Good News About Polk County Public Schools

George Jenkins High School Wins State Title in Veterinary Assisting CDE

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:04:00 GMT

George Jenkins High School placed first in the Florida FFA (Future Farmers of America) Veterinary Assisting Career Development Event (CDE). The event was held Saturday, May 12^th at Hillsborough Community College in Plant City. 45 teams from around the state gathered to compete for the top spot.

George Jenkins High School (GJHS) Instructors James Sweeney and Bridget Gilmore worked tirelessly with the team to get them prepared for the competitions. Of the win, GJHS Principal Buddy Thomas says, “Mr. Sweeney and Mrs. Gilmore worked diligently with our students after school for many weeks. This award was accomplished by the hard work and dedication of both instructors and the students. I am so proud of our students and the instructors.”

Mr. Sweeney applauds the girls’ efforts and commitment to excellence. “I am more proud of the girls because of their dedication, work ethic and desire to learn. I am fortunate to instruct such a wonderful group of young ladies.”

The purpose of the Veterinary Assisting Career Development Event is to provide students with an opportunity to develop and demonstrate knowledge and skills for both companion animal and livestock within the veterinary industry.

A complete listing of state winners can be found at: http://www.flaffa.org/cde-results-2012-veterinary-assisting-cde/

Below are the rankings for Polk County Public Schools students:
Team Category

High School
1. George Jenkins High School
25. Lakeland High School
31. Tenoroc Senior

35. Lake Gibson Senior
36. Haines City Senior
38. Mulberry High School

Individual Category
1. Jennifer Maguire/George Jenkins High School
2. Alex Rhodes/George Jenkins High School
3. Morgan Shock/George Jenkins High School
7. Brooke Lang/George Jenkins High School

George Jenkins High School students pictured: Jennifer Maguire, Morgan Shock, Brooke Lang,

Alex Rhodes

Upcoming Event: Elementary Science Showcase

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:03:35 GMT

Polk County Public Schools Elementary Science Showcase will be held next week. The Elementary Science Showcase provides the public an opportunity to view science projects constructed by Polk County Public Schools elementary students. Students will participate in inquiry circles facilitated by adults, where they can share their projects and answer questions as budding scientists.

Judging will be school-based. Fourth and fifth grade students who place in the top three for each grade level may attend the county showcase at the mall.

Event Location:
Lakeland Square Mall
3800 U.S. Highway 98 N
Lakeland, FL 33804

The Elementary Science Showcase will be located in the common areas of the Lakeland Square Mall. There will be four venues, each set up at an “intersection” of main hallways. These areas are between

JC Penney and Burlington Coat Factory, between Macy’s and Dillard’s A (Women’s), and two venues in the large intersection in the very center of the Mall.

Dates:
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012

Time:
Registration begins at 8:30a.m.
Inquiry circle begins at 10a.m.
Concludes each day at 11:30a.m.

Upcoming Event: Elementary Art Show

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:03:11 GMT

The Polk Museum of Art will be displaying some of the best artwork of students in kindergarten through second grade. The Learning to be Me: K-2 Elementary Exhibition art show opens Saturday, May 19^th and goes until Saturday, June 16^th. Student receptions will start at 11 a.m. and 1p.m. on Saturday, May 19^th. Artwork will be displayed in the student gallery during regular museum hours. Standard museum admission fees apply. The Polk Museum of Art is located at 800 East Palmetto Street, Lakeland, FL 33801.

Free Summer Meals Available for Children Starting in June

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:53:24 GMT

The School Nutrition Department will provide nutritionally balanced meals to children starting in June. The Summer Food Service Program begins June 13th and will last until August 1st. Meals will not be available on July 4th in observation of Independence Day.

Nutritionally balanced meals will be provided to all children regardless of race, color, sex, disability, age or national origin during summer vacation when school breakfast and lunches are not available. All children 18 years old and younger are eligible for meals at no charge. The programs are only approved for geographical areas of need where 50 percent or more of the children qualify for free and reduced-price meals during the school year.

