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A Major Investment in Our Future: HCA Healthcare Foundation’s $60,000 Grant to Crystal River High School Academy of Health Careers

Posted on September 23rd, 2024 by

A Major Investment in Our Future: HCA Healthcare Foundation’s $60,000 Grant to Crystal River High School Academy of Health Careers

The HCA Healthcare Foundation has announced a significant $60,000 grant to the Crystal River High School (CRHS) Academy of Health Careers, marking a pivotal investment in the future of healthcare education in Citrus County. This grant, provided through the Healthier Tomorrow Fund, will be distributed over three years at $20,000 annually. It aims to enhance the existing Academy program, which has been a cornerstone of health career training in the district. The funding will support expanded training opportunities for instructors, cover certification costs for students, and introduce new certifications, ensuring that the Academy continues to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare workforce.

This grant is not only an investment in education but also a direct contribution to the well-being and health of our community. The CRHS Academy of Health Careers, which is the oldest magnet program within Citrus County Schools, has proudly served students for nearly 30 years. During this time, it has developed a stellar reputation as arguably the most successful high school Career Technical Education program in the district, and perhaps even in the region. The Academy’s contributions to the workforce over the years are undeniable, having produced thousands of nurses, doctors, first responders, engineers, military leaders, and other health professionals who now serve both locally and beyond.

The HCA Healthcare Foundation’s grant will help expand several of the Academy’s pathways, which include Certified Nursing Assistant, BioMedical Technician, Dental Assistant, EMS/EMT, and Veterinary Assistant tracks. These pathways not only provide students with valuable hands-on experience but also offer certifications that are vital for entering the healthcare workforce upon graduation. The funds will be used to cover the costs of these certifications, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent our students from achieving their goals.

Moreover, the grant will fund additional training for our instructors and introduce new certifications to the Academy, ensuring that the curriculum remains cutting-edge and aligned with the healthcare industry’s evolving needs. These advancements are critical, especially considering the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Workforce Needs Study, which estimates a shortage of approximately 463,000 healthcare workers by the end of 2024. By enhancing the educational offerings at the Academy, we are not only preparing students for these in-demand jobs but also helping to alleviate the strain on the healthcare system by cultivating a pipeline of skilled professionals.

The CRHS Academy of Health Careers stands as a model of success for our district and our community. Programs like these are a beacon of hope for our students, offering them pathways to rewarding and impactful careers. Many of the Academy’s graduates have gone on to work right here in Citrus County, ensuring that our healthcare system is staffed by well-trained professionals who have a deep connection to the community they serve.

This grant would not have been possible without the partnership between HCA Florida Citrus Hospital and the Citrus County Education Foundation. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Lisa Nummi, CEO of HCA Florida Citrus Hospital, for recognizing the importance of this Academy and committing to its continued growth. As Lisa so eloquently put it, “By investing in the Crystal River High School Academy of Health Careers, we are not only supporting local education but also cultivating a pipeline of skilled professionals who will contribute to the future of healthcare.”

I encourage everyone in our great community to celebrate this moment and recognize the profound impact that this investment will have on the future of healthcare in Citrus County. The CRHS Academy of Health Careers is not just a school program—it’s a lifeline to our community’s future health and prosperity. We are incredibly fortunate to have HCA Healthcare as a partner in this effort, and I look forward to seeing the positive outcomes that will undoubtedly arise from this significant contribution.

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Celebrating Founders Month, Freedom Week, and Constitution Day in Citrus County Schools

Posted on September 17th, 2024 by

Celebrating Founders Month, Freedom Week, and Constitution Day in Citrus County Schools

On September 17th, Citrus County Schools, along with schools across Florida and the nation, commemorate a pivotal moment in American history—the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Constitution Day and the accompanying Freedom Week provide an opportunity for reflection, learning, and celebration of the document that established the foundation of our democracy.

During Freedom Week, which spans the entire third week of September, our schools adhere to state mandates ensuring students engage with the core principles of American democracy. Florida’s Celebrate Freedom Week statute requires students to dedicate at least three hours of study to the Declaration of Independence within their social studies curriculum. This focused study helps students grasp the Declaration’s crucial role in shaping the nation’s values, alongside the U.S. Constitution.

