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Transforming Health Careers in Citrus County: TGH and CRHS Health Academy Forge Powerful New Partnership

Transforming Health Careers in Citrus County: TGH and CRHS Health Academy Forge Powerful New Partnership

At the July 8, 2025 meeting, your Citrus County School Board unanimously approved a transformative memorandum of understanding with Tampa General Hospital to support the Academy of Health Careers (AHC) at Crystal River High School. This partnership marks a pivotal step in elevating health sciences education and expanding workforce pathways for students across Citrus County.

Under this three-year title partnership agreement, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Crystal River will provide approximately $300,000 in both direct and in-kind support to the AHC and its associated programs. Of that generous funding, $150,000 will be direct contributions to Crystal River High School to support AHC operations and founded through the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF) through an “A+ Partnership” aligned with CCEF’s mission to connect community resources and enhance educational opportunities. An additional $150,000 in estimated in-kind contributions—including clinical learning tools, mentorship programs, site visits, and professional development—rounds out this comprehensive investment.

Established over 30 years ago, the Academy of Health Careers is Citrus County’s longest-running academy program and the district’s first magnet academy. From its modest beginning as a single pathway, the program has grown to include: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Dental Assisting, Certified Veterinary Assisting, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and Biomedical Science.

This wide range of offerings has allowed AHC to become a hub for high school students pursuing rigorous, hands-on training in real-world health professions.

The AHC, uniquely housed on the Crystal River High School campus, is one of only a few comprehensive health career academies located on a high school campus in Florida—and among an elite group nationally. The program features:

  • A multi-station patient care simulation lab
  • A six-station full-service dental suite
  • Multiple chemistry and biology labs
  • Varied classroom environments
  • A veterinary sciences lab
  • Plans for a radiology suite

The breadth and scope of this academy reflect a forward-thinking vision to prepare students not only for traditional clinical roles but also for the wide array of professions that make modern healthcare systems thrive.

This partnership with Tampa General Hospital—a leading nonprofit academic medical center affiliated with USF Health—is more than just an infusion of funding. It represents a shared commitment to the future. By engaging students early, investing in their training, and giving them hands-on experience, we can better prepare them to fill in-demand roles in our region’s growing healthcare sector. Whether students are interested in nursing, administration, culinary services, hospital engineering, information technology, or public safety, this collaboration ensures they have a strong local pathway toward meaningful careers.

The leadership behind this effort deserves recognition. Tampa General Hospital President and Chief Executive Officer John Couris championed this vision personally, supported by senior team members including Jennifer Siem, Senior Director of Strategic Growth and Governmental Affairs, and Linda Stockton, Senior Vice President and President of TGH Crystal River. Working in close coordination with Citrus County Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert and his team—led by Director of Special Academic Programs Darrick Buettner, Deb Stanley, Director of CTE, Phil Mcleod, principal CRHS, Stacie Lewis, AP CRHS—and CCEF Executive Director Shaunda Burdette and Amy McLaughlin, this group brought to life a bold new partnership grounded in shared values of education, service, and excellence.

This agreement arrives during a period of remarkable growth for Tampa General Hospital in Citrus County. Already operating a 128-bed acute care facility in Crystal River, TGH is expanding through its “TGH North” initiative, which includes a state-of-the-art, approximately 400-bed medical campus now under development in Citrus Hills. Built in phases on a 53-acre parcel at County Road 486 and Forest Ridge Boulevard, the project will begin with a 120-bed hospital tower, medical office buildings, and a helipad. A second phase will expand capacity to the full 400 beds, alongside additional infrastructure. This development signals both greater access to high-quality care for local residents as well as a major new source of healthcare-related employment and career training for generations to come.

This private investment by Tampa General builds on strong momentum from the public sector. Earlier this year, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature approved $1,046,090 in legislative funding to support the expansion of the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School. These combined public-private contributions are making it possible to upgrade facilities, expand programming, and increase access to advanced training for students. It’s an alignment of mission and opportunity that few districts in Florida—or across the country—can replicate.

