Honoring Service: Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon

Honoring Service: Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon

I had the distinct honor of joining Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert, Citrus County Schools staff, and my fellow School Board Members at the annual Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon. This special event served as a heartfelt tribute to our local veterans, who generously dedicate their time and experiences to enriching students’ lives through the Veterans in the Classroom (VITC) program.

Since its inception in 1993, VITC—an initiative of Citrus County Schools—has fostered meaningful connections between students and former military servicemen and women. Over the years, it has positively impacted approximately 250,000 students, offering firsthand accounts of history, service, and sacrifice. This year alone, nearly 8,000 students across elementary, middle, and high schools had the privilege of learning from nearly 90 dedicated veterans. Through their personal stories, these veterans provide profound insights into how military service shaped their character and worldview. As one of the nation’s largest initiatives of its kind, the VITC program stands as a testament to our district’s commitment to honoring and learning from those who served.

The stories shared during these classroom visits offer students a deeper, more personal understanding of military life—the challenges faced, the resilience required, and the dedication it takes to serve our nation. By participating in the program, veterans bring history to life, allowing students to connect with the realities of service in a way that textbooks alone cannot convey.

The appreciation luncheon was a moving celebration of our community’s deep gratitude for these veterans. The ceremony began with an honor guard entrance, as veterans walked beneath crossed swords held by the Crystal River High School Navy JROTC and Lecanto High School Army JROTC cadets. The Citrus High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard presented the colors, setting a tone of dignity and respect. Hailey Story, a seventh grader from Inverness Middle School, led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation delivered by VITC veteran Michael Belkin. Attendees were then treated to a stirring performance by the Citrus High School Chamber Choir, whose harmonious voices added a special touch to the event. Meanwhile, Culinary Arts students from Withlacoochee Technical College prepared and served a delicious meal, showcasing their skills while honoring those who have served.

One of the most poignant moments of the luncheon came when each veteran took the stage, one by one, to introduce themselves and reflect on their military journey. These heartfelt exchanges highlighted not only the camaraderie among these brave men and women but also their shared passion for educating the next generation.

One VITC veteran spoke about the importance of sacrifice and respect, sharing a powerful story about escorting the caskets of three fallen soldiers. He described how students listened in complete silence, absorbing the weight of the moment as he explained to the students a special slow salute and the meaning behind its reverse—a gesture symbolizing the deepest respect for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Another VITC volunteer, Kristine Overacker, a young retired Marine Corps veteran, recounted speaking to a group of elementary students about why we have a military in an age-appropriate discussion. She used simple yet impactful examples to illustrate the vital role of those who serve in protecting our country. She described how the students were captivated, and when she finished, a brief silence filled the room before a few heads nodded—an acknowledgment that the lesson had truly resonated.

As a token of appreciation, each veteran received a thank-you pin from Dr. Hebert and the Citrus County School District, along with a handmade thank-you picture crafted by elementary students. These personal gestures added a heartfelt touch to the celebration, reminding everyone present of the deep connection between past generations of service members and the young minds they continue to inspire.

Citrus County Schools remains deeply committed to honoring veterans and ensuring students understand the significance of their sacrifices. The Veterans in the Classroom program is more than just a series of classroom visits—it is a living tribute to our community’s dedication to preserving veterans’ stories and passing them on to future generations. Veterans who participate in this program contribute to a lasting legacy of honor, remembrance, and education, while students gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of history, service, and sacrifice.

The program is expertly coordinated by Dr. Al Balk, Supervisor of Instructional Materials for Citrus County Schools, in collaboration with Dr. Mark Bodenheim and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Their dedication ensures that this invaluable program continues to thrive and inspire students year after year.

If you are a veteran interested in joining the 2025-2026 Veterans in the Classroom program, we encourage you to reach out! Please contact Dr. Balk at (352) 726-1931 ext. 2490 or email balka@citrusschools.org. You can also connect with Citrus County MOAA via their website at https://moaafl.org/chapters/citruscounty/.

