Citrus Schools Join Statewide Push to Launch Students into Aerospace Careers

For more than 75 years, Florida has been the epicenter of American space exploration. From the Gemini and Apollo missions to the Space Shuttle era and today’s innovations from SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Artemis, the Sunshine State has played a vital role in shaping the nation’s future beyond Earth.

Now, Citrus County Schools is taking a bold step to ensure local students are part of that future.

At its June 10 meeting, the Citrus County School Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Space Florida to launch the Space Florida Academy in the district. The initiative aims to prepare students for high-growth careers in aerospace and related industries through enhanced access to career training, credentials, and educational experiences.

The move is part of a growing statewide effort to align Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs with Florida’s evolving space and technology workforce needs.

The Space Florida Academy is designed to integrate with existing high school CTE programs, offering co-branded credentials, exposure to workforce trends, and new learning opportunities. Participating districts gain access to the “Talent Heat Map,” a resource Space Florida uses to showcase high school programs to aerospace companies looking to invest or hire in Florida.

Citrus County becomes the 24th Florida district to join the initiative, alongside neighboring counties Hernando, Marion, and Levy, as well as aerospace hubs such as Brevard and Charlotte counties.

Current Citrus County programs aligned with the academy include:

Citrus High School

• • Building Construction Technologies 1–3
  • Drafting 1–4
  • Welding 1
  • Cybersecurity Fundamentals
  • Advanced Information Technology
  • Programming Essentials
  • Foundations of Programming

Crystal River High School

• • Drafting 1–4

Lecanto High School

• • Welding 1

Officials say these programs are just the beginning. The MOU opens the door for new opportunities, including expanded student events, educator training, and deeper industry engagement.

The district’s aerospace efforts have also been supported by partnerships with organizations such as The Astronauts Memorial Foundation and The Center for Space Education at Kennedy Space Center. Last year, with help from the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF), more than 80 students and educators attended the College and Career Expo at the Center for Space Education.

Now, five Citrus County educators have been selected to attend the prestigious 2025 Space Port Area Conference for Educators at the Kennedy Space Center at the end of June, thanks again to scholarships provided by The Astronauts Memorial Foundation and The Center for Space Education, and CCEF. The teachers will join colleagues from across the country for professional development, curriculum training, and sessions with astronauts and industry leaders.

Congratulations to

• Dr. Ashley Shidner – Lecanto High School, Science, IB Coordinator
• MSgt Eric Brown, USAF – Citrus High School, Aerospace, JROTC
• Angela Hamilton – Citrus High School, Computer Science & Networking, Robotics
• William Linthwaite – Crystal River High School, Drafting/CTE, Architecture
• Megan Richardson – Citrus County School District, District Science Specialist

Established in 2006, Space Florida serves as the state’s aerospace economic development agency. Its mission is to position Florida as a global leader in aerospace by fostering public-private partnerships and developing infrastructure and talent to support a range of space-related industries.

Citrus County’s decision to sign on to the Space Florida Academy reflects both a local commitment to educational innovation and a recognition of the role aerospace will play in Florida’s future.

The results of past investments are already evident. Citrus County alumni include Dr. Benjamin Lev, now a Stanford physics professor and recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, and Dr. Eric Stewart, currently an aerospace engineer at NASA.

With its new partnership in place, Citrus County Schools is ready to help launch the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.

Thank you to the Citrus County School Board, Superintendent Dr. Hebert, Chief Academic Officer Amy Crowell, Director of Specialty Programs Mr. Buettner, Director of CTE Debra Stanley, CTE Specialist Dr. Herndon, Shaunda Burdett and the Citrus County Education Foundation, and to all of our district leaders and educators who are encouraging and advancing these efforts. Your commitment is helping to shape a brighter future for our students and our community.