The significance of this partnership cannot be overstated. It positions Citrus County as a statewide leader in career and technical education, demonstrating what’s possible when schools, hospitals, and community organizations work together to invest in students. As the demand for skilled healthcare workers grows—especially in rural and underserved areas—programs like AHC provide a scalable, sustainable solution to workforce development. Most importantly, they give students real choices and real futures, right here at home.

As a school district, we are proud of what this partnership means for our students and community—but this is only the beginning. We encourage every student, parent, and educator to explore the opportunities being created. With continued support from leaders like John Couris, Dr. Scott Hebert, Darrick Buettner, Jennifer Siem, Linda Stockton, Shaunda Burdette, and the many others who helped make this vision a reality, our schools are now positioned not only to prepare students for college and careers, but to help anchor a healthier, more prosperous future for all of Citrus County.

To the students of AHC and beyond: we hope you’ll take full advantage of what’s being built for you. The future of healthcare in Citrus County is not just being shaped by hospitals and government—it’s being shaped by you.

A Republic, If You Can Keep It: The Forgotten Contributions of Adams and Franklin

A Republic, If You Can Keep It: The Forgotten Contributions of Adams and Franklin

As Americans across the country gather to celebrate the Fourth of July—with fireworks, music, parades, and family cookouts—we mark more than just a day on the calendar. We celebrate a defining moment in human history: the birth of a nation grounded in liberty and self-governance. Yet, amid the barbecues and patriotic tributes, we often forget to honor two of the men who were essential in securing the freedoms we now enjoy: John Adams and Benjamin Franklin.

These two Founding Fathers are certainly remembered for many achievements. But their behind-the-scenes roles in shaping the Declaration of Independence and rallying support for revolution deserve renewed attention, especially on this day.

John Adams: The Relentless Advocate for Independence

In the early days of 1776, the idea of breaking from the mighty British Empire was far from universally accepted. Many in the colonies feared the consequences, preferring to remain under British rule rather than risk war. But John Adams stood firm. A delegate to the Continental Congress, Adams spent tireless hours debating, persuading, and pushing for a resolution that would ultimately lead to the creation of a new nation.

Adams knew the stakes. Supporting independence meant risking everything—his property, his reputation, even his life. To the Crown, he was a traitor. But to history, he is a hero. He once wrote to his wife Abigail, “I must study politics and war, that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy.” That quote from May 1780 perfectly captures Adams’ understanding of sacrifice and duty: he would endure the storms of revolution so that future generations could live in peace.

Through his fierce commitment, Adams helped convince all 12 colonies to unanimously adopt the Declaration of Independence in July 1776. Without his leadership and courage, it’s possible that America’s fate would have taken a very different path.

Benjamin Franklin: The Diplomat Who Sealed the Victory

While Adams stirred debate in Congress, Benjamin Franklin waged a quieter but equally vital battle overseas. As America’s ambassador to France, Franklin knew the fledgling nation had little chance of success against Britain without outside support. So, with wit, wisdom, and the keen skill of a seasoned diplomat, Franklin worked to gain the trust and alliance of France.

Convincing another nation to support a rebellion was no easy task. Franklin had to navigate courts, cultivate relationships, and in some cases, even work with spies. But his efforts paid off—France ultimately provided crucial military and financial support that helped turn the tide of the war.

Franklin, like Adams, was also one of the five appointed to draft the Declaration of Independence. Together, they helped shape not only a document but an ideal that continues to inspire democracies around the world.

From Fireworks to Flags: The Legacy of July Fourth

Interestingly, it was John Adams who predicted that future generations would celebrate America’s independence with fireworks, parades, speeches, and music. His vision came true. The first organized celebration of Independence Day took place in 1777, a full year after the Declaration was adopted—despite the war still raging on.

Though the early celebrations were modest by today’s standards, they were rich in meaning. Cannons served as fireworks. Patriotic bunting adorned town squares. The colors red, white, and blue symbolized the unity and spirit of a bold new experiment in self-rule.

