Sanford Middle School Students Learn How Local Law Enforcement Protect and Serve

Our STEM Research students at Sanford Middle School had an incredible opportunity to learn from the Sanford Police Department as officers demonstrated how they use technology to help keep our community safe.

Students witnessed firsthand how this technology, along with problem-solving, and teamwork come together in real-world scenarios. The experience brought classroom learning to life and helped students make meaningful connections to future careers in public safety, engineering, and beyond.

We are truly grateful to the Sanford Police Department for taking the time to inspire our Warriors, and for showing how innovation plays a vital role in serving our community every day.

Hamilton Elementary's Fourth Graders Make Beautiful Music

Our fourth graders at Hamilton Elementary recently struck a chord in music class! After learning about sound energy, they engineered their own string instruments, exploring creativity, design, and science through music.

It is truly amazing to see our students express themselves through the art of music. Great job, Hamilton!

Lake Howell High's Exciting Pink Out Obstacle Challenge

As a part of this year’s Pink Out Games at Lake Howell High, they celebrated with a new event: the Teacher/Admin Inflatable Obstacle Challenge!

Staff members competed head-to-head on an inflatable obstacle course in a fun, spirited competition to support breast cancer awareness. This lighthearted challenge brought our school community together for a good cause and adds a unique twist to the Pink Out tradition. Students and staff are encouraged to wear pink, show their support, and cheer on their favorite team. Go Silverhawks!

Lake Mary Elementary's Kindergarten Mathematicians are Hard at Work

In Ms. Caslow’s Kindergarten class, at Lake Mary Elementary, students are building a strong foundation in math by learning to represent problems in multiple ways. Through engaging, hands-on activities, her young learners practiced matching objects one-to-one to compare quantities of up to 10.

This approach helps students deepen their understanding of number sense while encouraging them to think critically and explore different problem-solving strategies. It’s exciting to see these early mathematicians developing key skills that will support their learning for years to come.

Looks like these mathematicians are preparing for tax season! Awesome job, Lake Mary Elementary!

Sanford Middle School's Marine Biology Program

This week, SCPS takes a look at Sanford Middle School's Marine Biology program!

SCPS Mourns the Loss of Three Beloved Students

This week, some of our school communities have faced tragic loss, and many are feeling the impact deeply. During this difficult time, we want to remind our students and families that support is available for anyone who may need it. As a school community, we want every student to know that they are never alone and that help is always available.

Each of our campuses has compassionate, trained mental health professionals who are either on site or available to provide support, guidance, and care whenever it is needed. The Department of School Safety and Security also plays an important role in that support network, not only ensuring physical safety but also serving as a trusted resource for students and families. Our School Resource Deputies and Officers are available to listen, connect students with help, and foster a safe and caring environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

In addition to on-campus resources, help is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the following platforms:

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate, free, and confidential support.
• Hope Florida: Call 833-GET-HOPE (438-4673).
• 2-1-1: Dial for local support and mobile crisis assistance.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor.
• Speak Out Hotline: Anonymous reporting at 1-800-423-TIPS.
• P3 Campus App: Anonymous reporting available through the app.
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We encourage families to continue having open conversations with their students about how they are feeling and where they may be struggling. Please remind them that it is okay to reach out for help. Additional resources to support conversations about mental health are available by visiting the Seminole County Public Schools - Parent Resources.

Please take a moment to view this flyer, which contains important information and support resources, HERE.

SCPS Community Ambassadors Program Explores the Nuances of Team Ops

Today, the SCPS Community Ambassadors program received a behind-the-scenes look at the people and departments that keep our schools running smoothly. During our most recent meeting, ambassadors had the opportunity to learn about the Operations Department and tour the district’s Transportation and Facilities departments.

The ambassadors gained insight into the essential services that support students and staff every day, from school bus routing and vehicle maintenance, to building upkeep and logistical planning.

In light of the recent events that have deeply affected the Winter Springs High School community, Dr. Mullins, Director of Facilities, asked everyone to pause for a brief moment of silence. At the conclusion of the meeting, the ambassadors came together for a special photo to express their condolences, and support for the SCPS community.

The experience offered a greater appreciation for the unspoken-heroes that work to keep our schools functioning effectively. Team Ops, thank you for all that you do!

Hosting a toy drive within your organization fosters unity and provides a sense of purpose as you work together to make a difference in the life of a child. We’ll help kick-off your organization’s drive, together we can spread the word on social media and feature your organization during the holiday season! Once completed, we will stop by for a hassle-free pick up or schedule a time for you and your team to drop off at the Giving Tree Holiday Headquarters at our Educational Support Center and celebrate with a photo opportunity.

The City of Sanford Employees Volunteer to Spend Time with Sanford Youth

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the City of Sanford, FL Government for the opportunity to share details about the mentoring programs we offer here at SCPS: Connections Mentor and Take Stock In Children.

We are especially grateful that City of Sanford employees are permitted to volunteer one hour per week in Sanford schools. This generous policy not only strengthens our mentoring efforts but also sends a powerful message to students that their community believes in them.

This collaboration is more than just time, it’s a meaningful investment in the future of our youth. 

Crystal Higgs has been an SCPS principal for two years, currently serving at Millennium Middle School.

When asked about her favorite part of being a principal, she excitedly shared "Connecting with students!"

An interesting fact about Principal Higgs, she has what she calls, "three birthdays". The first being on Good Friday, another on Friday the 13th, and last on April 13th. To sum this all up, Principal Higgs said "I was born on Good Friday' the 13th, so I guess I'm spiritually lucky and superstitiously confusing!"

Principal Higgs, SCPS is extremely thankful for your continued service to our district. We know that great things are in store at Millennium! Go Falcons!

SCPS invites you to the 2025 Transition fair! This event is for families of all students with disabilities who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Section 504 Plan, in grades K-12, who want information on a path to support their child's journey through school and beyond. The resources provided by community agencies at the Transition Fair help families and students plan their future as they transition to adult life, educational, and/or work environments. The event will take place November 1, 2025, from 9am to 1pm at Lake Brantley High School. If you would like to pre-register for this event, please complete the google form. For more

information, please visit the Student Support Services Transition Fair page.

All SCPS Seniors are invited to Decision Day at Seminole State's Sanford/Lake Mary Campus on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025. Transportation and lunch are provided. Permission slips are due to school counselors by Friday, Oct. 31.

Attendees will tour the Raider Center athletic facility, enjoy games, photo ops, and free food while learning about the College's 200+ academic and career programs, scholarships and ways to pay for college. Join us for Decision Day and see how you can Go State. Go Far. 

To learn more, visit sem.st/dd to register for the event!

Seminole County Animal Services Experiencing Severe Overcrowding

Seminole County Animal Services is experiencing severe overcrowding and is currently operating at 151% capacity. With space stretched thin, kennels are being doubled up or divided, crates are stacked in walkways to fit more animals, and some pets have had to be boarded off site. During this time, all adoptions are being sponsored.

Families unable to adopt can still help by fostering an animal. Fostering eases overcrowding and helps socialize the pet in a home. High school students who decide to foster will have the opportunity to earn Bright Futures community service hours.

This is your opportunity to meet the animal of your dreams! Visit the Seminole County website for more information.