VCS
e-News
An Electronic Newsletter from Volusia County Schools
December 18, 2014
In this issue…
Be There
VCS Launches Magnet Program at Campbell Middle
FDOE Awards $1.1 Million Grant to Volusia County Education Partners
University High Hosts EMS/Military Expo
CEC Recognizes Educators
Drivers Education Courses Offered for High School Students
News of Note
Check Out ITV Launchpad –School Board Meet & Greet
Be There
Giving the gift of yourself every day to your children is the greatest gift of all. It doesn’t take lots
of time or money. Just a smile, a hug or a question will show them you care. Be There.
VCS Launches Magnet Program at Campbell Middle
Volusia County Schools, in partnership with Bethune-Cookman University (BCU), is developing
a comprehensive plan for Campbell Middle School (CMS) students to take part in STEM
(science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experiences beyond the standard
curriculum. The plan includes professional development opportunities for CMS teachers, adult
certification programs for CMS families and teaching experiences for university students
planning a career in education.
The purpose of creating a magnet program at CMS is to provide students with an enhanced
education in STEM-related fields in order to increase student achievement and student
knowledge about future college and career opportunities in those fields. Classrooms will be
transformed by incorporating ongoing, hands-on STEM activities.
“This partnership has the potential to significantly affect the lives of countless individuals,” stated
Dr. Margaret Smith, superintendent of schools. “The school district is appreciative of the
partnership with Bethune-Cookman University and looks forward to the positive impact it will
have on Campbell Middle School and the entire community.”
Components of the plan include academic opportunities for students, such as the ability to earn
high school credit in the areas of math and science, industry certifications in technology areas,
and learning opportunities with professors from BCU’s School of Science, Math and
Engineering. Additional support for academic and personal growth will be provided through
recognition programs, mentoring and extracurricular activities
The partnership extends to CMS teachers who will have the opportunity to engage in
professional development with professors from BCU, enhancing their ability to reach and
improve the academic achievement of underserved students. In addition, those who meet the
qualifications will have the option of serving as an adjunct instructor at BCU.
Parents of CMS students can earn college credit and possible certifications in the fields of
hospitality management, nursing and computer information systems at BCU by applying time
spent volunteering and participating in middle school-related activities as “payment” toward
tuition. Parenting education workshops with an emphasis on enhancing student achievement
are also being planned.
To round out the partnership, BCU education students will be provided practicum teaching
experiences at Campbell Middle. If upon graduation the student commits to teaching at CMS,
the last semester of his/her tuition will be paid by BCU.
“Bethune-Cookman University is undoubtedly pleased to partner with Volusia County Schools to
restructure Campbell Middle School as a STEM magnet academy,” stated Dr. Edison Jackson,
president of Bethune-Cookman University. “The changes associated with this modification will
benefit students, parents and the community. This new initiative is recognized as an effective
model of school reform and will certainly help students find relevance in their learning as well as
increase student engagement. This collaboration is just the beginning of many educational
partnerships to raise the standard of academic excellence and enhance the quality of life in the
community.”
Florida DOE Awards $1.1 Million Grant to Volusia County Education Partners
Volusia County Schools, Stetson University, Bethune-Cookman University and New Teacher
Center have been awarded a $1.1 million grant from the Florida Department of Education to
create and launch the Volusia Center for Excellence in Education (VCEE).
The grant was awarded after collaboration by all the partners led to a proposal for strengthening
and enhancing the skills of teachers as well as their knowledge of core subject matter. In-depth
coursework, labs, field experiences and clinical education training will be required for all
teachers going through this program.
Both Stetson and B-CU will transition all of their preparation programs for elementary school
teachers to the new VCEE model aligned to Volusia County Schools’ Florida DOE-approved
instructional framework.
University High Hosts EMS/Military Expo
At 8:15 a.m. on Friday, January 30, University High School will host the 9th Annual EMS/Military
Expo highlighting more than 40 federal, state and local agencies. Juniors and seniors will have
the opportunity to talk to first responders and learn about possible future careers with agencies
such as the State of Florida Emergency Response Team, Volusia County Fire Rescue and
NASCAR.
On Saturday, January 31, the community is invited to a 5K walk. Check in is at 8:30 a.m. and
proceeds will support the Care 4 R Troops organization. The walk will be followed by an EMS
vs. Military softball game hosted by the University High softball team at 11 a.m.
CEC Recognizes Educators
Each year, the Volusia County Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) recognizes those
educators who are exemplary role models in the field of special education. To be selected by
peers as a CEC Award recipient is a highly prized honor. During the 2014-2015 year, special
recognition goes to a select group of Volusia County educators.
Drivers Education Courses Offered for High School Students
Registration for the spring semester Driver’s Education program begins Thursday, January 8, at
all high schools. Registration forms can be picked up from each high school’s guidance
department beginning on Wednesday, January 7. Students interested in earning credit in
Driver’s Education must be a registered Volusia County public school student. There is no fee
for the program and students can earn a ½ elective credit and a paperless waiver of the road
test for an operator’s license. Driver’s education brochures are available in each high school’s
guidance department. Students must have their learners permit in hand when registering.
The After School Program will begin on January 22 and will run through May 7 from 4 p.m. until
6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students need to wear closed-toe shoes for the class.
There will be no classes during the week of February 16-20 and March 23-27. The program will
tentatively be offered at seven high schools: Atlantic, DeLand, Mainland, New Smyrna Beach,
Pine Ridge, Spruce Creek and University.
The Saturday Program will begin on January 24 and will run through April 25 from 8 a.m. until 3
p.m. Students will need to bring lunch each day and wear closed-toe shoes. There will be no
classes on February 14 and 21 or March 21 and 28. The program will tentatively be offered at
seven high schools: DeLand, Deltona, Mainland, New Smyrna Beach, Pine Ridge, Seabreeze
and Spruce Creek.