Today, technology may have changed how we celebrate, but the core traditions remain. And every firework that lights the sky should remind us of the courageous few who risked everything to make this nation possible.

“A Republic—If You Can Keep It”

At the close of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, Dr. Franklin was famously asked, “What have we got—a Republic or a Monarchy?” His reply was sharp and prophetic: “A Republic, if you can keep it.”

Keeping a republic takes more than parades and fireworks. It requires remembering the past, honoring those who paved the way, and recommitting ourselves to the ideals of liberty and justice for all.

So this Fourth of July, as we wave the flag and enjoy the celebration, let us also reflect. Let us remember Adams and Franklin—not just for their names in history books, but for their courage, vision, and unwavering belief in a better way of life.

Happy Independence Day. May we always be worthy of the freedom they helped secure.

Summer at Our Schools: A Season of Preparation, Planning, and Purpose

Summer at Our Schools: A Season of Preparation, Planning, and Purpose

It’s always invigorating and insightful to visit our schools during the academic year—but there’s something uniquely energizing about being on campus during the summer. While students are enjoying their well-earned break, the heart of our school district continues to beat strong. Across Citrus County, summer is a time of focused preparation—from our dedicated facilities and custodial teams to our school leaders, who are laying the groundwork for the upcoming year.

Today, I had the pleasure of visiting Lecanto High School and spending time with their new principal, Troy LaBarbara. I was instantly struck by a contagious sense of momentum and positivity—a feeling of excitement and purpose already humming through the halls. Mr. LaBarbara greeted me in the lobby and quickly led me to what he calls the “Principal’s Classroom,” located right at the front of the school.

As I stepped into the room, I was struck by the environment—it felt more like a strategy hub than a typical classroom or office. The walls were lined with whiteboards covered in detailed, student-focused academic planning. Themes like creating optimal learning environments, increasing student outcomes and engagement, empowering parents, and supporting educators and school teams were all thoughtfully mapped out.

Lecanto High is an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, and it was evident that Mr. LaBarbara’s vision extends far beyond just strengthening the IB program—though he is clearly laser-focused on that as well. His goal is to bring that same level of excellence and opportunity to all students. As he walked me through the plans, he wasn’t just presenting information—he was modeling what academic leadership at LHS will look like. He shared his vision, laid out expectations, and pointed toward the incredible opportunities ahead. Before I knew it, I found myself sitting down, completely drawn in—like a student in a class I didn’t want to leave.

While I was there, I also had the pleasure of spending time with new Assistant Principal and proud LHS alumna Elizabeth Moran, who entered the room full of energy and enthusiasm for the year ahead. She was soon joined by Assistant Principal Richard Crowley and the ever-enthusiastic Athletic and Activities Director, Coach Peter Rausch. It was clear that this leadership team is aligned and working closely together to shape a strong direction for Lecanto High.

Mr. LaBarbara, a graduate of Springstead High School, began his education career in Hernando County, where he also served as principal of Weeki Wachee High School. He later advanced his leadership journey in Martin County, serving as Assistant Superintendent of Academic and Instructional Services. His return to the Nature Coast brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to student success—along with a desire to be closer to family. He’s already making a significant impact.

What’s happening at LHS is not the exception—it’s a reflection of the broader work being done across Citrus County. I’ve recently spent time at Crystal River High School and Citrus Springs Middle School, and I’ll continue visiting more schools as they develop their School Improvement Plans and strategies for the upcoming year.

Education can often feel like a roller coaster—with discussions around budgets, staffing, curriculum, and policy—but what always keeps me grounded and hopeful is seeing the year-round dedication of our educators. Whether in offices, classrooms, or even at kitchen tables at home, these professionals are constantly thinking, planning, and working to make each day a meaningful and personalized learning opportunity for every student.

The summer may be quiet in the halls, but it is far from idle. It is a season of building—not just buildings, but dreams.

