January 2016

2015-16 School Year

Message from

the

Superintendent

VolusiaVibes

VOLUSIA’S

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

FINALISTS NAMED

Five teachers have been named Teacher of the Year finalists and are

now competing for the honor of being named Volusia County School

District's 2017 Teacher of the Year.

The finalists are:

Happy New Year and welcome to the winter

quarter. The school board recently passed a district

strategic plan that contained the following vision

statement: Ensuring all students receive a superior

21st century education.

In keeping with the time of year, it is the right

time to give some thought to the vision statement and

look for examples of it taking place. I believe that this

edition of Volusia Vibes will do just that for the reader.

There are many ways that the various schools

in our district make the vision a reality by providing

multiple pathways for students through fairs,

competitions, projects and field studies. Schools also

strive to create a sense of community through special

events and have provided examples of that as well.

It will take much work in the days to come in

order to ensure all students receive a superior 21st

century education; however, if a vision is worth

creating, it is worth the work, and this edition of

Volusia Vibes does a fine job of documenting that

work.

Happy Reading,

Tom Russell Tom Russell

(continued on page 23)

James R. Clements

chemistry, physics

and earth space,

Atlantic High

Robin Marie Diedrichs

fourth grade, Blue

Lake Elementary

Mindy Goode

AVID, Pine Ridge

High

Samantha R. Hulsman

fifth grade

Spirit Elementary

Kimberly White

fourth grade, Spruce

Creek Elementary

2 VolusiaVibes

Alternative Education Highbanks & Riverview Learning Centers Juvenile Justice Center

Department of Corrections G4S Stewart Marchman Act

Busy with New Initiatives Alternative Education has been extremely

busy expanding programs, enriching instruction,

and fostering student achievement. Our students

across the VCS Alternative Education programs

from Riverview, G4S, Detention and Highbanks,

just to mention a few, have been busy with the

many initiatives that have been expanded or

added this year. The programs enhancing our alternative sites

from hydroponics at G4S to our FUTURES grant supported

garden program at Riverview are progressing beautifully and are

proving to be effective in positively impacting student

achievement. We have been honored to have visits from a few

school board members this year, and are excited to share our

achievements with them all. Alternative Education is excited for

the pending release of our quarterly newsletter, Alternative

Jerry Picott Principal

Atlantic High (9-12)

1250 Reed Canal Road Port Orange, Florida 32129 (386) 322-6100

Atlantic High Updates Atlantic High School would like to

congratulate Mr. Clements for being chosen as

teacher of the year. Mr. Clements was also

chosen as one of the top 5 finalists for teacher

of the year for Volusia County. The decision for

the finalists will be made at the gala banquet in

February. This was a great year for some of

our fall sports who made it to states. We had

one golfer, one swimmer, and the girls bowling team which all

made it to states as well. Congrats to all athletes! We also had

one of our Atlantic chorus members sing his way to the top and

will be singing with 300 of the best high school singers in the

state in January. New clubs have formed, including a literary

magazine and a school newspaper. Also new this year are

poetry slams during lunch in the media center, lunch with a

scientist, and the first college panel discussion for students

with nine past Atlantic High School graduates who came back

for the Q and A. The community has been thought of often

over the last few month at Atlantic by the collection of pop tabs

for the Ronald McDonald House, food pantry drives, Toys for

Tots, community toiletry drive, and Sophie’s Pet Food Drive;

giving back is a wonderful thing. Congrats to our very own

Ashely Baldwin for winning the laptop through the Excellence

in Education program sponsored by Daytona Dodge.

James Tager Principal

Blue Lake Bustling With Activity The annual Walk to School for Safety event

was a huge success again this year. Over 400

participants including Principal Ms. Hinson and

Assistant Principal Mrs. Freeman to students,

teachers, Area Superintendent Gary Marks,

the Stetson basketball team, Sheriff Ben

Johnson, Officer Rod Hancock and Little

Caesar greeted everyone as they arrived at the

school.

Blue Lake Elementary is Thankful for Their Grandparents

Day celebration had over 130 attendees. The PTA provided

the tasty refreshments. A slide presentation of students was

shown. Door prizes were generously donated by Little Caesar,

he even helped pick out the winning numbers; Chick-fil-A;

Texas Roadhouse and the Family Book Shop.

The generosity of the students and their families was

evident when the School Way Café and Cans for Kona food

drives took place. Many families were able to have a wonderful

holiday meal because of this.

Davinci Club has teamed up with the Good Samaritan

Lutheran Society for a book club. The DaVinci club students

and some residents of the society are reading SSYRA books.

Students will share their projects about the books with the

residents.

DeLand’s Christmas Parade included Blue Lake’s Principal,

Mrs. Hinson and Assistant Principal, Mrs. Freeman, in a van

provided by Hendrick Honda. Their Safety Patrol, Dancing

Dolphins, Pre K float, and the DaVinci Club giving away free

books. Blue Lake’s Chorus went caroling at DeBary Manor.

The Chorus spread cheer throughout the facility.

Jasmine Hinson Principal

Blue Lake Elementary (K-5) 282 N. Blue Lake Avenue DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 822-4070

News, to highlight all of our student, staff and administrative

achievements in more detail.

January 2016 3

Campbell Middle (6-8)

625 S. Keech Street Daytona Beach, FL 32118 (386) 258-4661

Campbell Cares Service Project – Change for Change Students at Campbell Middle School

participated in a “Change for Change” Service

Learning Project to benefit the Jewish

Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties, a 501

(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Students and staff were asked to donate their

spare change during a donation challenge to raise funds to

provide the Federation’s Jerry Doliner Food Bank with one of

their must-have commodities for families– toilet paper. The 1st

period class competition raised over $200 and netted the

winning class Krispy Kreme Donuts. Second and third place

classes also received a sweet treat. The winning classes and

their teachers, Mr. Duane Hill, Mrs. Rose Butts, Mrs. Sharonda

Elliott and Mrs. Linda Thayer, along with Principal Kelly Lewis

and School Counselor Gwen Monroe recently presented Rabbi

Rose with the 450+ rolls donation.

Kelly Lewis Principal

Students Win Big at Media Festival Champion Elementary School students took

home 11 awards October 23 from the Jim Harbin

Media Festival in Orlando sponsored by the

Florida Association for Media in Education. Forty-

two students collected a school record of 11

trophies from the festival. The students were

proud to accept three first place trophies, six

second place trophy, and two third place trophies. This group of

students sponsored by the school’s media specialist, Jacqueline

Ouellette, produced entries in 14 different categories. They

made public service announcements, public service video, news

features, news show, book trailers, documentaries, instructional

Maryann Bull Principal

Champion Elementary (K-5)

921 Tournament Drive Daytona Beach , FL 32124 (386) 258-4664

videos, and produced a comedy. The videos must be created

entirely by students with the guidance of an adult. Entries that

won at the state level had to win first place at both the county

level and regional level. The television production program

continues to grow and reach out to other disciplines at the

school. Principal Dr. Bull is happy to have the videos that won at

the state competition include social studies, reading, writing and

music content. While at the Festival the students had a private

meeting with author Scott McCormick and author Kateryn Russell

-Brown. The students are already excited about producing videos

for next year’s Jim Harbin Media Festival.

4 VolusiaVibes

Chisholm Partners with Community Chisholm Elementary Wildcats were

engaged in learning beyond the classroom

throughout the second quarter. Due to new

partnerships within the New Smyrna Beach

community, students and teachers are

experiencing a bounty of extended learning experiences. In

lieu of the traditional field trips or studies, Chisholm is

implementing the learning expedition model. This model

ensures that each expedition is standards based and

includes pre- and post- learning activities, thus connecting

learning to life. All Wildcats now have a Volusia County

Public Library card due to each grade level visiting the NSB

library for a tour. Primary grades experienced a visit from

the NSB Fire Station to promote home fire safety. As part of

second grade science studies, which includes class

gardens, the students visited Green Flamingo Farms. Our

fourth grade students completed their second learning

expedition to the Marine Discovery Center. Fifth grade

students experienced Cracker Creek in December. There is

more to come in third quarter!

As part of Chisholm’s commitment to the NSB

community, the school hosted “Salute to Veterans” on

December 10 for over 500 attendees. Coronado Beach and

Read-Pattillo partnered in this concert event celebrating

NSB veterans. Teachers are sponsoring 10 clubs after

school with over 50% of the students involved in at least

one club. The second quarter school-wide service project

provided food, blankets and towels to the Southeast Volusia

Humane Society. The Lady Cats and Kitty Cats performed

at four NSB events. The fall was capped off with the Annual

Holiday Concert featuring kindergarten through second

grade students performing to a standing room only crowd in

the gymnasium. Chisholm continues to be where everyone

loves, learns and grows!

