Lawton Elementary's "Me Museum"

Ms. Dark's students at Lawton Elementary set up a "Me Museum" to give their friends a chance to learn more about them. Each student brought in items that represent who they are and wrote descriptions on index cards explaining how each item reflects their identity.

As classmates explored each other's exhibits, they built a stronger classroom community and laid a solid foundation for an exciting school year.

Idyllwilde Kindergarteners Enjoy a Tasty Lesson about Teamwork

The kindergarteners at Idyllwilde Elementary gathered together to make a friendship snack: a mix of everyone’s favorite goodies!

Each student contributed an ingredient, but when a rotten banana was suggested…they paused for a classroom vote. The decision? A big NO!

This activity wasn’t just about snack choices, it provided students with the opportunity to talk about how, just like a rotten banana can spoil the whole mix, negative behaviors or attitudes can affect a group.

The students learned the importance of being kind, thoughtful friends who help their classroom community thrive.

Lake Mary Elementary's Starbucks® Themed Classroom Transformation

Lake Mary Elementary is brewing something special in the classroom this week. They would like to welcome everyone to Starbooks!

To kick off their reading journey, they have transformed their classroom experience into a cozy, café inspired space where students can "sample" a menu of books from a variety of genres.

Just like trying a new drink at your favorite coffee shop, this experience invites students to step out of their comfort zones and discover fresh titles.



This is a fun, interactive way to get kids excited about reading, and who knows? They might just find a new favorite “flavor” to enjoy all year long!

Millennium Middle School Students Experience Music Production

As part of Millennium Middle School’s Fine Arts Magnet Program, students in Mr. Bradley’s Recording Arts class are getting an exciting, hands-on introduction to the world of music production. A recent session focused on dynamics, how changes in volume and sound shape the music we hear and feel.

Through engaging, real-world lessons like this, students aren’t just learning about music; they’re building the skills and creative confidence to become the next generation of producers, engineers, and artists. The future sounds bright for Mr. Bradley's class.

Hagerty High AP Language Students Explore Rhetorical Analysis Through Real-World Marketing

Hagerty High's AP Language & Composition students are already thinking critically this school year, starting with a creative and engaging introduction to rhetorical analysis by analyzing cereal boxes.

This hands-on lesson challenged students to look beyond the breakfast aisle and examine how cereal companies tailor their marketing to appeal to specific audiences.

We look forward to seeing how these AP students continue to sharpen their analytical thinking and communication throughout the year.

Seminole County Virtual Students' Story is a Knock Out

Jace Rodriguez is a rising amateur boxing star whose journey in the ring began when he was just four years old. From the moment he laced up his first pair of gloves, boxing has been more than a sport to him; it’s been his passion, his discipline, and his way of life.

Over the years, Jace has captured titles in some of the most prestigious boxing tournaments, showcasing not only his talent but also his relentless dedication and unshakable work ethic. Now, his commitment and achievements have earned him a spot in the running for the USA’s Youth Athlete of the Year, a testament to the countless hours he’s spent training, sacrificing, and chasing his dream of one day becoming a professional boxer.

Congratulations, Jace! Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we are so excited to see where your journey takes you next!

Lake Brantley Band Student Makes History

Maddie Hendricks has made school history as the first student with Down Syndrome to be a member of the Lake Brantley High School Band, and her journey is a beautiful reflection of the compassionate culture at LBHS. 

Maddie is a percussionist in the drumline, performing alongside her sister Presley. Her participation marks the third generation of her family to be a part of the LBHS band program, where her grandfather and Mother both were members of Cindy Berry’s bands in the 1980’s and 1990’s.  

Watch the video below for a truly heartwarming story that celebrates how public schools are a place where every child belongs and can thrive.

Crooms Academy Alum Returns to Inspire the Next Generation

Skyler Swiderski, a proud graduate of Crooms Academy of Information Technology, has come full circle and now serves as a Dual Enrollment professor at his alma mater. His journey reflects the power of mentorship, education, and strong professional networks.

While at Crooms, Swiderski was inspired by Dual Enrollment professors Patricia Cason and Rebekah Gabel, who sparked his passion for computer science and teaching. “Ms. Gabel convinced me not to give up on programming. She made it exciting and showed me what I was capable of,” he recalls.

Swiderski continued his academic journey at Seminole State College, where he earned an A.S. in Computer Programming and a B.S. in Information Systems Technology. He gained hands-on experience working as a department tutor for over two years and was mentored by Professor Marwan Shaban, who helped guide his development. “He represents passion through teaching,” Swiderski said. “He’s what teachers should aspire to be.”

After earning his master’s degree from Florida State University, Swiderski returned to Seminole County Public Schools and brought his real-world experience back to the classroom. He emphasizes the importance of professional networking and credits his own career success to the connections he made along the way. “Take time to truly get to know people,” he advises. “You never know where it might take you.”

We appreciate Mr. Swiderski for giving back to Seminole County Public Schools and for serving as a role model for the next generation of learners and leaders.

Lawton Chiles Middle School Resource Officer Pierce Named SRO of the Year

Congratulations are in order for Officer Pierce and her K-9 comfort partner, Xander who serve at Lawton Chiles Middle School.

Officer Pierce was named School Resource Officer (SRO) of the year by the Florida Association of School Resource Officers (FASRO), a prestigious statewide honor recognizing excellence in school-based law enforcement.

She is an integral part of the fabric of Lawton Chiles Middle School and helps keep the food and clothing pantries stocked to serve students as well as hosting school supply drives and holiday meal baskets for families. She has built incredible relationship with students, staff, and families and she is a vital part of the LCMS family.



We are incredibly proud of this recognition and grateful for the dedication and care Officer Pierce and Xander bring to our district every day. Thank you both for making our campuses safer, stronger, and more connected.

Principal Robert Frasca has been an SCPS principal for seven years, currently serving at Hagerty High School! When asked about his favorite part of being a principal, he replied,

"Working with our students to create personal paths for them to achieve their goals for the future."

A surprising fact about Principal Frasca is that he has bowled a perfect game (300) and achieved a hole-in-one in golf!

SCPS is immensely grateful for Principal Frasca's dedication, leadership, and passion. Thank you, Principal Frasca, for continuing to lead with excellence at Hagerty High School!

Summit Church Lake Mary Partners with Milwee Middle School to Equip Students the 2025-2026 School Year

Seminole County Public Schools is proud to recognize the continued partnership between Summit Church Lake Mary and Milwee Middle School, now in its second year of collaboration.

Summit Church is helping to remove barriers to learning by providing critical support for students, teachers, and staff. During the month of July, members of the community came together to collect an incredible 950 pounds of pantry items, clothing, and school supplies, filling 40 boxes of essential resources! These donations are more than just supplies. A well-stocked pantry ensures students have access to meals that help them stay focused throughout the school day. A new notebook or a set of pencils provides the confidence and tools students need to succeed in the classroom.

Seminole County Public Schools is deeply grateful for community partners like Summit Church Lake Mary. Their commitment to serving students with compassion and care makes a lasting difference. We are thankful for their continued support of Milwee Middle School and our SCPS community.