17th Annual African-American Read-In Celebrates Community, History, and Literacy

17th Annual African-American Read-In Celebrates Community, History, and Literacy

The 17th Annual African-American Read-In transformed the Curtis Peterson Auditorium on February 23, 2025, into a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and history. Centered on the themes of community, history, and literacy, the event invited participants to experience the power of the spoken word while honoring the rich contributions of African-American authors, poets, and thinkers.

Ron Daly served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the audience through a meaningful and inspiring program. The Lecanto High School JROTC Color Guard opened the event with the presentation of colors, followed by Adilee M. Barnes’ stirring rendition of the National Anthem. The opening ceremonies concluded with a moving performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Chozen, filling the auditorium with palpable energy.

A Tapestry of Voices and Performances

The program showcased diverse readings that highlighted both historical and contemporary African-American voices:

George Ann Jackson captivated the audience with “We Write,” while Adam Chang shared his passion in “I Reached for a Book.” Keshawn Harrison delivered “For Poets,” and Kamari Harris moved hearts with “Sympathy.”

Young voices made a powerful impact as Colton Wilson read “Saturday’s Child,” Caden Moore performed “Dream Variation,” and X’aeveon Bunch brought “Dream Keeper” to life. Kevon Jefferson followed with “Motto,” establishing a reflective atmosphere. After a musical interlude by the Forest Ridge Owls, Amya Francois delivered “Lineage.”

Delvon Johnson and Elijah Morgan collaborated on “I Am Every Good Thing,” while Donna Lucas gave a stirring recitation of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise.” The Journeymen performed an inspiring musical piece before Judy Redd delivered “Holla,” and Colette Nichols-Watson shared her “Fifth Grade Autobiography.”

The literary journey continued with Hunter Robbins’ “Seeds,” Tom Gotterup’s “Mule,” and Ron Daly bringing the character of Boy Willie to life. Earl Barnes moved the audience with “Waiting on a Heartbeat,” while Antoinette St. Martin’s “Now That I Am Forever with Child” resonated deeply.

Laurie Bryant explored intergenerational connections in “Magnitude and Bond,” and classically trained performer Bret Thom delivered a breathtaking rendition of “Amazing Grace.” Nicolette M. Ferguson and Monique Williams collaborated on “Life Dancers,” while Sheila Clark’s “Where I’m From” evoked a powerful sense of identity.

Additional highlights included Cherrietta Prince’s “A Twice Named Family,” Marguerite Beckford’s “Uncles,” and BJ Ezell’s “Reunion.” Roy & Revelation uplifted spirits with a musical interlude before Michael Allen delivered “Surrender Your Hate” and Waymond Glover shared “Why the Willows Weep.”

Honoring Young Voices and Community Support

The event celebrated emerging writers through the Afro-American Club MLK Essay Contest, with Will Lucas presenting awards to Suzie Speight (CHS, 1st place), Carter Cox (CRHS, 2nd place), and Trevor Bowman (LMS, 3rd place).

Vicky Iozzia’s “One Central Truth” reinforced themes of unity, while Bret Thom’s performance of “The Impossible Dream” inspired the audience. The program culminated with young Taylor Jacobs from Forest Ridge Elementary School delivering a powerful excerpt from “I Have a Dream” that earned a standing ovation.

In a surprise presentation, the event’s student readers each received laptops through a generous grant partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Florida—the largest Black-owned business in Florida and a dedicated supporter of education and Black history initiatives—and the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF).

A Dedicated Team Behind the Scenes

Chaired by Doug Wright, the organizing committee worked tirelessly to create an educational and inspiring experience. Committee members Earl Barnes, Sandy Counts, Andrea Cuccaro, Ron Daly, Tom Gotterup, Tracy Hadlett, Taylor Keeran, Donna Lucas, Will Lucas, and Karen Slaska collaborated to develop a program that celebrated African-American literary excellence.

Community Partnerships Making a Difference

The event succeeded through partnerships with the Citrus County School District, Citrus County Education Foundation, Citrus Libraries, Friends of the Library – Citrus County, Old Courthouse Heritage Museum, Citrus County Historical Society, Inc., Afro-American Club of Citrus County, Tom Gotterup, Citrus County Chronicle, Honorable Sandy Counts, Habitat for Humanity of Citrus County, Theodore & Patricia Holmes, Democratic Women’s Club of Citrus County, Janice A. Warren, and Willie Joyner.