Summer feeding sites provide meals to all children in the immediate vicinity in addition to those enrolled in summer programs.
A list of participating sites is included by location with Breakfast and Lunch times in parentheses:

Auburndale
Auburndale Central Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.),
Auburndale Community Center (11:30a.m. to Noon)
City of Auburndale Ariana Beach Club (Noon to 1p.m.)
Boswell Elementary (11 a.m. to 1p.m.)
Stambaugh Middle (8a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 12:30p.m.)

Bartow
Bartow Middle (Noon to 1p.m.)
Carver Recreation Center (11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Gause Academy (8a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 12:30p.m.)

Davenport
Horizon Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m.to12:30p.m.)
Veterans for Youth (8a.m. to 8:45a.m., 11a.m. to 11:45a.m.)

Eagle Lake
Eagle Lake Elementary (8a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to12:30p.m.)
Linda Weldon Activity Center (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m.,11:30a.m.to12:30p.m.)

Eaton Park
O.J. Pope Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m.to 12:30p.m.)

Fort Meade
Anna Woodbury Elementary Campus (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Lewis Elementary Campus (8:15a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:45a.m. to 12:15p.m.)
Peaceful Believers Church (Noon to 1p.m.)

Frostproof
Ben Hill Griffin Jr. Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Lakeview Park Community Center (8:30a.m.to 9:30a.m., 11:30a.m.to 12:30p.m.)

Haines City
Alta Vista Elementary (8a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 12:30p.m.)
Bethune Neighborhood Center (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Boone Middle (11:30a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)
Citrus Center Boys & Girls Club (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 1:30p.m.)
Eastside Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Haines City Community Center (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
New Beulah Missionary Church (Noon to 1:30p.m.)
Northridge Christian Preschool (8a.m. to 9a.m., 11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Shamrock First Baptist Church (11a.m. to 1p.m.)

Lake Alfred
Highland Community Center (10:30a.m. to Noon)
Lake Alfred Summer Recreation Program (11:30a.m. to Noon)

Lake Wales
Citrus Center Boys & Girls Club (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 1:30p.m.)
Greater St. Thomas Holiness Church (Noon to 1:30p.m.)
Green & Gold Foundation (8:15a.m. to 8:45a.m., 12:15p.m. to 12:45p.m.)
Hillcrest Elementary (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal De South Lake Wales (8:30a.m. to 9:15a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:15p.m.)

Lakeland
Boys & Girls Club–Musso (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Boys & Girls Club – Sanders (8a.m.to 9a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Boys & Girls Club – Schowe (8a.m. to 9a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Cheyenne Territory (8:30a.m. to 9a.m., 11:30a.m. to Noon)
Coleman –Bush Building (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Crystal Lake Elementary (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Dakota Park (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Dare to Achieve (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Dixieland Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Dr. N.E. Roberts Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Explorations V (11:30a.m. to 1:30p.m.)
First United Methodist Church (8a.m. to 9a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Girls Inc.- Jenkins Center (11a.m. to Noon)
Harrison School of the Arts (11:30a.m. to Noon),
Highlands City Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Highlands Grove Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Journey to Excellence (7:30a.m.to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Lake Ridge (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
New Dimension of Faith (8a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Phillip O’ Brien Elementary (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
R. Bruce Wagner Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Sikes Elementary (7:30a.m.to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Simpson Park Community Center (8:30a.m. to 9a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Sleepy Hill Elementary (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Sleepy Hill Middle (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Southwest Middle (11a.m. to 1p.m.)

Mulberry
Kingsford Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:00a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Mulberry High School (8a.m. to 8:45a.m., 12:15p.m. to 1p.m.)
Purcell Elementary (8a.m. to 9a.m., 11a.m. to 1p.m.)

Poinciana
Lake Marion Creek Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11a.m. to 1p.m.)

Polk City
Polk City Elementary (11a.m. to 1p.m.)

