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  • Clemmons art teacher is advocating for heart health

    Clemmons art teacher is advocating for heart health

    CLEMMONS, N.C. — Teacher Frann Paige is urging others to be on the lookout for signs of heart disease.

    What You Need To Know

    • The American Heart Association says Black and Hispanic women are disproportionately affected by heart disease and stroke

    • According to the American Heart Association, the warning signs of a heart attack include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cold sweat, lightheadedness, nausea and discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach

    • Frann Paige, a Clemmons art teacher who was hospitalized after a heart attack, says some of the things she’s done to improve her health include reducing sodium intake, cutting down on caffeine and exercising 


    Paige is an art teacher at Clemmons Elementary, and her students have become a part of her life.

    “The love notes I get and the drawings I get every morning make my day,” said Paige, who was hospitalized in 2015 after a heart attack. “When I was sick in the hospital, I kept saying every day, I want to get back to my classroom. … It was the new normal, but I wanted to get back to what I thought was normal. I needed to get back with the kids.” 

    February is Heart Health Month, and the American Heart Association says cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined.

    In June 2015, Paige’s life changed after a doctor’s appointment

    “I got there very early. Doctors weren’t really ready yet. And with that, the nurse started taking vitals and within 5 minutes, a doctor ran on with a portable EKG machine and they called the ambulance at the same time. I already had a heart attack and was walking around with it for a few days,” she said.

    It was a heart attack she didn’t know she had on the last day of school

    “Started really Friday night. And I didn’t go to the doctor until the next Thursday. And the last thing I remember is being wheeled into an emergency room. And then I woke up a month later from an induced coma,” Paige said.

    She had every symptom that should have been an alert, but she had an excuse for each one.

    “I was pale. My excuse — it was summer. I was hot. My excuse was summer, wasn’t feeling well. The kids gave me something,” Paige said. “But if you take all these symptoms and add them up, I should have known better. I should have known to go to a doctor.” 

    And heart disease runs in her family.

    “My father passed away at an early age of a heart attack. I have aunts with pacemakers. It should have been on my radar. It wasn’t,” Paige said.

    Now, she’s urging women to be aware of the symptoms and to have their affairs in order.

    “What I can tell you is take your body seriously and know your body,” she said. “Know if it’s not right and you are having more than one symptom.”

    “I had a pain, but I had a pain in my jaw, so I made an appointment with my dentist,” Paige said. “I didn’t have a pain in my arm like men have.”

    And now, to stay on top of her health, she has a defibrillator that helps regulate her heart, and she makes better decisions day to day.

    Paige says some of the things she’s done to better her health are reducing sodium intake, cutting down on caffeine and exercising as much as she can.

    The American Heart Association says Black and Hispanic women are disproportionately affected by heart disease and stroke.

    As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are more likely than men to experience other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting and back or jaw pain.

    Zyneria Byrd

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  • Speed-detecting cameras coming to all Manatee County school zones

    Speed-detecting cameras coming to all Manatee County school zones

    Manatee County commissioners voted this week to install speed-detecting cameras in all of the county’s school zones for the coming school year.

    A new law went into effect last summer that allows counties in Florida to enforce speed limits through speed-detecting cameras, and some areas in the Tampa Bay area have already started the process.

    What You Need To Know

    • All schools in Manatee County will have speed-detecting cameras starting the first day of the next school year

    • Officials say the cameras will only be active during the listed school hours

    • They say there will be a two-week notice before the cameras are turned on

    With the decision to add speed-detecting cameras to every school in Manatee County, they will be watching when students head to school, and again when they leave. But county officials say they will not be active outside of listed school hours.

    Christina Kratz’s kids — Colton, now in sixth grade, and Luke, in fourth — attended Manatee County schools until a few years ago.

    “We went with the homeschooling program to have a better life for the kids, less anxiety, less stress,” she said.

    “We absolutely couldn’t ask for anything better,” she added. “They have no homework, they get to be outside and enjoy life, they learn trades.”

    She said one of the things that caused her to pull her kids out of public school was the chaos of traffic and speeding cars.

    “It’s awful,” she said. “When we went to the school right off of Rye Road, traffic is crazy. There were lots of cars speeding through the zones, even with the lights.” 

    She said there was even one instance when she was almost hit by another vehicle — while she had her kids in the car.

    “One day I was pulling out of the school parking lot after pick up,” she said. “Because of all the lines of cars coming into the school system, I couldn’t see pulling out as easily. A car came flying by and almost hit me, just missed me probably inches with the kids in the car. So, that was really a tough day for us, kind of scared the kids. Scared me.”

    So when Kratz found out that the county was installing speed-detecting cameras, she agreed with the decision, saying they are a good way to keep kids safe.

