Citrus County Schools Kick Off 2024-2025 with “Joy in the Journey” Staff Event

Posted on August 9th, 2024 by

Citrus County Schools Kick Off 2024-2025 with “Joy in the Journey” Staff Event

Today marked the annual welcome back staff event for Citrus County Schools, titled “Joy in the Journey.” This much-anticipated event, sponsored by the Citrus County Education Foundation and its strategic community partners, serves as a cornerstone for kicking off the new academic year. The event highlighted the importance of community support, collaboration, and the shared commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for all students.

The day began with a hearty breakfast, prepared by the talented Mr. William Bunch and his Oysters of Crystal River Restaurant team. School and district administrators were on hand to serve the meal, creating a sense of camaraderie and unity among the attendees. This gesture emphasized the collaborative spirit that drives the district’s success, where everyone plays a role in the journey of educating and nurturing the students.

The event also featured a Vendors Hall, where various community partners set up booths to showcase their services and opportunities available to educators and staff. This provided a valuable platform for networking, learning about new resources, and securing some exciting giveaways. The Vendors Hall was a bustling hub of activity, reflecting the strong ties between the district and the broader community.

The centerpiece of the day took place in the Curtis Peterson Auditorium, beginning with a Color Guard presentation by the Withlacoochee Chapter Sons of the American Revolution. This patriotic display set a respectful and inspiring tone for the proceedings. Dr. Scott Hebert, Assistant Superintendent, opened the event by welcoming the crowd and introducing Superintendent Sandra “Sam” Himmel.

Superintendent Himmel then called Citrus County School Police Chief David Vincent to the stage, who introduced each of the School Guardians and School Resource Officers (SROs) serving at the district’s schools. As each school’s Guardians and SROs were announced, the auditorium echoed with cheers, with each school trying to outdo the others in celebrating their safety teams. This moment underscored the critical role that these individuals play in maintaining a safe and supportive environment for learning.

Before introducing the keynote speaker, Superintendent Himmel took a moment to recognize the school board members and then brought the honorable Virginia “Ginger” Bryant to the stage. Bryant, who is retiring at the end of her term in November, was honored for her remarkable 54 years of service to education. This includes 30 years as an English and reading teacher, followed by 24 years as a school board member. Her dedication has made her the longest-serving elected school board member in Citrus County’s history, a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

This event was also a significant milestone for Superintendent Himmel, as it marked her final welcome back event before her own retirement. In her heartfelt reflection, she shared memories and expressed gratitude for the years of service and collaboration with the staff, leaving a lasting impression on all who were present.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Jim Van Allan, co-author of The Energy Bus for Schools, delivered an engaging and impactful address. His high-energy, interactive style captivated the audience, leaving them with positive messages to carry into the new school year.

Special thanks were given to Laura Lindeman, Director of Professional Learning and Leadership, and Amy Crowell, Director of Assessment, Accountability, & Monitoring, for their exceptional coordination of the event. Their efforts, along with those of the entire Education Services team, ensured a successful and inspiring start to the 2024-2025 school year. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and joy in the journey!

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We Honor Purple Heart Day: A Tribute to Valor and Sacrifice

Posted on August 7th, 2024 by

We Honor Purple Heart Day: A Tribute to Valor and Sacrifice

“The Purple Heart medal represents more than just an award. It is a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the ultimate price paid in defense of our nation.”~President Harry S. Truman

Today, we honor Purple Heart Day, a day of observance dedicated to commemorating the creation of the Purple Heart medal in 1782. This esteemed military decoration is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action. The Purple Heart is a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, specifically recognizing the valiant service of combat personnel.

The Purple Heart was first established on August 7, 1782, by General George Washington, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Originally known as the Badge of Military Merit, it was awarded to three revolutionary soldiers in 1783. This early form of the decoration honored acts of extraordinary valor during the American Revolution. However, after the end of the Revolution, no further medals were awarded until the decoration was revived in 1932.

In celebration of the bicentennial anniversary of George Washington’s birth, the Purple Heart was reinstated on February 22, 1932. According to the directive issued on this date, the medal was to be awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the United States Armed Forces as a result of enemy action on or after April 5, 1917. This date was significant as the United States officially entered World War I on April 6, 1917. The revival of the Purple Heart aimed to acknowledge the sacrifices of American servicemen and women during the Great War and beyond.

The design of the Purple Heart is both distinctive and symbolic. It is a heart-shaped purple medal with a gold border. The front features a profile of George Washington, honoring the medal’s founder, while the back bears the inscription “For Military Merit.” The medal is attached to a piece of purple silk with a silver border, reflecting the solemnity and honor associated with the decoration.

Since its reinstatement, at least 1.8 million Purple Heart medals have been awarded. The criteria for the medal have expanded over the years to include not only those wounded or killed in wars overseas but also military personnel who display bravery and valor while combating certain types of domestic terrorism and as prisoners of war.

Locally, the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 Military Order of the Purple Heart, based in Citrus and Hernando counties, proudly counts approximately 130 Patriot members and 49 Associate members. This chapter, named in honor of a local hero, is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who have received the Purple Heart.