Winter Haven
Abbey Lane Apartments (11:30 a.m. to Noon)
Chain O’Lakes Complex (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Chain of Lakes Elementary (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Citrus Center Boys & Girls Club (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 1:30p.m.)
Denison Middle School (11a.m. to 1p.m)
Garden Grove Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Garner Elementary (8:30a.m. to 9:15a.m)
Girls Inc. (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Hartridge Academy (9a.m. to 9:30a.m., 12:30p.m. to 1:30p.m.)
Lake Shipp Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
New Beginning High School (8a.m. to 8:30a.m., Noon to 12:30p.m.)
New Life Kingdom Kids Academy (8a.m. to 9a.m., Noon to 1p.m.)
Palm Place Apartments (9a.m. to 10a.m., 1p.m. to 3p.m.)
Rotary Park Playground (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Wahneta Elementary (7:30a.m. to 8:30a.m., 11:30a.m. to 12:30p.m.)
Westwood Middle School (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Winter Haven PAL (11a.m. to 1p.m.)
Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center (Noon to 1p.m.)

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Polk County School Board Members to Attend Evening of Special Recognitions

Tue, 15 May 2012 20:20:43 GMT

Please be advised more than one Polk County School Board member may attend the Evening of Special Recognitions on Thursday, May 17, 2012. The event honors Polk County Public Schools students and staff who have received local, state or national awards from third parties.

The event takes place at Tenoroc High School, 4905 Saddle Creek Road, Lakeland, FL 33801. The ceremony starts at 5 p.m.

For more information, contact the Community Relations Department at Polk County Public Schools at 863.534.0698.

Public Forum Scheduled for Wednesday Night at Mulberry High

Tue, 15 May 2012 20:20:27 GMT

Please be advised that on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 Mulberry High will hold a public forum to discuss a revised student dress code for the 2012-2013 academic school year. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the MHS Auditorium, Northeast Fourth Circle, Mulberry, FL 33860.

Polk County Adult Education Graduation Program Scheduled for Tomorrow

Tue, 15 May 2012 20:20:10 GMT

The Polk County Adult Education Graduation Program will take place Wednesday, May 16^th at Branscomb Auditorium on the campus of Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801. Students will either receive the District Adult High School Credit Diploma or the State of Florida High School Diploma. This includes all pupils graduating from West Area Adult School, East Area Adult School and any students who have passed the General Educational Development (GED) test. The hour-long ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Florida House of Representative Kelli Stargel. The Florida native and Republican politician serves as the District 64 Representative. She is a graduate of Land O’Lakes High School and Tallahassee Community College. She was first elected in 2008.

Polk County Public Schools’ West Area Adult School and East Area Adult School offer adult education programs to adults 16 years of age or older who are not enrolled in a K-12 school. Enrollment is open-entry/open-exit with students progressing at their own pace toward their academic, career and/or personal goals.

Please visit the Polk County Public Schools website for more information: www.polk-fl.net

The Great Debate: The Art of Formal Arguments

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:25:52 GMT

31^st President of the United States Herbert Clark Hoover once said, “Honest differences of views and honest debate are not disunity. They are the vital process of policy making among free men.” Students on the Tenoroc High School (THS) Debate Team and George Jenkins High School (GJHS) Debate Team used the art of formal argument to stand their ground in a Great Debate held on Thursday, May 3^rd in a Bartow courtroom. The event was held in recognition of Law Week, a week in which lawyers, judges and law enforcement officers in Florida work with teachers and community leaders to shine the spotlight on the role of laws in our lives and the importance of constitutional freedoms.

10^th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Wayne Durden and other distinguished legal professionals presided over the debate centered on the question: Should advertisement directed at children be limited and/or banned? GJHS students argued in support of limiting or banning advertising. Much of their argument was centered on the negative impact advertising can have on a child’s psych. They provided statistics on higher cases of adult illnesses such as bulimia. THS students argued for leaving advertising as it is. They citied limiting advertising is against the 1^st Amendment, which includes the protection of freedom of speech. They also argued parental responsibility is of greater priority when it comes to the type of information children are exposed to.

