Leadership Citrus Explores Career and Technical Education Opportunities in Citrus Schools

On Thursday, I had the pleasure of accompanying the current Class of Leadership Citrus as they embarked on a tour to explore the diverse Career and Technical Education (CTE) and workforce certification opportunities available to students in Citrus County. The Leadership class delved into the innovative programs at both Citrus High School (CHS) and Crystal River High School (CRHS), witnessing firsthand the impactful initiatives shaping the future workforce.

The tour commenced at CHS, where the Leadership class visited the Academy of Computer Science and the exciting new Construction Academy. These cutting-edge programs offer students hands-on training and expertise in crucial fields, preparing them for success in the digital age and the ever-evolving construction industry.

Transitioning to CRHS, the Leadership group explored a myriad of CTE pathways, starting with the Agriculture Program, where students cultivate essential skills in agricultural sciences and sustainable practices. The tour continued with stops at the Culinary program, fostering culinary excellence and creativity; the Drafting program, honing technical drawing and design skills; and the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), instilling leadership, discipline, and civic responsibility. They even got to visit our onsite riffle range inside CRHS.

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the time spent at the CRHS Academy of Health Careers, a hub of learning encompassing various healthcare disciplines. The Academy of Health Careers is the oldest magnet program within Citrus County Schools, boasting a proud history spanning nearly 30 years. It has played a pivotal role in preparing our students for post-secondary education and careers in health-related fields, STEM, and beyond. This preparation is achieved through a combination of rigorous curriculum, motivation, leadership training, team-building, and real-world healthcare experiences. The Academy currently offers five core pathways: Certified Nursing Assistant, BioMedical Technician, Dental Assistant, EMS/EMT, and Veterinary Assistant Pathways. Over the years, it has produced thousands of nurses, doctors, first responders, engineers, military leaders, and other healthcare professionals.

The commitment of the Citrus County School District to CTE shines through its comprehensive offerings, boasting over 155 courses and 70 industry certifications tailored to high school students. With 3,593 students enrolled in these pathways, the district fosters a culture of practical learning and informed decision-making, empowering students to chart their career trajectories effectively.

Industry certifications play a pivotal role in this educational landscape, equipping students with tangible skills and credentials vital for post-secondary education or immediate entry into the workforce. These certifications validate the proficiency and expertise gained through rigorous coursework and hands-on training, opening doors to lifelong learning and professional growth.

I express gratitude for the opportunity to showcase these transformative educational experiences to the Leadership Citrus class, emphasizing the profound impact these programs have on students and communities alike. As advocates for education and community development, the Leadership Citrus members play a crucial role in championing the district’s initiatives and fostering a robust talent pipeline for the future workforce.

Acknowledgments are extended to key contributors, including Lindsay Blair, the District Public Information Officer, for coordinating the day’s events, and Autumn Crabtree and her culinary students for preparing a delectable lunch. Recognition is also given to Principal Kahler, Principal McLeod, their administrative teams, teachers, and the Citrus Chamber for their sponsorship and support of Leadership Citrus.

Through collaborative efforts and a shared vision for educational excellence, Citrus County continues to pave the way for students’ success, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive in a dynamic global landscape. Leadership Citrus serves as a beacon of leadership and innovation, driving positive change and prosperity for the entire community.

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Celebrating Women’s History Month: Honoring Clarine Kennedy and Dr. Kimberly Dunker

As we commemorate Women’s History Month, I am compelled to reflect on two remarkable women whose legacies continue to inspire me deeply—my late mother, Clarine Kennedy, and my accomplished niece, Dr. Kimberly Dunker. Both nurses by profession, these women have left an indelible mark not only on our family but also on the field of healthcare and nursing education.

My mother, Clarine Kennedy, was a force to be reckoned with in the healthcare industry. From her humble beginnings as a Licensed Practical Nurse, she ascended to become the first woman to serve as the Director of Risk Management, Quality Assurance, and Patient Relations at New England Memorial Hospital. Her tenure there was marked by unwavering dedication to the Christian healthcare mission, a commitment to quality healthcare, and a profound sense of integrity.

Clarine was not just a nurse; she was a visionary leader and a trailblazer for women in healthcare administration. Her ability to navigate complex situations and resolve conflicts with grace and professionalism earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers.

Beyond her professional achievements, Clarine was a nurturing matriarch who instilled in me invaluable life lessons. She taught me the importance of self-advocacy, education advocacy, and maintaining high ethical standards. Her passion for advocating for individuals with specific learning disabilities left a lasting impact on me, shaping my advocacy work as a school board member.

Clarine’s 26-year legacy in the nursing and medical profession has inspired and motivated many family members and others to continue in her footsteps, including currently five generations of our family. No fewer than eight have gone on to become nurses or other medical professionals, including but not limited to her daughter and my sister, Cindy; her niece and namesake, Clarine Nordell; numerous grandnieces and grandchildren, including my daughter Genevieve, and my niece and her granddaughter, Dr. Kimberly Dunker, who continues the family tradition of excellence in nursing and healthcare.

