Contagious Curiosity! Science Fair Fever Grips Central Ridge

Posted on December 11th, 2023 by

Contagious Curiosity! Science Fair Fever Grips Central Ridge

It’s Science and Engineering Fair time again!

The air at Central Ridge Elementary School crackled with excitement today – the annual Science and Engineering Fair was in full swing! As a School Board member and parent of Science Fair veterans myself, I couldn’t resist the pull of curiosity and was asked to join the ranks of judges for this incredible showcase of young minds.

Witnessing students embark on scientific journeys, their eyes alight with the spark of a question, their hands busy collecting data and building contraptions – it’s pure magic. Each project tells a story of dedication, discovery, and yes, sometimes a few messy explosions! And behind every success story, a chorus of support rings out – families, friends, and educators who provide the fuel for these scientific adventures.

But the impact of the Science Fair goes far beyond nurturing future scientists and engineers. It’s about empowering young voices, equipping them to confidently explain their ideas, navigate the complexities of public speaking, and effectively communicate their learning. Every time a student stands before a judge, their eyes wide with passion as they explain their project, they build critical communication skills that will serve them well in every aspect of life.

So, a huge thank you to Central Ridge’s 5th-grade maestro, Natalie Columbus, for orchestrating this symphony of scientific inquiry as the school’s Science and Engineering Fair coordinator. And let’s not forget the chorus leaders – the coordinators across our district who dedicate their time and energy to ignite the scientific spirit in our young minds. Today, our village of educators, parents, and community members resonated with the music of curiosity, and it was truly beautiful.

And to the students, the stars of this science spectacle, I say this: Keep exploring, keep questioning, keep learning! Your thirst for knowledge is a force to be reckoned with, and your projects are testaments to your boundless potential. Remember, the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey, and the Science Fair is just the first exciting chapter.

Congratulations to every participant, and to those advancing to the Citrus County Regional Science Fair, a hearty well-done! May your passion for discovery continue to illuminate the path of innovation and inspire others along the way. And to the esteemed judges, both from our school, district, and community, who joined me in this rewarding task, thank you for dedicating your time and expertise to nurturing the next generation of scientific minds. Together, we’re building a future where curiosity thrives, and that’s a cause worth celebrating!

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A Day That Lives In Infamy: Remembering December 7th, 1941

Posted on December 7th, 2023 by

A Day That Lives In Infamy: Remembering December 7th, 1941

Remeber Pearl HarborMy generation grew up surrounded by the echoes of a war that shaped the world we know. Our grandfathers, uncles, family friends, and countless others carried the indelible mark of World War II. They lived through its horrors, served with unwavering courage, sacrificed dearly, and persevered through unimaginable hardship. December 7th, 1941, was a day etched into their memories, a date they spoke of with a mixture of solemnity and raw emotion.

For them, it was a day of awakening to a stark reality. With the exception of perhaps September 11th, 2001, our great nation had never witnessed such a brazen act of aggression on its own soil. The attack on Pearl Harbor was a turning point, a moment that shattered the illusion of American invincibility and thrust the nation into a global conflict that would leave an indelible mark on its history.

But amidst the shock and anger, there also emerged a spirit of determination and resilience. The American people, united by a common purpose, rose to the challenge with unwavering resolve. They enlisted in the armed forces, volunteered their efforts, and sacrificed countless comforts in support of the war effort. They were driven by a love of country, a belief in freedom, and a commitment to a cause that transcended individual self-interest.

Today, as we stand on the precipice of another anniversary of December 7th, it’s crucial that we remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us. We owe it to them to honor their legacy, to learn from their experiences, and to cherish the freedoms they fought so hard to secure.

In that spirit, I encourage you to take a moment to view this five-minute video of President Franklin D. Roosevelt‘s address to a joint session of Congress on that fateful day. Witness his words, filled with both anger and determination, as he rallied the nation to defend itself against tyranny. Let his voice serve as a reminder of the indomitable spirit that has always characterized the American people.

As we remember the sacrifices of the past, let us also embrace the responsibility that comes with it. We inherit the legacy of those who fought for freedom, and it is our duty to ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain. We must strive to live up to their ideals, to promote peace and understanding, and to uphold the values that make our nation great.

May God bless our United States of America, and may we continue to honor the sacrifices of those who have protected its freedom.

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Navigating the Future of Education: Insights from the Google Leaders Exchange

Posted on December 4th, 2023 by

Navigating the Future of Education: Insights from the Google Leaders Exchange

“The adoption of 50 million users spanned 68 years for airlines, 7 years for the internet, 3 years for Facebook, 2 years for Twitter, and an astonishing 5 weeks for generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard, showcasing diverse timelines in technological assimilation.”

