Celebrating Scientific Excellence: 2025 Citrus County Regional Science and Engineering Fair Awards

On February 13, 2025, the Curtis Peterson Auditorium was filled with excitement and anticipation as students, educators, and community members gathered to celebrate the achievements of young scientific minds at the 2025 Citrus County Regional Science and Engineering Fair Awards Ceremony. Sponsored by the Citrus County Education Foundation and Citrus Oral and Facial Surgery, P.A., Robert L. Brockett, D.M.D., and Rushi S. Patel, D.D.S., Ph.D., the event showcased the robust state of STEM education in our district.

The ceremony highlighted the remarkable achievements of students from elementary, middle, and high schools across Citrus County, including both public and private institutions. The event not only demonstrated the scientific ingenuity of our students but also reflected the district-wide commitment to fostering a culture of inquiry, discovery, and innovation.

Community Support and Special Awards

Middle and high school students earned 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards in various categories. Additionally, several special awards were presented, made possible through the support of local business partners and community organizations. Duke Energy, Tim Herndon Plumbing, and Keep Citrus County Beautiful were among the notable sponsors recognizing students for exceptional innovation and environmental consciousness.

School high points awards were given in both the middle school and high school categories for the schools with the highest number of total awards. Lecanto Middle School won for the middle schools, and Citrus High School won for the high schools. Each school’s Science and Engineering Fair Coordinators, Randy Headlee (LMS) and Brianna Woodbury (CHS), enthusiastically accepted their schools’ awards.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Ronald J. Worthington Award for Scientific Excellence. Named after former Lecanto High School science teacher Ronald J. Worthington, the award was once again sponsored by Citrus Oral and Facial Surgery. Dr. Rushi S. Patel, a dental surgeon with the practice, credited Mr. Worthington with inspiring his own love of science and learning, along with that of countless other students. This year’s recipient was Amya Francois, a Biomedical Science student from the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School (CRHS). In addition to this esteemed recognition, Amya was awarded a $1,000 scholarship for her outstanding research.

Fostering Future Scientists from an Early Age

One of the most inspiring aspects of the ceremony was the recognition of elementary school participants, who received medallions for qualifying at the regional level—reinforcing the district’s commitment to nurturing scientific curiosity from a young age. By providing early exposure to scientific methodology and inquiry, Citrus County Schools are laying a strong foundation for future academic and professional success in STEM fields.

Advancing to the State Science and Engineering Fair

The event culminated in the announcement of students who have qualified for the State Science and Engineering Fair of Florida, taking place March 25–27 in Lakeland, FL. These exceptional students demonstrated excellence in research, problem-solving, and innovation, earning them a place among Florida’s top young scientists.

Senior Division (High School) Winners

• Jennifer Ramos-Gonzalez – LHS
• Sarah Duncan – CRHS
• Kari Giordano – AES
• Amya Francois – CRHS
• Elena Aleman – LHS
• Kaileigh Moran – LHS
• Neveah Recta – LHS
• Dibbo Mondal – LHS
• Jamie Lin – LHS
• Gia Patel – LHS

Alternates:

• Gabriel Rogers – LHS
• Zaina Khan – LHS
• Julia Naruta – CHS
• Alexis Pankalla – AES
• Maximus Walker, Ethan Vandervar, Arimas Amyatea (team) – CHS

Junior Division (Middle School) Winners

• Deborah Brunk – IMS
• Myles Leazott – SJPII
• Noah Kirilescu – LMS
• Naiya Patel – LMS
• Carter Perry – CSM
• Cassidy Swartzfager – IMS
• Jenna Holland/Bella Vogel (team) – LMS
• Tasrim Hasan – LMS
• Emma Dodge – SJPII
• Sebastian Montisano – SJPII

Alternates:

• Siya Barad – LMS
• Nikhil Pasupuleti – LMS
• Selah Hermann – IMS
• Launa Chamberlin – SJPII
• Quinn Davide – CRM

Gratitude to Judges, Sponsors, and Organizers

The Citrus County Regional Science and Engineering Fair relies on community members to serve as judges. Each judge is assigned to a specific category based on their professional background and expertise, ensuring that students receive fair and knowledgeable evaluations. We are deeply grateful to these individuals and the businesses that allowed them to contribute as expert judges.