Dr. Kimberly Dunker, has distinguished herself as a leader in nursing education and clinical practice. Her academic achievements, including a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, reflect her dedication to advancing the nursing profession.

As the Dean of Nursing at Pacific Union College, Dr. Dunker’s expertise and insights have been instrumental in addressing the challenges facing nursing education today. Her contributions to academia, clinical practice, and research showcase her commitment to preparing future generations of nurses.

Dr. Dunker’s extensive experience spans critical care nursing specialties, leadership roles in academic settings, and contributions to nursing publications. Her doctoral research on empowering nursing faculty and her leadership in program evaluations for accreditation underscore her dedication to excellence in nursing education.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Dunker embodies the values of compassion, integrity, and lifelong learning instilled by her grandmother, Clarine Kennedy. She continues to inspire not only our family but also countless aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals.

In celebrating Women’s History Month, we honor the legacies of Clarine Kennedy and Dr. Kimberly Dunker—two extraordinary women whose contributions, along with all those women in the nursing and medical profession, have shaped the landscape of healthcare and nursing education. As Florence Nightingale once said, “I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse.” Their resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

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Celebrating Dr. Ralph Massullo’s Impact on Florida Education

Thank you, Ralph!

Today, as the Florida Legislature concludes its 60th Day of Regular Session and adjourns ‘sine die’ for the 2024 Florida Legislative Session, it marks not just the conclusion of another legislative term but also bids farewell to Florida House of Representative Dr. Ralph Massullo, a stalwart champion of education. Dr. Massullo’s departure from the Florida House of Representatives leaves behind a legacy of profound positive impact, particularly in the realm of education. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Massullo has been a tireless advocate for students, families, and educators alike. His passion for education shines through in his relentless efforts to broaden career and technical education opportunities for Florida’s youth. Recognizing the importance of individualized education, Dr. Massullo has championed policies aimed at ensuring that every student has access to pathways that lead to success. In recognition of his exceptional service, in 2023, the Florida School Board Association (FSBA) bestowed upon Dr. Ralph Massullo the FSBA Friend of Education Award.

One of Dr. Massullo’s significant contributions has been his role as Chairman of the Florida House of Representatives Education and Employment Committee. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in shaping education policies in the state, working diligently to enact reforms that benefit students across Florida. Dr. Massullo also serves on the powerful Appropriations Committee and the Health & Human Services Committee, bringing his expertise and experience as a successful dermatologist and entrepreneur to the table.

During the 2023 Florida legislative session, Dr. Massullo played an instrumental role in ensuring that our at-risk students in the Class of 2023 continued to have opportunities to graduate high school by maintaining concordant scores and opportunities for students who required alternative assessment options. His success in this matter has had a significant impact on students who have fulfilled all the requirements to graduate but had not yet passed the State Standardized tests required for graduation. This effort resulted in over 50 students from Citrus County alone and thousands throughout Florida in the Class of 2023 being able to graduate due to Dr. Massullo’s work.

Dr. Ralph Massullo’s dedication to education extends beyond statewide initiatives to include specific support for local educational programs in Citrus County. Notably, he has been a steadfast advocate for securing funding for the Citrus High School Construction Academy, recognizing the importance of providing students with hands-on learning experiences in trade skills. Additionally, in this session, Dr. Massullo has championed funding for the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School, highlighting his commitment to expanding opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the healthcare industry. By prioritizing local funding for these specialized programs, Dr. Massullo has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to empowering students with the resources and skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields.

His unwavering support for career and technical education, coupled with his recognition of the diverse needs of students and families, has set Dr. Massullo apart as a visionary leader in the realm of education. He has publicly lauded exemplary school districts like Citrus County School District, acknowledging their role as models for educational excellence. Beyond his legislative accomplishments, Dr. Massullo’s dedication to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the education community has been commendable. He has actively engaged with school board members and superintendents from across Florida, incorporating their perspectives into positive legislation that serves the best interests of students and families statewide.

As Dr. Massullo bids farewell to the Florida House of Representatives, his departure leaves a void that will be keenly felt by constituents in Citrus County and beyond. His impactful work may not always have been visible to the public eye, but its effects will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. Personally, I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Massullo and witness his unwavering commitment to public education. His departure from the legislative arena will undoubtedly be felt deeply by those who have benefited from his advocacy and leadership. As we reflect on Dr. Ralph Massullo’s contributions to education in Florida, we are reminded of the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping the future of our state. While his presence in the Florida House of Representatives will be sorely missed, his legacy as a champion for education will continue to inspire and guide us in the years ahead.

Visit the following link to watch Dr. Massullo’s farewell address to the Florida House of Representatives and view his farewell video: https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/3-6-24-farewell-representative-ralph-massullo-r-district-23-inverness/

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