Karen Beattie Principal

Chisholm Elementary (K-5)

557 Ronnoc Lane New Smyrna Beach , FL 32168 (386) 424-2540

Citrus Grove Happenings There has been a lot of exciting events going

on at Citrus Grove Elementary! Student led con-

ferences, Fourth Grade Family Night; perhaps

our most exciting event of the quarter was Tropi-

cal Holidays Night. Families created tropical

holiday crafts including shell prints, shell orna-

ments and flip flop cookies! Citrus Grove’s cho-

rus performed the Twelve Days of Christmas in

Florida. The hallways were adorned with holiday displays from

every classroom and we also had a very special visit from Santa

himself! Thank you to our Media Specialist Mrs. Young and eve-

ryone else that helped to make it a very special evening for our

students and families.

With the Holidays passing we are now looking ahead to our

annual Groovin’ at the Grove 5K and Family Fun Run. This won-

derful event brings the community together and promotes health

and fitness while raising money for technology and books for our

students! Mark your calendars and come out to Citrus Grove

Elementary on Saturday, February 27. The race starts at 8:00

am.

Jennifer Williams Principal

Citrus Grove Elementary (K-5)

729 Hazen Road DeLand, FL 32720 (386) 626-0053

January 2016 5

Coronado Beach -One Book, One School Coronado Beach Elementary School held its

first One Book, One School literacy event in the

fall. Guest readers from our school district as

well as business partners in our community

read the first chapter of The World According to

Humphrey by Betty G. Birney to each of our

classes. Teachers continued reading a chapter

a day throughout the month. Children had the opportunity to

write Humphrey the Hamster adventures through the point of

view of the hamster (just like the real Humphrey in the story).

Thanks to a grant from Pets in the Classroom and Pet

Supermarket, Coronado received their very own Humphrey. The

guest hamster circulated through each classroom during the

event. As a culminating activity, a raffle was held to determine

Humphrey’s permanent home in the school. Mrs. Bartley’s

kindergarten class is happy to report that Humphrey remains

happy and healthy. Students cannot wait for his sequel in hopes

it may include stories about some of them! Hats off to Mrs. Alice

Tracy Buckner

Principal

Coronado Beach Elementary (K-5)

3550 Michigan Avenue New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169 (386) 424-2525

Happy New Year! As we come back from the holidays,

Creekside Middle School is continuing to soar

through the 2015-2016 school year. Here at

Creekside, we are not only committed to

academic success, but also feel that it is

important to provide our students with the

opportunity to partake in many community

service activities and outreach programs. Before

the holidays, Creekside Middle students created 28 baskets

containing 588 pounds of food as well as gift cards for turkeys to

bless many families throughout the holiday season. Our

students continue to show their kind hearts by collecting over

17,000 plastic bags to make mats for the homeless. The bags

collected will make 24 blankets this holiday season for the

homeless. Additionally, through our Community Based

Instruction Program, students from our modified programs have

partnered with Kona Ice to plan, market, analyze, and help run

the business. Not only do our students get to be a part of this

great opportunity, but funds raised will go to help future

community based instruction trips. Creekside Middle School will

continue these community service activities and outreach

projects to encourage the spirit of giving and we are thankful to

bless families throughout the holiday season. John Cash

Principal

Creekside Middle (6-8)

6801 Airport Road Port Orange, FL 32128 (386) 322-6155

Andrews, media specialist, and Mrs. Alyssa Allen, media clerk,

whose organization and creativity contributed to the event’s

success.

6 VolusiaVibes

Army JROTC Students Sponsor Families for Thanksgiving The Deltona High School Army JROTC

conducted a Thanksgiving Food Drive for

economically disadvantaged families in the

Deltona and surrounding area. This project is

conducted annually by Deltona High JROTC

students as a Service Learning initiative whereas,

through school and community needs assessments; students

identify areas where service, social and economic deficiencies

exist. In collaboration with the Deltona High School Health

Academy, areas businesses, the school administration, and

JROTC parents; JROTC students collected non-perishable food

items for distribution. A total of 30 beautifully packaged food

boxes along with a fresh turkey were distributed to families.

JROTC service projects foster interaction between

Deltona High School JROTC students and the Deltona

community; builds stronger families; and provide students with

learning opportunities beyond the school house gates. Through

their direct planning and coordination of this specific project,

labeled “Operation Thanksgiving 2015,” students learned the

importance of social interaction; gained hands-on experiences as

they learned from those whom they served; and developed a

better understanding and appreciation of team work, compassion

and empathy for others. It also allowed JROTC students the

opportunity to test their own ideas in a “real world” setting. DHS

JROTC want to thank their proud sponsors (Deltona High School

Health Academy, Publix Supermarket and JROTC Parent Support

Group) for their outstanding support.

Carolyn Carbonell Principal

Deltona High (9-12)

100 Wolf Pack Run Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4153

Deltona Lakes Updates Congratulations to music teacher, Mr.

McLaughlin, who received a Futures Mini Grant

and Creativity Award and to our School Way

Café staff for receiving the highest award during

their annual site review. Meet the “Candy

Crushers” Cianna Boxberger, Lexi Brito, Dylan

Connell and Alexus Harris. These 4th

graders are raising money to replace

worn out PE equipment. They set up

a candy booth at the Fall Festival and

sold refreshments during movie night

in October and collected over $100.

In December we held a Technology Day and invited parents

to visit the classroom and see how our students use technology.

Parents interacted with students on the iPads, observed projects

created using online research, and saw lessons on Waterford

and Successmaker.

Four of our students were winners of the VCC PTA Reflec-

tions Contest and will compete at the state level. Congratula-

tions to Leilani Pleitez (Dance Choreography), Amaiah Hernan-

dez and Rayna Weathers (Literature) and Carleen Cohen

(Photography). We also had two winners in the Deltona Martin

Luther King, Jr. Committee’s annual greeting card competition:

Faithful Faison (2nd place) and Isabella Colle (3rd place). They

will receive cash prizes at the annual Dream Keepers Breakfast

in January.

Our First Grade Team will be hosting their second annual

Carrabba’s Family Night fundraiser in February 5. All are wel-

come to attend. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Din-

ner will be served at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Take out is also

available. Call 386-575-4115 to order tickets.

Judy Rivera Principal

Deltona Lakes Elementary (K-5)

2022 Adelia Boulevard Deltona , FL 32725 (386) 575-4115

Veterans Day Love from DeLand Middle School Following a brief lesson on the history of

Veterans Day, students made letters of

appreciation, cards, poems, and artwork. The

creations were packed in gift bags that were

collected and distributed to the 13 residents of

neighboring Park Rehabilitation and Nursing

Home Center, several blocks down from the school on Amelia

Avenue. Between the 13 men, they served in all six branches of

the US armed forces. Included in the

gift bag was a small token of

appreciation, a roll of “Lifesavers”

candy, which opened the discussion

on how this candy was a metaphor

and related to our Veterans’ service.

Bill Dunnigan Principal

DeLand Middle (6-8)

1400 S. Aquarius Avenue DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 822-5678

January 2016 7

Operation Changing Lives at Discovery On November 30, two very special guests

visited Discovery Elementary School: Santa

and Mrs. Claus arrived at the school in their

sled that was full of gifts. Sixty-five students

were the recipients of an early Christmas

present that was personally delivered by Santa and Mrs.

Claus. The students were thankful and joyful to receive a

Christmas gift!

The funds for the Christmas presents for the students was

donated from Operation Changing Lives. A retired couple

dressed up as Santa and Mrs. Claus who partnered with

Operation Changing Lives to deliver the gifts to the students at

the school. The guidance counselor worked with the teachers

to select the students. Ms. Besso, Discovery’s art teacher, then

went shopping for the

students with the

monetary donation

from Operation

Changing Lives. This

small act of kindness

had such a positive

impact on the 65

students at Discovery

Elementary School.

Amanda Wiles Principal

Discovery Elementary (K-5)

975 Abagail Drive Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4133

EPS Gives Back to the Jewish Federation The Jewish Federation is an organization

that constantly supports our students via

donations of back packs and loads of school

supplies. As a Title 1 school, our families often

struggle to provide supplies and back packs for

students. The Jewish Federation’s 125 packs of school

supplies made it possible for families to “shop” during our Meet

the Teacher event. Students were thrilled to be able to pick out

supplies and back packs.

