Celebrating Student Achievement: The 2024-2025 Upward Bound Awards Wrap Up Another Inspiring Year

Celebrating Student Achievement: The 2024-2025 Upward Bound Awards Wrap Up Another Inspiring Year

On a bright and hopeful morning, the Citrus County Rotary Ray Darling Upward Bound Awards Ceremony for the 2024–2025 school year came to a fitting close. Hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Citrus County at the Citrus Springs Community Center, this annual event—which began more than three decades ago—continues to be a shining example of community-driven support for education and student success. Now in its 33rd year, the Upward Bound Awards have recognized more than 20,000 students across Citrus County for their individual achievements and potential.

At the heart of the program lies its unwavering message: every student is worthy, capable, and deserving of recognition for their unique path to success. This message, beautifully embodied in the legacy of Ray Darling, the program’s namesake, lives on today thanks to the steadfast support of the Rotary Clubs throughout Citrus County.

Serving once again as the master of ceremonies was Rotarian Tommy Thomas, CEO of Weber Glass. With his trademark warmth and enthusiasm, Tommy guided the program smoothly and skillfully, bringing energy, humor, and heart to each moment. His longstanding commitment to both the event and the students it honors has become a cherished part of the Upward Bound tradition.

This year’s celebration featured an inspiring keynote address by Rick Reynolds—musician, songwriter, entrepreneur, and storyteller. With a career that spans decades and includes the release of over 20 albums, the composition of more than 1,000 songs, and the publication of two books, Rick’s journey captivated the audience.

He shared how his musical path began as a drummer playing alongside his brother. Over time, he taught himself to play various instruments. His passion and curiosity eventually led to a chance encounter with members of the Doobie Brothers—an experience that opened unexpected doors and helped launch his professional music career.

But Rick’s talents didn’t stop at music. His entrepreneurial spirit led him into the world of marketing and technology, where he played a pioneering role in developing some of the first accredited point-of-sale verification systems. He was also involved in one of the earliest credit card processing platforms for internet sales—a testament to his forward-thinking mindset.

Perhaps most inspiring to students was Rick’s humble reflection on his academic beginnings. “I wasn’t the smartest kid in the class,” he shared candidly. “I was average at best. My teachers used to call my handwriting ‘chicken scratch’—but now I make a living writing songs, presentations, and books.” His message to students was clear: the path to success doesn’t require perfection—it requires persistence, passion, and belief in oneself.

Following Rick’s moving presentation, each Upward Bound student was recognized individually, called forward to receive their award and pose for commemorative photographs. Proud family members, teachers, and community leaders beamed as these deserving young people were honored for their efforts, growth, and accomplishments in academics, character, and leadership.

The ceremony also featured a special breakfast for students and guests, generously sponsored by the Citrus County Rotary Clubs and lovingly prepared by Chef William Bunch and his team from Oysters of Crystal River. The meal added a warm and celebratory touch to an already uplifting morning.

As the event concluded, heartfelt thanks were extended to the many individuals and organizations that made the ceremony possible. The Citrus County Rotary Clubs remain the backbone of the Upward Bound program, keeping Ray Darling’s vision alive through their continued investment in local youth. Their belief in the potential of every student is a beacon of hope for families, educators, and the broader community.

Special recognition was also given to the Citrus County Community Services team for their invaluable support in hosting the event at the Citrus Springs Community Center. Their partnership helps ensure this long-standing tradition remains accessible and inclusive for all students.

As the final names were called and the last round of applause faded, it became clear that the Upward Bound program is far more than a ceremony—it is a celebration of what’s possible when a community comes together to believe in its students. From first-time recipients to those recognized year after year, each student left with more than a certificate—they left with the knowledge that their effort matters and that their community is cheering them on.

In a world often focused on simple outcomes, the Upward Bound Awards remind us to celebrate progress, persistence, and personal growth. As we look to the future, the program’s message continues to echo loudly: every student can succeed—and it’s our shared responsibility to help them realize that truth, year after year.

