PSI High Students Create Original Play Through Foundation Grant

PSI High's 9th and 10th-grade students recently performed an original Empathy Play they wrote, produced, and directed themselves after earning a $2,500 grant from The Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools to present a culminating showcase at a local middle school.

Their production wove together themes based on support, kindness, and understanding others, and invited their middle school audience to have meaningful reflection and dialogue after the performance. As part of the project’s mission to extend kindness beyond the stage, the high schoolers also designed and shared kindness‑themed buttons and bracelets with attendees.

The experience proved deeply rewarding for the student creators, who strengthened their skills in collaboration and empathy, and middle school audience members reflected that the play’s themes offered powerful lessons they will carry forward.

Well done, PSI High!

Crooms Academy's Seniors "Lock In" their Memories

Seniors at Crooms Academy are being celebrated this week with a new tradition, “Locking in the Memories.”

As part of the activity, seniors painted personalized padlocks and attached them to a designated section of fencing near the railroad. The space has been set aside for Crooms Academy and Crooms AoIT graduates, giving students a way to leave a lasting piece of themselves on campus.

Each lock reflects the memories and experiences that defined their time at Crooms, creating a growing display that future classes will add to for years to come.

Midway Elementary Presents: Finding Nemo Jr.

Midway Elementary School of the Arts brought the stage to life with a vibrant production of Finding Nemo, Jr., showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of its students. This truly student-run performance was made possible with the guidance and support of teachers and staff, highlighting the teamwork and creativity that define the school’s arts program.

From the students working behind the scenes in production and stage management to the actors and actresses who delivered engaging and heartfelt performances, every detail reflected their hard work and passion.

A cherished tradition, the school also welcomed members of the community to enjoy a delicious meal served by students during the show, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all in attendance. The entire experience was a beautiful reflection of collaboration, creativity, and talent. Through this wonderful production, Midway students truly exemplified “Midway Magic.” We could not be more proud of these students and their dedicated educators and staff members.

Earth Day at Lawton Elementary

Families recently came together to celebrate Earth Day at the LESA Garden, supporting a growing space that offers hands-on learning experiences for students.

The event welcomed many families whose participation helps the garden continue to thrive and expand as an educational resource for both students and teachers.

We love to see the our students caring for their environment!

Step Into the Spotlight with Millennium Middle School's Dance Program!

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be part of a dance team that competes at the state and regional level or to express yourself through movement in a fun, creative class? Millennium Middle School’s Dance Program offers Advanced Dance, Fusion, Dance Team, Falcon Dance Company, and Dance Tech classes for every student, whether competitive or recreational.

Hear from our dancers as they share how dance shapes their personality, challenges them to grow, and builds teamwork and school spirit. From mastering new skills to supporting each other on and off the stage, these students are passionate, dedicated, and having fun while doing it.

Watch the Millennium's Classroom Close-up to see the magic of dance in action!

Spectrum A+ Teacher: Heathrow Elementary's Ashlyn Peterson

Fifth-grade teacher Ashlyn Petersen at Heathrow Elementary School is being recognized as a Spectrum A+ Teacher for creating a classroom where students are actively engaged, collaborating, and learning from one another.

A graduate of Seminole County Public Schools, Petersen was inspired to pursue teaching by her own kindergarten teacher. Now in her sixth year, she brings that full-circle experience into her classroom each day.

Her student-centered approach encourages fifth-graders to take an active role in their learning, particularly in English language arts and social studies. Rather than leading from the front, Petersen prioritizes collaboration and discussion among her students.

“I don’t like a classroom where I’m the one talking the entire time,” Petersen says. “I like seeing the kids really in it, learning with each other.” For Petersen, the most meaningful part of teaching is seeing her students grow and succeed.

“I think my favorite part is when a kid reaches a goal, big or small, and I can see their smile,” she says. “Helping them grow into the people they want to be is just awesome.”