On May 5, 2014, the Citrus County School District was recognized by the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 Military Order of the Purple Heart for being the First Purple Heart School District in the Nation. This distinction underscores the community’s deep respect and appreciation for the sacrifices made by its military members and their families.

As we observe Purple Heart Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the courage and dedication of our Purple Heart recipients. Their sacrifices have secured our freedoms and ensured the safety of our nation. God bless all our great Purple Heart Patriots, whose valor and commitment serve as an enduring inspiration to us all.

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Honoring Lieutenant Scott Farmer: A Legacy of Dedication and Service

Posted on August 4th, 2024 by

Honoring Lieutenant Scott Farmer: A Legacy of Dedication and Service

After an impressive 33-year career with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Lieutenant Scott Farmer is retiring. Many of us in Citrus County Schools know him better as SRO Farmer. Lieutenant Farmer has dedicated 30 of those years to the students of Citrus County, much of that time serving as an on-campus School Resource Officer (SRO). His career is marked by his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of students, and I have had the honor of knowing him both as an SRO and as a parent with children at the same schools.

During the school year before I was elected to the School Board, I worked as a substitute teacher and had the privilege of substituting in classrooms where Farmer, then the SRO for Central Ridge Elementary, taught the “Filtering Out Crime United with Students” (F.O.C.U.S.) program. This ten-week course for fifth graders covers essential topics like the dangers of drugs, peer pressure, and social media. Witnessing firsthand the positive impact of Famer with students, and this program, I saw how SRO Farmer engaged with students, fostering a sense of trust and respect.

As a parent, I had the privilege of accompanying SRO Farmer on two week-long Safety Patrol Trips to Washington D.C. with our children. His dedication to student safety and his ability to connect with them on a personal level were evident during these trips. His approachable and commanding manner provided a comforting presence for both students and parents alike.

When I served as the Citrus Springs Elementary and Central Elementary School Advisory Council Chairman, and later as a new school board member, Farmer was incredibly generous with his time. He helped me better understand school safety, the vital role and work of SROs, and the importance of the F.O.C.U.S. program. His guidance and expertise were invaluable in shaping my perspective on the safety and well-being of our students.

One particular incident stands out in my memory. A serious event occurred at one of our high schools where seconds mattered, and courage and training were paramount. When the call went our Farmer, who was near the campus, rushed to the scene without hesitation and was one of the first law enforcement officers to arrive. His swift and decisive actions were instrumental in ensuring the safety of our students and staff. Many of those students had grown up knowing SRO Farmer was there to protect them, and he and the other law enforcement truly lived up to that expectation that day when it was needed most.

Throughout his career, Lieutenant Farmer earned several distinguished awards, reflecting his dedication to Citrus County students, schools, and the broader community. These include multiple Certificates of Commendation, a Unit Citation, the Exemplary Safe Schools Award by the National School Safety Advocacy Council in 2010, and numerous letters of appreciation from community members. In 2023, Farmer received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Florida Association of School Resource Officers (FASRO), a testament to his enduring impact on school safety.

Lieutenant Farmer is also known for his sense of humor and grilling skills. During appropriate times, he would blend these two talents, sharing humorous grill photos that brought smiles to many faces. His ability to connect with students and colleagues on a personal level added a unique and endearing dimension to his professional persona.

As Lieutenant Farmer retires, we extend our heartfelt thanks for his incredible service and dedication. He has made a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of countless students, families, and staff in Citrus County. God bless you, Scott Farmer!

If you are interested in watching a video of Lt. Farmer’s final CCSO radio call, visit: Lt. Farmer’s Final Call.

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Congratulations to Citrus High Alum Ben Davison and Teammate Sorin Koszyk for a Stellar Performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics!

Posted on August 1st, 2024 by

Congratulations to Citrus High Alum Ben Davison and Teammate Sorin Koszyk for a Stellar Performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics!

The Citrus County School District is bursting with pride as Citrus High School alumnus Ben Davison competed this morning in the A Finals in the Men’s Double Sculls at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Ben and his teammate Sorin Koszyk delivered an outstanding performance, securing a 4th place finish with an impressive time of 6:17.02.

The journey to the finals was a thrilling ride for the dynamic duo. Over the weekend, Ben and Sorin displayed their prowess by advancing to the semi-finals, a testament to their rigorous training and unwavering determination. Their hard work paid off spectacularly on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, when they clinched a spot in the A Finals. In a nail-biting race, they came in 2nd place, just behind Ireland, and narrowly edged out New Zealand to secure their position. This remarkable achievement marks a historic moment for the United States, as it is the first time since the 2004 Athens Olympics that an American double has made it to the medal finals in this event.

Ben Davison’s journey from Citrus High School to the Olympics is a story of dedication, perseverance, and exceptional athleticism. Teaming up with Sorin Koszyk, Ben continued to push the boundaries of his abilities, consistently striving for greatness. Their synergy in the boat was evident as they navigated through intense competition, proving their mettle against some of the best rowers in the world. The duo’s 4th place finish in the A Finals is a monumental achievement, showcasing their skill, determination, and the spirit of sportsmanship.