The victory went to the THS Debate Team. THS sponsor Dwayne Johnson helped the team prepare for the debate. Of this victory he says, “I am so proud of them. I couldn’t be happier. They did such a great job. So did the George Jenkins team.” Although the GJHS Debate Team’s argument did not prevail in the end, GJHS Sponsor Tina Balentine and the GJHS students were good sports and made sure to congratulate the winning team.

After the competition, the judge along with the other legal professionals offered each team separate positive feedback sessions. Of their experience, team members stated they were looking forward to next year and possibly doing more events throughout the 2012-2013 academic school year.

Open Enrollment for Polk County District Virtual Instructional Program is Now Underway

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:25:17 GMT

Open Enrollment is currently underway for the Polk County District Full-time Virtual Instructional Program (PCDVIP) for the 2012-2013 academic school year. The enrollment period began April 20^th and closes July 20^th.

PCDVIP is an online public school that serves students in grades K-12 that meet the state eligibility mandates. Students complete all course work through the on-line program and are required to adhere to all state and local policies for public school students. PCDVIP students are required to participate in all testing programs and must meet attendance expectations through daily work submissions. This program does not serve registered home schooled students. Students do work from home but are classified as full-time public virtual students, not home schooled.

The Florida Legislature established this program as a public school option. Please visit the Polk County Virtual Education website http://schools.polk-fl.net/pvs for registration expectations, forms and state eligibility requirements. To make an appointment for registration, please call 863-665-4538.

FLDOE Names Polk County Paraprofessional the 2012 Florida School-Related Employee of the Year

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:22:54 GMT

Please be advised The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) announced the 2012 Florida School-Related Employee of the Year. This year, the distinct honor goes to Norma Reyes, an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) paraprofessional at Purcell Elementary in Polk County.

The announcement came yesterday during the State Board of Education meeting which was being held in Tampa. Speaking of Mrs. Reyes, Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson said, “Norma instills in her students a can-do spirit that will help them achieve their dreams and I applaud her devotion to their future success.”

Purcell Elementary Principal Beth Nave describes Mrs. Reyes as the “soul of celebration.” Mrs. Reyes is known for her uncanny ability to effortlessly juggle event planning responsibilities, always making sure school meetings and events run smoothly.

This tireless dedication to finding and facilitating activities that engage families and students is only rivaled by her unwavering devotion to her students. She is considered an icon for the Hispanic students she teaches. She expects much of them, always challenging them to push beyond language barriers and master lessons. This desire to see them succeed is balanced by a warm-heartedness that ensures she is always there to offer an ear if they need someone to speak with.

The Florida Department of Education awards the Florida School-Related Employee of the Year Award in recognition of outstanding education support personnel for their contributions to their schools and communities. The program honors one state representative and four finalists who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in the performance of their jobs, thereby earning them the respect and admiration of students, teachers, administrators, coworkers and parents. The winner receives an award check of $1,000 from the Department of Education.

The Polk Education Foundation Ranks Among Top 20 in the Nation

Thu, 10 May 2012 16:32:44 GMT

Dewey and Associates, a Tampa Bay- based management and strategy consulting practice, recently released a national study ranking the top education foundations and funds from among the country’s 50 largest school districts. The Polk Education Foundation & Business Partnership, Inc. ranked No. 6 for its efforts aimed at supporting public education.

The Polk Education Foundation (PEF) was created in 1988, as a 501(c) (3) direct-support organization for the Polk County School Board. The Foundation serves as the fiscal agent and manager of many educational programs for Polk County Public Schools. PEF also enhances educational student-focused programs funded by private and corporate funds.

The Top 20 school districts were scored based on eight performance categories: total revenues, revenues per student, total assets, assets per student, total program expenses, program expenses per student, investment income and total volunteers.

According to the study, the top 10 education foundations are particularly well-rounded, with six of the top foundations placing in all eight performance categories, and four placing in seven of the eight performance categories.