Grateful for the opportunity to teach in the same district where she once was a student, Petersen embraces each day with enthusiasm.

“I’m honored to have this job,” she adds. “Every day I get to come in, help them learn, and honestly, this is fun. This is my life. I love it.”

Dedicated educators who are deeply committed to student success are what make Seminole County Public Schools such a strong district. Thank you, Ms. Peterson, for everything you do for your students and your school community. You definitely deserve an A+!

Watch Ms. Peterson's Spectrum A+ Interview!

Oviedo High's Agriculture Students' Historical Achievement

History has been made at Oviedo High School. Agriculture students have become the first in Seminole County Public Schools history to earn the AEST Ag Associate Certification, marking a significant milestone for the program.

This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of students, the leadership of their teacher, and the strength of industry-aligned coursework that prepares learners for real-world opportunities in agriculture and beyond.

With this accomplishment, the Oviedo Lions are helping pave the way for the future of agriculture, one certification at a time. Great work, Lions!

Lake Mary Elementary's Topping-Off Ceremony

Exciting progress is underway at Lake Mary Elementary School as the historic campus, now over 100 years old, continues its renovation and construction project.

Today, the school celebrated a major milestone with a topping-off ceremony, a tradition marking the placement of one of the final structural beams. Board members, staff, and students participated by signing a commemorative beam that will become a permanent part of the new building, connecting the school’s rich history with its future.

Following the ceremony, construction workers were honored for their dedication with a meal provided by Red Apple Dining.

The event served as a meaningful moment for the school community, celebrating both a century of history and the exciting transformation ahead.

Great things are in store for Lake Mary Elementary!

Calling All Dividend Volunteers

Living On My Own, a financial literacy program presented in collaboration with our partners at UF/IFAS Extension Seminole County, is being presented this spring at six area middle and high schools. We are grateful for the support of our Dividends, community partners, and staff who assist with hosting these events.

Living On My Own is a hands-on, real-life simulation where students learn about money management and consumer choices that can impact their future. In this activity, students role-play with an assigned 25-year-old identity (i.e. married or single, children, or without children), an occupation, and a monthly income. Students visit tables and make spending decisions on transportation, housing, insurance, rent/mortgage, utilities, etc. Stations for the simulation represent real life businesses, and volunteers assist students in understanding the costs involved and making informed choices. Please select one of the following options to register for your two-hour volunteer timeslot.

• Indian Trails MS – Wednesday, 4/29/2026 – Thursday, 4/30/2026

Oviedo Woman's Club's Philanthropic Award Ceremony

Last Friday evening, the Oviedo Woman's Club held their Philanthropic Awards Ceremony, a special celebration awarding $28,000 students in college and continuing education scholarships as well as teacher grants that totaled almost $18,000. What an incredible giveback to the community!

Special Scholarships included:

Advent Health: Christopher Stronko

Advent Health: Andrew Price

Fairwinds: Rieley Vu

Tim Moran: Natalie Boo

Linda Vail Memorial Scholarship: Taylor Conley

Continuing Education Scholarships: 9 students

Hagerty High School: 5 students

Oviedo High School: 5 students

We awarded 67 teacher grants to educators from the eleven schools in the Hagerty High School/Oviedo High School area.

37 Elementary School teachers

17 Middle School teachers

13 High School teachers

Science Fair Inspiration Awards: 

Sylvia Davis, Jackson Heights Middle School

Zoey Hempel, Lawton Chiles Middle School

PEAK Teacher Awards: (Professional Educator - Accomplished and Kind)

Melissa Vaccaro, Evans Elementary School

Gina Haddox, Lawton Chiles Middle School

Samantha (Sammi) Ollweiler, Hagerty High School

This is Keaton Schreiner's 12th year as a proud SCPS principal, currently serving at Wekiva Elementary.

When asked about his favorite part of being a principal, he shared, "Providing a safe and positive learning environment for everyone."

Interesting fact about Principal Schreiner: he's a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and an Intermediate Salsa Dancer.