Throughout Constitution and Freedom Week, Citrus County students participate in activities designed to deepen their understanding of our founding documents. It’s always a highlight to visit our schools during this period, witnessing students enthusiastically exploring the principles that have shaped our nation. These educational experiences are closely tied to our district’s commitment to honoring our veterans, demonstrating the vital connection between the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and those who have served to protect them.

Thanks to the generosity of Citrus County Supervisor of Elections Maureen “Mo” Baird, all Civics and Government students will receive a pocket-sized copy of the U.S. Constitution. This tangible gift serves as a constant reminder of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. I extend special thanks to Superintendent-elect Dr. Scott Hebert, Supervisor of Instructional Services Al Balk, our dedicated teachers, and district administrators for ensuring these important pocket Constitutions reach our students. Additionally, every Citrus County Schools student has access to our country’s founding documents on their school-issued iPads.

In 2004, the U.S. Congress passed legislation designating September 17th as Constitution Day, requiring public schools to dedicate at least three hours to teaching about the Constitution. In Citrus County, we further observe this through Founders Month and Freedom Week.

More than just a commemorative event, this week is a powerful opportunity to instill in our students a profound appreciation for the rights and freedoms we enjoy. As the nation’s first Purple Heart School District, with all our schools designated as Florida Purple Star Schools, Citrus County Schools places special emphasis on recognizing the sacrifices made by our veterans. By combining education with respect for our military personnel, we ensure that students understand their civic duties and the legacy they inherit as citizens.

As we celebrate Constitution Day and Freedom Week, Citrus County Schools will continue to uphold and teach the principles that form the foundation of our nation. Through understanding these documents and honoring those who have fought to protect them, we ensure their significance endures for generations to come.

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Patriot Day 9/11 Remembered: A Day of Reflection and Learning

Posted on September 11th, 2024 by

Patriot Day 9/11 Remembered: A Day of Reflection and Learning

Each year on September 11th, we gather as a nation to remember the tragic events of 2001. Known as Patriot Day, this solemn day marks an opportunity for reflection, education, and honoring the heroes who risked everything to save lives. In our schools, it is not only a day of remembrance but a teachable moment—a time to engage students in understanding what happened that day, why we honor the victims, and the critical role of first responders.

In our district, Al Balk, Supervisor of Instructional Materials, has ensured that 9/11 is remembered with the respect and significance it deserves. A moment of silence was observed in every school this morning, uniting students and staff in reflection. This moment is more than just a pause in the day; it’s a time for teachers to answer questions and guide discussions about the history of 9/11 in an age-appropriate manner. Through these conversations, students learn not only about the tragic events but also about the importance of courage, unity, and resilience.

Again this year, all three high schools are sending their social studies classes to the 9/11 Exhibit at the Valerie Theater. This local exhibit provides students with a unique opportunity to view artifacts from that day, thanks in large part to the efforts of School Board Member, the Honorable Joe Faherty. His dedication in traveling to New York to obtain and preserve these pieces of history for our community cannot be overstated. These artifacts allow students to engage with history firsthand, deepening their understanding of the impact 9/11 had on individuals, communities, and the world.

Additionally, this event ties into the 9/11 Hero Day statutes that we are required to teach in government classes. It is not only an obligation but a privilege to educate our youth about the bravery and selflessness exhibited on that day by first responders—police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and countless civilians. By lifting up these heroes, we instill in our students the values of service, sacrifice, and resilience that are so vital to our national identity.

As we pause to remember the lives lost and honor those who continue to serve, let us offer our deepest thanks to our first responders. May we continue to teach future generations about the significance of this day and the bravery that emerged from such darkness. God bless our heroes, our schools, and our great country.

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James Earl Jones Legendary Voice and an Inspirational Journey

Posted on September 10th, 2024 by

James Earl Jones Legendary Voice and an Inspirational Journey

A Journey from Stuttering to One of the Most Iconic Voices in History

This week, on September 9, 2024, the world lost the legendary American actor James Earl Jones. As we reflect on his passing, we remember not only his powerful performances but also the inspiring journey that led him to overcome significant personal obstacles. Renowned for his deep, commanding voice, Jones captivated audiences with his roles as Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King. Yet, beyond his iconic characters lies a story of resilience that has motivated countless individuals who face similar struggles.