2025 State Budget Delivers Big Win for Citrus Schools and Health Academy Expansion

2025 State Budget Delivers Big Win for Citrus Schools and Health Academy Expansion

Today, the Governor signed the Florida budget for 2025. I’m incredibly grateful that the budget includes continued funding to support teacher salaries—essential to attracting and retaining high-quality educators—and an increase in the Base Student Allocation. I’m also proud to share that all of the Citrus County School District’s appropriation requests were funded in the final budget.

Most notably, I want to express my sincere appreciation to Governor DeSantis for approving full funding—$1,046,090—for the expansion of the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School. This investment will allow for expanded programming and state-of-the-art facility upgrades, marking a major advancement for health science education in our community.

One of the most exciting developments is the planned addition of a Firefighter I course to the Academy’s Phil Royal EMT Pathway, broadening our impact across both health and public safety career tracks. The importance of this expansion cannot be overstated—it will be truly transformative, opening new doors for students to pursue meaningful, high-demand careers in healthcare and emergency response.

As workforce needs in these sectors continue to grow across Citrus County and Florida, our schools are better positioned than ever to meet those demands—and lead with excellence.

I’m especially thankful to Senator Blaise Ingoglia and Representative J.J. Grow for sponsoring and championing these vital requests in Tallahassee. Senator Ingoglia, in particular, has made the Academy of Health Careers a personal legislative priority over the past two years. After visiting the Academy and Crystal River High School early in his term, he developed a genuine appreciation for the program and its students—an appreciation that has translated into action.

This marks the second major Career and Technical Education (CTE) initiative that Senator Ingoglia has helped expand, following his support for the Citrus High School Construction Academy, now entering its fourth year in 2025.

The Academy of Health Careers at CRHS is a cornerstone of our district’s CTE offerings. For nearly 30 years, it has prepared students for post-secondary education and careers in healthcare, related sciences, and STEM fields through a rigorous curriculum enhanced by leadership training, team-building, and real-world clinical experiences.

As the oldest magnet program in Citrus County Schools, the Academy has a legacy of excellence, having produced thousands of successful professionals—nurses, doctors, first responders, engineers, military leaders, and other health and science specialists.

The Academy currently offers five specialized pathways:

  • Certified Nursing Assistant
  • Biomedical Technician
  • Dental Assistant
  • EMS/EMT
  • Veterinary Assistant

Each program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in high-demand career fields and contribute meaningfully to our workforce and communities.

In addition to the Academy of Health Careers expansion, Citrus County will also benefit from:

  • Hurricane resilience initiatives to strengthen school infrastructure
  • School safety enhancements – Development planning for the Public Safety Annex.
  • Ongoing support for the Academy of Environmental Science, a unique educational resource in our district

These investments demonstrate a strong commitment to education, workforce development, and the long-term resilience of our community. We are deeply appreciative of the state’s partnership and support as we continue building pathways for student success.

Summer 2025: Citrus County Schools Construction and Maintenance in Full Swing

Summer 2025: Citrus County Schools Construction and Maintenance in Full Swing

Summertime might bring a break in the school calendar, but for Citrus County Schools’ Facilities, Construction, and Maintenance departments, it’s one of the busiest times of the year. With students and teachers away, campuses across the district become hubs of construction, renovation, and deep maintenance work. At the helm of these summer efforts is Director Eric Stokes, a seasoned professional with over 30 years in the construction and facilities industry.

The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the department’s most active in recent memory. With dozens of major projects underway and many more in planning stages, Mr. Stokes and his teams—alongside outside contractors—are executing a wide-ranging slate of work across the district.