    “I think it’s a great idea. We had them up north where we lived,” she said. “They sent out tickets to the people who weren’t abiding by the rules. It really took kids’ safety into consideration.”

    County officials say the cameras will be in in place on the first day of the next school year, but there will be a two-week notice before they are turned on.

    Julia Hazel

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  • Florida Polytechnic University ranks most affordable for cybersecurity program

    Florida Polytechnic University ranks most affordable for cybersecurity program

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland is quickly becoming known for being one of the most affordable universities. It’s currently ranked No. 1 in the state for graduates with the lowest student debt, and its cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program is No. 1 for affordability in the country according to Cybersecurity Guide, an online resource that specializes in cybersecurity and cybersecurity education.

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida Polytechnic University ranked No. 1 in the state for graduates with the lowest student debt

    • Florida Polytechnic University’s cybersecurity program ranked No. 1 in affordability in the country

    • Cybersecurity program costs $12,600 for 120 credit hours

    Will Marshall is a senior at Florida Polytechnic University, and he’s making the most of his college years by preparing for his future financially, which is a reason he’s pursuing his degree in cybersecurity.

    “Not only being able to find a job, but having so many areas for growth in that job because cybersecurity is such a broad field where you have subdivisions of cybersecurity,” he said.

    Right now, he’s in a class that all seniors in the computer science program have to take to graduate. They’re working on their final project, with some related to game development, others building software or apps, like Marshall’s group. They’re building a computer code library right now.

    “Our project is building a 3D model app that scans a person and then builds a 3D model off of it so that way they can get body measurements and health data,” Marshall explained.

    Marshall said after being selected to attend a cybersecurity conference in high school, he knew computer science is what he wanted to major in. A Tampa native, he considered all his options, but ultimately, Florida Polytechnic University was the school for him.

    “It’s very affordable. It helps because it kind of lowers the barrier to entry, so that way, more people can get into the field. They can learn, they can grow,” he said.

    Cybersecurity Guide named the school’s cybersecurity program No. 1 for affordability with a cost of $105 per credit hour, and a total tuition of $12,600 for the 120 credit program, while other schools can cost over $60,000. 

    “It allows me to focus fully on a school without having to have a side job that takes up my time, to be able to support myself. That way, I can focus fully on learning,” said Marshall.

    And while he’s studying for his degree, he doesn’t have to worry about graduating with a bunch of debt. 

    Fallon Silcox

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  • Largo High School head football coach honored for Black History Month

    Largo High School head football coach honored for Black History Month

    LARGO, FLA — Marcus Paschal finished his 10th season as Largo High School’s head football coach this school year.

    He was recently recognized as the city of Largo’s Black History Month honoree during a commission meeting.

    What You Need To Know

    • Marcus Paschal is this week’s A+ Teacher

    • Paschal is the head football coach at Largo High School

    • He went to school there, played on the football team and went on to play in the NFL

    • Do you know an amazing teacher? Nominate them to be our next A+ Teacher

    “I’m truly grateful to be honored with such an amazing award with so much meaning behind it,” said Paschal.

    Paschal graduated from Largo High School and played football there. He went on to play in the NFL. Paschal uses what he’s learned in his professional football career to guide his current players.

    “This is something that you could put in a storybook, you know, because I’ve been and played at the highest level and chose to come back home to try to give these guys and these girls some inspiration,” said Paschal.

    In addition to coaching, Paschal teaches weightlifting classes at Largo High. He’s teaching his students proper form and nutrition.

    “This is something that I always wanted to do, so this isn’t a job for me. This is something that was put on my heart at a young age and I just enjoy coming here every day to try to mentor the next generation of Largo Packers,” said Paschal.

    Among his students are family members. His daughter, younger brother and niece are juniors. His brother is on the football team.

    “It’s just definitely a blessing to be able to be hands on with them. I’m always hands on with everybody else’s kids but having that opportunity to be hands on with mine is definitely a great feeling,” said Paschal.

    Paschal will tell you every student is family. Largo High and this community are part of who he is and he says he feels honored to live, coach and teach here.

    “The field is an extension of the classroom and your best coaches are amazing teachers and that’s what I pride myself on,” said Paschal.

    Jorja Roman

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  • St. Petersburg Science Festival aims to boost STEM field

    St. Petersburg Science Festival aims to boost STEM field


    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Careers in science, technology, engineering and math – known as STEM – are growing faster than other occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the number of jobs will grow more than 10% by 2031.

    What You Need To Know

    • The St. Petersburg Science Festival is happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday

    • Scientists from NASA, the National Weather Service, Florida Aquarium and more will be showcasing their work

    • The goal is to get more people interested in STEM subjects and careers

    • USF St. Pete, in conjunction with the FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute’s MarineQuest, put on the event

    On Saturday, various science and environmental organizations will come together to help spread knowledge about science and the arts.

