Congratulations, Class of 2026

SCPS would like to congratulate the Class of 2026! Your hard work, determination, and accomplishments have made your school community proud. As you begin this exciting new chapter, remember that the future is full of endless possibilities.

Continue to lead with courage, pursue your passions, and make a positive impact wherever life takes you. Best wishes for continued success in all that lies ahead!

Early Release Bell-Schedule

The following times represent the early release schedule for Friday, May 22, Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27. ***Reminder - NO BACKPACKS for Middle or High School

High Schools: 11:45 a.m

• Seminole (main campus): 11:30 a.m.
• Seminole (9th Grade Center) 11:30 a.m.

Middle Schools: 2:05 p.m.

Elementary Schools

• Early Elementary (Any School that normally releases at 2:20 p.m.): 12:00 p.m.
• Late Elementary (Any School that normally releases at 3:05 p.m.): 1:05 p.m.
• Idyllwilde Elementary: 1:15 p.m.

Bridges at Bear Lake Elementary

Students in the Gifted Program at Bear Lake Elementary School spent the second semester diving into the world of engineering through an engaging, hands-on bridge-building project.

Third through fifth graders explored the science and physics behind bridges while learning about the seven main bridge types: beam, truss, bascule, arch, cantilever, suspension, and cable-stayed. Thanks to support from the school’s PTA, students used STEM kits to design and build models while working collaboratively with classmates.

Throughout the project, students also researched famous bridges from around the world and discovered the creativity and innovation behind their designs. The experience even connected bridge engineering to roller coaster construction, helping students make real-world STEM connections in an exciting and interactive way.

Crystal Lake Elementary's Test-Prep Glow Party

To help students feel confident and excited before their State Science Test, fifth graders in Mrs. Hinton and Mrs. Rice’s classes celebrated with a fun-filled Glow Party.

The engaging event gave students an opportunity to review, build excitement, and enjoy time with classmates before testing day. From glowing decorations to energetic activities, the celebration helped create a positive and encouraging atmosphere as students prepared to show what they learned this year.

Thanks to the creativity and enthusiasm of their teachers, students were ready to shine on their State Science Test.

Sanford Middle's Minga Madness

Sanford Middle School is wrapping up the school year with one final “Minga Madness” celebration, recognizing students who demonstrated what it means to be BRAVE through positive choices, leadership, school spirit, and commitment to the IB Learner Profile throughout the year.

Students enjoyed an afternoon filled with games, music, laughter, and time with friends as the school community celebrated an incredible year together. The event served as a fun and memorable way to honor student success and close out the school year on a high note.

Awesome work, Sanford Middle!

Spectrum A+ Teacher: Idyllwilde Elementary's Shannon Roney

At Idyllwilde Elementary School, third-grade teacher Shannon Roney is helping students build habits for success both inside and outside the classroom. As part of the school’s Leader in Me magnet program, Roney encourages students to set goals, track their progress, and celebrate growth along the way.

Now in her 21st year of teaching, Roney creates a supportive classroom environment where students feel encouraged, valued, and motivated to do their best. Whether through positive reinforcement, high expectations, or a simple high five, she makes sure every student knows they are capable of success.

“One of the most important things for me as a teacher is to make sure my students feel believed in, loved, and cared for,” Roney shared. “I love what I do, and I think the environment that you’re in is what makes it the best that it can possibly be.”

Thank you, Ms. Roney for the impact you make on our students everyday!

Super 7 FTC Robotics Team Wins Big at World Competition

The Super 7 FTC Robotics Team from Florida earned the prestigious Inspire Award in the Edison Division at the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship, recognizing the team’s excellence in engineering, innovation, leadership, and community outreach.

Competing against 336 teams from around the world, Super 7 stood out among 56 teams in its division at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. The Inspire Award is the highest honor in the FTC program and celebrates teams that demonstrate exceptional technical skills, teamwork, Gracious Professionalism®, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Most members of Super 7 are students from Seminole County Public Schools, making this achievement a proud moment for our district and community. Their success reflects countless hours of dedication, collaboration, problem-solving, and passion for STEM learning.