Major Projects Currently Under Construction

  • Floral City Elementary Front Office Relocation
    A significant safety upgrade is underway with the relocation of the front office. This project, partially funded by a federal COPS grant, enhances campus security by creating a more secure and accessible entry point.
  • Floral City Elementary New Classroom Wing
    A brand-new classroom wing is being added and is on track to open for the upcoming school year. This expansion will increase capacity and modernize instructional space for students and staff.
  • Lecanto Middle School HVAC Upgrade – Phase II
    The second half of the Lecanto Middle School campus is receiving a much-needed HVAC overhaul. This update ensures improved climate control and energy efficiency throughout the facility.
  • Lecanto Middle School First Floor Remodel
    A previously outdated space is being transformed into new classrooms. This important remodel will provide additional instructional space just in time for the fall semester.
  • Hernando Elementary School Fire Alarm System Upgrade
    An outdated fire alarm system is being replaced with a modern and more reliable system, increasing the safety of students and staff throughout the campus.
  • Crystal River High School Gym Reroofing Project
    A new roof is being installed on the gymnasium building. The Facilities team is working in tandem with Maintenance, which is simultaneously upgrading the building’s air conditioning systems.
  • Homosassa Elementary School Intercom System Upgrade
    The original intercom system is being replaced with a more advanced communication system, improving day-to-day operations and emergency communications.
  • Citrus High School Construction Academy Storage Building
    A new storage building for the Construction Academy at CHS is being erected. This grant-funded project (through a CTE grant) supports hands-on learning opportunities in skilled trades.
  • Welding Program Upgrades at CHS, LHS, and CRHS
    Welding programs across Citrus, Lecanto, and Crystal River High Schools are receiving substantial facility and equipment upgrades. These improvements strengthen career and technical education offerings across the district.
  • Marine Science Station Preliminary Concept Planning
    Early-stage planning is underway for future improvements at the district’s Marine Science Station, ensuring this unique learning environment continues to thrive and grow.
  • Additional Grant-Funded Projects in Progress
    Several other facility improvement projects—funded through local, state, and federal grants—are underway, adding further capacity, safety, and modernization to school infrastructure across the district.

The Unsung Heroes: Custodial and Maintenance Teams

While construction crews and contractors handle the big projects, a great deal of the summer workload is shouldered by our district’s custodians and maintenance staff. These dedicated teams are working tirelessly to support ongoing construction, refresh buildings, and ensure every school is clean, safe, and ready for the return of students and teachers.

From reflooring and painting to deep cleaning and landscaping, their work is both visible and behind-the-scenes. The floors get waxed, the walls are touched up, and playgrounds, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces are maintained—all within a compressed summer timeline.

These quiet heroes work long hours, often behind the scenes and without recognition. But their contributions are essential. They are a vital part of the team that ensures our schools are more than just buildings—they are safe, comfortable, and welcoming environments for learning and growth.

Moving Forward

With so much happening in such a short period, the coordination, planning, and expertise behind these efforts cannot be overstated. Director Eric Stokes and his team continue to show a deep commitment to Citrus County Schools, ensuring that our facilities reflect the high standards we hold for education in our community.

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, students and staff will return to buildings that are not just refreshed—but reimagined for the future.

Citrus Educators Launch into New Opportunities at 2025 SPACE Conference

Citrus Educators Launch into New Opportunities at 2025 SPACE Conference

“We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” – President John F. Kennedy

On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy stood before the nation at Rice University and boldly declared, “We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” These words did more than define a space program—they ignited a national spirit of innovation, courage, and relentless pursuit of the unknown.

That same spirit continues to shape Florida’s identity today. For more than 75 years, the Sunshine State’s history, economy, and culture have been deeply intertwined with space exploration and the aerospace industry. Many of us remember the heroes of The Right Stuff—watching Neil Armstrong take humanity’s first steps on the Moon, witnessing the first and many launches of the Space Shuttle, and now observing a new era of space innovation unfold with Artemis, SpaceX, and Blue Origin. Florida has long served as the launchpad for the nation’s boldest ambitions beyond Earth. And now, its classrooms—especially those in Citrus County—are preparing the next generation of explorers, engineers, innovators, and skilled technicians to take us even farther.

This month the Citrus County School Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Space Florida to formally establish a Space Florida Academy within the district’s CTE and STEM programs. This partnership allows Citrus Schools to unify and promote their existing offerings under the Space Academy banner, helping position Citrus County as a statewide player in aerospace education.