    More than 15,000 people are expected to attend the St. Petersburg Science Festival, put on by USF St. Pete and the FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute’s MarineQuest. The event was born out of the growing interest in STEM careers.

    Scientists from NASA, the National Weather Service and Florida Aquarium, to name a few, will be showcasing their work.

    The festival will also welcome the Junior Scientist Program. Students from around 30 middle and high schools get to learn first-hand from experts about a range of topics, from marine life to engineering and robotics.

    “The junior scientists and the kids that are being exposed here, they’re the future,” said Natalia Lopez Figueroa, chair of the Junior Scientist Program. “We’re not forever and we need to pass down our knowledge. Everyone needs a teacher. We learn something from everyone.”

    The Junior Scientist Program was created by students from USF’s College of Marine Science. The goal is to inspire young students by showing them all of the possibilities in science, while preparing them for a successful future.

    “A lot of those careers are on the up so it’s a good decision for them to have a background in that,” said Jennifer Giuffre, coordinator of the magnet program at Bay Point Middle School. “Even if they don’t directly go into STEM, a lot of the skills that they learn can be applied to a lot of different careers.”

    The St. Petersburg Science Festival is free and open to the public. It’s happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday at the waterfront on the USF St. Pete campus, as well as outside the nearby FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.



    Brian Rea

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  • Wyomina Park Elementary may follow year-round classes

    Wyomina Park Elementary may follow year-round classes


    MARION COUNTY, Fla. — In a meeting held Thursday night at Wyomina Park Elementary School, school officials in Marion County discussed with dozens of parents the possibility of migrating to a year-round academic calendar that would shorten summers and extend breaks throughout the year. 

    What You Need To Know

    • School officials in Marion County discussed with dozens of parents the possibility of migrating to a year-round academic calendar

    • A “year-round” academic calendar would start in mid-July rather than August 

    • The pilot program would not change the number of days children are legally required to attend school 

    “We are focused on growing our students and making sure they are reaching their full potential, and we feel that this could be an opportunity to continue to grow our students academically,” said Victoria Hunt, principal of Wyomina Park Elementary School. 

    The school is one of three schools in the state of Florida to participate in the program. 

    The move comes after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law the bipartisan HB 891 Year-round School Pilot Program bill that enables “the Department of Education (DOE) to assist school districts in establishing a year-round school program within at least one elementary school in the district to study issues, benefits, and scheduling options,” state lawmakers wrote in the law. 

    The pilot program would affect nearly 600 students at Wyomina Park Elementary School, but would not change the number of academic days children are legally required to attend nationwide. However, cchool could start in mid-July instead of August.

    “If we participate in this pilot here at Wyomina Park, students will still attend 180 instructional days just like all the other elementary schools in Marion County,” Hunt said. 

    Instead of having traditional three-month summer breaks, students would still be granted 12 weeks of vacation but would have their time off spread out throughout the year. According to the school’s principal, holidays that other public schools in the area observe will not be impacted. But students could potentially have slightly longer spring breaks. 

    And though the newly proposed calendar system is widely supported by academic officials in Marion County, the pilot program has faced mix emotions among parents.

    “If the school has frequent breaks in between, how will children who are on the autistic spectrum acclimate to so many frequent breaks within the school year?” asked Diana Garcia, parent of a special needs child at Wyomina Park. 

    Garcia worries whether the program can be molded to fit the needs of her autistic child, who she says relies heavily on routines and may have a hard time adjusting to having a shorter summer.

    Yet many parents who attended Thursday’s meeting believe the newly proposed academic calendar is a step in the right direction to ensuring their child does not fall behind after long summer breaks. 

    “It is going to help the children learn more,” said Amelia Mrsiz, whose children often struggle to keep up with their academic growth over the summer. “Especially with the reading, math, and writing. I feel like they need it a little more.” 

    The school is currently promoting outreach to parents to learn more about parents’ concerns and any feedback they may have before submitting a final academic calendar to Marion County’s school board, Hunt said. 

    It is unclear when a final calendar will be submitted for Marion County’s school board approval.



    Christian Peña

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  • Pasco County School Board prepares for changes to school start time

    Pasco County School Board prepares for changes to school start time

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — School start times could change again for Pasco County students, this time due to a legislative mandate. 

    What You Need To Know

    •  HB 733 changes start times for middle and high schools

    •  Middle school can start no earlier than 8 a.m.

    •  High school can start no earlier than 8:30 a.m.

    House Bill 733 requires district school boards to start middle school no earlier than 8 a.m., and high school no earlier than 8:30 a.m. beginning in the 2026-27 school year. One Pasco County School Board member says the key is to prepare early, and get parents involved.

