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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James Earl Jones Legendary Voice and an Inspirational Journey

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

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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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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