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Building Futures: Citrus High School Construction Academy Celebrates Another Year of Growth and Success

This week, Citrus High School’s Construction Academy held its end-of-year quarterly Advisory Council meeting, highlighting the impressive achievements of the 2024–2025 school year and outlining plans for the future. Construction teacher Robert “Bobby” Tester, the driving force behind the academy, shared the “State of the Construction Academy.”

As the academy closes out its third year, Mr. Tester proudly reported that enrollment reached 138 students across the program’s three tiers: 82 students in Construction I, 38 in Construction II, and 18 in Construction III. This growth reflects a steady and strong interest in the academy’s hands-on approach to career and technical education (CTE).

A major highlight of the meeting was the academy’s success in helping students earn industry-recognized certifications. These certifications, awarded through the Home Builders Institute (HBI), are crucial for preparing students to enter the workforce with job-ready skills. This year, more than 51 students earned certifications through HBI’s Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT) program.

Among the accomplishments:

• 39 Construction I students earned the Construction I PACT CORE certification, which introduces foundational construction industry concepts such as workplace safety, hand and power tool use, employability skills, and basic construction math.
• 9 Construction II students achieved the Construction II PACT CORE certification, which builds on the introductory level and deepens students’ understanding of blueprint reading, workplace communication, and advanced safety protocols.
• 3 students further distinguished themselves by passing the Construction II PACT Carpentry certification, demonstrating proficiency in fundamental carpentry skills such as framing, measurement, and tool use.

The Construction Academy’s use of the HBI curriculum remains a cornerstone of its program. As the nonprofit educational arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), HBI provides top-tier instructional materials and certification pathways that equip students with real-world, career-ready experience. HBI’s programs are nationally recognized and designed to meet the needs of employers in the building industry.

Mr. Tester also shared highlights from this year’s extracurricular achievements. Among them was February’s regional SkillsUSA competition in Daytona, where two students represented Citrus High School—one in Carpentry and the other in Electrical. While the students did not place, the event provided valuable exposure to competitive standards in construction trades. Mr. Tester expressed enthusiasm about expanding student participation next year, with a goal of entering at least two students per trade category.

Looking ahead, the 2025–2026 school year marks an exciting milestone: the launch of Construction IV – Project Management. This advanced course introduces students to the key principles of professional project management as defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The curriculum will cover project planning, scheduling, budgeting, cost control, and risk management. The course will culminate in a capstone-style PMI project, giving students the opportunity to apply their skills in a simulated, real-world construction scenario. The addition of this course represents the academy’s ongoing evolution and its commitment to providing a complete and robust career pathway—from entry-level skills to potential supervisory roles.

Ms. Leonard, the new incoming principal of Citrus High School, was also present at the meeting. Having previously served as the administrator over the Construction Academy, she expressed strong support and enthusiasm for the program. Her continued advocacy underscores the school’s commitment to career and technical education as a vital part of student success.

As the Construction Academy continues to grow, its impact on students and the broader community becomes increasingly evident. Mr. Tester’s dedication, both in the classroom and in the field, has laid the foundation for one of Citrus County’s most dynamic and impactful CTE programs. His passion for teaching and mentoring not only equips students with technical expertise but also fosters confidence, work ethic, and character.

In an era when the demand for skilled workers in the construction industry is at an all-time high, programs like Citrus High School’s Construction Academy are essential. They bridge the gap between education and employment by giving students meaningful, real-world learning experiences that lead to recognized credentials and career readiness.

Whether students choose to continue their education through apprenticeships, technical colleges, or university construction management programs—or enter the workforce directly after high school—this program ensures they are prepared. With industry certifications in hand and practical experience under their belts, graduates are equipped to succeed in a wide range of postsecondary opportunities. In the case of the Construction Academy, some may become future general contractors, engineers, architects, or business owners; others may immediately contribute to the skilled trades that are the backbone of our communities.

Citrus County Schools is proud to be a leader in Career and Technical Education, offering students a clear pathway to success through high-quality programs like the Construction Academy. With more than 120 CTE courses and over 70 industry certifications available, students can explore more than 30 career pathways tailored to the evolving needs of today’s workforce. These programs not only prepare students for the demands of the job market but also open doors to lifelong learning and advancement.