This event’s success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our community partners and the leadership of Citrus County Schools. Special thanks go to the Citrus County Education Foundation, Duke Energy, Tim Herndon Plumbing, Keep Citrus County Beautiful, Explorida Adventure Center, and River Ventures for their generous sponsorship.

The Citrus County School Board, led by Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert and his leadership team, played a crucial role in advocating for STEM education and ensuring the success of this initiative.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to Meg Richardson, District Science TOSA and the 2025 Citrus County Regional Science and Engineering Fair district coordinator, as well as all the school site coordinators who dedicated their time and effort to making this event a reality.

Lastly, to all the parents, families, and friends who encourage, support, and foster a love for STEM and science fairs—thank you.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this year’s achievements, we also look forward to the continued growth of the Citrus County Regional Science and Engineering Fair program. The dedication and passion demonstrated by these students reinforce the bright future of STEM education in our community.

Congratulations to all participants, and best of luck to our state qualifiers as they prepare to represent Citrus County at the State Science and Engineering Fair in Lakeland!

Photos

Follow this link to photos by our CCSD Communication Team from the 2025 Citrus County Regional Science and Engineering Fair- https://citrus-schools.smugmug.com/2025-Regional-Science-Engineering-Fair-Awards/i-BzqF4Lc?fbclid=IwY2xjawIdi5lleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHbPnCh2HFHqmsGgXaVth6OEYD7Nv3UlJ5v_DEDDgs8jff6MwD3oR8KkvIg_aem_UvRkT72shOVnUzPB5ZGwOw

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Citrus County Honors Heroes at the Nineteenth Annual Purple Heart Ceremony

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the combat-wounded patriots of Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Military Order of the Purple Heart, hosted the 19th Annual Purple Heart Ceremony at the Citrus County Auditorium. This solemn and powerful event paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Purple Heart recipients, reinforcing the community’s unwavering support for veterans and their families.

A Ceremony Steeped in Honor and Tradition

Chapter 776 Commander Richard Hunt once again served as the master of ceremonies, leading the event with dignity and reverence. He was joined by Chapter 776 Adjutant Curt Ebitz, Chaplain Troy Allen, Vice Commander Gary Bain, and Citrus County School District representative and Chapter 776 Honorary Life Member, Darrick Buettner. This year’s program was dedicated to former Chapter 776 Commander Richard (Rick) Allen, further emphasizing the personal connections and deep respect within the veteran community.

Adding to the ceremony’s sense of tradition and respect, the Lecanto Army JROTC color guard presented the colors, standing as a symbol of honor and dedication.

Music and Tribute

The Nature Coast Community Band, under the expert direction of Kathy Thompson, provided a stirring musical prelude and accompaniment throughout the ceremony. Their powerful renditions of the National Anthem and “God Bless the USA” set an emotional tone for the day. Guest vocalists Drema Leonard and Robert Lowden added even more depth and meaning with their performances.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Major John McGee, a South Boston native and Citrus County resident, recently inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame. U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis delivered a heartfelt tribute of Major McGee, sharing a speech he had previously presented on the U.S. House floor, which is now part of the official U.S. Congressional Record. This powerful moment underscored the national significance of the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients.

A Personal Perspective on Sacrifice

One of the most poignant moments of the ceremony came from Nancy Weaver, widow of Aaron A. Weaver and author of American Soldier. Her deeply personal message provided an intimate glimpse into the sacrifices endured by military families. Following her speech, their daughter, Savannah Weaver, read the epilogue she wrote for the book, adding another layer of emotion and reflection to the event. If you haven’t read the book, please get a copy. You can get a copy on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/American-Soldier-Nancy-C-Weaver/dp/B0D7QPCFXD.

Honoring Veterans Through Education

Darrick Buettner reinforced the Citrus County School District’s commitment to veterans, stating, “Veterans are the real heroes,” and affirming that “Citrus Schools care about veterans.” He highlighted the district’s distinction as a Florida Purple Star School of Distinction, proudly noting that all 23 Citrus County schools have earned this designation. Each school also has a dedicated Purple Heart liaison, ensuring that veterans and military families receive continued support and recognition.