    When she’s not attending to school board business, you’ll find District 3 Board member Cynthia Armstrong in her realty office.

    As a Realtor, she’s seen the growth in Pasco County and the challenges that come with it for schools, with the next one likely being the school start time legislation, which Armstrong says will impact a lot.

    “It’s going to impact working with the local governments and law enforcement as far as crossing guards, working with daycare centers because they’re going to be needing to expand before and after school care,” she said.

    “Parents may have to adjust their schedules to make sure students are able to get there on time and then it’s high school employment time for the students will have to be adjusted as well, and some of the sports schedules.”

    Right now, middle schools in Pasco County start between 7:10 a.m. and 9:10 a.m. High schools start between 7:06 a.m. and 10:10 a.m.

    Armstrong says the district already changed bell times to make bus routes more efficient due to driver shortages. Now, they’ll lose that flexibility.

    “The bus driver shortage is a national issue, and it’s something we’ve been working very hard on,” Armstrong said. “We’ve thought outside the box as for recruiting as far as improving the pay and working conditions, so it’s something that has been improving for us but we’re nowhere we would like to be.”

    Armstrong says planning and communication will be key moving forward—and she encourages parents to pay close attention.

    “A lot is going into this, that’s why we’ll be starting our communication very early with surveys and just getting the word out so everybody can have a say as to how it may impact them,” Armstrong said.

    Hillsborough County schools already adjusted its school times to align with the legislation. Armstrong says she’s interested in learning more from the district about how they went about it.

    Fallon Silcox

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  • Manatee County School District names Principal of the Year achievement

    Manatee County School District names Principal of the Year achievement

    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Manatee County School District has named its Principal of the Year, recognizing achievements in strong leadership within the school and community.

    According to the Florida Department of Education, recipients demonstrate impactful initiatives in the curriculum that enhance learning and performance in students.

    What You Need To Know

    • Principal Joshua Bennett received the Principal of the Year achievement
    • He’s been with Manatee County School District since 1999, first starting out as a special education teacher
    • Bennett qualifies for the Principal of the State Achievement, with the announcement expected to take place early next year

    Every day, Joshua Bennett walks the halls with a mission to change lives.

    “My day is filled with lots of different things, typically a lot of unknowns but also really rewarding things,” said Bennett, principal at Braden River Elementary School since 2019.

    He admitted to being surprised with the honor.

    “Well, I was pretty shocked,” he said. “I think the district wanted to recognize our school and me as a principal because of our innovative programs at our school that we started.”

    However, Bennett wasn’t always a high achiever.

    He was a struggling student who had to work hard throughout his education. He realized his purpose was to help others feel like they could succeed even if they needed extra time.

    Bennett started with the district in 1999 as a special education teacher.

    “I wanted to be a teacher to make a great impact on students and help them catch up to their peers,” he said.

    Wanting to make a bigger impact, he eventually became a principal. Over the past four-plus years at his school, he has implemented many changes, with adding a dual-language class to the curriculum being one of his proudest accomplishments.

    “Next year will be its fourth year, and we see it continue to grow. It has really created an opportunity for our school to reap its benefit of increased enrollment but also for our students learning a different language,” he explained.

    Bennett is living up to the name on his desk plate: “Mr. Awesome.” And he’s excited about shaping the future of the school.

    “Our school has had a three-year plan,” he said. “To move to be a project-based learning school, so we have plans to continue to increase our enrollment because we are a large percentage being a choice school.”

    He is staying focused on helping each student reach their full potential by molding ideas into action.

    Bennett automatically qualifies for the Principal of the State achievement, with the announcement expected to take place early next year.

    Julia Hazel

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  • Pasco County Council PTA collects donations for school bus drivers

    Pasco County Council PTA collects donations for school bus drivers

    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — Officials with the Pasco County Council PTA say they are trying to do their part to show school bus drivers how appreciated they are this holiday season.

    The PTA organized a donation drive, collecting money to use for Amazon gift cards for every bus driver.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Pasco County Council PTA aims to collect Amazon gift cards for all 500 school bus drivers and transportation employees 

    •  Gift cards will be purchased in $10 increments
    • One local bus driver says she is happy for the recognition

    Pasco County school bus driver Laura Olsson says that after a tough few years on the job due to the driver shortages, it means a lot to be recognized during the holidays.

    “Twenty-two years I’ve been driving, I’m going on my 11th year here in Pasco county,” she said.

    Prior to driving school buses, Olsson was a stay-at-home mom.

    “I started doing it because my kids, when my kids were little, I could take them on the bus with me, and you had the holidays off with your kids,” she said.