International Baccalaureate and the Health Careers Class of 2025 Awards

International Baccalaureate and the Health Careers Class of 2025 Awards

Celebrating Excellence: Honoring the Achievements of Our Students

This time of year is truly one of the most rewarding for anyone who has the privilege of working with or supporting students. It is a season filled with awards ceremonies, celebrations, and heartfelt reflections on the incredible journeys these young people have undertaken. Two standout events this year were the Lecanto High School International Baccalaureate (IB) Class of 2025 Awards and the Academy of Health Careers (AHC) Awards at Crystal River High School. Both events showcased the extraordinary accomplishments of students who represent the very best of Citrus County Schools.

At the Lecanto High School IB Awards, IB Coordinator Dr. Ashlyn Shidner took the stage to highlight the many successes of the Class of 2025. Dr. Shidner’s remarks celebrated not only the academic rigor the students have embraced but also the personal growth they have achieved through the demanding IB curriculum. A cherished tradition at the IB Awards is the presentation of fun and heartfelt student and teacher superlatives, a lighthearted highlight that never fails to bring laughter and smiles to both students and staff alike.

An especially meaningful part of the IB Awards ceremony is the return of a senior from the previous class to offer insight and encouragement to the rising seniors. This year, Natalia Hollohan, a proud member of the Class of 2024, returned to share her experiences and wisdom. Natalia spoke about the importance of embracing new opportunities and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone, offering inspiration and reassurance to those preparing for their final year of the IB program. Her words were a reminder that while challenges lie ahead, so do limitless possibilities.

Equally inspiring was the Academy of Health Careers Awards at Crystal River High School. AHC Coordinator Danielle Doherty-Koch led the celebration, highlighting the remarkable achievements of students across the program’s multiple pathways. The Academy of Health Careers prepares students for vital professions in health care, and this event shone a spotlight on their hard work, resilience, and dedication.

The Outstanding Senior Awards were a centerpiece of the evening, recognizing the top students in each pathway: Biomedical Science, Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and Dental Assistant. Each award was presented by the students’ pathway instructors, who spoke with pride about the accomplishments and character of their awardees.

A particularly special moment came when School Board Member Doug Dodd, representing the Phil Royal Legacy Board of Directors, honored the EMT certification students. These students completed their training through the Phil Royal EMT Program, a unique partnership with the College of Central Florida. Dodd spoke passionately about the importance of this opportunity and how it empowers students to step into life-saving careers right out of high school—a testament to the real-world impact of the Academy of Health Careers.

The evening also featured moving speeches from students Madison Rose, representing the Biomedical Science pathway, and Jonalyn Kin, President of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and an EMT pathway student. Both young women eloquently shared their experiences, gratitude, and aspirations, leaving no doubt that the future of health care is bright in their capable hands.

The senior students honored at both the IB Awards and the Academy of Health Careers Awards embody the very finest qualities of our schools and communities. Their commitment to excellence, their pursuit of knowledge, and their dedication to making a difference stand as a powerful reminder of what is possible when students are supported, challenged, and believed in.

None of this success would be possible without the dedicated administration teams at Lecanto High School IB and Crystal River High School’s Academy of Health Careers. Their leadership and steadfast support make it possible for students to flourish. Special thanks must also go to the incredible teachers who serve not only as educators but as mentors and role models. Their passion and expertise ignite a love of learning and a drive for success in their students.

We are also deeply grateful to the community partners who continue to invest in these programs, creating opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom walls. Their belief in our students strengthens the bridge between education and the broader world they are preparing to enter.

Finally, we must recognize the families, friends, and mentors who stand beside these students every step of the way. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and unwavering support are the foundation on which these achievements are built.

As we celebrate the successes of this season, we are reminded once again that the future is in good hands. These students are not only ready to take on the challenges ahead—they are ready to lead, to heal, and to inspire.

Crystal River Middle School Reopens Historic Gymnasium After Hurricane Repairs

Crystal River Middle School Reopens Historic Gymnasium After Hurricane Repairs

It was an exciting and emotional morning at Crystal River Middle School (CRMS) as students, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of the school’s historic gymnasium. Following significant damage from Hurricane Hellene in September 2024, the gym has been beautifully restored, complete with a brand-new floor, ready once again to host students, athletic events, school assemblies, and community activities.