Eligibility requirements:
All students currently enrolled in a Volusia County public school (to earn elective credit),
School of Choice, private school or who are in the home-school program, and who are
eligible to drive will be given the opportunity to enroll in a driver education program as
seats are available. Students are to register at their zoned high school.
Must be 15 years or older on or before the first day of the session for which the student
is enrolled.
Must have completed one full year of high school on or before the first day of the
session.
Must have and present a restricted license/learner’s permit when registering and on the
first day of the session for which the student is enrolled.
Must not have already received credit for driver’s education.
Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. If the class meets the enrollment capacity a
waiting list will be started. Funding for this program is made available through the Dori Slosberg
Driver Education Trust Fund. No district funds will be used to fund this program. For more
information regarding this program, students should contact their home high school.
News of Note
Submitted by each school’s Key Communicator
Atlantic High’s Thespians Troupe 5340 performed their One Act, “A Little Princess” and took
home many awards. They received straight superior ratings, all star cast, all star crew, best
supporting actress, and the biggest award was Second Place One Act. The troupe will be
advancing to the state level.
The JROTC program and the Leadership program at Atlantic High have teamed up with the
Toys for Tots program to help make some community children’s holidays better. Times are
tough for families and giving back during this time of year brings a smile to everyone’s face.
A portrait entitled “Teacher Nancy” by Raquel Hernandez, Campbell Middle sixth grader, was
selected for the Extended Exhibition of the Halifax Art Show at Art Haus.
Citrus Grove Elementary held Vehicle Day to educate kindergarten and first grade students.
The children were able to learn and explore many different vehicles. There was definitely intent
listening and excitement in the air when the students were able to hear the sirens, watch the
bobcat in action and climb aboard the fire truck and big bus! A big thank you to the following
participants: American Red Cross, Bright House Network, DeLand Fire Services, DeLand Police
Department, Florida Fish and Wildlife, VC Beach Patrol, VC Public Works, VCS Maintenance
Dept. and Votran.
Coronado Beach Elementary students and their families recently participated in a PTA Family
Reading Experience. Students and their families learned how to dive into reading through a
variety of activities ranging from sight word tic-tac-toe to vocabulary anchors. Each student left
the evening with a bag of games and books to encourage reading at home.
Fifth graders at Coronado Beach Elementary enjoyed a mini-concert performed by the New
Smyrna Beach High School Marching Band. The band’s director, Mr. Losco, provided
information to the students regarding the band program, the variety of instruments offered and
how to get involved. As an added bonus, the drum line performed some of their favorite musical
selections.
Coronado Beach Elementary held its first Tie-A-Ribbon holiday event on Monday, December
8. This event signified the PTA’s commitment to supporting the school as well as the
partnership between the community and education. The purpose of the event was to raise funds
to purchase technology for the classrooms as individuals purchased a ribbon in the spirit of
giving to tie around outdoor pillars. Raising funds is never an easy task; however, with the
generous support from the New Smyrna Beach community and Coronado Beach Elementary
families, enough money was raised to purchase 21 iPad minis. The ribbon ceremony was
attended by Mayor Hathaway, members of the city council, School Board Member Linda
Cuthbert, families, students, faculty and staff members. All students were given a ribbon to tie
and in the end, the pavilion was covered with beautiful holiday ribbons of every shape and size
representing the united effort to give back to the school.
DeBary Elementary brought in over $13,000 during their fall school wide Take a Hike
fundraiser. The students, K-5, walked and ran laps during their special area time. The students
took pledges from their family and friends either per lap or for a set amount. The students had a
fantastic time moving to the music and enjoying the Gatorade and water stand. Many of the
staff joined their classes and parent volunteers helped make the event successful. There were
some amazing prizes for our top fund raisers…even a video game time with the principal, Mrs.
Fedigan. Since the school hit its goal, Mrs. Fedigan will soon be coming to a student assembly
as a super hero. The school is excited to see who she decides to dress up as!
DeBary Elementary SGA, students, and faculty collected New Toys for the children of DeBary
in hopes to make their Christmas a little bit brighter. The school also collected items for the
residents of DeBary Manor Nursing Home. The students and faculty have participated in
helping the city with their toys drive and the providing for the nursing home for the past 10
years.
Members of DeLand High’s engineering club, Epsilon Alpha Chi, have been tutoring at Blue
Lake Elementary after school on Tuesday and Thursdays. Epsilon Alpha Chu members
volunteer to go on certain days and help out in any way that they can. Some students work in the
ESOL (English for Speakers of other Languages) department, helping students develop their
English proficiency by helping them read and spell. Other high school students like to get a bit
more hands on and volunteer in the arts department. These EAC members help elementary
students develop their artistic skills by helping them create their very own masterpieces.
DeLand Middle was honored to host Allan Hall, a Holocaust survivor, for the afternoon. He
graciously agreed to speak to students in 8th grade English/Language Arts classes who are
reading “The Diary of Anne Frank.” Mr. Hall spoke of being captured by the Nazi’s as a small
child and brought to their headquarters. His father bought Allan’s way out and he returned to his
family. Allan and his mother spent several years in hiding, including time spent hiding in a coat
closet below the Nazi Air Force headquarters. Eventually, he walked across most of Poland
with his younger brother to freedom in Russia. When he was in eighth grade, they immigrated
to New York City, where he had his first experience with formal schooling.
Mrs. Brule’s first graders at Deltona Lakes Elementary practiced their science, writing and
math skills by answering the question: “How do you carve a jack-lantern or pumpkin?” They
studied the parts of the pumpkin using the BRACE MAP for science, for the “how to” writing
lesson they used FLOW map, and they measured and estimated facts about the pumpkin using
math.