Click on the link to view the complete list of Top 20 Education Foundations and read the complete survey:
http://www.polk-fl.net/districtinfo/departments/officeofthesuperintendent/documents/Top20EdFoundationstudy.pdf

Led by a volunteer Board of Directors made up of community, educational and business leaders, the Polk Education Foundation & Business Partnership, Inc has raised and spent over $26 million dollars to help make its vision a reality. Its vision is to help enhance public school programs and to help students reach their educational goals.

Two Polk County Public Schools Seniors Recognized as 2012 Gates Millennium Scholars

Thu, 10 May 2012 16:29:35 GMT

Harrison School for the Arts Senior Morgan Craven and Bartow High IB Senior Vien Hang Yeung are both 2012 Gates Millennium Scholars. The Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) Program selected 1,000 talented minority students to receive scholarships which can be used to pursue degrees in any undergraduate major at the accredited college or university of the recipient’s choice. Continuing Gates Scholars may request funding for a graduate degree program.

Established in 1999, the GMS Program was initially funded by a $1 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “Education continues to be the best pathway to opportunity, and we believe that college costs should not be an obstacle along that path,” said Jim Larimore the deputy director for student success at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

In addition to scholarship funding, the GMS Program provides recipients leadership development opportunities, mentoring, academic and social support.

Congratulations to Morgan Craven and Vien Hang Yeung!

Morgan Craven Vien Hang Yeung

To find out more information about the GMS Program please visit the following websites:

http://www.gmsp.org/

http://www.hsf.net/innercontent.aspx?id=432

Vien Hang Yeung

Morgan Craven

School Board Budget Workshops and Meetings

Wed, 09 May 2012 16:40:53 GMT

Polk County School Board Special Budget Workshop

The Polk County School Board will meet in a special budget workshop on Wednesday, June 6^th in the superintendent’s conference room at the Polk County Public Schools District Office at 1915 South Floral Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830. The special budget workshop will begin at 8:30 a.m.

The purpose of the special budget workshop is to conduct school board business.

Work Session and Board Meeting Scheduled for June 12, 2012

On Tuesday, June 12 the Polk County School Board will meet in a work session in the superintendent’s conference room at the Polk County Public Schools District Office at 1915 South Floral Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830. The work session will begin at 8:30 a.m. Following the work session, the June 12^th school board meeting begins at 1:30 p.m. in the Polk County School Board Auditorium at the Polk County Public Schools District Office.

The purpose of the work session and board meeting is to conduct school board business.

Budget Workshop, Work Session and Board Meeting Scheduled for June 26, 2012

The Polk County School Board will meet in a special budget workshop, work session and school board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 26.

The special budget workshop and work session will take place in the superintendent’s conference room at the Polk County Public Schools District Office at 1915 South Floral Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830. The budget workshop begins at 8:30 a.m. The work session begins at 12:30 p.m.

Following the work session, the June 26^th school board meeting convenes at 5 p.m. in the Polk County School Board Auditorium at the Polk County Public Schools District Office.

The purpose of the special budget workshop, work session and board meeting is to conduct school board business.

Kathleen Senior Wins State Title in Aquaculture CDE

Wed, 09 May 2012 16:39:08 GMT

Kathleen Senior placed first in Florida’s Aquaculture Career Development Event (CDE). The event was held Saturday, April 21^stat the University of Florida-College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville.

During the Aquaculture CDE competition, high school team members are given 30 minutes to develop an oral presentation around an issue related to the Aquaculture Industry, whether it’s fish species, aquatic plants, water quality parameters or even diseases and parasites. High school teams are then given five to seven minutes to present. This presentation is followed by a question and answer session lasting no longer than five minutes.

This year, 12 high school and six middle school teams from throughout Florida gathered to compete for the top spot.

A complete listing of state winners can be found at: http://www.flaffa.org/cde-results-2012-aquaculture-cde/

Below are the rankings for Polk County Public Schools students:
Team Category

High School
1. Kathleen Senior

Middle School
3. Crystal Lake Middle
6. Stambaugh Middle

Individual Category
High School
2. Breanna Langley/Kathleen Senior
4. Diogenes Abreu/ Kathleen Senior
5. Kevin Benitez/ Kathleen Senior

The purpose of the Aquaculture CDE is to stimulate student interest in the aquaculture industry, encourage aquaculture instruction in the agricultural education curriculum, and to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skills and competencies in the area of aquaculture production and management.

