the honorable Virginia “Ginger” Bryant to the stage. Bryant, who is retiring at the end of her term in November, was honored for her remarkable 54 years of service to education. This includes 30 years as an English and reading teacher, followed by 24 years as a school board member. Her dedication has made her the longest-serving elected school board member in Citrus County’s history, a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

This event was also a significant milestone for Superintendent Himmel, as it marked her final welcome back event before her own retirement. In her heartfelt reflection, she shared memories and expressed gratitude for the years of service and collaboration with the staff, leaving a lasting impression on all who were present.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Jim Van Allan, co-author of The Energy Bus for Schools, delivered an engaging and impactful address. His high-energy, interactive style captivated the audience, leaving them with positive messages to carry into the new school year.

Special thanks were given to Laura Lindeman, Director of Professional Learning and Leadership, and Amy Crowell, Director of Assessment, Accountability, & Monitoring, for their exceptional coordination of the event. Their efforts, along with those of the entire Education Services team, ensured a successful and inspiring start to the 2024-2025 school year. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and joy in the journey!

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