Deltona Lakes Elementary families were invited to a holiday sing-a-long. Students in all grades
donned holiday attire and filled the stage to lead parents and family members in holiday classics
like “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman.” Principal Judith Rivera
wrapped up the evening playing the guitar and singing “Feliz Navidad” with the students, a
holiday tradition she has shared for many years. Families enjoyed free hot chocolate and were
treated to a holiday cookie to decorate with the donation of either a new, unwrapped toy or $1.
All contributions will benefit Deltona Lakes families in need.
Deltona Lakes Elementary Girls on the Run wrapped up their fall session with a 5K run on
December 6. The girls and their running buddies, led by their inspiring coaches Miss
Maldonado and Mrs. Snyder, hit the track early Saturday morning to complete the 3.1 mile trek.
Family members and friends cheered the runners on as they made their way around five times
before crossing the finish line. The group trained together twice each week for 12 weeks and
became very close, bonding as a team which was evident on race day when runners who
completed the race went right back on the track to motivate and finish with their fellow
teammates.
Deltona High’s “Health Services Academy” collected $1,572.96 for the Leukemia and
Lymphoma Society’s “Pasta for Pennies” campaign over a 10-day period. 100% of the money
collected was donated to the organization on behalf of the school. The junior Health Academy
class came in first place and earned a free luncheon from Olive Garden in January 2015.
John Clark, Deltona High teacher, received the Governor’s Shine Award for making
outstanding contributions to his school and students in science, technology, engineering and
math. The Governor’s Shine Award is presented to Floridians who have positively impacted
children through education.
As a part of Ms. Sheppard’s environmental science class, students participated in the “Earth
Day 2015 T-Shirt Design Competition.” Entries were submitted from various schools across the
country for judging. Jariell Palau, a 10th grader at Deltona High, was selected as one of the
top 20 honorable mention finalists out of over 500 entries across the United States.
Congratulations Jariell!
The Deltona Area Chamber of Commerce selected Deltona Middle as the December/January
School of the Month. The Education committee, along with other Chamber members and
ambassadors, presented school administrators, teachers and students with the School of the
Month banner along with a certificate noting this event.
This year, Deltona Middle is in the process of becoming a Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT)
School. On designated days and in designated classrooms, students will be allowed to use
their own technology when instructed to do so by classroom teachers. A BYOT logo contest
was held, which allowed students to design a logo that will assist in communicating consistent
procedures on BYOT days. The winners of the contest were: 1st place - Ali Saleh, 7th grade,
2nd place - Briahna Martin, 6th grade, and 3rd place - Harlei Foxworth, 6th grade.
To celebrate the holidays, Edgewater Public’s PTA hosted their annual Thanksgiving Feast.
Students donated the side dishes and PTA provided the turkey, while administration, teacher and
parent volunteers prepared the food for the feast. And just in time for Christmas, Santa and Mrs.
Claus arrived to delight the Edgewater Public children in the ESE and pre-K department. All
students were able to hug Santa and receive a gift. Squeals could be heard down the hall!
Uniting Reading is a school wide event at Edgewater Public that promotes a community of
readers because everyone in the school reads the same book. This year, the book is “Tale of
Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo. Guest readers from the community kicked off the event by
reading the first two chapters of the book. Readers included Mayor Mike Ignasiak; Police Chief
Dave Arcieri; Tom Russell, area superintendent; Linda Cuthbert, school board member; Pastor
McCardell; and business owners, Joliene Smith and Sue Martin. Others were former teachers
and current principals. It was a wonderful start to our school wide reading.
The Edgewater Public robotics team brought home “The Rising Star” trophy at the First Lego
League robotics tournament on December 6 at Spruce Creek High School. Way to go robotics
team!
Mr. Rawlings and Mr. Casey principal and assistant principal of New Smyrna Beach Middle,
visited Edgewater Public 5th graders to share the differences between elementary and middle
school. Students were excited to learn about the increase of time to use technology! This is the
second year that the middle school has shared with fifth graders what they can expect when
they transfer next year.
Freedom Elementary’s kindergarten students celebrated their Annual Thanksgiving Feast and
Play in November. Teachers and students worked hard with daily preparation and practice to
make this event a success. The kindergarten students dressed up as wee little pilgrims and
Indians and performed on stage for over 300 Freedom family members. A traditional
Thanksgiving feast was catered by Brian’s BBQ.
After conducting a survey of the most popular books, Friendship Elementary students chose
their top five favorites. On December 15, each child was able to attend the Book Extravaganza
and pick one of their top favorites to enjoy during winter break. Excitement filled the air as each
child selected their book which was beautifully wrapped like a cherished gift. This gift of reading
was made possible for all Friendship students through Title I funds and will linger all year long.
Galaxy Middle students have embraced the Battle of the Books challenge to read as many of the
11 chosen books as they can by the end of the year. The books are from the Sunshine State
Young Readers list. Congratulations to Jazmine J. for being the first to finish all 11 books.
Along with these books Jazmine has also read several other novels not on the Battle of the
Books list. What a great example she has set for other Galaxy students.
Galaxy Middle’s Science Olympiad team is last year’s reigning state champion. Students are
already preparing for this year’s competition to defend their title. The school is excited to see
what all these young scientists come up with.
Heritage Middle art teacher, Mrs. Doran, had her 7th and 8th grade 2D Art students participate
in the Dream Rocket Project (DRP). This project, launched in 2009, is collecting 8,000 pieces of
art from various regions of the world. Eventually, all submissions will be connected side by side
to wrap the skeleton of a 385 foot Space Launch System (SLS) rocket replica. This wrapped
SLS will be placed on temporary exhibit at locations around the United States. The SLS is
NASA’s dream rocket, representing their dream of going to Mars and beyond. The theme is
The Mars Generation. Mrs. Doran’s students learned about Mars exploration and the Mars
rover prior to completing their own paintings depicting this theme. The students then voted on the
top paintings to be sent. They are currently on display in the visitor center at Kennedy Space
Center through March 31, 2015. Then they will be sent, to be sewn together with the other
paintings from around the world, covering the rocket replica. Other student submissions are in
the form of textile art, accompanied by essays, progress images, reports and examples of
innovative approaches inside classrooms across our nation. Topics range from science, space,
technology, conservation, education, freedom and equality. Prior to the final installation,
submissions will have been exhibited in over 150 venues including libraries, schools, museums
and community centers.
