Stenstrom Elementary Teams Up with IKEA to Kick Off the Year in Style

Stenstrom Elementary School started the 2025–2026 school year with an exciting new partnership with IKEA Orlando.

The connection began when a Stenstrom parent, who also works at IKEA, saw an opportunity to bring the two communities together. A strong supporter of Stenstrom's MicroSociety program, the parent reached out to explore how IKEA could contribute to the school’s success. After discussing the school’s needs, IKEA stepped in to help.

This is a perfect example of how building connections can have a significant impact, even when it starts with a single conversation. As Stenstrom continues to build strong relationships with families and community partners, this collaboration with IKEA Orlando is just the beginning. Stenstrom is grateful for the support and excited for what this new school year holds.

Idyllwilde Elementary Gets Wacky for Science 

Kindergartners in Mrs. Gray’s class experienced their very first "Wacky Wednesday Science." Students learned about the scientific method and practiced making predictions, just like real scientists.

Their very first experiment? The Wiggly Worm, a fun, hands-on activity that got everyone thinking, guessing, and giggling!

Way to go, little scientists!

Layer's Fifth Graders Put their Brains to Work

In preparation for math and science lessons this year in fifth grade, Mrs. Dwyer, a fifth-grade teacher at Layer Elementary, wanted to ensure their students' brains were ready.

To get their wheels turning, the class discussed the various functions of the brain's numerous parts. Following this discussion…wait for it…they made brains! The prefrontal cortex, the cerebrum, the cerebellum, the hippocampus, and the amygdala.

It sounds like Layer Elementary schoolers will be putting their brains to good use this school year. Go Lynx!

Millennium Students Solve a Mysterious Crime with Science

Science is officially in action! Ms. Wheeler’s 8th graders at Millennium Middle School were fully engaged as they explored the natural world through their five senses in their “Scene of the Crime” activity. They made observations, gathered clues, and used the scientific method.

We’re looking forward to seeing the exciting discoveries at Millennium this year!

Lake Howell's Barbering Program Launches Student Toward Licensure

We’re proud to congratulate a recent Lake Howell High School graduate, Enrique Lozano, for reaching an incredible milestone. Following commencement this past May, he is one of the first students in our district to earn enough hours to sit for the Florida Restricted Barbering License exam!

Through hard work, focus, and dedication, Enrique completed the training hours required to take the exam. Under the guidance and instruction of the barbering instructor at Lake Howell and former Paul Mitchell educator, Mrs. Rayna Bradley, Enrique received hands-on cutting experience and real-world training. Enrique's success is a perfect example of how Seminole County Public Schools is providing career-readiness starting right in the classroom.

Congratulations Enrique! We wish you the very best in all of your future endeavors, and good luck on the Restricted Barbering Exam!

Esteemed Oviedo High Teacher Receives 2025-2026 Fulbright Teacher Exchange Award

Heather MacCracken, an educator at Oviedo High School, has been awarded a prestigious Fulbright Teacher Exchange award for the 2025–2026 cycle by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board!

Heather is one of approximately 400 distinguished teachers and administrators from across the United States selected each year to participate in the Fulbright Teacher Exchanges. These educators contribute to building global understanding through education.

This exceptional opportunity reflects the commitment Heather has shown to educational excellence. Through the Fulbright program, she will represent Seminole County Public Schools on a global stage.

SCPS would like to congratulate Heather for earning this distinguished honor. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication she brings to her students and school community every day. We are proud to celebrate her success!

Principal Claudomy Pierre has been an SCPS principal for two years, currently serving at Jackson Heights Middle School! When asked about his favorite part of being a principal, he replied, "One of the best aspects of being a middle school principal is witnessing our students uncover their passions and develop into confident individuals. The joy on their faces when they reach a goal or grasp a new idea is truly special. I also value the connections I form with students, teachers, and families as we collaborate to foster a nurturing and motivating learning atmosphere. Every day presents fresh challenges and triumphs, and I feel fortunate to be involved in their journey."

A surprising fact about Principal Pierre, he is a huge Harry Potter fan! He used to go to the book release events and stand in line with other fans, eagerly waiting to grab the latest edition of the Harry Potter series.

Thank you, Principal Pierre, for your dedication to serving our students here in Seminole County. We truly appreciate your leadership, and we hope you have an amazing school year!

Your Wish is My Command: One Florida Bank Holds Supply Drive for Longwood Elementary School

These past few weeks, we have seen so many community members and SCPS Partners in Education come together to beautify our campuses, stock our food pantries, and donate necessary school supplies for students in need in preparation for the new school year.

We are thrilled to recognize One Florida Bank of Longwood as a valued Partner in Education! Their recent supply drive for Longwood Elementary School teachers, tailored specifically to teacher wish lists, is a shining example of community care in action.

Thank you to the team at One Florida Bank for your generosity and commitment to supporting education. Your thoughtful contributions help ensure our teachers have the tools they need to create inspiring learning environments. We are truly grateful to live and work in a community that shows up for our schools. Thank you, One Florida Bank, for making a difference!

Seminole State College Awards 95 Year Old Sanford Resident with Honorary GED

Zillersteen Bellamy, a 95-year-old resident of Sanford, has recently made history as the first person to receive an honorary GED from Seminole State College.

Congratulations, Ms. Zillersteen! Thank you for inspiring us to never give up on our dreams!

Addition Financial's Renovate To Educate Program Selects Millennium Middle School's Needs Pantry for Beautification

Millennium Middle School was selected as this year’s Seminole County winner of the Renovate to Educate grant from Addition Financial!

Every year, Addition Financial partners with Seminole State College Interior Design students to renovate a classroom or educational space in local counties. This year, Millennium Middle School received an incredible redesign of their needs pantry, which provides hygiene items and food for students in need at their school. 

We are grateful for the support of our incredible community partners, including Addition Financial and Seminole State College. These are the types of partnerships that help move the needle for students facing challenges few of us can imagine.

Enjoy this video that captures the emotional reveal.