It was no surprise that Edgewater Public School

embraced the call to help gather donations for the Jewish

Federation! They were in need of toilet paper, so our school

decided to have a competition amongst classes to collect the

most. The class that collected the most, Mrs. Duncan’s

kindergarten class, earned

the privilege of wrapping Mr.

Reaves like a mummy. The

entire campus was eager to

win and ecstatic to watch as

students wrapped up our

leader! Over 1,000 rolls were

donated to the Jewish

Federation!

Jeff Reaves Principal

Edgewater Public (K-5)

801S. Old County Road Edgewater, FL 32132 (386) 424-2573

Music to Our Ears This year, over 250 Deltona Middle School

students took to the stage in a spectacular

holiday music program. Dressed in their new

uniforms, the students dazzled the audience

with musical talent. The road to this stage was

created by determined faculty and staff who saw

a need and worked tirelessly to fulfill it.

Last year, Dr. Richard Inge, principal, set a goal to

revamp the music program to offer students a cutting-edge

performing arts program. With the help of the University High

School band and the Deltona High School band, Dr. Inge spent

time recruiting students at Deltona Middle and the surrounding

elementary schools creating a surge in student interest that has

led to tremendous growth to the music program.

This year Deltona Middle School hired two full-time faculty

members in the music department. Mr. George Netterville is the

new DMS Band Director. In addition to beginning and advanced

band, he has plans to start a pep band for basketball games

this year and a drumline and jazz band next year. The band

program has grown from 50-60 students to over 140. Mr.

Jonathan Anderson, the new DMS Choir Director, has also

seen tremendous growth with over 120 students participating in

choir. He has plans to create a men’s choir, ladies’ choir, and a

performance choir in the coming years. The growth of the

performing arts program is music to our ears at Deltona Middle

School!

Richard Inge Principal

Deltona Middle (6-8)

250 Enterprise Road Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4150

8 VolusiaVibes

There’s flavored snow at Enterprise! At Enterprise Elementary the most coveted

reward is a Kona Ice treat! Students can’t get

enough of this soft as snow, Hawaiian shaved ice

treat. The students especially enjoy the many

flavor options or as Kona Ice calls it the

“flavorwave.” Enterprise partnered with Kona Ice

to raise money to support our teacher mini-

grants. As an Enterprise Elementary student you have multiple

chances to win a coupon for a Free Kona Ice. For example, if a

student has straight A’s, also if a students has perfect

attendance, or if the student has over 100 reading count points,

just to mention a few. Everyone at Enterprise loves Kona Ice so

much that our registrar even wrote a song about it.

(Sing to Jingle Bell Song)

Kona Ice, Kona Ice, Kona is a treat, Oh let’s choose, A

flavor or two, To enjoy on, This hot day! Hey!, Kona Ice, Kona

Ice, Kona’s on the way, Oh we love, To see that truck, With the

penguin on the side, A cup of Kona Ice, Is a treat that is so nice,

A Kona treat we love, With flavors that are fun hahaha, If you get

all A’s, Coupons from Doc A, Oh what fun it is toEat a Kona Ice

today!

Virginia Abernathy

Principal

Enterprise Elementary (K-5)

211 Main Street Enterprise, FL 32725 (386) 575-4135

Exciting Things Happening at Forest Lake! The fourth grade classes welcomed members

of the Deltona City Commission. Mayor John

Masiarczyk, Vice Mayor Nancy Schleicher and

Commissioner Brian Soukup spent time talking

with the fourth graders about their responsibilities

and duties as members of the Deltona City

Commission. This was a culminating activity as part of the fourth

grade social studies unit on government. As part of this unit,

students learned to compare and contrast state and local

government, including the responsibilities of the governor, state

representative, senators, mayor and city commissioners. Our

visitors described their job roles and responsibilities, shared their

own experiences on the commission, and answered students’

questions. A great example of real world learning at its best!

Our running club gets a big Congratulations! The club

participated in the Jim Payne Corporate 5K in November and

took 1st place in the team division. In addition, several of our

club members placed in the top three in their divisions.

Our art teacher, Mrs. Lasher, and our students worked hard

on the education booth display for the Volusia County Fair. Their

hard work paid off as Forest Lake won first place. The art

department also hosted a very successful Family Ornament

Night. Parents and students had a fun time creating ornaments

from around the world, taking pictures in the photo booth,

participating in the ugly sweater contest, and eating yummy food

from different cultures. It was a fun time for all!

Ramonita Pagan Principal

Forest Lake Elementary (K-5)

1600 Doyle Road Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4166

January 2016 9

New Principal Welcomed Friendship Elementary School is happy to

welcome Mrs. Cristina Raimundo, principal of

Friendship Elementary School. Mrs. Raimundo

served as a Principal Intern at Osteen

Elementary before being appointed as principal

at Friendship Elementary School by the Volusia

County School Board. She is excited to begin

her first assignment as a new principal at the Title I School in

Deltona. During the month of January, Mrs. Raimundo will host

a STEM Night for the Friendship School Community at the

school. Students will have the wonderful opportunity to spend a

fun evening learning about mathematics, science and

technology. The Friendship School Community is invited to

meet the new principal and participate in STEM Night at

Friendship. All participants will enjoy free pizza and drinks and

spend some time with the school’s new leader.

Cristina Raimundo Principal

Friendship Elementary (K-5)

2746 Fulford Street Deltona, FL 32738 (386) 575-4130

STEAMING it up at Galaxy Middle School! We are very fortunate to team up with the

Volusia Manufacturing Association (VMA). The

VMA’s membership includes a great variety of

manufacturers from the medical industry to

underwater exploration. Their members are

actively looking to become involved in our schools to educate

our students and families about manufacturing opportunities in

Volusia County.

The VMA’s outreach includes awarding grants to local

schools that can help students develop problem-solving skills

while working collaboratively. Galaxy was awarded a grant to

purchase a 3D printer to be utilized in a developing STEAM

program. VMA president, Jayne Fifer said, “Your Fabrication

Lab is an exciting idea that will help prepare your students for

advanced manufacturing jobs in the future. Manufacturing

today requires advanced math, problem-solving and critical

thinking skills that STEAM education provides.”

Galaxy students will be able to develop those skills as they

creatively develop standards based projects that will utilize the

3D printer. As our STEAM program develops students will be

able to develop 3 dimensional designs and then quickly print a

3D prototype. We are very grateful to the Volusia

Manufacturing Association for their donation. We are also

fortunate to have received a generous

award from the West Volusia Chamber

of Commerce that has allowed us to

purchase a second 3D printer giving

more of our students access to this

technology.

Patti Corr Principal

Galaxy Middle (6-8)

2400 Eustace Avenue Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4144

Freedom Elementary Falcons have been soaring to new heights! The gall season included new landscaping at the

school. Parents, staff members and PTA got

together with a local plant nursery to spruce up

the school’s courtyard with beautiful new trees,

plants and mulch. The Freedom kindergarten

students treated their families to a “Hooray for

Thanksgiving” show and a lunch feast afterward. The school also

held the annual Thankful for You Day, when grandparents or

special friends joined students in their classrooms for special

events. First grade classes learned about matter during their

Snow Science Day. Students experienced science snow

activities and real snow with a snow maker! Anita Cambron’s

third grade class and Angie Arico-Jones’ first grade class held

their annual “Multicultural Holidays Around the World program.”

The reading buddies worked together to present their projects on

holiday celebrations to their families and friends during the

December show. It was a hit! Lisa Richling’s first grade class

also held a class production of The Grinch. Her students dressed

up to perform and invited their families to hear their awesome

reading! Freedom PTA sponsored a “Winter Wonderland”

evening event for school families. The Freedom community

participated in winter experiences including snowman ornament

making, snowball bowling, winter photo booth, etc. To culminate

the semester, the entire school participated in “Wear Your

Pajamas To School Day.” Freedom Falcons are looking forward

to more great school activities in 2016!

Brandy Hogue Principal

Freedom Elementary (K-5)

1395 S. Blue Lake Avenue DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 943-4375

10 VolusiaVibes

Community Partnerships in Action Heritage Middle School is enjoying a fun filled

school year. Recently we partnered with AMVETS

(American Veterans), a national service

foundation in order to conduct a schoolwide

community service project. The Heritage Middle

School family participated in a week long clothing

drive. Students, teachers, and staff were encouraged to bring in

new or slightly used clothing. Together, HMS collected 6,000

pieces of clothing. All first period classes competed in a friendly

competition of which class could bring in the most articles of

clothing. AMVETS sponsored a pizza party for all the winning

classes. This is the fifth annual clothing drive as a result of this

community partnership. Hats off to our awesome eagles on a job

well-done!