    Now that her children are grown, Olsson continues driving for other people’s kids. She said that as a school bus driver, you develop close relationships with students. She said it can be a tough job sometimes, especially in recent years because buses are so crowded.

    “There are students who are late every single day,” Olsson said. “I don’t know how they pass their classes being late by hours. We do feel underappreciated, because we are overworked and it’s tough trying to get this job done when it shouldn’t be this hard. If we had enough drivers, it would be a lot better.”

    She said that is why the Pasco County Council PTA’s special gift for school bus drivers this holiday season means so much.

    “I think it’s a wonderful thing, especially for this time of year, because that’s what Christmas is all about,” Olsson said. “I think it would very helpful to people, and it’s a very nice gesture. The bus drivers and the mechanics would appreciate it, everyone would appreciate it.”

    The Pasco County Council PTA is still accepting donations, and officials say their plan is to purchase as many $10 Amazon gift cards as possible.

    Fallon Silcox

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  • City Council to hear recommendations on future of Schwettman site

    City Council to hear recommendations on future of Schwettman site

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. —  The New Port Richey City Council is expected to discuss the future of the former Schwettman Education Center on Tuesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • The City of New Port Richey had originally bought the property in the fall for $1.7 million

    • The outcome would mean new economic development to the area

    • The redevelopment agency meeting is set for 5 p.m.

    The goal of these future projects would be to bring an economic development project to the area. The city originally had bought this property in the fall for $1.7 million.

    “The majority of (the) council thought that there was benefit in redevelopment of the piece, in large part because it is situated at a prominent corner in the city,” City Manager Debbie Manns said of the eight-acre property’s location at Grand Boulevard. and Gulf Drive.

    Manns said proposed development at the site of the former Community Hospital on Grand and Marine Parkway is seen as another benefit of redeveloping Schwettman.

    She is recommending the council look into selling it to a private developer. She said it would help in garnering a good amount of reinvestment in the Marine District and guide their plans to upgrade the neighborhood overall. Manns plans to suggest that the land not be re-purposed as residential space.

    Former Mayor Rob Marlowe says the area is underutilized and this would be a prime time to redo it all.

    “This is one of the last undeveloped sections of the Cotee River inside of New Port Richey. It’s totally undeveloped. That gets cleaned up, it would be easy enough to put in docks,” Marlowe said.

    Marlowe also said that if done right, the redevelopment of Schewettman could have a promising impact. He also would like to see the building used as a public space.

    Councilmembers are expected to talk about the future of Schwettman and other properties in store at today’s community redevelopment agency meeting at 5 p.m.

    The council may decide to take action Tuesday or choose to discuss the issue further at another time. There are currently plans to recommend the city issue a request for proposals on the site in the first quarter of 2024, according to Manns.

    Reina Nieves

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  • Manatee County teacher helps students find their voice

    Manatee County teacher helps students find their voice

    PALMETTO, Fla. — William Coleman has been a teacher for more than 20 years. He’s spent six of them at Manatee School for the Arts. He teaches chorus and music theater.

    What You Need To Know

    • William Coleman is this week’s A+ Teacher

    “Everything I’ve done in my life has led me to being here,” said Coleman.

    He calls teaching the thrill of his life.

    “I love when students get the look in their eye that says they learned something new, they learned something about themselves new. I love working with them because it is a joy,” said Coleman.

    Coleman finds joy in every part of his role as an educator and he wants his students to feel that in his class.

    “I work on making this classroom a safe space for everybody who enters. It’s really important that students feel like they can explore the arts and be confident even if they may have no skill to those that are very skilled,” said Coleman.

    He says connecting with his students is a crucial part of his job.

    “I have a story that I can tell about them which means that we have spent time in the classroom building a relationship,” said Coleman.

    Coleman says he loves spending each day with his students and working at a school dedicated to the arts.

    “We live and we celebrate the arts, all art forms, in order to teach us how to be better humans. And to me, I don’t think there’s any greater joy than that,” said Coleman.

    Coleman says he’s working toward taking his students to Puerto Rico in June for an opportunity to work with an international choral director. He says they’re fundraising right now for that big trip.

    Jorja Roman

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  • Florida Department of Education releases school grades

    Florida Department of Education releases school grades

    The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) on Monday released school grades for the 2022-23 school year.

    As a part of Florida’s first-in-the-nation transition to using progress monitoring instead of traditional high stakes testing, grades for the 2022-2023 school year serve as a baseline and carry no negative consequences, according to a news release.

    Using these results as a baseline, schools and districts can work toward improved performance in future years, school officials said.

    For the full report, click here.