Kathleen Senior’s winning team included: Breanna Langley, Diogenes Abreu, Kevin Benitez and Eduardo Rivera.

At Attention: George Jenkins High School JROTC Drill Team Runs Through the Drills

Tue, 08 May 2012 20:29:26 GMT

On Saturday, April 14, George Jenkins High School played host to the 2012 Florida State JROTC Drill Competition. 96 schools from across the state were represented as they competed at the Lakeland high school. This equated to about 2,000 cadets from various school districts.

The cadets competed in 18 events in which judges rated cadets based on precision and technique displayed during routines. The competition was fierce and very competitive throughout the day as teams battled it out to place first through fifth place.

The winning teams and individuals went on to represent their schools in the 2012 National High School Drill Team Competitions that recently wrapped up in Daytona Beach. That competition started Saturday, May 5^th and ended Monday, May 7^th.

To find out more information about the 2012 National High School Drill Team Championships visit the company’s website: http://www.thenationals.net/nhsdtc.htm

Polk County Public Schools Commencement Schedule

Tue, 08 May 2012 13:28:23 GMT

2012 graduation season is here. As this year’s graduates prepare to take the next step towards their future goals, we share in their excitement.

Students who earned their diplomas will be honored at graduation ceremonies throughout the months of May and June. To view a complete commencement schedule please visit the following website: http://www.polk-fl.net/students/middleandhigh/documents/2012HSGradSchedules.pdf

The Mission of Polk County Public Schools is to ensure rigorous, relevant learning experiences that result in high achievement for our students. The school district is the eighth largest in Florida and 31^st largest in the United States. Polk County Public Schools has 163 school sites and centers. More than 94,000 students are enrolled representing a diverse student body.

Mr. Kier Goes to Washington: Davenport School of the Arts Receives Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Grant

Mon, 07 May 2012 19:03:11 GMT

Davenport School of the Arts (DSA) is the proud recipient of a $100,000 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Grant. On April 17^th through April 19^th, representatives from the school descended on the nation’s capitol to officially accept the award. The group that took the trip to Washington, D.C. included Principal Brian Kier, 8^th Grader Lee Miller and 7^th Grader Mason Frier. DSA Technology Student Association chapter advisors Tracy Miller and Patti Frier were also present.

Samsung awarded the school $100,000 in technology equipment, software and cash for the student participation in the Solve for Tomorrow contest. The electronics giant asked 6^th-12^th grade public school teachers and their students to create a video that answered the challenge question: “How can STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) help improve the environment in your community?”

Students at Davenport School of the Arts created an outdoor learning environment where students, parents, teachers and all members of the community can learn about sustainability first hand. The outdoor learning environment includes a vegetable and hydroponics garden, a berry patch and butterfly garden.

8^th Grader Lee Miller and 7^th Grader Mason Frier were instrumental in the creation of the winning video. View it here: http://www.davenportschoolofthearts.com/video-page.html

7^th grader Mason Frier, 8^th grader Lee Miller and Davenport School of the Arts Teacher Tracy Miller are pictured with Samsung executives and Grammy Award Winner and Singer John Legend.

Last Superintendent’s Lunch and Learn of the Academic School Year: High School Seniors Share Their Experiences

Mon, 07 May 2012 19:02:09 GMT

Seniors from six Polk County high schools had lunch with Polk County Public Schools’ Superintendent Dr. Sherrie B. Nickell and Associate Superintendent of Learning David F. Lewis. Lunch and Learn was held on Thursday, May 3^rd at the Community Southern Bank in Lakeland. Three times during the academic school year, Polk County Public Schools’ seniors are given a chance to share their insights and experiences when they meet face-to-face with Dr. Nickell and Mr. Lewis.