The reopening ceremony brought together CRMS students, staff, and administration, members of the Citrus County School District leadership team, local community leaders, school board members, and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert. With pride and gratitude, Dr. Hebert addressed the crowd, recognizing the countless individuals who made this day possible—from maintenance and construction crews to school administrators and generous community partners. “This moment is a testament to the strength and resilience of our Bearcat family and Crystal River community,” Dr. Hebert said.

Adding to the spirit of celebration, the CRMS Bearcat Prep Band played while the school’s cheerleaders amped up the crowd with energetic performances. Members of the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams stood proudly on the gleaming new floor, eager to begin their season in a space that now symbolizes both tradition and renewal. Once the floor was officially opened, both students and staff joined in to take the first basketball shots and christen the court.

The CRMS gym has long been a cornerstone of student life, and its reopening marks a significant milestone in the school’s post-hurricane recovery. The event served not only as a reopening but also as a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with determination and heart.

For many in attendance, the morning was about more than just a building. It was about resilience, collaboration, and celebrating progress. From the first note played by the band to the final words of thanks from school leaders, the reopening ceremony left everyone feeling proud to be part of the Bearcat family.

As the celebration came to a close, it was clear that this was more than just a ribbon-cutting—it was a moment of triumph for the entire CRMS family. And with the bold CR and Bearcat logos proudly back on the floor, the gym once again feels like home.

Real World Dollars, Real World Lessons: Nature Coast Investment Practicum Reaches $1 Million Milestone

Real World Dollars, Real World Lessons: Nature Coast Investment Practicum Reaches $1 Million Milestone

In a time when financial literacy is more crucial than ever, Citrus County’s schools are at the forefront of an educational revolution—one that gives high school students the rare opportunity to manage real investment portfolios typically reserved for college classrooms.

Now in its sixth year, the Nature Coast Investment Practicum (NCIP) at Citrus High School has become a flagship example of public-private collaboration, blending rigorous academics with hands-on experience in real-world finance. At its 2025 annual celebration, the program proudly announced a major milestone: the student-managed Manatee Investment Fund (MIF) surpassed $1 million in total value, a remarkable leap from its original $25,000 seed funding just six years ago.

Hands-On Learning with Real-World Impact

The NCIP immerses students in the complexities of investment management, tasking them with overseeing the MIF under strict professional guidelines. Students analyze financial markets, evaluate companies, and make strategic buy/sell decisions under the supervision of the Manatee Fund Advisory Council. Guided by financial advisors and their instructor, Russell Wilson, participants apply both quantitative analysis—like price-to-earnings ratios—and qualitative evaluation of industry trends.

This year’s student team began managing the fund in August 2024 with a starting valuation of $376,970.58. Despite market volatility, strategic investments and donations helped the fund grow to $932,543.88 by February 2025, eventually crossing the $1 million mark with additional contributions. The MIL strategic investments, excluding the donation, grew by 18.64% during the management period—surpassing even the S&P 500 for the same timeframe.

“This program provides hands-on experience in managing investment accounts, equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions,” said Shaunda Burdette, Executive Director of the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF). “Through real-world application and expert mentorship, students gain invaluable insights into market analysis and financial responsibility.”

More Than Money: Scholarships and Career Skills

The MIF isn’t just about growing dollars—it’s about growing futures. A portion of the fund’s earnings is allocated to student scholarships, awarded based on academic performance, participation, and reflective essays. In 2025, six students were awarded scholarships totaling $18,000. Since its inception, the fund has disbursed more than $100,000 in scholarships, supporting graduates pursuing careers in fields such as business, engineering, and healthcare.

Along the way, students master key financial and professional skills—from accounting and financial statement analysis to teamwork, public speaking, and portfolio presentation.

“They learn to track transactions, prepare reports, and interpret financial data—skills that are transferable to any profession,” said Dr. Scott Hebert, Superintendent of Citrus County Schools. He also announced plans to expand the NCIP to Crystal River and Lecanto High Schools, stating, “This practicum is about more than stock picks—it’s about empowering students with lifelong financial literacy.”