    FDOE developed a new test, Florida’s Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST). Unlike end-of-year high stakes testing, FAST is a progress monitoring system that provides teachers, students and parents real-time, immediate and actionable data at the beginning, middle and end of the school year to drive student improvement.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 has reached out to school districts in the area for statements and reaction to the results. We’ll be posting them below.

    CITRUS COUNTY (GRADE: B)

    “The positive outcomes we’re witnessing are a direct reflection of the persistence and dedication of our students, teachers, and instructional staff.  We’re incredibly proud of the accomplishments of our schools!”

    HERNANDO COUNTY (GRADE: B)

    According to today’s report, the Hernando School District (HCSD) earned 58% of the total points possible, maintaining a district grade of B. This marks the 6th year since 2015 the school district received a B grade by FLDOE. Hernando Schools did not receive grades for 2020 and 2021 because of the impact of Covid on schools. In contrast to the state’s former assessment, the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) scores, the FAST scores did not include the calculation that awarded additional points for student learning gains.

    “We were concerned at first” said Sonsee Sanders, Director of Research & Accountability for HCSD. “But it is remarkable that despite not having the learning gains calculation as part of the grade calculations that the district increased our total points earned from 56% to 58%.”

    Five of Hernando’s schools improved a full letter grade. Brooksville, Deltona, Moton and Westside Elementary moved from a C to a B. But it is Eastside Elementary, the district’s only “turnaround school,” that can mark this year as a notable achievement, moving their school from a D to a C.

    “We are so thrilled for these schools!” said Gina Michalicka, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning. “The ultimate goal for all of our schools is increased student achievement. Our teachers and administrators pour over student assessment data and spend long days refining their instructional practice together. To be recognized in this way is so validating to their hard work.”

    Read the school district’s full response by clicking here.

    HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY (GRADE: B)

    “Over the summer we anticipated what school grades might look like with the state’s new grading formula.  When schools opened in August, our schools immediately began taking necessary steps to help build capacity and provide guidance on systems and structures based on the needs of each school. We are seeing some positive results. Many of our students are improving their proficiency in ELA and Math. While that may not be reflected in this year’s school grades, we anticipate positive results next year when student learning gains are again included in the school grades.” 

    – Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Van Ayres

    MANATEE COUNTY (GRADE: B)

    NOTE: We have not heard from the school district about its results.

    PASCO COUNTY (GRADE: B)

    Pasco County Schools maintained a B grade for 2023 according to the district grades and school grades released Monday by the Florida Department of Education (DOE). These are informational baseline grades. Pasco has maintained a B grade since 2017.

    “I’m pleased to see what our schools have accomplished, and 2 (50%) of our schools are no longer at an F status,” said Kurt Browning, Pasco Superintendent of Schools. “Now that we have the baseline grades, our teachers and administrators are focused on these data and planning for greater accomplishments based on this mid-year reflection. These data will help us to make informed decisions about improvements for the remainder of the year.”

    Seventy-seven percent of Pasco schools earned an A, B, or C grade, and half of Pasco’s schools earned A’s and B’s. 26 of our 94 schools received A’s. Three of our schools moved up from B’s to an A. Other highlights this year include 12 schools increased their overall grade.

    Six of our schools received an I [incomplete] Pasco County Schools will be looking at appeals for these schools and will know more info about why they received an “I” once we receive the data file. Often, an “I” is given to schools that do not meet the participation rate.

    PINELLAS COUNTY (GRADE: B)

    “I am proud of the results of our schools and district during this initial, baseline year for school grades. Student success guides the daily and long-term work of the district. Schools are the heart of that transformation and their results during the 2022-23 school year are tremendous.” said Superintendent Kevin Hendrick.

    The district focus on the middle school experience is evident with 10 middle schools improving their school grade. Tyrone Middle School earned a C, rising from the district’s only F the previous year. The commitment and effort of the school teams to improvement is clear across the district. The Transformation Zone continues to focus on student proficiency, long-term progress and supporting any schools demonstrating the need for more focused intervention. To read the school district’s full statement, click here.

    POLK COUNTY (GRADE: C)

    NOTE: We have not heard from the school district about its results.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • USF releases 1st renderings of its new on-campus stadium

    USF releases 1st renderings of its new on-campus stadium

    TAMPA, Fla. — With “genuine excitement,” the University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its planned on-campus stadium.

    The Board of Trustees met Tuesday morning to receive an update on the plans after the university terminated a design-build agreement, and it opted for a more traditional construction management model.

    What You Need To Know

    •  USF released renderings of its planned on-campus football stadium

    •  Groundbreaking for the stadium is expected in fall 2024

    •  The first game played at the new stadium is set for August 2027

    So far, the school has raised more than $43 million of its $50 million goal for the stadium project. That includes a $6 million gift from the USF Federal Credit Union to name the walkway that will lead into the main entrance of the stadium, where the football team’s traditional pregame Bulls Stampede will take place.