In a dynamic era where the pace of technological advancement is unprecedented, the future of education takes center stage as a focal point for leaders in the educational landscape. Recently, while at the Florida School Board Association Annual Conference and Professional Development, I had the privilege of being part of a small group of education policymakers selected to participate in a Google Leaders Exchange facilitated by Future Design School, an organization committed to deep competency development and skill mastery. The transformative experience prompted profound reflections on the evolving needs of education, workforce development, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI).

The training commenced with a thought-provoking reflection on the rapid adoption of various industries and tools throughout history. The growth and adoption timelines of various industries and tools vary significantly, reflecting the rapid pace of technological evolution. Airlines, a traditional mode of transportation, took a considerable 68 years to amass 50 million users. In contrast, the internet revolutionized global communication and commerce in a mere 7 years to reach the same user milestone. Social media platforms demonstrated even swifter growth, with Facebook achieving widespread adoption in just 3 years and Twitter in 2 years. The emergence of generative AI tools, exemplified by ChatGPT and Google Bard, marks a paradigm shift, as they garnered a staggering 50 million users in an astonishingly brief period of 5 weeks, underscoring the accelerated pace at which cutting-edge technologies are embraced in today’s dynamic landscape. (Source: https://www.visualcapitalist.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-hit-50-million-users/)

A significant revelation during the exchange was the collaboration between Google for Education and research partner Canvas8, which conducted a comprehensive study across 24 countries on the future of education. The result, Google’s ‘Future of Education’ Trend Forecast Report 2022, unveils critical insights that educators, school board members, and policymakers must consider as they navigate the educational landscape.

One striking revelation from the report is the shifting landscape of the workforce. It is expected that our current students, when they enter the workforce, will encounter a workforce where 51% of the U.S. workforce is projected to be freelance or engaged in the “gig” economy. This makes the demand for a diversified skill set more apparent than ever. The report emphasizes the growing need for a workforce proficient in emerging digital technologies and soft skills that complement technical expertise. However, it warns of a significant talent shortage, with roles like AI specialists, data analysts, software developers, and digital transformation experts being particularly challenging to fill.

Furthermore, the report highlights a misalignment between the skills and competencies the future workforce requires and what the current education system is producing. Critical soft skills like creativity, collaboration, communication, and analytical thinking are deemed essential by 77% of business leaders, but 63% believe that the current education system falls short in instilling these portable skills. As technology continues to advance, the report predicts that 70% of the workforce may need retraining for new job roles by 2025, necessitating a substantial increase in re-education programs and skills development opportunities.

As school board members engaged in high-level discussions during the exchange, it became evident that these conversations are vital for shaping the trajectory of education. Deliberations revolved around future planning, workforce development, essential skills, and strategies to monitor skill mastery. The consensus was clear – traditional learning approaches must undergo a significant overhaul to meet the demands of the 21st century.

A broader perspective, as highlighted by the Institute for the Future (IFTF) report, indicates that up to 85% of the jobs anticipated for students in 2030 either do not exist currently or will undergo substantial transformations. This statistic underscores the imperative for education to adapt and equip students with the skills necessary for an ever-evolving job market.

As a school board member, I firmly believe that educators, administrators, parents, and communities share a collective responsibility to ensure that students receive an education that prepares them for the complexities of the future. The insights gained from Future Design Schools and the Google Leaders Exchange underscore the urgency of bridging the gap between traditional education and the demands of a rapidly changing world. Embracing innovation, fostering adaptability, and instilling a passion for continuous learning are key elements that will empower students to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.

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FSBA/FADSS 78th Annual Joint Conference

Posted on December 3rd, 2023 by

FSBA/FADSS 78th Annual Joint Conference

Empowering Education: Reflections on the Florida School Board Association Annual Joint Conference

In the realm of education, collaboration and continuous learning are the cornerstones of progress. As the Immediate Past-President and Executive Officer of the Florida School Board Association (FSBA), this past week I had the privilege of participating in the 78th Annual Joint Conference, a remarkable gathering that brought together educational leaders from across the state.

The conference, a collaborative effort of FSBA, the Florida Association of District School Superintendents (FADSS), FELL, FERMA, FSBAA, and SUNSPRA, served as a nexus for school board members, superintendents, district staff, and other stakeholders. It not only provided a platform for networking but also facilitated insightful discussions on the pressing issues and events influencing education. Additionally, the conference offered valuable professional development opportunities that are crucial for staying abreast of the dynamic landscape of education.

