Archive for News & Updates

Empowering the Future: 2023 Summer Senior RISE Program

Empowering the Future: 2023 Summer Senior RISE Program

In an inspiring gathering, the 2023 Summer Senior RISE program welcomed over 130 students, eager to seize the opportunity to grow and excel. The RISE (Resources, Information, Support, Entry) program, now in its 5th year, has once again become a beacon of hope and empowerment for these young individuals as they prepare to embrace their futures.

I had the honor of addressing the RISE students this morning. I shared with them how proud our community is of their dedication, evident as each student had taken special care to dress professionally, fully aware of the importance of leaving a lasting positive impression.

Throughout the day, the program offered invaluable experiences, with each student engaging in at least two mock interviews with community members from all areas of industry in Citrus County. These practice sessions allowed them to sharpen their communication skills, boost their confidence, and learn from valuable feedback provided by experienced mentors and professionals.

The success stories from previous RISE graduates only added to the excitement of what lies ahead. Among the alumni, some are currently pursuing further education, while others have already embarked on their professional journeys, establishing themselves in diverse fields. Engineers, nurses, business professionals, meteorologists, welders, linesmen, chefs, doctors, teachers, and more – the impact of the RISE program is evident in the diverse paths taken by these accomplished individuals.

The achievements of the RISE program wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and support of various organizations and individuals. A special acknowledgment goes out to Citrus County Schools and Director of Special Programs, Darrick Buettner, Patrick Simon, the Citrus County College and Career Coalition, Citrus County Education Foundation, CF, and all the educators, volunteers, community members, and stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to facilitating and providing this transformative experience for the students. A special thanks to all our community partners for making the 2023 Summer Rise program possible!

For further insights and reflections on the 2023 Summer Senior RISE program, readers can explore the comprehensive coverage by Georgia Sullivan in the Citrus County Chronicle article: “Incoming Seniors Face Future Together at Summer R.I.S.E.” (https://www.chronicleonline.com/news/education/incoming-seniors-face-future-together-at-summer-r-i-s-e/article_1fd0951e-b06b-5340-8ab8-509b3a44bdd4.html)

The Summer Senior RISE program continues to instill hope and determination in these young individuals, empowering them to rise to their full potential and create a positive impact on their communities and beyond. The journey has just begun, and with such strong support, the future holds immense promise for this remarkable RISE class.

CHS’s Coach Bishop inducted into Florida Coaches Hall of Fame

CHS’s Coach Bishop inducted into Florida Coaches Hall of Fame

Florida Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame Welcomes Citrus High School Softball Coach and Athletic Director, Larry Bishop

Larry Bishop, the esteemed Citrus High School Softball Coach and Athletic Director, has been inducted into the prestigious Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) Hall of Fame. The FACA recently announced their 2024 Hall of Fame Class, recognizing individuals who have made significant and positive impacts on students and teams throughout the State of Florida. Among the seven esteemed coaches inducted this year, Larry Bishop stood out for his outstanding contributions.

Established in 1965, the FACA Hall of Fame Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Florida Athletic Coaches Association. It serves to acknowledge those who have dedicated themselves to the advancement of high school sports in Florida. Each year, the FACA presents this distinguished award at their annual Hall of Fame banquet, held in conjunction with the FACA’s state championships. To be eligible for this prestigious recognition, an individual must have demonstrated remarkable dedication and achievement within high school sports in Florida. The FACA Hall of Fame selection committee, composed of representatives from various FACA committees and past Hall of Fame recipients, thoroughly reviews each nomination and selects those who have made the most significant contributions to high school sports in the state.

The FACA Hall of Fame Award is a testament to the unwavering commitment and relentless efforts of exceptional individuals who have helped shape Florida into a leading state in high school sports. It serves as a celebration of their remarkable achievements and the lasting impact they have made.

On Saturday, January 6, 2024, Larry Bishop will be honored during the FACA Hall of Fame Induction ceremony. This prestigious event will take place at the Drury Plaza Resort at Disney Springs, located just southwest of Orlando. It will be an occasion to commend Coach Bishop for his exceptional contributions to students, teams, the district, and the state.

Congratulations, Coach Bishop, on this well-deserved honor. Your dedication and hard work have left an indelible mark on the world of high school sports in Florida. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your tireless efforts in shaping the lives of students and for your valuable contributions to the sporting community.

2023 Veterans In The Classroom needs you

2023 Veterans In The Classroom needs you

The 2023 Veterans In The Classroom (VITC) program is requesting Citrus County Veterans to register now as classroom presenters to Citrus County School District children during the VITC program between Oct. 30 through Nov. 10.
The VITC program is one event in a series of events during the 2023 Citrus County Veterans Appreciation Week (VAW).
For over 20 years, the Citrus County School District, in conjunction with the VAW organizations, have supported educating thousands of children each year on the importance of our veterans’ military service.
The VITC program is managed by the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Citrus County Chapter program manager, COL Mark Bodenheim, USA (Ret). In conjunction with Al Balk, the school district’s Social Studies Teacher On Special Assignment (TOSA), they have designed and improved digital registration and assignment processes.
The registration process allows veterans to list their military skill sets.
“I have teachers requesting a range of skills including cooks, electricians, band players, helicopter pilots, accountants or foreign language-speaking veterans,” said Bodenheim. “The digital registration process improves my ability to match the veteran’s skill set to a teacher’s request.”
He also noted that veterans are not required to present in their uniforms and can use different presentation modes ranging from items that can be touched to poster boards, videos or PowerPoint presentations.
Bodenheim encourages Citrus County veterans to serve as school presenters.
“We as veterans have been given an opportunity to educate our youth about military service to our nation. With nearly 20,000 veterans in our county, we need your help in the continued success of this program,” he said.
To register for the VITC program, go to https://tinyurl.com/CitrusVITC or to the Citrus County School District website at https://www.citrusschools.org/home. Scroll down to the red circles. Then click the arrow right or left to the “Veterans in the Classroom” flag icon. Click on the icon to read about the VITC program and complete the registration process.