Community Partnerships Fuel the Program

The NCIP’s success is built on strong community support. A major boost came in January 2025, when a $606,385 donation accelerated the fund’s growth. Local financial advisor Scott Lee, a co-instructor and one of the program’s original architects, highlighted the importance of mentorship.

“We’re not just teaching kids about stocks. We’re teaching them how to think critically, analyze risk, and understand long-term financial planning,” Lee said.

Partnerships with organizations like Edward Jones and the CCEF help connect students with professionals and provide real-world experiences, including trips to Raymond James Financial headquarters. An advisory board—comprised of local attorneys, financial advisors, and educators—ensures the program meets industry standards while providing networking opportunities for students.

Student Testimonials: Confidence for the Future

For the students, the experience is transformational.

“I learned business strategies that will help me run my own company one day,” said Jesenia Cueto, a senior who focused on the tech sector.

Victor Otero, an aspiring chef, reflected, “This class taught me how to manage money—a skill I’ll use when I start my nonprofit to fight food insecurity.”

Alumni of the program have gone on to attend top universities like UF and FSU, entering college with a firm grasp of personal finance and investment strategies.

“This class taught me to go beyond the numbers and ask deeper questions,” said Madyson Brown, a 2024 scholarship recipient. “Now I feel confident making informed financial decisions.”

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Legacy

With plans underway to expand the program to other high schools in the county, Dr. Hebert emphasized the district’s commitment.

“Every student in Citrus County deserves this kind of opportunity,” he said. “It’s not just about financial gains—it’s about creating financially literate citizens who are ready to lead.”

What began as a bold experiment has blossomed into a model for experiential education, proving that high school students can navigate financial markets—and use that knowledge to invest in their futures and their community.

Acknowledgements

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many partners and supporters who make the Nature Coast Investment Practicum possible: the Citrus County Education Foundation, Edward Jones, and the dedicated administrators of Citrus High School. Special thanks go to mentors Scott Lee, Carol Dumas, Kaitlin Kirby, and Dana Sternberg for their unwavering guidance and support this year. We also want to recognize Russell Wilson, NCIP’s lead instructor, whose passion and commitment continue to inspire and empower the next generation of financially savvy leaders.

The Nature Coast Investment Practicum proves what’s possible when education meets opportunity. With hands-on experience and strong community support, Citrus County is empowering students to take charge of their futures. Together, we’re building financially savvy leaders—one stock pick at a time.

Citrus County Schools Explores Aerospace Opportunities at Space Florida’s Launch Pad Summit

Citrus County Schools Explores Aerospace Opportunities at Space Florida’s Launch Pad Summit

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education and technology, Citrus County Schools is taking bold steps to prepare students for the future. Dr. Holli Herndon, Citrus County Schools Career and Technical Education Specialist, and I recently had the privilege of attending an exclusive event hosted by Space Florida in collaboration with the North Florida Economic Development Partnership. The Launch Pad Summit provided a deep dive into the groundbreaking initiatives led by Space Florida and its Space Florida Academy, showcasing how these resources are shaping Florida’s future workforce. This event brought together key leaders, including legislators, economic development organizations, school board members, superintendents, higher education institutions, and technical colleges, to explore the intersection of space, innovation, and workforce development.

One of the key highlights of the event was a presentation by Mike Miller, Space Florida’s Vice President of External Affairs and Workforce Integration. He shared details about the Space Florida Space Academy, a program developed in collaboration with aerospace industry leaders, the National Space Council, the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Commerce, and the Governor’s REACH Office (Reimagining Education and Career Help). The academy focuses on enhancing education programs in six target fields crucial to current and future industry demands: Aviation/Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Cybersecurity/IT, Logistics, and Semiconductors.

We were also thrilled to have astronaut Jerry Linenger make a surprise appearance at the event. Linenger, a former NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Navy officer, spent five months aboard the Russian space station Mir, playing a key role in groundbreaking scientific experiments. During his remarks, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the manufacturers and workers whose dedication ensured his safety during his missions in space. His inspiring presence highlighted the importance of teamwork and innovation in making space exploration possible, providing invaluable insight into the critical role of collaboration in the aerospace field.