The 17th Annual African-American Read-In stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature and storytelling in fostering understanding, resilience, and hope. As attendees departed the Curtis Peterson Auditorium, they carried a renewed appreciation for the voices that have shaped African-American history and the stories that continue to inspire future generations.

The 45th Anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice”

The 45th Anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice”

LAKE PLACID, NY – FEBRUARY 22: Team USA celebrates their 4-3 victory over the Soviet Union in the semi-final Men’s Ice Hockey event at the Winter Olympic Games in Lake Placid, New York on February 22, 1980. The game was dubbed “the Miracle on Ice”. The USA went on to win the gold medal by defeating Finland 4-2 in the gold medal game. (Photo by Heinz Kluetmeier/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images/Getty Images) (SetNumber: X24199)

February 22, 1980, stands as one of the most iconic days in American sports history—the day the “Miracle on Ice” took place. Today, we celebrate the 45th anniversary of that unforgettable moment when a group of young American hockey players, composed entirely of amateurs and collegiate athletes, defeated the mighty Soviet Union team at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.

At just 11 years old, I can vividly remember watching that game, feeling an overwhelming sense of pride in my country. The moment was especially significant for us growing up in Boston, where a number of the U.S. team hailed from Massachusetts and New England. It felt like our own local heroes had taken on the world—and won.

Under the leadership of Coach Herb Brooks, the U.S. team faced what seemed like an insurmountable challenge. The Soviet team was a powerhouse, having won four consecutive Olympic gold medals and dominating international hockey for years. They were professionals in everything but name, while the U.S. squad was a collection of college players with only a few months of experience playing together.

Yet, on that night, David triumphed over Goliath. The U.S. team stunned the world with a 4-3 victory, capped by team captain Mike Eruzione’s decisive goal and sealed with goaltender Jim Craig’s heroic saves. The legendary call by broadcaster Al Michaels—”Do you believe in miracles? YES!”—still echoes in the hearts of sports fans to this day.

The significance of this victory extended far beyond the rink. Amid the height of the Cold War, this underdog triumph became a symbol of American resilience, unity, and perseverance. It was more than just a hockey game—it was a moment that brought an entire nation together, proving that the impossible could be achieved with heart, determination, and belief.

Two days later, the U.S. completed their golden journey by defeating Finland 4-2 to claim the Olympic gold medal. That team’s story remains a source of inspiration for generations, reminding us that with unwavering dedication, even the greatest challenges can be overcome.

As we reflect on this anniversary, let us take this lesson into our own lives and inspire our students, our athletes, and ourselves to dream big, work hard, and never stop believing in miracles. The “Miracle on Ice” was more than a game—it was proof that ordinary people can achieve the extraordinary.

Do I believe in miracles? You bet I do!

Take a few minutes and relive the magic: Watch the Miracle on Ice

From Spark to Inferno: Rashad Jones Inspires CRHS Culinary Students

From Spark to Inferno: Rashad Jones Inspires CRHS Culinary Students

I had the incredible opportunity to visit Autumn Crabtree’s Culinary Arts class at Crystal River High School, where the students received an unforgettable lesson from none other than Rashad Jones, owner of Big Lee’s Serious About Barbecue in Ocala!

A three-time Food Network champion, Jones has defeated legendary chefs—including Bobby Flay (twice!)—with his award-winning, slow-smoked barbecue. But beyond the food, his message was even more powerful: take an idea from a spark, to a flame, to an inferno.

His words resonated with the students, showing them that passion, dedication, and hard work can turn a dream into reality. And, of course, they got to sample some of his famous creations—a true treat for these future chefs!