Thomas Vaughan

Principal

Heritage Middle (6-8)

1001 Parnell Court Deltona, FL 32738 (386) 575-4113

ERAU Partners with Hinson Middle

Career Advancement and Resourceful

Education, or CARE Program, was designed

to help give middle school students a positive

influence in their life. The Air Force ROTC

cadets from Detachment 157 at Embry-Riddle

Aeronautical University wanted to make a

larger impact on the community and decided that starting in

the schools would be the perfect opportunity. Through the

CARE Program, in partnership with David C. Hinson Middle

School, the cadets have the opportunity to mentor the

students and act as a positive influence as someone to look

up to, outside of their own families. Detachment 157 sends

approximately 20 cadets to the middle school each week to

teach the middle school students about respect, team work,

the importance of goal setting and other important life

lessons.

Bob Ouellette

Principal

David C. Hinson, Sr. Middle (6-8)

1860 N. Clyde Morris Blvd. Daytona Beach, FL 32117 (386) 258-4682

Vehicle Day a Success George Marks Elementary school hosted some

very special visitors for its Vehicle Day in

November. Some highlights of the event included

students touring a Votran bus, students watching

as a large hole being dug by a tractor and refilled

at the end of the day, students asking Volusia

County Deputies Omelia and Sampson questions about their

vehicles and learning about the equipment inside, and students

learning the purpose of a firetruck, beach patrol jeep, Bright

House van, and other service vehicles.

Julie Roseboom Principal

George Marks Elementary (K-5)

1000 North Garfield Avenue DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 822-6986

January 2016 11

Food Brings People Together Debbie Cox, Horizon Elementary’s School

Way Café manager, has a vision: “We serve

our community,” she says. “I want our

students to come into the cafeteria and feel a

difference.” It’s hard not to feel that

difference. The food line is always decorated.

Always. The children have come to love the

elaborate displays and music. “One little boy brings his lunch

from home, yet comes through the line every day just to see

the decorations.” She continues, “I tell my staff and my

interns that we give of ourselves. This may be a child’s only

meal. We smile and we tell them we care.”

“She brought a pie to her interview!” recalls Principal Gary

Harms. “Debbie’s caring is very evident.”

Her vision includes the staff. She makes special treats for

holidays and special events, such as lemonade and cookies

for field day. “I learned from my grandmother that food brings

people together. To be successful our school needs every

staff member. Making treats is our way of saying we

recognize their hard work.” Recently, Mrs. Cox and other

staff members started cleaning up Horizon’s campus. “We’ve

cleaned out the planters and added mulch. I want the

students to take pride in our campus, and I think they learn

by our example.” Her decorations now grace the front office,

making families and visitors feel every bit as welcome as the

students do in her café line. “It makes me happy,” Mrs. Cox

says with a smile. “It’s how I pay it forward.”

Gary Harms Principal

Horizon Elementary (K-5)

4751 Hidden Lake Drive Port Orange, FL 32129 (386) 322-6150

Rugby Teams visits Longstreet The British Police Rugby League Team recently

visited R.J. Longstreet Elementary. While visiting,

they met with our first grade students during their

special area time and shared information about

health, wellness and how to make yourself a better

athlete. The British Police Rugby League Team is

made up of players from West Yorkshire, Greater

Manchester, Merseyside, Lancashire, Cheshire and the Metropolitan

Police Forces. All officers represent their team on their own time

outside of their normal police duties. They are in the U.S. to defend

the Atlantic Cup during the Great Britain Police Rugby Team Tour.

The students loved interacting with the players, coaches and

especially their mascot, “Alfie.” The students were able to win

medals for answering health questions and raced against the

players as they warmed up for some rugby action. R.J. Longstreet

welcomed the visitors and all of their players were able to leave with

a token of our appreciation and memorabilia from our school!

Judith Watson Principal

R.J. Longstreet Elementary (K-5)

2745 South Peninsula Drive Daytona Beach, FL 32118 (386) 322-6172

12 VolusiaVibes

Health Fair Held at NSBHS

New Smyrna Beach High School’s Health

Science II Foundations in the Medical Academy

invited the entire school to their annual Health Fair

held in the gymnasium on December 16. The

students put together 25 displays. They also had

interactive activities to go along with each display.

Some of the display topics included:

CPR/First Aid

Blood Pressure checks

Bullying

Safe Driving

Drug Abuse

Stress & Anxiety

Healthy Eating and many more

One of the activities was at the depression display. A couple

of students in charge of this display came up with an obstacle

course. The first time you went through the obstacle course you

went through it blind folded and alone. The second time you go

through it, you are still blind folded but with assistance. This was

to indicate that when suffering from depression you can feel so

alone but when you go

through depression with

help it is so much easier

to get through. Our New

Smyrna Beach High

School students worked

very hard on each

project. The health fair

was a great success!

Karen Chenoweth Principal

New Smyrna Beach High (9-12) 1015 Tenth Street New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 (386) 424-2555

Grandparents Day Manatee Cove Elementary School honored

Grandparents during the week of September 7th

by inviting them to visit their grandchild’s

classroom. The students were so proud to show

their grandparents how they learn and the fun

activities they participate in each day. In some of

our classrooms, grandparents and grandchildren worked on a

project that they completed together. After sharing in their

classroom day, some of the grandparents accompanied their

grandchildren to lunch in our cafeteria. The grandparents who

attended created wonderful, lasting memories of “a day in the life

of elementary school” with their loved ones.

Alice Gonzalez Principal

Manatee Cove Elementary (K-5)

734 West Ohio Avenue Orange City, FL 32763 (386) 968-0004

Mainland Participates in 8th Annual Empty Bowls Event This community event was started eight years

ago by Marcia Bobbitt, retired Mainland Art

teacher, and Halifax Urban Ministries (HUM) at

Mainland High School. Local restaurants donate

soup, salad and baked goods for this event which

benefits HUM, helping the less fortunate and homeless in our

community. Today, all Volusia county schools participate and

HUM is responsible for organizing this event. The Mainland High

School Art Club sponsored the supplies to make the bowls this

year and made the largest school donation at 200 bowls! All

ceramics and 3D studio students donated their talent to create the

bowls. Students created the bowls from scratch using techniques

like drape molds, press molds, marbling, slip casting, coils, pinch,

and wheel thrown pieces. After bowls were bisque fired, students

then glazed the bowls to fire one last time. This is just a small

way our students helped their community, and where art made a

difference. Each student is always proud of their work and the

cause. Students soon came to realize that the families benefiting

from this event are friends, neighbors and family.

Cheryl Salerno Principal

Mainland High (9-12)

1255 W. Int’l Speedway Blvd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 258-4665

January 2016 13

Science Night a Success Orange City Elementary School held Science

Night on December 3 in conjunction with a

planned rocket launch from Kennedy Space

Center. The rocket launch was scrubbed, but

the fun was not! Students, parents and

teachers were invited to participate in space-

based science experiments and attend a

portable planetarium production. The planetarium, from the

Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach, displayed

rotating 15-minute presentations of the night sky as seen at

this time of the year. Ms. Tatum provided glow-in-the-dark

paint, and students created beautiful paintings of the moon

and planets. Ms. Harrison, Mrs. Roberts and Ms. Maier

helped students create paper rockets which were placed on a

PVC rocket launcher, with the force of a stomped on soda

bottle providing the lift-off of the rockets. Mrs. Smith helped

students explore with moon sand and determine what

happens when a meteor crashes into the moon. Mrs.

Moncelsi taught students what it is like to be an astronaut in

Charles Bynum Principal

Orange City Elementary (K-5)

555 E. University Avenue Orange City, FL 32763 (386) 575-4215

Books Donated to Media Center 2015 ended on a great note for students at

Ormond Beach Elementary School. On,

December 18, members of the Write On! Club

from Seabreeze High School visited our school

and presented our media center with a donation

of over 300 books. These books will be added to

the collection in our media center and shared

with classroom teachers. Special appreciation goes out to SHS

teacher and club sponsor, Jacklyn Gion, for organizing the book

drive and helping to bring books to every student in our school.