Registration is open through Sept. 24.


(Reposted from, Special to the Chronicle –https://www.chronicleonline.com/lifestyle/veterans/2023-veterans-in-the-classroom-needs-you/article_1c1b2868-05b9-5cf3-95e2-6a621f8bc640.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share)

It is School Improvement Planning Time again

It is School Improvement Planning Time again

It’s that time of year again in our Citrus County School Advisory Councils (SAC) – School Improvement Planning (SIP) time. Today, I had the privilege of participating in the Central Ridge Elementary SAC SIP, and it was truly an enlightening experience. The SAC is composed of dedicated stakeholders including parents, teachers, staff, and administrators, all of whom come together to review the school’s achievement data and surveys, and collaborate on tailored improvements to address the unique needs of each school.

One of the aspects that never fails to impress me is the commitment to a deep dive into the data and needs of our students and schools. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach; rather, it’s a comprehensive analysis that takes into account the specific challenges and opportunities present at each school. This attention to detail ensures that the improvement plans are relevant, effective, and capable of making a genuine impact on student outcomes.

By examining achievement data and gathering feedback through surveys, the SAC members gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of their respective schools. This process allows them to identify areas where enhancements can be made, whether it’s in curriculum design, instructional strategies, student support services, or even parent engagement initiatives.

The collaborative nature of the SAC SIP meetings fosters a sense of shared responsibility and ownership among the stakeholders. Everyone’s input is valued and considered, ensuring that diverse perspectives are taken into account when developing improvement plans. This inclusive approach not only strengthens the overall effectiveness of the plans but also promotes a strong sense of community within our schools.

I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in the SAC SIP process. It demonstrates our district’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and student success. By working together and focusing on the specific needs of our schools, we can create positive change and provide the best possible education for all students in Citrus County.

Our Independence Day

Our Independence Day

“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” – Thomas Jefferson, The Declaration of Independence

On July 4th, we gather in our great country, state, and county to commemorate and celebrate Independence Day. Living here with my family fills me with deep gratitude for our freedom, earned through the courage of our Founding Fathers and the sacrifices of many.

We honor the Founders who boldly declared independence, shaping a nation on principles of liberty, justice, and equality. Their unwavering spirit continues to inspire us.

This day is also a tribute to those who have selflessly sacrificed for our freedom. From past warriors to present-day servicemen and women, we owe them immense gratitude.

As we come together with our community, friends, and family, we embrace the diversity that enriches us. With hearts filled with appreciation, we pay homage to those who have secured our precious gift of freedom.

On this occasion, we create cherished memories, honoring the past and embracing the future. Through picnics, parades, and fireworks, we engage with gratitude.

I am grateful for the privilege of living in Citrus County, Florida—a place that exemplifies the values our Founding Fathers fought for.

Happy Independence Day to all, as we celebrate this remarkable nation and honor those who paved the way for our liberty.

Citrus County Boy receives Florida Boys State Scholarship

Citrus County Boy receives Florida Boys State Scholarship

Rieck on being chosen as the Rick Davison Scholarship Recipient

Congratulations to Justin Rieck, a rising senior at Crystal River High School and a member of the Class of 2024, as well as his fellow delegates from Citrus County, on their outstanding accomplishments at the 79th session of the Florida American Legion Boys State! This remarkable group of young men returned last week from an eventful week filled with learning, growth, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Accompanied by other Boys State delegates from Citrus County, Justin ventured to Tallahassee, joining approximately 430 juniors from across Florida in this prestigious program. Throughout the week, these delegates actively engaged in legislative sessions, participating in discussions on important issues and gaining firsthand experience in the political process. Campaigning, elections, and court proceedings provided them with a unique insight into the dynamics of leadership and decision-making.

Among the impressive group of 430 delegates, only ten were selected for scholarship interviews, and we are thrilled to congratulate Justin Rieck on being chosen as the Rick Davison Scholarship Recipient. This distinction is a testament to his exceptional qualities, dedication, and hard work, which clearly impressed the scholarship committee.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the boys from Citrus County who attended Boys State. Each of them deserves recognition for their individual accomplishments and contributions to this prestigious event. Their participation exemplifies their commitment to personal growth and civic engagement, and we are proud to have such outstanding representatives from our community.

We express our deepest gratitude to the American Legion Post 155 Crystal River, Florida, for their sponsorship, which made it possible for these young men to attend Boys State. Their unwavering support and dedication to fostering leadership among our youth are truly commendable. Such opportunities create a platform for talented individuals like Justin and his peers to explore their potential and make a positive impact on society.

Furthermore, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to Commissioner Davison for his generosity in establishing the Rick Davison Scholarship. His support not only aids in fulfilling the educational aspirations of these young men but also demonstrates his belief in their potential to shape a brighter future.

The achievements of Justin Rieck and the boys from Citrus County at the Florida American Legion Boys State showcase their commitment to excellence and leadership. As they enter their senior year and beyond, we have no doubt that these remarkable individuals will continue to make significant contributions to their community and beyond.

Once again, congratulations to Justin Rieck, as well as all the boys from Citrus County, on their exceptional achievements. May their experiences at Boys State serve as a launching pad for a future filled with success and positive impact.