Principal Schreiner, thank you for your steady guidance and commitment to making a meaningful impact on students, staff, and families.

SCPS Now Hiring!

SCPS is seeking teachers to join one of Florida’s top-performing public school districts. We are looking for external applicants who meet eligibility requirements to teach in Florida, as well as current SCPS staff not currently serving in a teaching role, including substitutes and long-term substitutes.

Location:

Saturday, May 2, 2026

9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m

Lake Brantley High School Auditorium

991 Sand Lake Road

Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

Pre-registration is required for this event, please visit the career fair website to register.

If you know someone who may be interested in teaching with Seminole County Public Schools, please share this opportunity with them. If you have Questions, please contact careerfair@scps.k12.fl.us.

At Seminole County Public Schools, we want to help every student find their passion and explore their interests in an academic journey that is uniquely their own. Our Controlled Open Enrollment window is open from now through May 15, 2026. This allows students from other counties or other areas within Seminole County to apply to attend a school outside of their zone. Find Your Fit today at www.scps.us/SAPA

The SCPS VPK application is open for the 2026-2027 school year. To be eligible for VPK, a child must be four years of age by September 1, 2026. SCPS VPK offers a high-quality program designed to prepare students to enter Kindergarten ready to learn! Full-day and half-day programs are available. For more information, visit the SCPS VPK website.

2026-2027 Kindergarten Registration

The Kindergarten application period for the 2026-2027 School Year at SCPS locations is currently open! For more information please visit the enrollment page on the SCPS website.

Florida Prepaid Open Enrollment is Here – Start Saving Smarter

Florida Prepaid Open Enrollment is happening now with prices starting at just $29/month. Families who open a new Florida Prepaid Plan between April 1 and April 30 are eligible to receive a $50 account contribution. Use code SEMINOLE2026. 

Explore plans today!

Graduating SCPS Seniors - Free Summer College Class Opportunity at Seminole State

Graduating SCPS Seniors - Free Summer College Class Opportunity at Seminole State

SCPS graduating seniors planning to attend Seminole State in the fall are invited to get a jumpstart on their college education by taking two classes this summer with no out-of-pocket costs during the Summer B Session from June 24-Aug. 5. The deadline to submit an interest form, apply for admission and submit the 2025-26 FAFSA is June 4.

The Summer Bridge program helps first-time-in-college students easily transition to college and develop crucial skills for success.

No matter whether a student plans to go all the way to a bachelor's degree, use a university transfer pathway such as DirectConnect to UCF®, or is just trying to see if college is right for them, the Summer Bridge program can help set them on the right path!

To learn more, sign up to attend a virtual information session or email summerbridge@seminolestate.edu.

Seminole County Virtual School Offering Behind the Wheel Driver's Training Course - Summer 2026

Seminole County Virtual School is offering Driver Education this summer, giving students the opportunity to build essential skills and prepare for the road ahead.

As a reminder, Florida now requires teens to complete a driver education course to earn their Learner’s License. This program helps students meet that requirement while gaining valuable knowledge and experience.

The course includes behind-the-wheel training in partnership with the Florida Safety Council and allows students to earn 0.5 high school elective credit. Participants will also prepare for the Class E Knowledge Exam and earn both DETS and TLSAE certifications.

The program is tuition-free for SCVS public school students, making it an accessible option for those ready to take the first step toward driving with confidence.

To learn more and enroll, visit: https://www.scvs.us/summerdrivereducation

Attention Class of 2026: The FAFSA Application is Now Open!

Class of 2026, a new year brings new opportunities and fresh beginnings. Start 2026 by investing in your future. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), now open, and take the next step toward your goals.



Filling out the FAFSA is an important step in exploring federal, state, and institutional financial aid options for college, career school, or trade programs.



We encourage all seniors to stay proactive this season. Start your FAFSA application today and take the first steps toward your post-secondary goals.

Please visit https://studentaid.gov/ to access the 2026-2027 FAFSA application!