For many fans, Jones’ portrayal of Darth Vader, the dark and complex villain in Star Wars, is unforgettable. The character’s booming, almost otherworldly voice has become synonymous with cinematic power and authority. Likewise, in The Lion King, Jones’ portrayal of Mufasa, the wise and noble king, has left an indelible mark on generations of moviegoers. His voice is instantly recognizable, instilling both fear and reverence, but few realize that the man behind the voice once struggled to even speak.

Overcoming the Stutter: James Earl Jones’ Silent Years

What some may not know is that Jones’ journey to becoming one of the most revered voices in film history was far from easy. During his childhood, he suffered from a severe stutter that made verbal communication nearly impossible. The stutter began when he was just six years old and persisted through much of his adolescence. In fact, it was so debilitating that Jones spent eight years of his life in near silence, communicating primarily through writing and gestures. The isolation he experienced during these years was profound, as he withdrew from social interactions and avoided speaking whenever possible.

However, Jones’ story is not just one of struggle but one of triumph. During his high school years, a remarkable teacher, Donald Crouch, noticed the young boy’s potential despite his speech impediment. Crouch recognized that Jones had a gift for language and encouraged him to recite poetry aloud as a way to confront his fears and tackle his stutter. With Crouch’s support and through Jones’ own determination, he began to work through the stutter, developing the tools he needed to manage it.

Finding His Voice: From Silence to Stardom

Jones’ journey of overcoming his stutter was not just about finding his voice but about discovering who he was. This profound struggle gave him a unique relationship with language and sound, which eventually became his greatest asset. His deep, resonant voice would go on to make him a star on both stage and screen, earning him numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards, a Grammy, and an honorary Academy Award.

One of Jones’ performances that stands out to me personally is his portrayal of Terence Mann in the 1989 film Field of Dreams. In this role, Jones plays a reclusive author who once had dreams of playing professional baseball. One of the film’s most memorable moments is a monologue delivered by Jones’ character, speaking to the protagonist Ray Kinsella about the enduring power of baseball. The scene is powerful, not just because of the words, but because of the way Jones delivers them—with conviction, passion, and emotion. It becomes a pivotal moment in the film, inspiring Ray to build a baseball field in his cornfield, a metaphor for pursuing one’s dreams no matter how impossible they seem.

An Inspiration to All

What makes James Earl Jones’ story truly remarkable is that his success wasn’t guaranteed. He had to fight through personal challenges that might have silenced many others forever. By overcoming his stutter, he has become a symbol of resilience and determination, particularly for those who face speech disorders or other learning challenges. His story proves that obstacles, no matter how insurmountable they may seem, can be transformed into strengths. Jones took his deepest vulnerability—his voice—and turned it into his most powerful tool, influencing generations of actors, performers, and people from all walks of life.

James Earl Jones’ legacy transcends his roles as Darth Vader or Mufasa. It is about the quiet battles he fought before anyone knew his name. His life serves as an enduring testament that with persistence and the right support, challenges can be overcome. To those of us facing our own struggles, Jones’ story is a reminder that what we perceive as our greatest weakness may one day become our greatest gift.

So, thank you, James Earl Jones, for entertaining the world and for inspiring those of us who face our own challenges. May the force be with you, always.

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Inspiring the Future Workforce: A Day of Interview Skills and Culinary Excellence

Posted on September 4th, 2024 by

Inspiring the Future Workforce: A Day of Interview Skills and Culinary Excellence

Today, I had the distinct privilege of being a guest speaker in Mrs. Autumn Crabtree’s Culinary Arts Culinary 3 class at Crystal River High School. This opportunity to engage with the students and share valuable insights on interview skills and job readiness was both rewarding and inspiring. The experience highlighted the exceptional caliber of our students and the remarkable environment Mrs. Crabtree has cultivated in her classroom.

As soon as I entered the culinary lab, I was greeted by the sight of students working collaboratively, honing their skills as they prepared cinnamon rolls for the following day. This bustling, yet focused atmosphere was a testament to the practical, hands-on learning that takes place in the Culinary Arts program. Beyond food preparation, these students are gaining a diverse set of skills, including knowledge of food regulations, accounting, business practices, and hospitality.It was clear that they are being well-prepared for the future, with the opportunity to earn ServSafe® industry certifications that will make them job-ready upon graduation. Our district is fortunate to offer such comprehensive culinary programs across all three high schools, as well as the Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality program at Withlacoochee Technical College.

