A Heartfelt Thanksgiving Celebration at Central Ridge Elementary

Attending Thanksgiving celebrations at our elementary schools is always a delight, and I was especially pleased to be at Central Ridge this week for their annual holiday dinner. Events like this are among the most cherished traditions in our district. In the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, and even into the holiday season, many of our schools open their cafeterias so families can share a holiday meal with their children during the school day. The atmosphere is warm, lively, and filled with the kind of joy that comes from bringing a community together around good food, good company, and the excitement of students eager to show their families a special part of their school life.

Central Ridge Elementary carried this tradition forward beautifully. This year, more than 700 families purchased tickets to join their students for the meal. That number alone speaks volumes. It reflects the value families place on spending time on campus, the reputation of the event itself, and the love and connection the school fosters every single day. From the moment I walked into the cafeteria, it was clear that this was not just a meal but a cherished experience. Long tables were filled with parents, grandparents, guardians, and students sharing stories, laughing, and enjoying plates filled with turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, and all the familiar favorites that remind us of the season.

While the food is central to the event, the heart behind it is what makes the day truly special. These celebrations require an enormous amount of planning, coordination, and hard work. Our district food services team plays a critical role in bringing these meals to life. On this day at Central Ridge, members of the team lined up behind the serving tables, greeting families with smiles and plates ready to fill. Their presence shows the pride they take in serving our students and families.

Food Service Director Roy Pistone and his leadership team were right there in the middle of the action. Their hands-on support is a major reason events like this run smoothly. They help ensure every detail is covered, from preparation to serving to keeping the line moving so families have time to enjoy their meal together. Their commitment is evident not only at Central Ridge but across the entire district during this season of school-hosted holiday meals.

Educational Services staff and district team members were also present to lend support wherever needed. It is always inspiring to see people from different departments come together for a shared purpose. These gatherings remind us that our schools are more than classrooms and hallways. They are communities held together by people who care deeply about students and families.

I left Central Ridge Elementary feeling grateful. Grateful for the families who showed up in such impressive numbers. Grateful for the staff whose efforts make these moments possible. And grateful for a district that continues to value traditions that bring us closer. Events like this capture the spirit of the season and reflect the very best of who we are.

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Honoring Service and Patriotism: The Inverness Veterans Day Parade

This morning, I had the distinct honor of once again joining the annual Veterans Day Parade in Inverness, walking alongside my fellow school board members, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert, and his executive team to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. The streets of downtown Inverness were lined with gratitude as students, families, and community members gathered to celebrate the true meaning of Veterans Day.

It is always to inspiring to see such a strong turnout from our schools. Students from Pleasant Grove Elementary, Inverness Elementary, and participants from every JROTC unit and band representing our middle and high schools proudly marched in tribute. Their enthusiasm and respect remind us that patriotism is alive and well in Citrus County’s next generation.

Citrus County Schools takes great pride in honoring those who have served. As the nation’s first Purple Heart School District, with every school designated as a Florida Purple Star School, we reaffirm our ongoing commitment to veterans and military families. These distinctions represent more than titles; they embody our shared promise to remember, to respect, and to teach.

Through efforts like the Veterans Day Parade and our “Veterans in the Classroom” initiative, we weave patriotism into the fabric of education. Our students do not just read about civic duty; they witness it, live it, and pass it on.

We owe a special thank you to all the veterans’ groups and volunteers who made this parade possible. I want to personally recognize our district and school volunteers, as well as their families, for their dedication behind the scenes. A heartfelt thanks goes to Darrick Buettner, who marshaled the vehicles, along with Chuck Dixon, Dr. Al Balk, Diedra Newton, Tracy Buettner, Brian Donovan, Jessica Price, and Chuck Price. Your leadership and teamwork ensured another meaningful and memorable event.

Today’s parade was far more than a community tradition. It was a celebration of unity, gratitude, and national pride. Together, we honored our heroes and strengthened the values that define us as Americans.

God bless our veterans, and God bless the United States of America.

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Honored to Pray for Our Educators at the 2025 YMCA Prayer Breakfast

I was truly honored to be invited by David Reed, Executive Director of the YMCA of the Suncoast, to offer the Prayer for Educators at the 2025 Citrus County YMCA Prayer Breakfast, held at the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA. This annual event is one of those moments that reminds us just how deeply connected and caring our community truly is.

The morning began with the Pledge and Presentation of Colors by the Crystal River High School ROTC, followed by the National Anthem beautifully performed by Citrus County teacher Sophie Noelle. Crystal River Mayor Joe Meek then shared a heartfelt Opening Prayer, setting a wonderful tone for the morning.

This year’s program included five distinct prayers, each led by community members who embody the heart and spirit of Citrus County. Sophie Nolle offered the Prayer for the Nation. Mayor Joe Meek led the Prayer for Education. David Vincent delivered the Prayer for Military, Law Enforcement, and First Responders. AnnMarie Briercheck shared the Prayer for Community, and Lecanto student Rafe Nichols offered the Prayer for Youth and Families. I was humbled to conclude that series with the Prayer for Educators and Schools. (see below)

The keynote address was delivered by Gregg Dalton, Citrus County Property Appraiser, who shared his inspiring journey of faith, leadership, and community service, including how the YMCA has shaped his life. Pastor Justin Strickland gave a warm and thoughtful introduction that set the perfect humor and spiritual tone for Dalton’s message.

Music has a way of uniting hearts, and The Journeymen did just that with their moving renditions of “The Goodness of God” and “Because He Lives.” Their performances brought both reflection and joy to the room. The event concluded with a closing prayer by Wendy Lash of Seven Rivers Christian School, a fitting end to a morning filled with gratitude and faith.

Before offering my prayer, I expressed appreciation to the YMCA for being steadfast partners in the growth and well-being of our students and families. From teaching swim safety lessons and hosting competitive swimming to providing after-school programs, mentors, and volunteers, the YMCA’s impact extends far beyond fitness—it strengthens lives and builds futures.

The 2025 YMCA Prayer Breakfast was once again a beautiful reminder that faith, service, and education are at the heart of what makes Citrus County so special. My sincere thanks go to David Reed and his dedicated YMCA team, along with all the sponsors and supporters who made this record-setting event such an inspiring success.

My Pray

Dear God,
This morning, we humbly come before You to celebrate and lift up our amazing educators and staff—those who give of themselves daily to shape minds, nurture hearts, and build futures. We thank You for their dedication, patience, and unwavering commitment to positively impact the lives of our students and their peers.

We ask that You continue to bless our great School District, our Superintendent and his leadership team, our School Board, and every department that works together in service to our students. Bless our administrators, teachers, aides, secretaries, maintenance workers, bus drivers, custodians, district and school staff members, volunteers, mentors, and most especially, the reason we do what we do—our students and their families.

Lord, we also lift up our legislators in Tallahassee. Grant them wisdom, understanding, and compassion to make decisions that serve the best interests of every child and every family in our state.

We pray for Your protection over our schools, classrooms, and buses. Surround them with Your peace and safety. We pray for the families and friends of Deputy Rod, Mr. Bryant, and Mrs. Kamlot-Wright, as well as our students, families, teachers, and leaders who continue to serve, support, and care for one another.

God, You have entrusted us as stewards of Your students, and it is a calling we do not take lightly. Strengthen us to teach with purpose, inspire with passion, encourage with hope, and love with the same grace You show us each day.

In Your holy name we pray,
Amen.

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