Citrus County Schools’ engagement with space and technology education is not a recent development but a deliberate, ongoing strategy to provide students with opportunities in the aerospace and space industries. Approximately three years ago, I had the privilege of speaking at the Astronauts Memorial Foundation Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center during the launch of the Mission One STEAM initiative. This collaborative effort, involving various aerospace and community partners, aims to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).

Building on these efforts, last school year, Citrus County Schools, with the support of the Citrus County Education Foundation, brought more than 80 high school juniors and seniors to the AMF Center for Space Education for a College and Career Readiness Event at the Kennedy Space Center. This event provided students with invaluable exposure to career pathways in aerospace and related fields.

In January, Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert sent a small Career and Technical Education (CTE) delegation—including Assistant Superintendent Jen Greco, Director of CTE Debra Stanley, Dr. Holli Herndon, and me—to tour Eau Gallie High School’s Aviation Fabrication and Assembly Technician (AF/AT) Program. Under the instruction of Mr. William McInnish, this highly respected and successful program offers a sequence of courses, including Aviation Assembly Technician 1-3. The curriculum aligns with Florida state standards, emphasizing skills in high demand by aerospace leaders such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon/Collins Aerospace, and SpaceX. The program boasts nearly a 100% placement rate for students into jobs, college, or military service, demonstrating the potential for Citrus County Schools to implement similar programs that provide students with direct career opportunities.

The Space Florida Launch Pad Summit reinforced the importance of strategic partnerships and investments in education to ensure Florida remains a leader in aerospace and technology. Established in 2006, Space Florida is the state’s aerospace economic development agency, dedicated to positioning Florida as a global leader in the space industry. Through public-private partnerships and strategic investments, Space Florida supports commercial spaceflight, satellite production, space tourism, and other aerospace initiatives. The organization fosters business growth, infrastructure development, research, and workforce expansion, all of which contribute to the state’s thriving space and aerospace ecosystem.

These efforts align closely with the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program that Citrus County Schools was awarded last year to expand our high school welding and machinist programs. This initiative aims to enhance workforce development throughout Florida by offering students hands-on educational experiences in various high-demand fields, including aerospace, biomedical science, and aviation.

Citrus County Schools, under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Hebert and with the support of the School Board, continues to advance strategic educational offerings that prepare students for higher education, military service, and workforce opportunities. Through these initiatives and partnerships with industry leaders, Citrus County Schools is dedicated to equipping students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in Florida’s growing aerospace sector.

The Launch Pad Summit was an invaluable experience, reinforcing our district’s commitment to preparing students for the careers of tomorrow. As we continue to explore innovative educational opportunities, Citrus County Schools remains dedicated to fostering student success and economic growth by aligning our programs with industry needs. The future of Florida’s space and aerospace industries is bright, and we are excited to be part of shaping the next generation of professionals in these critical fields.

Advocating for Education: 2025 FSBA Day in the Legislature

Advocating for Education: 2025 FSBA Day in the Legislature

This week, I had the privilege of traveling to Tallahassee to participate in the 38th Annual Florida School Board Association (FSBA) Day in the Legislature. This event serves as a crucial opportunity for school board members across Florida to engage directly with state legislators, gain insights into education policies under consideration, and advocate for the needs of our students, families, educators, and communities.

Advocating for Citrus County Schools

As part of the Citrus County School Board delegation, I joined fellow board members in meeting with key legislators and state leaders. Our discussions focused on the pressing needs of our students, families, schools, and the broader community. We had meaningful conversations with Florida Senator Blaise Ingoglia and Florida House Representative J.J. Grow, sharing our perspectives on how legislative decisions impact education in Citrus County.

I am especially grateful to Senator Ingoglia and Representative Grow for their passion and commitment to our students and educators, particularly for their invaluable support in expanding career and technical education opportunities in our high schools. Programs such as our Academy of Health Careers—highlighted in this year’s legislative funding request—are essential. They provide industry certifications and real-world experiences that not only prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce but also create pathways that strengthen and benefit our communities.