Heritage Middle’s Paraprofessional Ms. Sonia Pina was the recipient of the 2014 Florida School
Counselor Association Counseling Advocate of the Year award. This award recognizes Ms.
Pina for her contribution to the counseling profession. Ms. Pina facilitates every iMoms and
ProDads event at Heritage Middle School, as well as heading up the Family Center. She was
recognized at the FSCA annual convention and is a true asset to the Eagle family.
On December 8, Hinson Middle’s drama club, Limelight, had “A Night of Monologues.” After
weeks of hard work and practice, the thespians had perfected their performances and were
prepared to WOW their enthusiastic audience. The actors brought the house down with their
comedic interpretations and more than a few theater goers were transported by the serious
monologues. The choral reading of Jabberwocky, from Lewis Carroll’s “Through the Looking
Glass, and What Alice Found There,” was a fabulous finale. The thunderous applause of the full
house could probably be heard for miles.
Sheri Washuta’s kindergarteners and first graders enjoyed a delicious “salad party” at Horizon
Elementary. For some of the students, this was their first taste of lettuce, but they were eager to
try it out since they had planted and harvested the lettuce themselves! Parent volunteer Bee
Busby, an avid gardener herself, donated materials and built two 5’ X 3’ raised wooden garden
beds. Parents donated two old tires and 20 cubic yards of organic gardening soil. Full Moon
Natives Plant Nursery of Port Orange donated 17 romaine lettuce sprouts and the Port Orange
Home Depot provided fun gardening aprons for the students. The children were excited to learn
about soil types, plant parts, fertilizers, and how weather affects the garden. A rain gauge was
donated so that the children could measure rainwater. They were excited to find pesky snails
eating their lettuce, and every morning a few students go on a snail hunt to ensure the safety of
their lettuce! Principal Gary Harms helped the students celebrate their first harvest and helped
himself to a bowl of salad. While not every student enjoyed the taste of the lettuce, they all
agreed that this first attempt at gardening was a great success. They plan to share the
remaining romaine with another first grade class. Future gardening plans include planting native
milkweed and learning about endangered monarch butterflies. They will also continue to grow
different selections of vegetables throughout the rest of the school year.
Members of the Indian River Elementary Florida Future Educators collected food and gift cards
to help needy families this Thanksgiving. The collected items were assembled into 16 holiday
meal gift baskets and decorated by FFEA members. Advisors Theresa Cameron, Angela Donley,
Diane LaRubbio and Pete Maman supervised the group. Nine additional bags of food and five
gift cards were donated to the Basket Brigade food drive and all collections were turned over to
Amy Hall, K-12 guidance specialist, who utilized 44 volunteers to deliver baskets anonymously
to identified families county-wide.
Students at Indian River Elementary enjoyed a night of fun and learning when the PTA and
Title I sponsored Science Night in Manatee Hall at the school. The Museum of Arts and
Sciences set up 15 stations for students to rotate between, manned by teacher volunteers. The
most popular station was the portable, inflatable, planetarium. Students who visited all 15 stations
were eligible to win two tickets to the Museum of Arts and Sciences, chosen randomly from
check sheets turned in at the end of the event. Students also received free science kits donated
by Title I.
Indian River Elementary kindergarteners enjoyed a night of treats, crafts, and reading at the
Florida Future Educators fundraiser, “The Polar Express Party.” Students climbed on board at 6
p.m. in Manatee Hall wearing pajamas and slippers and spent the evening with fourth and fifth
grade mentors drinking hot chocolate, eating cookies, making sleigh bell necklaces, and reading the
classic picture book, “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg. FFEA sponsors, Theresa
Cameron, Angela Donley, and Diane LaRubbio, faculty volunteers and PTA volunteers
supervised the event. All proceeds are to fund upcoming FFEA projects.
Barracuda Band students from News Smyrna Beach gave a performance for fifth graders at
Indian River Elementary to promote an interest in band participation. Band students were
supervised by Tyler Losco, director for New Smyrna Beach Barracuda Band. Several Indian
River Elementary Alumni students performed with the group.
With roots dating back to the 1950s, the R.J. Longstreet Elementary Storybook Carnival is
steeped in tradition and well known for its fun. The carnival isn’t just about dressing up in
favorite holiday costumes with friends; it’s a community event that mixes games with learning.
Game booths, created by teachers, have ties to a book and their characters. Students win “book
bucks” at the game booths that are redeemed at the book store in the media center. This year,
over 350 books were claimed by students during the carnival. More than 300 members of the
Longstreet family and community enjoyed this year’s carnival, including the many volunteers it
takes to put on the storybook-themed event. Volunteers included Emory-Riddle Aeronautical
University students, area high school students, the R.J. Longstreet PTA, former R.J. Longstreet
students and even a great-grandmother. When we say the carnival has a rich history, we mean
it. Even this year’s carnival organizer is an R.J. Longstreet alum who remembers the carnival
as the “most looked forward to event” in the neighborhood. Profits from the carnival will be used
all year to support other family events, buy educational enhancements for the school, provide
appreciation events for students and staff, and support programs like Reading Counts, a
Literacy Fair, Math Nights and Social Studies/Science Fairs.