Christine Campanella

Principal

Ormond Beach Elementary (K-5)

100 Corbin Avenue Ormond Beach, FL 32174 (386) 258-4666

space by giving students tasks to accomplish while they were

wearing space gloves and having limited mobility. Our student

volunteer from University High School, Dean Revlette, helped

students to recreate the phases of the moon using Oreo

cookies. Ms. Weiner and Mr. Sanders helped students create

“stars” in a test tube. The school would like to thank all who

volunteered, attended and participated in such an enjoyable

and thought-provoking experience for our students!

Special Olympics Teams Win Award On January 4, the New Smyrna Beach

Middle School Special Olympics teams were

presented with the "Youth Service Award" by the

City of Edgewater. The students received the

award for their participation in the Edgewater

Christmas parade. The students did a fantastic

job decorating their float for the parade. Some

athletes enjoyed riding their decorated 3-

wheel Special Olympic bikes alongside the float; other athletes

took turns playing the drum set while riding on the float.

Libby Johnson Principal

New Smyrna Beach Middle (6-8)

1200 S. Myrtle Avenue New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 (386) 424-2550

14 VolusiaVibes

Osceola Celebrates 60 Years Commemorating 60 years of education and

service on the beachside, Osceola Elementary

School celebrated the milestone with a well-

attended community Open House. With the

school chorus, under the direction of David

Hollingsworth, debuting Osceola’s Alma Mater,

students enjoyed remarks from Mrs. Linda

Costello, school board member; Tom Russell, superintendent;

and Ed Kelley, Ormond Beach mayor. Principal and former

student, Dr. Mary Ellen Speidel, served as the MC while Dr.

Willie Branch, Jr., Commander, and the auxiliary of American

Legion Post 267 presented a new American flag to the school.

At the flag-raising ceremony, following a patriotic selection by

Osceola alumna, Grace Gottlin, Commander Branch led all the

students and staff in the Pledge of Allegiance. Inspiration was

provided by the talented Seabreeze High School drumline.

Former principals, Patricia Ford, Jim Bishop and Marie Stratton,

joined in the celebration as safety patrol led guided tours of the

campus. Following these events, students and staff took it back

to 1955 with an old-fashioned in-school sock hop. Besides

dancing “the twist” to some really great music, students enjoyed

root-beer floats, hula-hoop contests, and much more. The photo

booth was a big hit, especially for all those wearing poodle skirts.

Everybody wanted a picture with the car! Educational interns

from Bethune-Cookman University volunteered to make the day

a huge success. This wonderful event kicked off a year of

recognition. Although much has changed in 60 years, some

things continue. Amazing students, teachers, and staff remain as

the legacy of our school. Osceola Elementary is a great place to

be!

Kevin Flassig Principal

Osceola Elementary (K-5)

100 Osceola Avenue Ormond Beach, FL 32176 (386) 258-4669

Students Honor Veterans

This past November, Pathways Elementary

hosted a school-wide celebration honoring our

United States military veterans. The celebration

was organized by special area teachers Jessica

Palmer, Elise Ross, Michelle Dennis, Justin

Hampton, Bethany Hendrix, Michelle Moore, Kelly

McCabe, and Michael Feinman. The celebration included two

performances in which students sang patriotic songs, such as

“Grand Ole Flag” and “The Star-Spangled Banner”, shared

award-winning essays, and celebrated the courage and service

of the veterans of our community. Students invited family

members who were veterans, as well as their family members, to

be guests of honor at the event. Also in attendance was the

Mainland High School JROTC Color Guard who opened the

ceremonies. In addition, a “Hall of Heroes” was created to

showcase photographs of veterans from different branches of

the U.S. military, along with student-created artwork displayed

throughout the campus. A reception hosted by the Pathways

faculty and staff offering light refreshments was held for the

veterans, as a way to once again say thank you for their service

to our country. Everyone walked away with a renewed sense of

patriotism and respect for our veterans.

Jason Watson Principal

Pathways Elementary (K-5)

2100 Airport Road Ormond Beach, FL 32174 (386) 258-4671

January 2016 15

Students Demonstrate Affects of Smoking Pine Ridge High S.W.A.T. (Students Working

Against Tobacco) under the direction of CTE

teacher, Ms. Lee, participated in an activity on

November 19 in the courtyard during lunch in

honor of the Great American Smoke Out.

Participants demonstrated that 88 people die DAILY due to

tobacco use by dropping to the ground! Startling statistics

about E-Cig and Hookah use were presented. Great job

everyone for bringing awareness to our school.

John Atkinson Principal

Pine Ridge High (9-12)

926 Howland Boulevard Deltona, FL 32738 (386) 575-4195

Crazy Hat Week Pine Trail Elementary School raised $1,446 for 7-

year-old Camila Fraguada and the Childhood

Cancer Foundation. This is the eighth year that

our school has worked with the foundation and

this event was organized by our Teacher of the

Year, Sussi Mulcahy. Students donated money,

made signs and wore interesting headgear in a

parade in honor of Fraguada. Camila is battling leukemia and

she and her family visited the school on October 30. Mrs.

Mulcahy’s students took turns asking Camilla questions about

her life. Camila’s family was overwhelmed by the support they

received from people they had never met.

Tami Fisher Principal

Pine Trail Elementary (K-5)

300 Airport Road Ormond Beach, FL 32174 (386) 258-4672

Special Memories at POE The fall/pre-winter season held a lot of

special memories for Port Orange Elementary

which included many events that gathered

families together. Some of the special highlights

included celebrating Red Ribbon Week,

Monsters and Minions Family Night, and the

annual Fall Hoedown. Mad Hatter Math Night

was a new event which showcased the shifts with math through

learning stations. Families received materials including a game

bag to practice the new skills at home. Guests proudly wore

their craziest and creative hats making it a memorable night.

The finale nearing the end of the second semester occurred on

December 17 when students, faculty, and staff gathered on the

PE court to present special songs, poems and banners wishing

our admirable leader

and principal, Marie

Stratton, a happy

retirement after serving

43 years in education. A

new year brings change

and at POE we warmly

welcome our new

principal, Tennille

Wallace.

Tennille Wallace Principal

Port Orange Elementary (K-5)

402 Dunlawton Avenue Port Orange, FL 32127 (386) 322-6271

Fifth Graders Visit Nursing Home Mrs. Miller’, 5th grade class had an amazing

night spreading Joy at the Deltona Healthcare

Nursing Home on December 15. After caroling,

they shared hot chocolate and cookies in a dining

area while visiting with residents. We are proud of

our students as they continue to spread joy

through community service projects. It was a

memorable event for all!

Leslie Frazee Principal

Pride Elementary (K-5)

1100 Learning Lane Deltona, FL 32738 (386) 968-0010

16 VolusiaVibes

Students Learn About City Government Read-Pattillo’s third graders received a visit

from New Smyrna Beach Mayor Hathaway,

Commissioner Sachs and Commissioner

McGuirk. They told the students what their job

entailed and why they wanted to become

involved in city government. Students were

captivated by the speakers and questioned them extensively

about their lives and jobs.

Read-Pattillo, a Healthier Generation Award winner, hosted

a family fun night focused on healthy habits. The night kicked

off with “Riboflavin and the Raisin Rocks,” a play written by

kindergarten teacher, Donna Adams, and produced by

kindergarten teacher, Cindy Crandall. Afterwards family

members were directed to visit the booths set up by community

members. The kids also played games and were guided in

hands-on activities focused on healthy choices.

Kimberly McKinney

Principal

Read-Pattillo Elementary (K-5)

400 Sixth St. New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 (386) 424-2600

BFF Club Growing River Springs Middle recognizes that in order

for students to do well academically, they must

feel safe in the one place they spend a majority

of their time. Dawn Ambrose, office specialist,

saw the need to develop an anti-bullying

campaign which she affectionately calls “The

BFF Club” or Bully Free Fridays. Students,

faculty, staff, parents and community members can purchase a

t-shirt for $5 to help spread the wave of kindness. T-shirts are

worn every Friday by faculty, students and staff. Each week we

meet in the courtyard to promote the anti-bullying message

along with watching the participants of the wave grow. We want

this vision to become a district wide reality, and see the BFF

club pop up throughout VCS. Bullying is a nationwide problem

and we would like VCS to show we are doing our part to raise

awareness. Please consider joining us in our efforts to help

spread the wave of kindness. For more information please

contact Dawn Ambrose at River Springs Middle School.