The classroom session focused on interview preparation and skills, a critical area for students as they approach the job market. I was thoroughly impressed by the students’ behavior throughout the session. Their eye contact, respectfulness, and attentiveness were exemplary—qualities that any potential employer would value highly. These attributes speak volumes about the positive learning environment Mrs. Crabtree has created, where students are encouraged to engage, listen, and learn actively.

During the session, we covered the essential stages of the interview process, stressing the need for thorough preparation. We discussed various interview formats and in-person vs video, emphasizing tailored strategies for each. Key points included researching the company, practicing common questions, and understanding what employers seek, such as reliability, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. We also reviewed critical interview dos and don’ts, highlighting punctuality, honesty, and professionalism while advising against negativity, lack of preparation, and casual attitudes. I shared personal experiences to illustrate the importance of preparation and learning from past challenges.

I always cherish these opportunities to connect with our students and educators. Engaging directly with the students allows me to see firsthand the incredible work being done in our schools and the bright futures being shaped. It is a privilege to contribute to their growth and readiness for the world beyond high school.

Before leaving, I was surprised and delighted by a thoughtful gesture from Mrs. Crabtree and her students. They had baked special Oreo cookies and prepared a unique “Pirate” spice blend for me to take home—a small token that reflected the warmth and creativity of the culinary program at Crystal River High School.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Crabtree for her passion, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to our students, our school district, and our community. She is truly making a difference, one culinary class at a time.

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An Unforgettable Night: Honored to Serve as CRHS Pirate Cannonier

Posted on August 31st, 2024 by

An Unforgettable Night: Honored to Serve as CRHS Pirate Cannonier

I had the distinct honor of attending the Crystal River High School (CRHS) vs. West Port High School (WPHS) football game this past Friday night, where I was asked to serve as the Cannonier for the evening. This role was not only a significant personal honor but also an opportunity to participate in a long-standing Pirate tradition that is deeply rooted in the history and culture of CRHS.

The CRHS Pirate Cannon is a symbol of pride and community spirit, fired at the beginning of every game and each time the Pirates score a touchdown or field goal. Being the Pirate Cannonier is a prestigious tradition carried out by some of the most respected members of the CRHS community, and I was beyond proud to be the first special guest Cannonier under a new tradition introduced by CRHS’s new Athletic Director, David Wright. This initiative, which invites special guests to take on the role of Cannonier, is a wonderful way to engage the community and honor those who have made significant contributions to the school and its legacy.

As I stood on the sidelines, cannon in hand, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. The atmosphere was electric, with the stands packed with cheering fans, students, and community members, all coming together to support our CRHS Pirates. It was truly a classic example of the Crystal River community’s unity and spirit, which has a rich and storied tradition of rallying behind its schools.

The game was particularly special because the Pirates were facing off against the WPHS Wolf Pack, which gave me the chance to reconnect with WPHS Athletic Director, Lyle Livengood. Lyle and I served together on the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Section 2 Appeals Committee for six years, and I have always held him in the highest regard. His dedication to athletics and the students he serves is unparalleled, and it was a pleasure to catch up with him on the sidelines. He even teased me, saying he hoped I wouldn’t get to fire the cannon at all during the game. Well, the Pirates didn’t listen to him! Our shared experiences on the FHSAA Appeals Committee provided us with countless lessons and insights into the world of high school sports, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside him.

Sharing the Cannonier duties with me was CRHS School Psychologist, Stephania Desir, whose enthusiasm and energy made the experience even more enjoyable. We were also kept safe and entertained by CRHS School Resource Officer (SRO) Marcial Rodriguez, who, like all of our SROs, is a beloved figure in both the school and the wider community.

The game itself was nothing short of thrilling. The Pirates, initially trailing 14-0, staged a dramatic comeback to win in overtime, a testament to their determination and resilience. The excitement of the crowd, the booming sound of the cannon, and the triumphant cheers as the Pirates clinched the victory made for an unforgettable evening.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to the CRHS administration, athletic department, educators, staff, and the countless student and community volunteers who work tirelessly to make our school events so extraordinary. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and our community, schools, and students are truly better because of you. This evening will remain a cherished memory, and I am honored to have been a part of it. Go Pirates!

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