Student Government Association members at R.J. Longstreet Elementary demonstrated their
patriotism by collecting items for holiday gift bags that are being sent to American troops in
Afghanistan. The hard-working students packed 32 bags, weighing nearly 200 pounds, thanks
to donations from students throughout the school. Classes also contributed personalized letters
to the service men and women, including this sentiment from the SGA President to the troops:
“Thank you for serving our country. I am making this letter but it’s not just me or the SGA. It’s
the entire school that supports you. Thank you.” Students collected, sorted and filled the bags
with a little assistant from their sponsor, fifth-grade teacher Mrs. Tara Lamb, and volunteer
parents. Thanks to business partner, A1 Shipping, the gift bags were sent at a reduced cost.
For the second year in a row, the R.J. Longstreet Cardinals won the Ponce Inlet Christmas
Parade’s “Most Christmas Spirit” Award. Marching proudly with teachers and parent volunteers
were students from the Student Government Association, the Safety Patrols and Florida Future
Educators of America members. The R.J. Longstreet Elementary students represented their
peers and faculty very well and were happy to participate in this annual community event. The
Spirit Award is on display in the main office so everyone can enjoy it.
There’s nothing better than a long line at the door of a crowded media center if it means a huge
turnout for Donuts with Dad at R.J. Longstreet Elementary. Despite the early hour, nearly 200
people – dads, students and some moms – turned out for doughnuts, coffee and juice. The dad
and student get-together created an opportunity for the school to share information about its
Cardinal Dad program and allow interested fathers sign up. It was a great first step in getting
the program up and running. PTA sponsors were thankful and amazed so many family
members carved out time in their busy day to spend quality time at school with their kids. Five
lucky dads won door prizes, and one student won a sno-cone maker. “Whenever we have an
opportunity to welcome parents, especially dads, to our school to spend time with their children,
it’s a special day. We were thrilled with the turnout,” said Principal Judith Watson.
Every year Mainland High’s Student Government Association participates in the WESH 2 News
Share Your Christmas campaign. Items collected help the Second Harvest Food Bank of
Central Florida feed local families during the holiday season. To encourage students to bring in
food items, SGA sponsors a contest between classes. The class that brings in the most items
wins a pizza party. Mainland was able to donate over 500 items for this worthy cause.
Congratulations to Dominic Clay, New Smyrna Beach High student, who was named Award of
Excellence recipient at the Halifax Art Festival Student Exhibit. His winning work, along with the
other winning works, were displayed at the Museum of Arts and Sciences and now are
displayed at the ArtHaus in Port Orange. Dominic won $190.00 for his image. It was taken with
a GO Pro Hero Camera with a wide angel at an unusual view point; the title is "From Ground
Level."
At the District 3 Thespian Festival, 39 New Smyrna Beach High students competed and
achieved the the best results the school has ever had. Fifteen individual events receive
Superior ratings and three were given Honorable Mention for Critic’s Choice. An additional 13
events received Excellent ratings. All of these students qualified to attend and/or perform at the
Florida State Festival in March. The final six individual events received a rating of Good. Of the
39 students that attended Districts, 36 of them qualified to attend/perform at the State Festival,
the largest in the nation/world. New Smyrna High’s troupe also receive a trophy and basket for
being one of the Most Caring Troupes for donating the highest amounts of money to Broadway
Cares: Equity Fights AIDS. The year, the troupe donated $1,344.
The 32nd annual I Run Write race was held at New Smyrna Beach Middle with a total of 150
students participating. Several faculty members participated in the newly added faculty dash.
As the teachers flew by, students cheered them on from the sidelines. To show their support,
Deputy Superintendent James Tager and Principal Joe Rawlings participated in the full length race
and ran alongside the students.
Will Smith, New Smyrna Beach Middle agriculture teacher and F.F.A. sponsor, and his
students installed a Muscadine grape vineyard in the school garden area. They will be growing
four different varieties of Muscadine grape: Majestic, Black Beauty, Supreme and Carlos. The
vineyard is a combined effort of the school’s F.F.A., The Master Gardeners of Volusia County,
and both The New Smyrna Beach Men’s and Women’s Garden clubs.
At New Smyrna Beach Middle, Peer Buddies are in full swing. Students are partnered with
students with disabilities. Together, the partners participate in challenging lessons and play
games. Peer Buddies builds confidence in students with and without disabilities. The Peer
Buddy program builds a bridge for students to come together. It fosters friendships, enhances
social and communication skills, and teaches students about acceptance and understanding for
each other’s differences.
Students in fourth and fifth grade at Ortona Elementary have embarked on a “Kindness
Campaign.” Their mission: to remind people why it wise to choose kind! The fourth grade
students completed their first research project incorporating the use of technology to create a
Poplet as a visual aid for completing their presentations. Each student was assigned a disability
to research and present to develop a heightened awareness and sensitivity for individuals
afflicted with these challenges. Rebecca K. created her Poplet on Cerebral Palsy.
Ortona Elementary is dedicated to creating a healthy environment for all individuals. As part of
this initiative, students participated in a lesson regarding the importance of proper hand washing
and completed a hand washing coloring sheet. The top two coloring sheets from each
classroom were submitted to the assistant principal for display in the front office. The winners
received a certificate for being members of the “Clean Paw Club” and a Good Citizen Award pin.
Sponsored by the school’s science correlate, Osceola Elementary recently enjoyed an “eggstraordinary” family science night. Encouraged by their teachers, including Chris Bishop, grade
five, and Lynda Kelly, kindergarten, students in grades K-5 designed and created systems to
protect dropped eggs from breaking. Predictions and results were recorded in their science
notebooks. Students were all smiles as they were called up by grade level for the big egg drop.
One student predicted a frame made from pizza crusts would work best. Two student professors
modeled their lab coats and displayed their secret formulas for success.
Osceola Elementary joined the Ormond Beach community in honoring its Teacher of the
Quarter, Dave Hollingsworth. President of Volusia Council of Music Educators, Mr. Hollingsworth
was recognized for his accomplishment of 40 years as a music teacher.