Stacy Gotlib Principal

River Springs Middle (6-8)

900 Ohio Avenue Orange City, FL 32763 (386) 968-0011

January 2016 17

You Are Invited to Book It! Book It with the Warriors on Sunday, January 31,

at 9:00 am during the inaugural Bookin’ IT 5K. Visit

www.BookIt5k.com. Port Orange Presbyterian

Church made a donation to the Warrior

Responsibility Group (WRG) to fund the purchase of

professional attire so that the club members could

continue leading by example with impressive

behavior and equally impressive attire. Ms. Maite Porter as well as

Marcus Johnson, Craig Miller, Kurt Prosser and Leroy Gattis,

proudly lead the male students whom she and the faculty and staff

hand-selected as being strong and promising leaders among the

student body population. Local authors were invited for a full day of

questions, discussions and workshops. Authors Kristina Circelli,

Tawdra Kandle, Raine Thomas, HD Smith, Nichole Greene, Mandie

Stevens, Emily C., Heather Allen, Tiffany King, Jennifer Martinez,

and Ben Hale, spoke to hundreds of students discussing topics such

as: building your world, the writing process, the importance of

adding details, editing and marketing, overcoming self doubt, Indie

vs. traditional publishing, and blogging about books. After lunch,

aspiring and motivated student-writers were invited to be a part of

Rose Roland Principal

Silver Sands Middle (6-8)

1300 Herbert Street Port Orange, FL 32129 (386) 322-7550

Best Buddies Comes to Seabreeze Great things are happening at Seabreeze

High School! This year students are building

relationships through a new service club called

Best Buddies. The Best Buddies club pairs

special needs students with their non-disabled

student counterparts. Together they engage in

activities that foster lasting relationships within

the school and the community. Teacher

Vanessa Emerson says that Best Buddies is designed to

Joe Rawlings Principal

Seabreeze High (9-12)

2700 N. Oleander Avenue Daytona Beach, FL 32118 (386) 258-4674

create friendships that last beyond the high school years.

Since its inception some of their activities have included a

Meet and Greet, a pumpkin decorating party, a Sports Field

Day, and a special holiday dance. Seniors Katherine

Paspalakis and Lucas Boater lead this group of more than

60+ students with unbridled enthusiasm and great

compassion. To get an idea of the wonderful things that are

going with this club, you can follow them on Twitter

@BestBuddiesSHS. Best Buddies is definitely a welcomed

addition to the Seabreeze family.

writing workshops hosted by the authors.

Most importantly, Ms. Rose Roland and the entire

Warrior family would like to pay honor to Ms. Peggy Shaffer-

Roberts for the bravery and dedication with which she

battled cancer. Ms. Shaffer-Roberts passed away on

January 5. Her students were among her biggest fans, but all

who knew Peggy were immediately afforded the warmth of a

friend whom they felt they had known forever. She is missed.

She will be remembered.

18 VolusiaVibes

Volunteers Serve Thanksgiving Meals at Southwestern Middle School The DeLand Breakfast Rotary and

Southwestern Middle’s PTSO (Parent Teacher

Student Organization) loves the Thanksgiving

holiday. As active community/business

partners, they’ve channeled that love into an

opportunity to volunteer for the school and community. Along

with SMS administrators/faculty/staff and VCS district staff,

dinners were prepared and served at the school’s Annual

Family Thanksgiving. An abundance of food was available for

students and families. This included fried and traditional turkey

along with stuffing, mashed and sweet potatoes, corn and

desserts. This is an event that offers food, fun and friendship.

Family activities throughout the night included tweeting @

#Thankful, games, literacy and more. This is the 2nd year the

organizations have served Thanksgiving dinner at SMS.

Mamie Otis Principal

Southwestern Middle (6-8)

605 West New Hampshire Ave. DeLand, FL 32720 (386) 822-6815

Parents Invited to Learn About Math Spirit Elementary was excited to host a “Taco

Tuesday Math- Night” for grades K, 1 and 2 in

November. The evening consisted of a free taco

dinner and math information sessions for parents

and students to help them keep up with what’s

going on in the classroom. The children were

treated to a brush up session allowing parents to

have an opportunity to meet other parents. Everyone enjoyed

an evening filled with fun and learning. Tacos were served

followed by a presentation. The teachers at Spirit went over

grade level curriculum and shared strategies for parents to help

their children at home. Then the parents broke off into smaller

groups to allow for conversation and questions. This was a

great event for our parents at Spirit as we partner together to

increase student achievement!

Parents and students had a lot of fun at Spirit sharing their

cultural heritage in November! Parents and students brought

foods from their culture and dressed in their native clothing.

Smells from foods of different countries filled the cafeteria while

people shared their traditions and information about their native

country. Fun was had

by all at Spirit while

learning to understand

where others are from!

Shannon Young Principal

Spirit Elementary (K-5)

1500 Meadowlark Drive Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4080

South Daytona Dragons have been busy, busy, busy… First of all, kudos to our teachers, staff, and

students; they have diligently implemented our

behavior plan (based on PBIS) and it’s

working! The students at our school are working

harder to do their best in all areas. We are very

proud of them! Our referral rate has significantly decreased.

We now have Officer Tony LaBombard serving as a school

resource officer at the school. He keeps busy working with

individual students, parents, and groups. He presents lessons to

classrooms and makes home visits! He also makes scrumptious

barbequed pork! Welcome, Officer Tony!

Mrs. Nave has been busy finishing up her paperwork for

receiving the honor of being our Teacher of the Year Nominee for

2016-2017. Mrs. Nave is an innovative teacher who strives for

excellence in the classroom. She has a great sense of humor,

rapport with students, and includes technology in most lessons.

She greets students in the morning at Parent Pick-up wearing

seasonal crazy outfits, produces our yearbook and more. Whew!

Dr. B., our guidance counselor, has been busy guiding our

students through different groups, activities and clubs. The

Kiwani’s K-Kids Club (for service learning) made door decorations

for a local assisted living community. They work on mentoring

younger children at our school through lessons, peer mediation,

and more. Dr.

B has worked

on teaching

relaxation and

coping skills to

our ESE

classes. She

also started a

“Check-In and

Check-Out”

group to help

students who

are chronically

tardy.

Lynn Bruner Principal

South Daytona Elementary (K-5)

600 Elizabeth Place South Daytona, FL 32119 (386) 322-6180

January 2016 19

Spruce Creek Elementary’s Celebration Spruce Creek Elementary celebrated students at the end of the

first quarter in areas aligned with our mission statement:

Responsible Citizens, Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers. We

also recognized students nominated by the staff as a Conductor of

Excellence! A Conductor of Excellence is given to two students in

each grade level who demonstrates all of the qualities in our mission

statement. In addition, signs with the winners’ pictures are placed in courtyards

around the school! Nominees and their parents were invited to attend the

ceremony. Each quarter, we will continue to recognize students who display these

characteristics.

Rachel Hazel Principal

Spruce Creek Elementary (K-5)

642 Taylor Road Port Orange, FL 32127 (386) 322-6200

Starke Activities Not-So-Scary Stories Night was held on October

29 at Starke Elementary. Students came dressed

up as their favorite storybook character to compete

in the costume contest. They enjoyed a storybook

time, poetry and chants. They also made Halloween

arts and crafts. Finally, students received a book to

enjoy at home with their family. This event was

funded by a Future’s mini-grant.

Coach Sabrina Burnam-Hoyt created a Team Up Against

Bullying Program to build students’ self-esteem and to reduce

bullying behaviors at Edith I. Starke Elementary School. On

November 19, a Teachers versus Students Basketball Game was

organized for students in grades 3 – 5. On December 16, teachers

played T-Ball against students in prekindergarten through 2nd

grade. The teachers won both games.

Starke’s PTA had three entries in the DeLand Jaycees

Christmas Parade on December 5th: a float, the Buccaneers

Dwayne Copeland

Principal

Edith I. Starke Elementary (K-5)

730 S. Partson Ave. DeLand, FL 32720 (386) 943-9651

marching drum band and our Teacher of the Year, Ms. Guthrie.

The following week, PTA setup the Candy Cane Holiday Shop

for students to purchase gifts for their families and friends. On

December 11, the PTA hosted a Family Movie Night. The

organization served snacks to Starke families as they watched

the movie, The Polar Express, on an outdoor movie screen. The

2nd Annual Winterfest was December 17. Students enjoyed

getting their face painted, drinking hot chocolate, and making a

gingerbread house to name a few of the activities. Mr. Senez

was the biggest “hit” at the dunk booth. Students were lined up

all evening to send him into the tank.