For a full story on this inspiring visit check out Chronicle Education Journalist’s Casmira Harrison coverage at https://www.chronicleonline.com/news/local/food-network-barbecue-guru-rashad-jones-inspires-crystal-river-culinary-students/article_17266268-8f46-5d0a-980d-62d67766b806.html

TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon: A Premier Youth and Family Athletic Event in Citrus County

TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon: A Premier Youth and Family Athletic Event in Citrus County

On Saturday, March 8, 2025, the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF) will host the highly anticipated 12th Annual Citrus Kids Triathlon, a premier event for youth and families in Citrus County Schools. Held in the Bicentennial Park in Crystal River, Florida, this event promises to be an exciting day of athleticism, community engagement, and support for youth health and wellness. This year’s triathlon marks a special milestone, as it is now known as the TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon, made possible by the generous support of Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Crystal River.

As a USAT-sanctioned event, the Citrus Kids Triathlon will follow official triathlon standards, ensuring a professional and safe experience for all participants. Managed by DRC Sports, the event will feature a beautiful and scenic race course, designed to provide both a challenging and enjoyable experience for young athletes. With three divisions to accommodate various ages and abilities, there is something for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned triathletes.

The triathlon will include three divisions: the Junior Division (for athletes born between 2015 and 2020), the Senior Division (for those born between 2010 and 2014), and the Tri4Fun Division, which is open to participants of any age. The Age Group divisions (Junior and Senior) are specifically for children ages 5-15, allowing them to compete in a friendly, competitive environment. For those who may be new to triathlons or prefer a more relaxed experience, the Tri4Fun Division offers a non-competitive option, where children and adults can participate together as a family. This division is perfect for anyone wanting to “tri” a triathlon for the first time, without the pressure of competition.

TGH’s sponsorship of this event highlights its ongoing commitment to promoting health and wellness among youth in the community. TGH has long been dedicated to supporting initiatives that encourage physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and the well-being of young people. In addition to being the title sponsor of the TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon, TGH Crystal River is also proud to serve as the new athletic health partner of the Citrus County School District, providing athletic trainers and other health professionals to support middle and high school student-athletes and our competitive teams. This partnership ensures that students have access to essential care and resources for their physical health, helping them perform at their best while staying safe and healthy. By partnering with the Citrus County Education Foundation, TGH is helping to ensure that local youth have opportunities to engage in healthy, active pursuits. Their continued investment in Citrus County Schools and youth health is truly inspiring, and CCEF is proud to name this event the TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon.

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun family activity, the TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon is an event you won’t want to miss. Registration is now open, and participants can sign up for the event through the following link: https://www.trisignup.com/Race/FL/CrystalRiver/CitrusKidsTri. To learn more about the event, race details, and sponsorship opportunities, visit https://drcsports.com/race/CitrusKidsTri.

Mark your calendars for March 8, 2025, and register TODAY and join the Citrus County community for a day of fun, fitness, and family at the TGH Citrus Kids Triathlon. Let’s make this the best year yet!

Celebrating Progress: Floral City Elementary School Expansion “Topping Off” Ceremony

Celebrating Progress: Floral City Elementary School Expansion “Topping Off” Ceremony

Today marked an exciting milestone in the ongoing development of Floral City Elementary School (FCE) as many school and district staff were invited to witness the highly anticipated “Topping Off” event. 🎉 This ceremony, which celebrates the placement of the final beam in the building’s structure, is a significant moment in the multi-phase FCE expansion project that has been in the works for over 9 years.

The latest stage of this expansion brings the addition of a new building that includes 11 additional classrooms, along with a dedicated PK classroom. These new spaces are set to welcome students in the 2025-2026 school year, providing a state-of-the-art learning environment for future generations. 🏫✨

This expansion project is not just about adding more classrooms—it’s a reflection of the continued investment in our students, educators, and the community as a whole. It’s been a long journey, and today’s event was a testament to the hard work and dedication that has gone into making this vision a reality.

A huge thank you goes out to the entire Citrus County Schools facilities team and all district leaders for their commitment and tireless efforts in making this project a success. Additionally, we’d like to extend a special thanks to Floral City Elementary School’s administrators, including Principal Trish Kahler and her exceptional leadership team, for their continued guidance and support throughout this journey.

This expansion is a symbol of the future of education in our community, and we can’t wait to see the new classrooms come to life in the coming years!

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to make strides toward improving the learning environment for all of our students. 🙌