These discussions provided a vital platform for advocating policy changes and securing resources to help our schools thrive. We emphasized the importance of continued investment in public education, ensuring students have access to high-quality learning experiences, and supporting educators in their mission to guide the next generation.

Commissioner Manny Díaz Jr.’s Address

Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Díaz Jr. addressed FSBA members, sharing his insights and encouragement for the future of education in Florida. He urged us to continue reassuring families, educators, and communities that, despite potential changes at the federal level, Florida remains committed to educational excellence. Commissioner Díaz encouraged school districts to embrace innovation, explore new ways to enhance student learning, and expand educational offerings. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Florida Department of Education, reaffirming the department’s commitment to supporting local initiatives and ensuring the best possible outcomes for students, families, and communities.

The Classroom of the Future

A highlight of this trip was my participating in the ‘Classroom of the Future’ event, hosted by the Florida K12 AI Task Force at the Tallahassee State College Center for Innovation. This event explored the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education and how AI tools can enhance teaching and learning experiences.

As the Chairman of the FSBA AI/IT in Education Committee, I had the opportunity to co-present a Fireside Chat alongside Dr. Demetrius Rice, Director of Strategic Operations for FSBA. Our discussion focused on “Five Best Practices for Implementing AI Tools into Your Workflow,” a topic of growing importance as AI continues to shape the educational landscape.

We highlighted the benefits of AI in streamlining administrative tasks, enhancing personalized learning experiences, and supporting educators in delivering high-quality instruction. The session provided valuable insights into how schools can responsibly and effectively integrate AI technologies while addressing ethical considerations and data privacy concerns—all while ensuring that we prepare students to succeed in an increasingly AI-driven world.

The Florida K-12 AI Task Force is composed of over 80 dedicated members, including University of Florida faculty and staff, Florida district and school administrators, district information and instructional technology leaders, parent groups, school board members, community college administrators, industry professionals, and nonprofit leaders, and teachers. I am honored to work alongside these educators and innovators as we shape the future of AI in education, ensuring that technology enhances learning experiences while maintaining ethical and practical considerations.

Key Legislative Developments

In addition to meetings and presentations, we closely reviewed numerous filed bills and their potential impact on Florida’s students and school districts. Among the many legislative proposals, two bills stand out as particularly promising:

SB 166 – Administrative Efficiency in Public Schools

Sponsored by Senator Simon, this bill continues efforts to deregulate public education initiated last year in the Florida Senate. A key provision modifies high school graduation requirements. Instead of the 10th Grade English Language Arts (ELA) assessment and Algebra I End-of-Course (EOC) exam serving as standalone barriers to graduation, the bill proposes incorporating these scores into students’ final grades.

This shift could create new opportunities for students by reducing high-stakes testing pressure while maintaining rigorous academic standards. It acknowledges that a single test should not define a student’s educational journey and allows for a more holistic assessment of academic achievement.

HB 261 / CS/SB 296 – Middle and High School Start Times

Another significant legislative proposal is HB 261 in the Florida House, co-sponsored by Representatives Booth, Mooney, Tendrich, and Weinberger, and CS/SB 296 in the Florida Senate, sponsored by Senator Bradley. These bills seek to repeal or provide local autonomy over the state-mandated school start times set to take effect by July 1, 2026. Currently, middle schools must begin no earlier than 8:00 AM and high schools no earlier than 8:30 AM.

The mandated statewide implementation presents logistical challenges for districts, including transportation constraints and budgetary concerns. This bill would return decision-making authority to local school districts, allowing them to determine start times based on their unique needs and circumstances.

Moving Forward

The 2025 FSBA Day in the Legislature reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between educators, policymakers, and community stakeholders in shaping the future of education in Florida. As we move forward, the school district remains committed to advocating for policies that enhance student success, respect our families, support educators, and strengthen our school system.

I look forward to continuing these discussions with our legislators, colleagues on the Citrus County School Board, FSBA members, and stakeholders in our community. Together, we will work to ensure that every student in our district has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.