This past week, five Citrus County educators proudly joined that ongoing mission by participating in the 2025 Space Port Area Conference for Educators (SPACE), held at The Center for Space Education at Kennedy Space Center. Alongside peers from across the country, they experienced immersive professional development designed to bring the excitement of space science directly into their classrooms. Made possible through the generous support of The Astronauts Memorial Foundation, The Center for Space Education, and a private grant from the Citrus County Education Foundation, this opportunity empowered local educators to connect students with the future of aerospace and STEM careers.

The multi-day conference featured hands-on STEM curriculum training, keynote sessions with astronauts, launch directors, and industry leaders, and expert-led professional development. Our Citrus delegation represented a wide range of STEM and CTE (Career and Technical Education) disciplines: Dr. Ashley Shidner (Science, IB Coordinator, Lecanto High School), MSgt Eric Brown, USAF (Aerospace, JROTC, Citrus High School), Angela Hamilton (Computer Science & Robotics, Citrus High School), William Linthwaite (Drafting & Architecture, Crystal River High School), and Megan Richardson (District Science Specialist).

The SPACE Conference offered an exceptional blend of interactive workshops and exclusive access to NASA’s most iconic facilities. Teachers engaged in hands-on activities designed to directly enhance classroom learning—ranging from ISS simulations and water rocketry to lunar robotics using LEGO® Spike Prime. These experiences allowed educators to explore project-based approaches that bring physics, coding, engineering, and problem-solving to life for their students.

Dr. Shidner shared, “Visiting NASA and participating in SPACE 2025 was an incredible experience! We had the opportunity to hear powerful lessons that we can bring back to our classrooms and schools. It reminded me of the importance of curiosity and innovation as well as the endless opportunities we can create for our Citrus County students to shape their own futures.”

Sessions like “ISS Mimic EDU” and “Lunar Robotics” immersed educators in real-world simulations and collaborative problem-solving, strengthening both 21st-century learning and workforce readiness. In addition to classroom resources, participants left with renewed inspiration and innovative strategies to spark student engagement.

Megan Richardson noted, “This has been an AMAZING opportunity to see behind the scenes and learn from educators and space science specialists! We are coming home with lots of new STEM ideas for Citrus County Schools.”

The experience extended beyond workshops. Educators toured NASA’s Launch and Landing Facility, the colossal Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), Crawler Transporter 2, and Launch Complex 39B—gaining rare insight into the complex infrastructure supporting human spaceflight. These legendary locations, typically closed to the public, gave teachers a firsthand look at the systems and people powering today’s space missions.

William Linthwaite expressed, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in the 2025 Space Port Area Conference for Educators. It sparked some exciting ideas I’m eager to bring back and apply in my classroom.”

Angela Hamilton, who leads robotics and Academy of Computer Science instruction at Citrus High School, was particularly inspired by the integration of real-world technology in space missions.

For JROTC instructor MSgt Eric Brown, the conference was nothing short of transformational, “I must admit, it has been a while since I was ‘geeked out’ with everything I experienced. The amazing tours, the STEM-based professional development sessions, and the interactions with my fellow peers and space industry professionals—I am awestruck and excited to see the Space Florida–Space Academy Program launch within our district. This experience further ignited my passion for aerospace education, providing me with additional resources to help guide my cadets into higher orbits and spark interest in high-demand careers in aviation and space exploration.”

These experiences are more than inspirational—they’re part of a larger strategic vision. They directly support Citrus County Schools’ commitment to expanding workforce readiness and career-focused education. This initiative also complements the district’s Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant, awarded last year, which is currently funding expansions in high school welding and machining programs. By incorporating aerospace and aviation into this broader CTE framework, Citrus students gain access to hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and real-world experiences in high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, construction, logistics, and semiconductors.

The momentum from the 2025 SPACE Conference is just the beginning. These five dedicated educators return home with cutting-edge tools, reinvigorated passion, and a powerful vision for inspiring students to pursue bold futures—on Earth and beyond.

Thanks to the continued support of local and national partners, Citrus County Schools are leading the way in preparing students for high-wage, essential, and future-ready careers—and for missions that may one day reach the stars.