Osteen Elementary’s fourth and fifth grade students recently competed in the ‘Bot Beach
Bonanza. Kailah Lalanne worked as team captain to organize all the students who presented
their idea about how to improve learning. They also worked as a team to problem solve how to
stack cups using only rubber bands and strings. Judges followed the team around all day long
to evaluate team spirit and gracious professionalism as they answered questions about robot
design and programming. Congratulations on a job well done to the following team members:
Bradley Conyers, Caleb Ingraham, Cristina Martinez, Gabriel Martinez, Kailah Lalanne, Hunter
Cohen, and Alex Waugh.
One lucky Osteen Elementary student had the privilege of riding to school in a pink fire truck!
Harmony Richardson, first grade, entered a coloring contest and won a ride from the Deltona
Fire department. Much of the school watched happily as Harmony arrived at school fashionably.
She was extremely excited to win and to ride in the fire truck.
During the month of November, Pathways Elementary held a Thanksgiving Food Drive. The
student council reached out to the school community and helped raise enough food to provide
40 Thanksgiving baskets to families at Pathways Elementary. One of the school’s longest
serving business partners, U.S. Foods and its president Pat Kelly, personally donated the
turkeys. On top of that, Matthew Gilson, a second grader, and his family provided 30 gift cards
to Publix Supermarket for families in need. The spirit of giving and helping continued when two
families could not make it to the school to pick up their baskets, so Jennifer Fernandez, front
office clerk, delivered the baskets to the families. This was the school’s best food drive to date.
The Pine Ridge High SADD Club (Student's Against Destructive Behaviors) is collecting new
socks and toiletries to be given out to Pine Ridge High families. The club members are
collecting adult socks, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, contact
solution, dental floss, shaving cream, body wash, mouthwash, soap, etc. The deadline for this
drive is Friday, December 12.
The Pine Ridge High Theatre Troupe participated in the International Thespians District
Theatre Festival. Over 1400 individuals were in attendance from 32 high school troupes. The
Pine Ridge team of 24 students entered 24 events in acting and musical performances, as well
as technical events. Most of the students competed in two or more categories. The final results
were the best the school has ever had; this is the first year nothing scored lower than Excellent.
The hard work and dedication of the students really paid off. Ten qualifying events are eligible
to go on to the State Festival in March.
Port Orange Elementary put on their boots, for the Annual P.O.E. Hoe Down. Students and
families had a blast while playing retro style carnival games like “Needle in the Haystack” and
“Bean Bag Toss.” Children were able to pose at the themed photo booth with friends and have
their faces painted by teacher and parent volunteers. There was dancing, food and even pony
rides! The night ended hilariously with a hotdog eating contest. All funds raised will support
special areas in purchasing equipment, art supplies and musical instruments.
Mr. Miller's 5th grade gifted students at Port Orange Elementary participated in a simulation
along the Oregon Trail. Modeled after the classic 1980's computer game, students assumed the
role of a family member within their group, completing a journal throughout that depicted the
hardship, danger and drama across the vast west. Families encountered environmental
hazards, disease and sometimes just plain unfortunate luck (fyi, NEVER eat the red berries).
Through trial and tribulation, their wagon train finally made it to the new Oregon Territory. A
celebration around the campfire was the culminating event as each member recounted either a
harrowing or memorable event from their journal.
Read-Pattillo Elementary’s second grade teachers presented a Math Night for parents and
students. Students enjoyed a night of math games and practice while the parents were
investigating number sense and how to assist their child at home. Parents were given an
opportunity to learn different methods of addition and subtraction. The teachers walked the
parents through parts of the curriculum map and had parents use the hundreds board and ten
frames to solve problems.
Science is everywhere at Read-Pattillo Elementary. The past semester has been filled with
fun, hands-on experiments and investigations. There have been Oreo moon phases, building the
tallest towers out of spaghetti, water cycle baggies and changes in matter. Students are enjoying
learning and exploring throughout the year.
Seabreeze High senior Joey Peluso has been named a Commended Student in the 2015
National Merit Scholarship Program. Only 34,000 students across the nation are recognized as
Commended by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Joey placed in the top 5% of more
than 1.5 million students who entered the 2015 competition by taking the PSAT/National Merit
Scholarship Qualifying Test.
The Seabreeze High DECA club sponsored and spearheaded a holiday food drive. Several
boxes were placed in key locations throughout the school for donations. The Seabreeze
Cheerleaders and Spirit Club collected several boxes of food and the Senior Class of 2015
made the entry fee of their upcoming “Senior Olympics,” a box of food. With everyone working
to make this food drive a success, the school was able to put together over 30 boxes of food for
Thanksgiving and several more are ready for the Winter Break.
Silver Sands Middle hosted an informational meeting for parents and students regarding early
warning systems. During this time, administrators and school counselors explained the purpose
behind the informative process of identifying identifiers on the Early Warning Systems reports,
as well as what they mean for students and the school.
Silver Sands Middle took November’s National Write a Novel Month one step further and
played host to a panel of local authors for a Q&A session with curious students. Authors Tawdra
Kandle, Heather Allen, Nichole Greene, Sarah Ross, Ben Hale and Kristina Circelli, told
students the story of how he/she became a writer and answered questions about what it’s like to
author a novel. Young adult fantasy author, Ben Hale, believes inviting writers to speak with
students is one of the best ways to facilitate and nurture young writers. “I want our youth to
believe writing can be a career and that ability is not the greatest determinant of success in life,”
said Mr. Hale. As someone who has always thought of herself as a writer, Kristina Circelli,
daughter of Silver Sands reading teacher, Cindy Circelli, offered excellent perspective when
asked what she would say to her middle-school-self. “Ignore the haters,” she began, “People
make fun of what they don’t understand, and writers are often a very misunderstood lot. And it’s
okay to be the odd man out if it means you are achieving your dreams. Never let anyone tell
you that you’re too young to do something, or that your goals are just pipe dreams. Work hard
and prove them all wrong.” Indeed young yet prolific, Kristina has authored 13 books. One of
the most recent is titled “A Single Swim,” a nonfiction book about her cousin, Courtney Nash,
who died after contracting Naegleria fowleri, a brain-eating amoeba that lurks in warm waters.