The Citrus County community and Citrus High School are incredibly proud of Ben’s accomplishments. His success serves as an inspiration to current students and student-athletes, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, dreams can indeed become a reality. Ben’s journey from the halls of Citrus High to the Olympic waters of Paris is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Congratulations, Ben and Sorin, for making history and making Citrus County proud!

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Kicking Off the 2024-2025 School Year: Welcoming Our Citrus County Educators and Staff Back for the 2024-2025 School Year

Posted on August 1st, 2024 by

Kicking Off the 2024-2025 School Year: Welcoming Our Citrus County Educators and Staff Back for the 2024-2025 School Year

As summer comes to a close and the 2024-2025 school year approaches, we are excited to welcome back our remarkable dedicated teachers and educators for Professional Learning and Workdays. This time is crucial as we prepare to inspire, educate, and support our students and their families.

Throughout the summer, our district has been a hub of activity, thanks to the tireless efforts of our custodial, facilities, maintenance, curriculum specialists, business, transportation, food service, and administrative teams. Their hard work has ensured that our schools and departments are ready to welcome students back into a safe, clean, and nurturing environment.

Our custodial teams have meticulously cleaned and sanitized classrooms, hallways, and facilities, ensuring a healthy start to the new academic year. The facilities and maintenance crews have worked diligently to address repairs, enhance safety measures, and create conducive learning environments. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every freshly painted wall, every repaired desk, and every functional HVAC system that keeps our schools comfortable.

Behind the scenes, our curriculum specialists have been busy developing innovative teaching strategies and resources that will enrich our students’ learning experiences. These specialists play a critical role in aligning our educational programs with the latest standards and ensuring that our teachers are equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

The business and administrative teams have worked throughout the summer, managing budgets, coordinating resources, and planning for the year ahead. Their efforts ensure that our district operates smoothly and efficiently, allowing educators to focus on what they do best—teaching and mentoring our students.

Transportation and food service teams have been preparing for the influx of students, ensuring that every child has access to reliable transportation and nutritious meals. These teams are vital to the daily operations of our schools, providing essential services that support our students’ well-being and academic success.

As we come together for Professional Learning and Workdays, let us be inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s words: “Education is the means of developing our greatest abilities. Each of us has a personal hope and dream, and when fulfilled, these can benefit everyone and strengthen our nation.”

To all our staff and educators, thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students, families, and schools. Your dedication, hard work, and passion for education are the foundation of our district’s success. As we embark on this new school year, let us continue to work together, support one another, and strive for excellence in all that we do.

Together, we look forward to making the 2024-2025 school year a remarkable journey of growth, learning, and achievement for every student in the Citrus County School District. Welcome back, and here’s to a fantastic year ahead!

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Citrus Celebrates Local Olympian Ben Davison and Others Who Winter Train in our County Competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics

Posted on July 29th, 2024 by

Olympic Rowing update!

Advancing to the A Finals

🎉 Congratulations to Citrus High alum Ben Davison & teammate Sorin Koszyk for advancing to the A Finals in the 2024 Paris Olympics Men’s Double Sculls! 🚣‍♂️ They came in 2nd to Ireland, narrowly beating New Zealand by just 0.11 of a second. It’s the first time since the 2004 Athens Olympics that an American double has made the medal finals! 🇺🇸👏

Citrus Celebrates Local Olympian Ben Davison and Others Who Winter Train in our County Competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics

Citrus County is beaming with pride as Citrus High School alumnus Ben Davison competes at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Ben, along with his teammate Sorin Koszyk, is representing the United States in the Men’s Double Sculls event. Over the weekend, the dynamic duo showcased their skill and determination by advancing to the semi-finals, a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Ben’s journey to the Olympics is a source of immense pride for the Citrus County School District and the entire community. A former student of Citrus High School, Ben has become a local hero and an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.

Other athletes competing include both men and women from the Green Racing Project, a New England-based club of elite rowers known as a popular pathway to the Olympic team.  For the last three years, these athletes have partnered with the Rowing Organization of Citrus County Students (ROCCS) and trained in Citrus County during the winter months. Thanks to the leadership of Head Coach Reza Zakaria and Coach Chad Terrell as well as their families, who are in Paris cheering on these athletes, the relationship with Green Racing Project has led to Citrus County becoming the newest and fastest growing destination in winter rowing training for collegiate teams like the University of North Carolina (UNC) as well.

This means students from all our schools who are ROCCS members get a first-hand look at what it takes to make a Division I college team or even take that next step all the way up to the Olympic level.

Ben and Sorin’s next challenge comes on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, when they will compete in the semi-finals. The entire Citrus County community will be watching with bated breath, hoping to see them advance further in the competition.

The Citrus County School District, along with the entire community, extends its best wishes to Ben and his teammates. His journey from a high school rower to an Olympian is a remarkable story of perseverance and dedication. We are incredibly proud of Ben and all that he has achieved.

Godspeed, US Rowing, and may you continue to shine brightly on the world stage!

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