A particularly moving tribute came in the form of memorial displays created by each Citrus County school. These displays, honoring veterans with personal connections to students and staff—fathers, brothers, grandfathers, and other family members—lined the auditorium’s outer walls. After the ceremony, these heartfelt tributes will return to their respective schools, serving as ongoing reminders of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. (Follow this link to album of School Displays – https://photos.app.goo.gl/Dqbwuc3SjU7vaQ1x8)

A Salute to the Armed Forces

One of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony was the annual Armed Forces Salute. As the Nature Coast Community Band performed the official songs of each military branch, veterans and their spouses stood in recognition of their service, while a representative from each branch of the Armed Forces proudly carried and waved their flag.

The ceremony concluded with the solemn laying of the wreath, led by Chapter 776 Vice Commander Gary Bain and honored guests, followed by a prayer for the fallen delivered by Chaplain Troy Allen. The final tribute—a rifle salute and the playing of Taps by the Citrus Detachment 819 Marine Corps League—provided a powerful and deeply moving conclusion to a day dedicated to remembrance and honor.

A Community United in Gratitude

The success of this annual event is made possible in part by the unwavering support of the Citrus County School District, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert, along with the Citrus County School Board. Special thanks are extended to Darrick Buettner, Director of Specialty Programs for Citrus County Schools; Dr. Al Balk, Supervisor of Instructional Materials; Holli Herndon, CTE Specialist; and Diedra Newton, District Assistant, among many others who contributed to the event’s organization and execution, and played a key role in ensuring its success.

The Citrus County School District is immensely proud to be not only a Purple Heart Entity but also the first school district in the state of Florida—and the nation—to earn this recognition. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring the “Proud Legacy of the Purple Heart” and supporting Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 in its mission to recognize and celebrate combat-wounded veterans.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Military Order of the Purple Heart; Commander Richard Hunt; Adjutant Curt Ebitz; Chaplain Troy Allen; the Nature Coast Community Band; and all those who dedicated their time and efforts to making this ceremony a meaningful and memorable event.

God bless our Purple Heart honorees, our veterans and their families, our military and their families, our school district, and our great nation. The legacy of the Purple Heart will continue to be honored and cherished in Citrus County, ensuring that the sacrifices of our brave men and women are never forgotten.

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Darryl Willie: A Visionary Leader in Education and Community Empowerment

Inspiring Change Through Leadership, Innovation, and Service

Throughout our lives, we encounter thousands of people, but only a precious few truly transform us—those rare individuals who light up a room with their energy, push us beyond our comfort zones, and inspire us to dream bigger. In my years of business, youth work, and service—as both a school board member and President of the Florida School Boards Association (FSBA)—I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some brilliant minds. Among these exceptional leaders, entrepreneurs, and dedicated educators is Darryl Willie.

His story isn’t just about educational leadership—it’s about the ripple effect one passionate individual can create, touching countless lives and transforming entire communities. Through his work, Darryl hasn’t just inspired me; he has redefined what’s possible when unwavering commitment meets visionary leadership in education.

A Mentee Who Became the Teacher

I first met Darryl in 2018 at the FSBA Conference and Training. At the time, he was a newly elected member of the Duval County School Board, participating in new board training. Like many first-time board members, he joined the FSBA Peer 2 Peer Program, which pairs seasoned board members with newcomers. I was honored to be paired with Darryl. While FSBA may have seen me as the experienced mentor, I quickly realized it was the other way around—over the years, Darryl has been the one imparting wisdom to me.

A Passion for Education Forged Through Experience

Darryl’s journey in education is deeply personal, shaped by his upbringing as a proud military child. Moving between both low- and high-performing public schools, he witnessed firsthand the power of education to uplift—or limit—a student’s potential. These experiences ignited a passion within him, driving a lifelong mission to ensure every child, regardless of background, has access to quality learning opportunities.

