There’s Nothing Better Than First Day Energy

There is nothing quite like the first day of school. Today, I had the privilege of visiting six campuses: three elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school, and the energy was contagious.

The common thread everywhere I went was the same: This is going to be a great year! You could see it in the fist bumps between students and teachers, the side hugs from staff, the joy in seeing returning students, and the big smiles on everyone’s faces. This kind of optimism fuels the belief that the year ahead will be encouraging, positive, and full of possibilities.

At each stop, I had a chance to speak with the principal, members of the administrative team, teachers, and staff. For them, this is the day they anticipate all summer. It is the day when months of planning turn into action and support systems for students begin moving in full swing.

At Citrus Springs Elementary, Principal Julie Jones was outside the school double-checking students’ end-of-day plans. She personally greeted the youngest students, attaching color-coded wristbands to either their wrists or backpacks to ensure they would get home safely.

At Lecanto High School, as lunch was ending, I witnessed Principal Troy LaBarbara step in to help a new student who had arrived late. When he realized she might miss lunch, he had her sit down and made sure she had a nourishing meal before returning to her schedule. He also mentioned that he had already been in 28 classrooms, and it was not even halfway through the day. That is a hands-on leader.

That was the kind of leadership I saw throughout my visits to all the schools.

This enthusiasm was not limited to the school level. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert was out before sunrise, greeting the first buses and drivers as they rolled out. Assistant Superintendent Jen Greco was at Crystal River High School as the sun came up, meeting with students and staff. I crossed paths with many district leaders, including Director of Secondary Education Laura Lindeman, who, along with others, jumped in to help with transportation needs by personally co-driving a student across the county so they could make it to Citrus High School in time for their next class.

And this is only Day One. There are still 179 days left in the school year. That means 179 days of opportunities to learn, grow, and connect.

If today’s energy is any indication, this is going to be a year to remember.

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Honoring America’s Heroes: Purple Heart Day in Citrus County

Each August 7, our nation observed Purple Heart Day, a time to honor and remember the courage, sacrifice, and service of America’s wounded and fallen warriors. This past weekend, the community came together at the Inverness Elks Lodge 2522 in Hernando, Florida, for a heartfelt ceremony marking the 243rd anniversary of the Purple Heart. The event, hosted by the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), was a moving tribute to those who have endured the wounds of battle in defense of our freedoms.

The Purple Heart is among the most respected and recognizable military decorations. Since its inception, approximately 1.8 million Americans have received this honor. Today, there are an estimated 500,000 living recipients, with more than 140 right here in Citrus County.

The ceremony featured special proclamations from U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis’ aide Colby Dawson, State Representative J.J. Grow, and Citrus County Commissioner and Chairperson Rebecca Bays, each delivering messages of gratitude and respect for the recipients and their families.

One of the event’s traditions is the reading of the history of the Purple Heart, normally presented by Col. Curt Ebitz, U.S. Army (Ret.), a Purple Heart recipient and Adjutant of Chapter 776. Although Col. Ebitz was unable to attend this year, MOPH 776 Junior Vice Commander Jerry Frease stepped in and delivered the history with dignity and reverence.

He shared how the Purple Heart was reinstated on February 22, 1932, in honor of the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. First created by Washington during the Revolutionary War as the Badge of Military Merit, the modern Purple Heart is awarded to those wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States, retroactive to April 5, 1917, the eve of America’s entry into World War I.

The medal’s design carries deep symbolism. It is a heart-shaped purple badge edged in gold, bearing a profile of George Washington on the front and the words “For Military Merit” on the back. The ribbon of purple silk with a silver border reflects both the honor and solemnity of the award.

As always, MOPH 776 Commander Richard Hunt led with warmth and sincerity, making every recipient feel recognized and appreciated. In a surprise moment, Commander Hunt “ambushed” two individuals with special Chapter 776 awards for their outstanding service to the organization.

Citrus County is proud to hold a unique distinction in Purple Heart history. On May 5, 2014, the Citrus County School District was recognized as the first Purple Heart School District in the nation, a testament to our community’s deep respect for those who serve and sacrifice.

As we reflect on Purple Heart Day, let us remember that the freedoms we enjoy were secured by those willing to give their all. May we continue to honor and support our Purple Heart Patriots, not only on August 7 but every single day.

God bless all our Purple Heart recipients—their valor, service, and commitment will forever inspire us.

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A Joyful Start: Citrus County Schools Welcome Back Teachers in Style

This morning, the Citrus County School District officially kicked off the 2025–26 school year with our annual Teacher Welcome Back event — a tradition that never fails to bring energy, inspiration, and unity to our educational community. This year was no exception.

From the moment our educators stepped into the Curtis Peterson Auditorium, they were greeted with cheers — literally — as spirited cheerleaders from all three high schools welcomed them with enthusiasm and school pride. The atmosphere was electric, setting the tone for a year built on encouragement, collaboration, and shared purpose.

Thanks to the generosity of community partners through the Citrus County Education Foundation, a delicious breakfast was provided to all staff by Mr. Bunch and his team at Oysters of Crystal River. In the LHS gymnasium, educators explored booths hosted by educational and community organizations, many of which helped sponsor the day’s events and offered valuable resources, support, and giveaways.

As teachers entered the theater, the Crystal River High School Band drum line provided a powerful rhythm and infectious excitement, filling the room with energy as people took their seats. The buzz of conversation and the beat of the drums built anticipation for what was to come.

The formal program began with Deputy Superintendent Jen Greco welcoming attendees and inviting the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard to present the colors. Crystal River High School Dean Jessica Price delivered a beautiful rendition of the national anthem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence to center the room in purpose and reflection.

Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert then took the stage and reminded us that this year’s guiding focus is on students, with the powerful reminder that we are all in this together. Just as he delivered that message, the audience came alive as Citrus High School’s Breez singers and band launched into a surprise flash mob performance of “We’re All in This Together” from High School Musical. The performance quickly brought the entire auditorium to its feet — clapping, cheering, and singing along — a joyful and symbolic start to the new year.

In a particularly meaningful moment, Dr. Hebert also introduced the incredible team of school resource officers, guardians, and law enforcement personnel who work every day to keep our students, schools, and staff safe. Joined on stage by Citrus County Sheriff David Vincent and Citrus County Schools Police Chief Rachel Montgomery, the safety team received a well-deserved standing ovation for their service and dedication.

The keynote speaker, Damon West — author of The Coffee Bean — then took the stage and captivated the audience with his inspirational story of resilience, transformation, and the power of choosing positivity even in difficult circumstances. His message left everyone energized and ready to begin the school year with renewed focus and purpose.

As we prepare to welcome students back to campus, today served as a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. We are a team. We are a community. And we are — truly — all in this together.

Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead.

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