Understanding FFAA vs. FAFSA

We want to remind students and families about the difference between the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).


• FFAA is used to apply for state financial aid, including the Bright Futures Scholarship.
• FAFSA is completed for federal financial resources, such as grants and loans.


Important: If you are applying for Bright Futures, you must submit your application through the FFAA website floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org.

Class of 2026: Show us the Money!

Hey Seniors! Have you earned scholarship money for college? We want to celebrate your hard work and achievements! Make sure Seminole County Public Schools knows about your scholarships by completing the scholarship reporting form.

Sharing your scholarship awards helps us recognize your accomplishments and highlight the incredible success of our graduating students.

Don’t miss the chance to have your achievements celebrated, let us know about your scholarships today!

Seminole County Citizen's Academy

Are you interested in learning about how county government works? You're invited to join Seminole County's Citizen's Academy! A series of department specific open house events that provides Seminole county residents a look behind the scenes.

For more information, please visit Seminolecountyfl.gov/academy.

SCPS Retired Educator:

Deborah Partridge

Deborah Partridge didn’t begin her career in a classroom, but in many ways, she was always teaching.

After years in business management, Dr. Partridge realized her true passion wasn’t management, but helping others learn and grow. Determined to follow that calling, she made a bold career shift.

Balancing full-time work with night and weekend classes, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Nova University in 1987. A decade into her teaching career, she continued her education, earning a master’s degree in Elementary Education from UCF in 1998, followed by a doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 2007.

Her teaching career spanned decades and left a lasting impact. Dr. Partridge spent 22 years teaching first grade at Pine Crest Elementary and also taught both after-school and summer programs across multiple grade levels. She later taught for seven years at Hamilton Elementary, working under a county grant as a reading intervention specialist. Even after retiring in 2019, her dedication to education continued, teaching middle school at a private school and returning to Hamilton for another year as a reading interventionist.

Dr. Partridge also shaped future educators, teaching graduate courses at UCF and welcoming more than a dozen interns into her classroom. Passionate about mentorship, she even team-taught with a beginning teacher and supported numerous National Board candidates. Her classroom was not just a place for children to learn, it was a training ground for educators.

As an innovator and leader, she piloted an ESOL program, a K–1 transitional classroom, and an E-Readers program. Dr. Partridge served as a team leader and attended technology conventions that helped her secure her school’s first automation grant. Over the years, she wrote and received multiple grants, served on the county writing curriculum committee, and represented teachers on the SCPS advisory board.

Her excellence did not go unnoticed. Dr. Partridge earned numerous honors, including Teacher of the Year at Pine Crest Elementary, Seminole County Teacher of the Year, Sanford Walmart Teacher of the Year, and recognition from local media and professional organizations, including being named the Sanford Seminole County Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Month twice. She was also a Florida Educators Association state finalist and a distinguished alumna of Seminole State College, where she delivered a commencement speech.

Beyond the classroom, her commitment to service runs deep. Dr. Partridge has tutored countless students, presented at state conferences on behavior management, and served as a motivational speaker for schools. A lifelong member of Beta Sigma Phi, she has held every office and was crowned Seminole County Queen, continuing her dedication to community service. Today, she serves as president of the Retired Educators of Seminole County, championing the ongoing contributions of fellow educators.

Her faith and creativity also play a central role in her life. Active in her church, she has served as clerk, Sunday school teacher, and founder of the drama ministry, writing two full-length plays, one of which toured throughout Central Florida.

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Partridge takes great pride in the journey and in her family. She and her husband Mitch share a love of travel, motorcycle rides, and sporting events, with a memorable trip to Kenya among one of the favorites. Together, they cherish time with their two sons and grandchildren, their extended family and friends, and their beloved dog, Dingo.

Her life’s work reflects a simple truth: when passion meets purpose, the impact can span generations.

SCPS would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Partridge. The impact you've left on our district will never be forgotten.