That mission has only grown stronger over the past 15 years, culminating in his leadership within the Duval County School District—one of the largest in Florida. With over 125,000 students and staff and a staggering $1.7 billion budget, Duval’s scale dwarfs that of many districts, including my own Citrus County School District. Yet, Darryl tackles its challenges with a combination of strategic vision and hands-on leadership.

Long before joining the school board, Darryl was already shaping the future of education. As Executive Director of Teach For America (TFA) Jacksonville, he spearheaded multimillion-dollar fundraising campaigns, and led transformative strategic initiatives. Through his leadership, he not only empowered teachers but also built a thriving network of advocates committed to leveling the playing field for all students.

Turning Conversations into Action: The ampED National Fellowship

One powerful example of Darryl’s ability to turn ideas into impact is the creation of an influential initiative—the ampED National Fellowship, which he co-founded with Duval education leader Dykisha Potter.

As Darryl tells it, the idea was born from a meeting at a coffee shop with Ms. Potter. She shared her concerns about education challenges, the struggles within her schools, and her deep desire to be part of the solution. In classic Darryl fashion, he seized the moment—fully embracing the philosophy of carpe diem—and together they turned their conversation into action.

The ampED National Fellowship empowers young Black educators to drive systemic change through community-based leadership and innovative programming. A standout feature of the fellowship is its “Shark Tank”-style presentation format, where fellows pitch their “surge projects”— recommendations aimed at tackling pressing education challenges—to a distinguished panel of education influencers and policymakers. This model creates a direct pipeline for emerging Black education leaders to influence decision-makers, turning real classroom experiences into actionable policy solutions with the potential for nationwide implementation.

A Career of Impact and Leadership

Darryl’s educational journey began in the classroom, where he taught 2nd, 5th, and 6th grades with Teach For America in Helena, Arkansas. It was here that his passion for fostering student success first took root. His career quickly expanded beyond the classroom, leading him into higher education administration. As a Graduate Resident Director at the University of Georgia, and later as an ACUHO-I Fellow at the University of Miami, Darryl gained invaluable experience in leadership and student development.

Darryl holds a Bachelor’s degree in Textile Management with a Business Minor from North Carolina State University and a Master’s in Education with a focus on Higher Education Administration from the University of Georgia. His professional expertise spans across partnership management, policy development, team leadership, government relations, community engagement, and strategic planning, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing education at every level.

Recognitions, Leadership, and Community Impact

Darryl Willie’s career has been a testament to his unwavering dedication to both education and community leadership. His impact has earned him multiple prestigious accolades, including recognition by the Jacksonville Business Journal as one of its “40 Under 40” honorees, a celebration of his influence as an emerging leader. His passion for nonprofit work and community development was further highlighted when he was named the Jacksonville Non-Profit Emerging Leader by Leadership Jacksonville.

But Darryl’s contributions extend far beyond personal recognitions. He has been an active force in shaping local communities through his involvement with several advisory and nonprofit boards. His leadership has been instrumental in organizations like the Northwest Jacksonville Community Development Corporation, the Jacksonville Arts and Music School, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. He has also provided invaluable strategic insights on university presidential advisory boards at two institutions, where his work continues to drive positive change in higher education.

A proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and 100 Black Men of Jacksonville, Darryl is committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders. His work remains rooted in his lifelong dedication to fostering equity and opportunity, ensuring that future generations have the support they need to succeed.

A Legacy of Transformative Impact

Darryl’s influence transcends his formal roles as a school board member, educator, and community leader. He is a catalyst for change, a developer of talent, a strategic thinker, and a master at forging powerful partnerships. Darryl’s leadership isn’t just about positions or accolades—it’s about the lives he’s touched, the opportunities he’s created, and the lasting change he continues to inspire. He is more than a visionary; he is a force driving progress, opening doors, and shaping a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Through his actions, Darryl Willie is not just leaving a legacy; he is laying the foundation for a brighter tomorrow—one where the next generation of leaders can stand on the shoulders of those who came before them. I am confident that his work will echo through the halls of schools, communities, and hearts for years to come, ensuring that his impact endures far beyond his time.

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