The names of the schools and students who took part include:
George Jenkins High- Aaron Williams, Theresa Butler
Harrison School for the Arts-Richard Anderson, Rachel Martin
Kathleen High- Asher Poleon, Carmen Delgado
Lakeland High- Brandee Greaves, Josh McDaniel
Lake Gibson High- Melinda Lloyd, Que Harris
Tenoroc High- Tracie Taylor, Brent Stovall

Members of the Polk County Public Schools’ Community Relations Department coordinate the event.

Algebra I EOC Assessment Begins Today for Polk County Public Schools’ Students

Mon, 07 May 2012 19:01:50 GMT

New state-mandated high school graduation guidelines now require students who are taking Algebra I or Algebra I Honors to successfully pass the Algebra I End-of-Course (EOC) exam in order to be eligible for a standard high school diploma. For the next two weeks, ninth grade students and middle school students throughout the district will be taking the exam. Testing starts today, Monday, May 7^th and ends Friday, May 18^th.

For the last couple of months, teachers have been preparing students for the 60-65 question computerized test that is a mix of multiple choice and fill-in response questions. Students will be given 160 minutes to complete the assessment.

All students who are first-time ninth graders this academic school year or middle school students will be required to score at Achievement Level 3, 4, or 5 on the Algebra I EOC Assessment.

Students who do not pass the Algebra I EOC cannot graduate from high school, even if all of the classroom requirements of the course are met. If the exam is not passed on the first try, students will be able to re-take the exam during future Florida EOC testing windows. The first available retake window in Polk County is July 30^ththrough August 9^th .

Approximately 6,000 Algebra I or Algebra I Honors Polk County Public Schools high school students are expected to take the exam. 1,600 middle school students will also be taking the Algebra I EOC Assessment.

Sample questions are available on the Polk County Public Schools’ district math website: http://www.polk-fl.net/staff/teachers/math.htm

Algebra I video resources can also be found at: www.polk-fl.net/students under Quick Links.

May is National Teacher Appreciation Month!

Thu, 03 May 2012 14:39:30 GMT

Polk County’s Only National Merit Scholar Continues to Collect Awards

Wed, 02 May 2012 20:16:38 GMT

Bianca Mulaney, Bartow High International Baccalaureate student, is the only student from Polk County to be named a National Merit Scholar so far this year. She is among 2,500 students nationwide to be named a merit scholar. The 18-year-old, who hopes to major in biomedical science, will receive a $2,500 scholarship to put toward her college tuition.

Mulaney is also a state winner of the National Association of Secondary School Principals/Herff Jones Principal’s Leadership Award (PLA). The teen joins a select group of student leaders nominated for their leadership skills, participation in service organizations and clubs, achievements in the arts and sciences, employment experience and academic record.

NASSP and Herff Jones awarded the high school senior a $1,000 PLA scholarship. The finalists were chosen from among 3,000 nominees.

NASSP and Herff Jones have awarded the PLA scholarships since 1988, providing more than $3.5 million in scholarship awards to outstanding high school seniors from across the nation.

Polk County Public Schools Holds 36th Annual Volunteer of the Year Awards

Wed, 02 May 2012 20:15:05 GMT

This morning, Polk County Public Schools and the Ledger Media Group hosted the 36th Annual Volunteer of the Year Awards. Students, faculty, staff and guests gathered at the Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven to honor school-nominated elementary and secondary level volunteers who provide exceptional service to students and teachers.

This year’s Outstanding Youth Volunteer of the Year Award is shared by Bartow High International Baccalaureate students Bianca Mulaney and Joe Bacon. The two students volunteered at Blake Academy this year. They were recognized for their initiative, commitment and creativity. Bianca and Joe started an after-school mentoring project to assist 2^nd and 3^rd graders struggling to learn to read.

There are three categories of winners, youth (21 and younger), adult (22-59) and senior (60+). A total of six district awards are given to honor the volunteers who provide outstanding assistance in classrooms, mentor, tutor, facilitate fund raising activities or chaperone.