Congratulations to the students, mentors, and families of Super 7 on this incredible accomplishment and for continuing to inspire the next generation of innovators.

SCPS Students Take Center Stage at Regeneron's International Science and Engineering Fair and Bring Home 1st Place in the WORLD

This year, Seminole County Public Schools was proudly represented at Regeneron's International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona, sending four ground-breaking projects consisting of five talented student finalists: Angela Calvo-Chumbimuni (OHS), Ankan Das (OHS), Nishchay Gupta (SHS), Moitri Santra (OHS), and Kathir Vasanth (SHS). 

ISEF is the world's premier youth science competition, and our students were truly in elite company. Alongside 1,727 finalists representing 67 countries, regions, and territories, SCPS students spent an unforgettable week presenting their research and networking with peers from around the globe. They also connected with industry-leading category specialists and world-renowned science professionals- including Nobel Laureate, Dr. W.E. Moerner of Standard University!

Out of 1,382 projects competing globally, SCPS took home prestigious honors totaling over $7,200 in cash and prizes. To put this into perspective, only about 30% of finalists competing at ISEF win an award, making our students' success truly exceptional! Congratulations to our award winners: 

• Moitri Santra- 1^st Place in Plant Sciences ($6,000)
• Global Distinction: Moitri also earned a coveted Top Award; an elite honor bestowed upon only about half of the first-place winners. She received the EU Contest for Young Scientists Award, winning an all-expense-paid trip to present her research this September in Germany, where she will compete for even more international accolades!
• Ankan Das- 4^th Place in Engineering Technology: Statics & Dynamics ($600)
• Angela Calvo-Chumbimuni: 4^th Place in Biochemistry ($600)

Lake Howell High Celebrates the Groundbreaking on New State-Of-The-Art Performing Arts and CyberHawk Academy Building

Lake Howell High School is expanding opportunities for students with the addition of a new state-of-the-art auditorium and Fine Arts Performing Center, paired with specially designed classrooms for the school’s Cyberhawk Academy.

This modern, 21st-century learning environment was created to inspire excellence, creativity, and innovation while supporting both the arts and advanced technical education. The new performing arts space will provide students with enhanced opportunities for performances, collaboration, and artistic expression, while the Cyberhawk Academy classrooms above the facility are designed to support cutting-edge learning in technology and cybersecurity.

The innovative building reflects the best of Seminole County Public Schools by blending creativity with technical expertise to help shape students’ futures. By bringing together fine arts and high-tech career pathways under one roof, the facility represents the district’s commitment to preparing students for success in college, careers, and beyond.

A Monumental Impact:

Thank you, Action Church!

We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate an extraordinary partnership that is transforming our schools! Action Church made a monumental investment of $155,000 worth of supplies directly into Seminole County Public Schools, providing vital resources and encouragement to students and staff across a number of our campuses.

What makes this partnership truly remarkable is Action Church's intentional effort to reach every single school across our district, a milestone achievement they are immensely proud to celebrate with us. From boosting classroom resources to uplifting our hardworking educators, Action Church has shown what community partnership looks like. We are so thankful for their incredible generosity, visionary support, and deep dedication to the future of Seminole County's students and staff. 

Together, we are building a stronger, brighter community!

This is Byron Durias' 12th year as a proud SCPS principal, currently serving at South Seminole Academy.

When asked about his favorite part of being a principal, he shared, "I really enjoy the opportunity to positively impact the lives of students through teaching and learning."

Fun fact, Principal Durias loves to cook! Prior to joining SCPS, he worked in the hospitality industry as a Corporate Food Chef. Principal Durias also loves to garden and grow his own fruits, herbs, and veggies. 

Thank you, Principal Durias, for your daily leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for students, staff, and families.

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.

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

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!

SCPS Community Ambassadors Program

If you are an avid supporter of public education, and you'd love to dive deeper into what it takes to make the Seminole County Public School District operate, this program is for you! Over the course of this journey, we will explore multiple facets of operations, curriculum, career and technical education, budget, school safety, and so much more. Space is limited and the application window closes June 19, 2026.

Apply today!