20 VolusiaVibes

Shooting Hoops at Embry Riddle! Fifth grade recently traveled to Embry Riddle

Aeronautical University to watch an exciting

Women’s basketball match. The game began

with an incredible performance from our very

own Sugar Mill musical groups. The athletes,

coaches and audience (including other schools)

were wowed by their awesome talents! Students then enjoyed

the thrilling experience of watching the teams go head to head in

a very close game. Students clapped, sang, dance, and

cheered! It was also very enlightening and motivational for our

fifth grade students to visit a real university where they explored

the excitement of a college campus and a college lifestyle.

Thank you to Embry Riddle for hosting a motivational and fun

experience that our students won’t soon forget.

Three Sugar Mill students, Skylar Elledge, Charity Mueller,

and Jason Metger have been selected as finalists in the VCC

PTA Reflections Program “Let your Imagination Fly.” They were

recognized at the Museum of Arts and Sciences January 7 and

their artwork will be sent on to the state level judging in Orlando.

Third grade classes at Sugar Mill Elementary recently had a

States Fair. Groups of students researched one of the 50 states,

made a presentation board and wrote a report. The students

then presented their information to all of the 3rd grade classes

and invited their families to come view the projects at our

"States Fair." The kids did a fabulous job and had a fun time

learning all about the 50 states!

Paul Nehrig Principal

Sugar Mill Elementary (K-5)

1101 Charles Street Port Orange, FL 32139 (386) 322-6171

Students Grow Inclusion Garden At Sunrise Elementary, the Special Education

department has partnered up with general

education to create an inclusion garden. The goal

of our inclusion garden is to provide an

educational program that partners students with

and without disabilities to create a more inclusive

school environment. The students are able to show leadership,

responsibility, and respect and create positive relationships

among students, staff, and parents by planting, tending, and

respecting items that are grown in the garden. Growing a butterfly

garden provides students with hands-on and engaging

opportunities to learn about metamorphosis, butterfly food

preferences, and habitat needs. It also helps students develop the

skills to distinguish between male and female butterflies, the life

cycle of the butterfly, and migration patterns. In addition, a

butterfly garden can enhance classrooms through the use of

hands-on activities that will

motivate students to engage

in the learning process as

they are designing and

managing it. Our hopes is

that the garden will be

opened for all students to

enjoy by the end of January!

Josh Wycuff Principal

Sunrise Elementary (K-5)

3155 Phonetia Drive Deltona, FL 32738 (386) 575-4103

January 2016 21

Operation Christmas Child Miss Kiel and Mr. Sita’s class from Sweetwater

Elementary worked together on the Operation

Christmas Child service project. Together their

classes made over 25 boxes for kids overseas.

Last year, our boxes traveled to Chad, Africa.

This year they are heading to a new location

that will be determined. The kids thoroughly

enjoyed buying and making boxes for other children around the

world. It’s great to see 2nd and 3rd graders working together to

achieve a common goal! Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child

has delivered 69 million gift-filled shoe boxes to boys and girls in

more than 130 countries.

This is a great way for our

kids to give back to others

during the holiday season.

Students and their families

buy little gifts that fit in shoe

boxes. Once the shoe boxes

are packed, they are taken to

a location to be shipped

overseas, where a child in

another country enjoys the

generous gift from our

children. This is our 2nd year

completing this at

Sweetwater.

Tamara Hopkins Principal

Sweetwater Elementary (K-5)

5800 Victoria Gardens Blvd. Port Orange, FL 32127 (386) 322-6230

Leadership and AVID Classes Make a Difference Our Leadership Class, led by Cathy

Sherman, took part in Breast Cancer Awareness

Week by washing cars to raise money to donate

to Florida Hospital. On National Walk your Kids

to School Day, they walked our elementary

school students to school. They arrived at 6:30

am to hand out gifts to our parents on National

Parent Involvement Day. They also assisted at the Business

Partners/Volunteer Breakfast, and the sixth grade “Let Us Give

Thanks” luncheon. Raymond Sanchez said, “Leadership is a

commitment, a full time job. The community relies on the class

to volunteer and we do not fail to lend a helping hand. But

mainly, leadership is like a family where we can trust one

another while considering the various views of everyone in the

room and build lasting relationships between classmates.”

Ron Pagano Principal

T. DeWitt Taylor Middle-High (6-12)

100 E. Washington Avenue Pierson, FL 32180 (386) 749-6800

Community Enjoys Winterfest On December 12, Timbercrest Elementary

celebrated its annual Winterfest

event. Winterfest is a time for teachers,

families, and friends to participate in games and

activities. Some of these included free carnival

games, inflatables, bungees, bubble soccer,

face painting, decorating stockings and

hats. There was even a pony ride for students to participate

in! The big hit of the day was getting a chance to spend a few

minutes with Santa. The Timbercrest choir and Hot Shots

Recorder Club performed. Winterfest was an opportunity for

the families of Timbercrest and the Deltona community to enjoy

a day full of family fun.

Craig Zablo Principal

Timbercrest Elementary (K-5)

2401 Eustace Avenue Deltona, FL 32725 (386) 575-4221

Taylor’s AVID program, led by Ian Jackson, was recently asked

to become an inaugural class of AVID Schoolwide Sites of

Distinction because of its implementation and efforts to move

WICOR schoolwide. This distinction represents less than 10%

of all AVID middle and high schools worldwide. Lillian Torres a

12th grader, said it best,

“People come into our lives

for a reason, bringing

something we must learn.

We are led to those, who

help us most, to grow, if we

let them. I don’t know if this

is true, but what I do know

is I’m who I am today

because I knew Ian

Jackson, my AVID teacher.”

22 VolusiaVibes

Fire Safety Day The Daytona Beach Precise Professional

Firefighters and the International Association of

Black Professional Firefighters teamed up with

Turie T. Small to facilitate an amazing Fire

Safety Day program for students in fourth and

fifth grade. Prior to the event, all students in

grades K-5 learned about E.D.I.T.H. (Exit Drills

in the Home) during art class and created an emergency exit

plan for their home. From this, students in fourth and fifth

grade participated in an E.D.I.T.H. poster contest. The top

three posters were selected by the I.A.B.P.F.F. and the winners

were presented with a gift card and certificate. On the day of

the program, firefighters from all over the nation joined the

Daytona Beach firefighters to present a program on “Fire Won’t

Wait, Plan Your Escape.” Firefighters discussed E.D.I.T.H. and

explained the firefighters’ gear as the principal and school

counselor modeled the gear. After the program, students

gathered on the field for various fire safety centers/activities

such as a fire safety house, Smokey the Bear, a stop, drop,

and roll station, how to use a fire extinguisher, and a ride on the

fire truck ladder. It was an outstanding learning experience for

our students and community!

Stephen C. Hinson Principal

Turie T. Small Elementary (K-5)

800 South Street Daytona Beach, FL 32114 (386) 258-4675

University Develops Professional Development Model Doug Swayze has made an immediate impact

since coming to University High School. Mr.

Swayze joined the Titan administrative team in

September as an assistant principal and has

been instrumental in starting a comprehensive

Early Release Professional Development

(ERPD) model for teachers by teachers at University High.

Twenty-seven School Improvement Plan (SIP) aligned

ERPD courses are offered. Teachers receive a Passport with

each course listed and a space for the instructor to initial or

stamp attendance and participation. Instructors are UHS faculty

who volunteered to teach courses to their peers.

The courses are divided into content clusters: Behavior,

Technology, Testing, Organizational Skills, Literacy,

Collaboration, and Special Needs.

Teachers have had positive comments about the format

and feel good about choosing their own professional

development. Each instructional staff member selects two

courses from those offered on each ERPD session for a total of

16 courses. One course offered is an independent study on

DPP maintenance and allows for each teacher to utilize EPRD

time to work on their DPP.

In-service points will be awarded if the criteria are met.

Points are awarded for successful course completion defined

as positive class participation, implementation of a course

strategy, and documented evaluation of the strategies

effectiveness.

Course work and documentation generated was utilized by

the Leadership Team to determine the effectiveness of the SIP

strategies. Currently 165 teachers have participated in three

ERPD sessions. “Being new to the University High School

family, I have been incredibly impressed with the willingness of

our instructional leaders to teach courses and the staff for

being so eager and open to learn new things. They set an

incredible example for their students,” said Swayze.