    “To me, it’s just the next step in the evolution of the whole university, quite frankly, as an important engagement tool that will bring us together as one USF better than ever before,” said Michael Kelly, vice president of athletics.

    The stadium, which is scheduled to open in fall 2027, will include:

    • An east-west build to help maximize shade for daytime events.

    • A dedicated section for students in the west end of the stadium that includes a design featuring Bull horns and amenities that will cater to the student experience.

    • An open concourse around a majority of the stadium that provides views of the field, even as fans are walking to concession or restroom areas.

    • A large tailgating space on the north side of the stadium.  

    • A variety of premium seating options, including suites, loge boxes and club areas.

    The University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its new on-campus stadium.

     

    USF officials said the initial renderings are conceptual and will develop as the design process continues and more elements are finalized. The design process included feedback from students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members.

    “Since we first announced plans to build an on-campus stadium at the University of South Florida, it has become the topic I hear about most often from our passionate supporters. There is a genuine excitement within our community,” USF President Rhea Law said. “We’re thrilled to offer the first images of the stadium that will activate our campus in ways we never have before and will make a positive impact on our university for generations to come.”

    Students at USF are excited about the new stadium, and one pointed out that even if they won’t still be attending USF by the time the stadium is built, it will give them a reason to come back.

    “My dad graduated in ’96 so I’ve been coming to games. I went to my first game when I was 3 years old and ever since then I’ve been coming back,” Alisha Kurian said.

    In a picture her dad took at her first game, you see Kurian sound asleep in her seat. She said being a Bull is a family affair.

    “I think that giving students their own stadium, and student-athletes a space to call their own to play in, not only is that a great thing, but also alumni having a reason to come back to campus for games and for that environment really elevates the whole USF experience,” she said.

    Kurian said even though she won’t be a USF student when the stadium is built, it will give her and her dad a reason to keep coming back, and keep their tradition alive.

    “He absolutely cannot wait,” Kurian said. “He’s probably more excited than anyone else. I know and he’s hoping I have three younger siblings, so maybe one of them will be here when the stadium is built.”

    Signature signage will showcase the newly named USF Federal Credit Union Champions Way, located off USF Genshaft Drive.

    The University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its new on-campus stadium.

    The University of South Florida on Tuesday released the first three renderings of its new on-campus stadium.

    “Our university will proudly feature one of the nation’s most beautiful and community-centered stadium entranceways,” USF Foundation Chief Executive Officer Jay Stroman said.

    Stadium planning committee co-chairs Stroman and Kelly said the next major steps are to release more detailed stadium renderings in spring 2024 and to hold a groundbreaking ceremony in fall 2024.

    Spectrum Sports Staff

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  • Citrus County parents upset about lack of bus drivers for routes

    Citrus County parents upset about lack of bus drivers for routes

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Some parents in Citrus County say school bus driver shortages are posing a major problem for them, with many routes being cut indefinitely because there are no drivers available.

    What You Need To Know

    • Parents concerned over lack of bus drivers, delays and routes being cut

    • Sean O’Brien has a daughter in middle school and said they’ve had issues with her bus throughout this school year

    • School district says it’s doing what it can, including having administrators transport students

    One father who spoke to Spectrum News said that while he understands the shortage, something needs to be done.

    Sean O’Brien has a daughter in middle school and said they’ve had issues with her bus throughout this school year.

    Last Friday, she came home and told him she no longer had a bus ride to school because there was no driver, and no one to fill in.

    “I have to tell my job that I’m going to be late, I have to tell them I’m going to have to leave early to go pick her up, it’s getting ridiculous,” Sean O’Brien said. “I’m going to lose my job and making a living to get her to school. I want her to go to school but I can’t afford to.”

    The Citrus County School District said there are no other drivers available for that route and that while it will do its best to offer alternatives, it’s still trying to tackle the bus driver shortage countywide.

    Nataleigh O’Brien said she has missed a lot of school because of the problem.

    “My grades have been going down because I haven’t found a way to get to school yet, and I have a lot of missing assignments,” she said.

    Sean O’Brien said this isn’t just a problem for students on her bus, either, saying it is a district-wide problem. His friend, Brian Perine, lives in Crystal River, and his kids also have no bus to school, only for the trip home.

    They say they understand the district is having a hard filling those spots but that something needs to give.

    “I understand getting more bus drivers, you have to figure out how, well, the pay needs to be helpful,” Perine said. “And from what I’ve heard, even from a bus driver last year who I talked to personally, a lot of the issues they’re having is kids who just don’t want to listen to the bus driver. And they want to quit, they don’t want to deal with it.”