One of the highlights of the event was the presence of powerful keynote speakers who added depth and inspiration to the conference. Jon Gordon, renowned for his best-selling books and motivational talks, shared principles that have resonated with Fortune 500 companies, sports teams, school districts, hospitals, and non-profits. His insights provided a fresh perspective on leadership and motivation, leaving attendees with practical takeaways to implement in their respective roles.

Adam Lane, with an impressive career spanning K–12 public education since 1995, captivated the audience with his journey through various roles, culminating in eight successful years as the principal of Haines City High School. Lane’s transformative leadership resulted in a significant decrease in discipline referrals and a notable increase in graduation rates, showcasing the impact a dedicated leader can have on a school community.

Nicole A. Harris, the Chief Learning Officer at Nicole Harris Learning Solutions, LLC, brought a unique perspective to the conference. Her information of how to best harness artificial intelligence and to focus on human-centric learning and the intersection of wellness, employee care, and job performance highlighted the holistic approach needed for effective training and professional development. Her insights resonated with educators striving to create environments that foster continuous learning and growth.

The conference also featured smaller breakout sessions, each delving into specific aspects of education. One particularly crucial session focused on Legislative Opportunities: Deregulation and the Upcoming Legislative Session. Presented by Jason LaGosh, Senior Director of Government Relations at Orange County School District, and other distinguished speakers, the session provided updates on the efforts to reduce regulations on public schools. It also shed light on FSBA priorities and its role in the legislative process, offering valuable insights into the upcoming legislative session and the policy issues at the forefront.

Attending these conferences is always an enriching experience, offering opportunities to learn, connect, and reflect. As an FSBA Executive Officer and Immediate Past-President, my involvement extended to the FSBA Board of Director’s Meeting and various committee meetings. These engagements allowed me to contribute to the ongoing initiatives of FSBA and gain a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape in Florida.

I am particularly grateful for the active participation of all five Citrus County School Board members at the Annual Joint Conference. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and collaborative spirit that defines our educational community in Citrus County. While we hold great respect for our counterparts across the state, these events reinforce the appreciation for the talented educators and committed leaders in Citrus County Schools who work tirelessly to achieve greatness for our students, families, and community.

The FSBA/FADSS Annual Joint Conference was not just a gathering of professionals; it was a celebration of shared commitment, passion, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. As we return to our respective districts, the lessons learned and connections made will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing journey of enhancing education for the benefit of all students.

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Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving

Posted on November 22nd, 2023 by

Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving

On this Thanksgiving Day, my heart is brimming with gratitude for the blessings that grace my life. I extend warm wishes to all for a day filled with joy and happiness. My deepest thanks go to my wife and children, the pillars of my joy. Family and friends weave the colorful tapestry of my existence, and our tight-knit community, state, and country provide a foundation of unity and pride. Serving as a school board member and education advocate is a privilege, as it allows me to contribute to the future of our youth. As we gather, let’s relish the moments and express gratitude not just today but every day. Wishing everyone a wonderful and joyous holiday season ahead. God bless you all!

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Dr. Scott Hebert, Ed.D.: Shaping Educational Leaders at Florida Southern College

Posted on November 21st, 2023 by

Dr. Scott Hebert, Ed.D.: Shaping Educational Leaders at Florida Southern College

Citrus County School District’s Assistant Superintendent of School Operations, Dr. Scott Hebert, Ed.D., recently shared insights into his role as an adjunct professor and Chair for students working on their dissertations in Florida Southern College’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. The interview sheds light on Dr. Hebert’s commitment to fostering the next generation of educational leaders through his passion and expertise.

In the interview, Dr. Hebert articulates the significance of Florida Southern College’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program in shaping leaders who can navigate the complex landscape of education. As an adjunct professor, he brings real-world experience to the classroom, providing students with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the field.

One key aspect of Dr. Hebert’s involvement at Florida Southern College is his role as Chair for students working on their dissertations. His guidance and mentorship contribute significantly to the success of doctoral candidates, ensuring they not only meet academic requirements but also develop the practical skills necessary for effective leadership in educational settings.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into Dr. Hebert’s thoughts on education and leadership, the full interview is available at https://www.flsouthern.edu/news/q-a-with-dr-scott-hebert. Citrus County School District is indeed fortunate to have Dr. Scott Hebert at the helm of school operations, ensuring that the next generation of educational leaders benefits from his passion, expertise, and commitment to excellence in education.

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