By the end of the day, about 500 Silver Sands Warriors had benefited from the unique literary
opportunity to speak with professional, published authors as they linked learning to life.
Builders Club is a student-led community service organization for middle school and junior high
school students. The Builders Club at Silver Sands Middle collected and purchased enough
food for 22 families in need for Thanksgiving. In addition, the student members collected 17
‘Shoebox Christmas’ boxes for the kids in Africa. Snack bags were prepared and distributed to
disadvantaged students for the time they are on Thanksgiving break and Christmas break and
who might otherwise have limited access to food. Without donations from faculty, staff and
especially Port Orange’s Presbyterian Church, these donations and acts of philanthropy would
not have been possible.
Southwestern Middle recently celebrated the BOOK IT!® Program National Young Readers
Week. Principal Mamie Oatis “Double Dog Dared” Charlie Bynum, principal intern, to read on top
of the roof ALL day! Relaxing in a comfy chair high above the science classrooms, they were
joined by students in reading classes who came outside to read and enjoy the sunshine down
below in the school’s courtyard. A variety of teachers joined Ms. Oatis and Mr. Bynum on the
roof as well to declare the importance of reading. Challenges were given to students and favorite
books were shared. Ms. Barbara Head, Director of K-12 Curriculum for Volusia County Schools
joined in the fun as well. Southwestern Tigers know that leaders are readers.
According to the U.S. Surgeon General, tobacco advertising greatly contributes to youth
smoking rates. Each year on the 3rd Thursday of November the Great American Smoke Out
takes place to promote tobacco abstinence and encourage smokers to quit for the day.
Southwestern Middle’s SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) had a tobacco
awareness activity in the parent pick up area after school on November 19 to prompt activities
for the Great American Smoke Out. This year the Great American Smoke Out took place on
November 20 and the P.E. teachers facilitated fun activities in order for students to get moving.
They played games outdoors and indoors such as Capture the Flag, soccer, flag football,
basketball and volleyball to promote tobacco abstinence. Be smart, don’t start!
Southwestern Middle families, faculty/staff and community members recently enjoyed an
evening filled with food, friendship and fun at the school’s Annual Family Thanksgiving Dinner.
The event was a joint project between faculty/staff, School Advisory Council/PTSO and the
DeLand Breakfast Rotary Club. More than 100 meals were served to students and their families.
The DeLand Breakfast Rotary donated, prepared and served fried turkey along with side dishes
provided by administrators/faculty/volunteers. Dinners were served in the cafeteria, complete
with Thanksgiving-themed centerpieces. Students/families shared Thanksgiving messages
during Chalk Talk, a writing activity before and during dinner. "It was really a community effort to
make this event such a huge success. Many people, including the DeLand Breakfast Rotary,
contributed so much of their time to make this come together. It's just incredible,” said Principal
Mamie Oatis.
Southwestern Middle’s DREAM (Dynamic, Responsible, Educated, Achieving Men) and many
members of VOGUE (Very Outstanding Girls Urging Excellence) were visited in November by
two-time Grammy Award winning producer, singer, DJ and songwriter Frankie Biggz. Frankie
Biggz shared the many top performers that he worked with including Eminem, Frankie Negron,
Christina Aguilera and Iggy Azalea. Frankie Biggz took time in his presentation to speak with
every student about their career dreams. Several students received top advice about what to do
in today’s world to help them achieve those goals. He explained that his biggest regret was not
finishing high school and he urged each student to make their education their first action toward
making their career dreams come true. Frankie also shared that success is not a linear process,
but a series of struggles, setbacks, and then success.
Mrs. Debbie Tarmann, Ms. Kathie Hammer and Mrs. Amy Richardson are advisors for Spruce
Creek Elementary’s new FFEA Chapter. Nine students in grades 4th and 5th make up the
FFEA Chapter. FFEA is an organization for students who wish to become teachers. They will
actively take on roles in the school. They will have the chance to shadow a teacher, organize
school events and listen to guest speakers. The FFEA Club/Chapter is just starting at SCES.
There wonderful events scheduled throughout the year. For example, students will shadow a
teacher to gain insight on a teacher’s role. The event/club meetings take place in Mrs.
Tarmann’s and Mrs. Richardson’s room once a month and will be run by the elected officers.
Jack Hartmann presented a concert at Spruce Creek Elementary for pre-k, kindergarten, first
grade and multi-VE students. Jack Hartmann is a nationally recognized children’s singer and
songwriter. Jack’s music has a variety of amazing songs with different musical styles that teach
the students many academic skills across the curriculum. Children love Jack’s fun, super
catchy songs that always get them singing, moving and learning. Mr. Hartmann’s music is
“filled” with “Beats that Teach” for math, reading, science and social skills. Jack’s songs have
the children at Spruce Creek enjoying exercise. His music builds their body and brain. The
children love Jack Hartmann’s music because he teaches the students using many different
learning styles.
Sixteen Starke Elementary students received ribbons for participation in the DeLand Fall
Festival of the Arts held in November. Student work was displayed at the art festival.
Sunrise Elementary’s first graders had a wonderful visit with the Deltona Fire Department
learning about fire safety. The students were asked to speak to their families and plan an
emergency exit plan. Students also got to learn about the fire department and all of the jobs the
firefighters do in the community. We are thankful for our firefighters and all that they do for our
community!