More than 26,000 volunteers contributed to the more than 792,000 volunteer hours served throughout the 2011-2012 academic school year.

Other Volunteer of the Year Award winners included:
Outstanding Adult Volunteer of the Year
Winner: Darcey Martin
School Represented: Chain of Lakes Elementary
Level: Elementary

Winner: Arvilla Stokes
School Represented: West Area Adult
Level: Secondary

Outstanding Senior Volunteer of the Year
Winner: JoEllen Brogdon
School Represented: Gibbons Street Elementary
Level: Elementary

Winner: Sheldon Katsoff
School Represented: Mulberry Middle and Mulberry High
Level: Secondary

Meetings Scheduled for the Central Florida Public School Boards Coalition

Tue, 01 May 2012 19:40:11 GMT

Please be advised more than one Polk County School Board member may be attending the Central Florida Public School Boards Coalition meeting scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 14, 2012. The meeting will take place at Orange County Public Schools’ Administrative Office located at 445 West Amelia Street, Orlando, FL 32801.

The Central Florida Public School Boards Coalition will also meet on Thursday, June 14, 2012 at 7:30 a.m. at the
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa, FL 33607. The meeting will take place during the Florida School Boards Association/Florida Association of District School Superintendents (FSBA/FADSS) Annual Spring Conference.

For a detailed listing of items to be discussed or directions, please contact the Orange County Public School Board Member’s Office at 407.317.3200. Persons with disabilities requiring assistance to attend the meeting are asked to contact John Reichert at 407.320.0097, TDD 407.320.0273 or Florida Relay (v) 800.955. 8770.

Public Hearing to Discuss Policy Changes Scheduled for May

Tue, 01 May 2012 19:39:54 GMT

Please be advised a public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 22, 2012. It will take place in the Polk County School Board Auditorium at the Polk County Public Schools District Office, 1915 South Floral Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830.

It is scheduled to begin during the regularly scheduled 1:30 p.m. Polk County School Board meeting.

The purpose of the public hearing is to consider policy changes to the following policies:

6Gx53-1.003-Power & Duties
6Gx53-1.006-Harassment
6Gx53-1.011-Discrimination
6Gx53-3.001-Employment
6Gx53-3.003-Temporary Duty
6Gx53-3.009-Confidential Information
6Gx53-4.014-Transfers
6Gx53-4.017-Magnet
6Gx53-4.018-Choice
6Gx53-4.022-Title I
6Gx53-5.002-External Contracts
6Gx53-5.007-Internal Accounts
6Gx53-5.011-Travel Expense
6Gx53-5.019-Fund Balance
6Gx53-6.005-School Naming
6Gx53-8.012-Wellness

The proposed revisions would amend said policies to take effect upon adoption in the areas of: School Board Services, Human Resources, Instructional Services, Business Operations, School Facilities, and School Administration.

Copies of the proposed rules may be obtained by writing to:

Office of the Superintendent of Schools
Polk County Public Schools
1915 South Floral Avenue
P.O. Box 391
Bartow, FL 33831

Upcoming Event: Polk Video Awards Take Place Today

Tue, 01 May 2012 12:29:45 GMT

In a press release sent out on Monday, April 30 at 4:54 p.m. it was announced that the 20^th Annual Polk Video Awards would be broadcast live on both Polk County School Board Television and Polk Government Television (PGTV). This year’s event will not be broadcast live on either channel. If you would like to watch the event live, please visit PGTV’s website: http://www.polk-county.net/

The public is invited to the Polk Video Awards scheduled for Tuesday, May 1 at Victory Church located at 1401 Griffin Road, Lakeland, Fl 33809. Come and see student-produced videos that include documentaries, animations, music videos and school news broadcasts. The elementary awards event begins at 5 p.m. followed by the middle and high school awards at approximately 7 p.m.

The Video Awards, Polk’s version of Hollywood’s Academy Awards, are free to attend. The creative works of 5,000 students representing 68 schools will be featured. Many works from the local Video Awards have gone on to win awards at the state, national and international level since the local awards program began in 1992.