    The district has gone so far as having administrators driving vans to cover routes and get students to and from school safely.

    Fallon Silcox

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  • Citrus County schools closed after strong storms left areas damaged

    Citrus County schools closed after strong storms left areas damaged

    CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Citrus County schools are closed Thursday, Oct. 12, after parts of the county experienced significant damage from storms overnight.

    The school district made the announced on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at 6:13 a.m.

    Powerful storms came on shore around 2 a.m. and left a trail across Citrus County and other areas of Tampa Bay.

    Officials have closed several roadways in Crystal River due to extensive damage following an unconfirmed tornado touching down in the area.

    Highway 44 is closed in all directions from the intersection of U.S. Highway 19 to Turkey Oak drive. Highway 19 is closed in all directions from West Fort Island Trail to Northeast Fifth Street in Crystal River.

    Tornado watches remain in effect across Tampa Bay until 9 a.m.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Teacher contract negotiations continue across the Tampa Bay area

    Teacher contract negotiations continue across the Tampa Bay area

    TAMPA, Fla. — Only two counties have ratified contracts with teachers in the Tampa Bay area, while the others are at different stages of negotiations. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Hernando and Manatee County have ratified contracts with teachers

    • Pasco, Polk, Pinellas and Hillsborough County are still at the bargaining table 

    • The Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association (HCTA) says it has reached a tentative agreement

    • Hillsborough hourly employees not seeing movement in two key areas

    Hernando County and Manatee County have come to an agreement with teachers, and Citrus County will ratify its contract later this month.

    Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Polk counties remain at the bargaining table.

    In a statement, the Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association (HCTA) says it has reached a tentative agreement with the school district, and will meet again with the school board to finalize specific language in the agreement.

    If the tentative agreement holds, all HCTA employees would see a pay raise.

    For employees on a salary schedule, they will see a pay bump of 6%, which includes a total of $8.3 million in annual pay increases.

    For those employees not receiving a raise this year, they will advance one step on their respective salary schedule.

    The HCTA says it plans to continue its work on issues affecting hourly employees.

    The union says the district will not change its policy on equalized pay, where the district averages an employee’s take home pay and splits it up equally so employees are still getting a check after long holidays like winter break.

    The HCTA also says it will keep fighting for hourly employees coaching athletics.

    The district currently bans hourly employees from being coaches, which takes away their ability to supplement their pay with an additional stipend.

    Once the final language of the new contract is drafted, it will go to union members and the school board for a vote.

    Jason Lanning

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  • Idalia: When classes across Tampa Bay will resume

    Idalia: When classes across Tampa Bay will resume

    We’ll be using this page to update our viewing area on school impacts due to Idalia. 

    School Closings by County: 

    Citrus County

    NEW: The school system will reopen Friday.

    In a statement Thursday, the district said: “After receiving the latest update from Emergency Management officials and having assessed the damages in our facilities sustained from Hurricane Idalia, I am pleased to share that schools will be reopen tomorrow Friday, September 1st.  Should you have any issues or concerns, please contact the administration at your school.  As always, we appreciate your time, understanding, and patience during these uncertain times.”

    Due to the coastal impact in our county from Hurricane Idalia, schools are continuing to be used as shelters.

    School will be cancelled, Thursday, Aug. 31.

    After the next high tide, more info regarding a projected date of school reopening will be announced.

    Hernando County

    All Hernando County schools and district offices will reopen Thursday, Aug. 31.

    Students impacted by coastal flooding will be provided an excused absence.

    Hillsborough County

    Hillsborough County Schools are reopening on Thursday, Aug. 31.

    Manatee County

    All Manatee District Schools will reopen Thursday, August 31.

    Pasco County

    All Pasco County schools will be open on Thursday, August 31.

    This includes athletics, PLACE, Delta, Star, and all other extracurricular activities.

    Pinellas County

    Schools will be open for normal operations on Thursday, August 31.

    Polk County

    All Polk County schools and offices will reopen Friday, Sept. 1.

    Major Universities:

    University of Central Florida: UCF will resume standard operations on Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    University of Florida: UF to resume normal operations on Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    University of South Florida: USF says classes will resume Thursday, Aug. 31, except for classes at Mote Marine.

    University of Tampa: Regular operations are scheduled to resume Thursday, Aug. 31 at noon.

    St. Petersburg College: Campuses/sites open and all classes resuming — on Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    Florida State University: Classes and normal university operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

    FAMU: Classes and Universtiy operations remain suspended through Friday, Sept. 1. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5. 

    Polk State College: PSC classes and operations will resume Thursday, Aug. 31. 

    Keiser University: Classes will resume at the following Keiser University campuses on Thursday, August 31, 2023. All campuses will be open for regular operations unless otherwise noted.

    Spectrum News Staff

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