Fifth grade classes at Sunrise Elementary read “Schooled” by Gordon Korman. In the book
the main character, Capricorn Anderson, has to begin going to a public school after being
homeschooled all his life. He knows a lot about tie-dyeing, tai chi and promoting peace, but
nothing can prepare him for the politics and bullies of public school. Although he finds things
confusing, he stays true to himself, and the students begin to accept him. Throughout the
novel, students focused on the narrator’s point of view, character analysis and theme. The fifth
grade classes, have also been studying the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers. Students
applied the knowledge of the first habit of being proactive vs. reactive to their personal lives.
Then, students used discussion notebooks to further describe how this information relates to the
character analysis from “Schooled.” As a culminating activity, the fifth grade students made tie
dye shirts to show uniqueness, and at the same time, unity to each other. Students will display
their One Word on the shirts. One Word is the word that each student chose to live by, or focus
on this year, to improve his or her life. Some examples are: confidence (to be more confident
with my work), perseverance (to stick with a task and not give up), better (be better at school
and softball). It is hoped the shirts will help spread the One Word concept to the community.
Mr. Sita’s third grade class at Sweetwater Elementary has been busy with their civic projects.
Their first one is called Operation Christmas Child. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has
delivered 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes to boys and girls in more than 130 countries. This is a
great way for the students to give back this holiday season. The students assembled and sent
on 21 boxes. Their second project is writing to soldiers in the United States Army 3rd Platoon in
Afghanistan. These service personnel will be receiving packages not only for the holidays but
throughout the year. The third graders wrote thank you letters, colored pictures and enclosed hot
cocoa packets with candy canes to wish them a warm holiday season.
Sweetwater Elementary’s FFEA (Florida Future Educators of America) with Mrs. Asbill as their
advisor and Mrs. Turner’s second grade class organized a pet food drive for PAWSIBILITIES.
The students collected over 280 pounds of food, 15 towels and blankets, 20 toys and various
other items for the animals. The students had a wonderful time contributing to this very
important project.
The kindergarten and second grade classes at Sweetwater Elementary did two separate
performances for family and friends for Thanksgiving. The students sang songs, recited poems,
danced and played instruments. Then families were invited back into the classrooms to enjoy
their feasts. The students did an outstanding job! On December 5, parents enjoyed their
“Parents Night Out” while PTA volunteers, administrators, teachers and staff chaperoned the
students. The students were treated to a night of technology, crafts, pizza and a movie.
Sweetwater Elementary students collected nonperishable food items to share with the
community and support the Veterans Administration’s Homeless Veterans pantry. Each grade
level provided necessary food items to create the perfect basket. Families have been very
generous this Thanksgiving season and the school is very grateful to the Sweetwater
community. Mrs. Galloso's 4th grade class collected goodies, cards and wrote letters to the 3rd
Platoon stationed in Afghanistan. The students enjoyed participating and are looking forward to
hearing back from the men and women serving overseas.
Mrs. Kelly’s third grade students at Sweetwater Elementary enjoyed creating their own Native
American dwelling, a teepee, complete with stories and pictures written and drawn on the
papers. The students enjoyed learning of the Native Americans and their cultures. Mrs. Kelly
helped the students by treating the parchment paper with wax and ironing it to create a realistic
“hide” for their class teepee.
Timbercrest Elementary Family Math Night was a fun and engaging night for families.
Timbercrest teachers, Dr. Blessing, a UCF math professor and university intern supervisor, and
UCF interns hosted this event. Parents learned of technology used at school that is available for
their use at home, how to decompose numbers, math vocabulary for addition and subtraction,
how to use a deck of cards to increase math facts, how to incorporate PE activities with math,
and how to use a beaded bracelet for math facts, as well as many other exciting math
strategies. The parents were appreciative for the instruction and manipulatives they may use to
assist their children at home.
Recently, Timbercrest Elementary students experienced a bit of Australian culture. Didgeridoo
Down Under is a unique, Australia-themed show that combines music, culture, art, science,
literacy development, puppetry, comedy, character building, anti-bullying and audience
participation. Target provided the grant for this amazing program.
Brooklyn Lopez, third grade student at Timbercrest Elementary, was selected as a grand prize
winner of Deltona Fire Department’s coloring and drawing contest for its annual Open House
and Pink Heals Tour. Brooklyn was eligible to ride to school in a PINK fire truck!!! She
competed against students from 10 area elementary schools. Contest participants colored a
prepared page and teachers submitted their coloring pages for judging. Grade level winners for
each school were selected from the submission. The first place winners from each the school
qualified to be grand prize winners for their grade levels; resulting in four grand prize winners.
Students participating in Girls on the Run have had had so much fun this semester. Fourteen
wonderful ladies from Timbercrest Elementary just graduated from the program on December
6 by running in a 5K event. Each girl did a fabulous job at Father Lopez High School. The girls
had discussions each week that included feeling positive about yourself, handling a bully,
stopping gossip and serving our community.
At Turie T. Small Elementary’s All Pro Dad’s Day, dads, male mentors, mothers and kids
teamed up for a quick, before school breakfast and a 45-minute program on fatherhood and
family topics. Tips and resources were shared to help be a great dad or male mentor and at the
same time relationships with kids were strengthened. The speaker was Mr. Albert Bouie, vice
president of community affairs at Bethune Cookman University.
Food Brings Hope, a local charity dedicated to breaking the cycle of hunger, poverty and
homelessness among Volusia County School students, hosted its first ever fundraising event.
The "Pearls of Hope" Gala took place at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Turie T. Small
Elementary students benefit from Food Brings Hope and Dr. Earl Johnson, principal, attended
the event to represent the school.
University High received a $2,000 Toolbox for Education Grant from Lowes to be used for a
campus beautification project at the school’s athletic complex. Head baseball coach, Frank
Martello, applied for the grant and organized the effort, which was recently completed using 350
bags of rocks, pressure treated wood, some new sod and, of course, orange paint.
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