Julian Jones Principal

University High (9-12)

1000 W. Rhode Island Ave. Orange City, FL 32763 (386) 968-0013

January 2016 23

Port Orange eLearning East Students Make a Difference at Christmas Share a blessing. Be blessed. Make a

difference. Values we want all our children to

possess. Each year eLearning East’s lab

manager, Debby Calaway, at Atlantic High

School puts up a Christmas tree and decorates

it with ornaments, lights and angels for Salvation

Army. The number of angels on the tree grows every year.

This is because every year her students get so excited,

wanting to buy new toys for complete strangers. There are

some horrible events occurring in students’ lives, including

these eLearning students, but thankfully, there are ways to

make the world a better place. This year 35 angels were on the

tree. Thirty of those angels were fulfilled with toys from the

students alone. These Volusia County teens wanted to make a

difference in a child’s life. They not only bought gifts; some

went to Salvation Army and helped wrap, and others used their

cars to deliver them. This spirit of giving and love spills over to

the classroom and the community. Volusia Online Learning is

so proud of our eLearning students and the generosity they

show every year. Thanks to supporters of The Salvation

Army’s Angel Tree program, thousands of American children

will receive clothes or toys under their tree each year. We are

proud that these students will carry on this tradition for

generations to come.

Volusia Online (K-12)

New Year, New Mantra Volusia Pines Elementary has kicked off the year

with a mantra of Kindness, not only for individual

students but as a campus wide initiative. The

reason for the change is simple: intentional acts of

kindness benefit all of us, no matter our grade,

age nor gender. By focusing solely on kids, we

miss out on a tremendous opportunity for

increased self-awareness as well as personal and

professional growth. By acknowledging that “we’re all in this

together” and that all of us can improve our kindness skills, we

allow the vulnerability that makes us relatable role models for

students.

A “challenge checklist” will help everyone track acts of

kindness. Each person who completes 20 or more acts, will be

entered into a prize drawing. We will also be having a unity,

peace, love and kindness day. Panthers also wear orange the

last Wednesday of each month to show that Unity is Power.

Literature will be shared, with corresponding activities to learn

what it means to be kind to others, incorporating both academics

and social skills to create a culture of kindness in our school,

hoping that students take it beyond the campus into the

community.

Julie Gordon Principal

Volusia Pines Elementary (K-5)

500 E. Kicklighter Road Lake Helen, FL 32744 (386) 575-4125

Volusia County School’s 2017 Teacher of the Year will be

announced at a gala banquet to be held Friday, February 12, at

the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanwalk Resort. The Teacher of

the Year celebration is hosted by FUTURES Foundation for

Volusia County Schools and the presenting sponsor is Halifax

Health.

The winner is selected through an application

process. Each of Volusia’s schools nominates a teacher (see

complete list of names below) who completes an application to

vie for the district title. A sub-committee narrows the field from

70 nominees to 15 semi-finalists. The full committee, comprised

of parents, business owners, community members, teachers

and administrators, then reads each of the semi-finalist’s

applications, selecting the five

finalists. Another sub-committee

ranks each finalist after

observing them in their

classrooms and conducting

individual interviews. The

winner’s name is kept

confidential until the

announcement at the banquet.

The district Teacher of the

Year will be nominated for the

state Teacher of the Year

program and will serve as

Volusia’s representative of quality

education until 2017. The current

TOTY (continued from page 1)

J. Susy Peterson Coordinator/

2016 Teacher of the Year Chris Dowdell DeLand High

24 VolusiaVibes

2015-16 Key Communicators Thank you to our Key Communicators who share stories and information about all the great things happening

in their schools and across the school district.

Callista O’Connell

Placement Specialist

Alternative Education

Dawn Trullinger

Paraprofessional

Blue Lake Elementary

Linda Huger, Ed. S.

Teacher on Assignment

Campbell Middle

Jacqueline Ouellette

Media Specialist

Champion Elementary

Karen Beattie, Ed. D.

Principal

Chisholm Elementary

Heather Flores

Office Specialist

Citrus Grove Elementary

Jenn Holmgreen

Assistant Principal

Coronado Beach Elementary

Marci Lockamy

Assistant Principal

Creekside Middle

Karen Potter

Teacher

Cypress Creek Elementary

Sara Schnell

Assistant Principal

DeBary Elementary

Aaron Goldy

Activity Director

DeLand High

Lisa Leyshon

Teacher

DeLand Middle

Jackie Hirsch

Activities Director

Deltona High

Linda Stuart

Parent Liaison

Deltona Lakes Elementary

Carri Baker

Media Specialist

Deltona Middle

Amanda Specht

Teacher

Discovery Elementary

Michelle Lindsey

Media Specialist

Edgewater Public

Erin Gaver

Activities Director

Atlantic High

Vicki Wagenhouser

Media Specialist

Forest Lake Elementary

Leigh Hoover

Teacher

Freedom Elementary

Jody Adkins

Media Specialist

Friendship Elementary

Teresa Tegge

Office Specialist

Galaxy Middle

Lisa Kraus

Office Specialist

George Marks Elementary

Iris R. Abreu

Parent Liaison

Enterprise Elementary

January 2016 25

Elaine Beeghly

Assistant Principal

Heritage Middle

Jacquese Slocum

Principal Intern

Heritage Middle

Dena Nottingham

Teacher

Hinson Middle

R.T. Myers

Principal

Holly Hill School

Anne Tredent

Office Specialist

R. J. Longstreet Elementary

Denise Blanchet

Office Specialist

Manatee Cove Elementary

Katy Fay

Media Specialist

Horizon Elementary

Nancy Flynn

Media Specialist

Indian River Elementary

Stephanie Workman

Coordinator

Legacy Scholars

Jill Rogers

Activities Director

Mainland High

Les McLean

Principal Intern

Mainland High

Tim MacHardy

Teacher

McInnis Elementary

Kim Wall

Office Specialist

New Smyrna Beach High

Andrea M. Hall

Assistant Principal

Orange City Elementary

Tracey Mikos

Media Specialist

Ormond Beach Elementary

Tracia Culver

Assistant Principal

Ormond Beach Middle

Jody Whittley

Assistant Principal

Ortona Elementary

Ruth McArdle

Office Specialist

Osceola Elementary

Heidi Corchado

Media Specialist

Osteen Elementary

Kristi Booth

Teacher

Palm Terrace Elementary

Meredith Gardner

Teacher

Pathways Elementary

Catherine Cortes

Academic Coach

Pierson Elementary

Amy Carey

Teacher

New Smyrna Beach Middle

Tiffanee Cook Grant

Assistant Principal

Manatee Cove Elementary

Kathy Carman

Principal’s Secretary

Pine Trail Elementary

Christine Baird

Assistant Principal

Port Orange Elementary

Christy Salvatico

Paraprofessional

Pride Elementary

Tara Geiger

Assistant Principal

Read-Pattillo Elementary

Sharon Love

Behavior Specialist

River Springs Middle

Lyn Parker

Paraprofessional

Pine Ridge High

26 VolusiaVibes

Tikija Picott

Reading Coach

Seabreeze High

Kristina Cromer

Media Specialist

Silver Sands Middle

Sandi Cicero

Office Specialist

South Daytona Elementary

Amy Harms

Media Specialist

South Daytona Elementary

Dixie Larsen

Paraprofessional

Spirit Elementary

Lia Courtney

Office Specialist

Spruce Creek Elementary

Beverly Mallory

Assistant Principal

Spruce Creek High

Sarah Sieg

Media Specialist

Starke Elementary

Dawn Foster

Media Specialist

Sugar Mill Elementary

Kim Cruz

Office Specialist

Sunrise Elementary

Kristina Kania

Assistant Principal

Sunrise Elementary

Megan Martens

Teacher

Sweetwater Elementary

Serene Henderson

Academic Coach

Taylor Middle-High

Heather Iannarelli

Assistant Principal

Tomoka Elementary

Brenda Breter

Media Specialist

Turie T. Small Elementary

Holly Bailey

Assistant Principal

Turie T. Small Elementary

Frank Martello

TOA/Administration

University High

Jodi Lewitt

Teacher

Volusia Pines Elementary

Amy Blowers

Instruction & Curriculum Specialist

Volusia Online Learning

Krystle Frazier

EDEP Site Facilitator

Westside Elementary

Cyd Snider

Office Specialist

Woodward Avenue

Elementary

Colleen Winburn

Office Specialist

Southwestern Middle

Kathy Lanicci

Teacher

Timbercrest Elementary