The Construction Academy is not just about building structures — it’s about building futures.

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Honoring the Fallen: Memorial Day Ceremony at Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial Unites Community in Tribute

This Memorial Day weekend, the Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial in Homosassa, Florida, served as the poignant backdrop for a deeply moving ceremony held in honor of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Under clear skies and with a heartfelt spirit of gratitude, members of the community gathered to reflect, remember, and recommit to preserving the memory of our nation’s heroes.

The ceremony was masterfully led by Commander Richard Hunt of the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), who served as the Master of Ceremonies. Commander Hunt’s solemn and dignified presence set the tone for the event, as his heartfelt words reminded those in attendance of the profound debt owed to those who gave their lives for our freedoms.

An opening prayer was delivered by Chaplain Troy Allen, also of Chapter 776 MOPH. His invocation invited attendees to reflect on the gravity of the occasion and the sacred duty of remembrance. The Lecanto High School JROTC Color Guard, under the direction of Senior Army Instructor LTC David Brown, presented the colors with precision and pride.

Citrus High School Choral Instructor John Edel provided a stirring rendition of the National Anthem. His powerful performance resonated through the crowd, anchoring the event in patriotism and unity.

The event featured a lineup of respected guest speakers who each shared personal reflections and expressions of gratitude. Citrus County Commissioner Holly Davis (District 5) spoke movingly about her deep respect for the military, highlighting the legacy of her own father, a Naval Aviator, and the enduring values of duty, service, and honor.

Stacie Worthington, Chairperson of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce, reflected on the depth of sacrifice made by service members and emphasized the importance of community in remembering them. Jaime Baize, the newly appointed principal of Homosassa Elementary School, offered her appreciation to the veterans present and to the broader community for continuing the tradition of honoring the fallen. She also shared her commitment to carrying that spirit forward in her new role.

Representing the Citrus County School District, Darrick Buettner, Director of Strategic Operations, delivered heartfelt remarks on the importance of instilling respect for military service in the next generation. He also expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organizations who made the event possible, including Jeremy Lewis, Rick Wolfolk, Jake Jacobs, Diedra Newton, Dr. Al Balk, Sheriff David Vincent, the Homosassa Civic Club, and the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 MOPH.

A special moment in the ceremony came as Commander Hunt read the “Warrior’s Prayer,” a solemn invocation that spoke to the courage and sacrifice of America’s fallen warriors. The prayer served as a reminder that their service did not end in vain, and that their memory remains ever-present in the hearts of the community.

The ceremonial placement of the memorial wreath was carried out with reverence by outgoing Homosassa Elementary Principal Alice Harrell, incoming Principal Baize, and Commissioner Davis. This was followed by a traditional rifle salute conducted by the Citrus County Marine Corps League Honor Guard and the playing of Taps—one of the most recognizable and moving military honors.

John Edel returned to close the ceremony with a stirring performance of “All Gave Some / Some Gave All,” a tribute that captured the emotion and message of the day—no sacrifice is forgotten, and no life given in service is taken for granted.

The beauty and solemnity of the Old Homosassa Veterans Memorial owe much to the tireless work of Jeremy Fowler, whose generous donation of time, resources, and funding has transformed the site into a place of reflection and honor. His efforts have ensured that the memorial is not only a physical space, but a lasting symbol of gratitude and remembrance for generations to come.

Special recognition is also due to Darrick Buettner for his leadership in organizing the event. His dedication to honoring veterans, fostering community engagement, and coordinating with numerous civic and school groups played a crucial role in the ceremony’s success.

Finally, sincere thanks to Commander Richard Hunt and the members of the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 MOPH for their ongoing commitment to veterans and their families. Their leadership and presence make events like this both possible and profoundly meaningful.

In Old Homosassa this Memorial Day, a community came together not just to remember—but to promise never to forget.

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