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2014

BACK TO SCHOOL

Observer EAST COUNTY

2 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

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AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

Let the

learning begin A MESSAGE FROM MANAGING EDITOR PAM EUBANKS The start of school is one of my favorite times of year.

Once classes begin Aug. 18, we at the East County Observer have the opportunity to, once again, chronicle the lives and accomplishments of students at our schools.

We photograph them at dances, in plays and at fundraising events.

We write about their accomplishments, whether advancing to world competition for the F1 in Schools Challenge or taking top honors at the national Technology Student

Association conference, as our students did this summer.

This coverage is the kind of stuff we relish, and we can't wait to get started.

To help kick off the new school year, we bring to you our annual Back to School special section.

Within these pages, you'll find a plethora of information about our schools, including projected enrollment, open-house dates and letters from principals.

You also will hear from Superintendent Rick Mills and read stories highlighting what's

going on in Manatee County schools this year, such as how the district plans to improve technology for classrooms, changes in school lunch/snack policies and features on the new principals at four of our schools — Gene Witt Elementary, Nolan and Haile Middle and Lakewood Ranch High.

We hope this guide proves to be a resource for you, our parents, and helps calm that frantic feeling you may experience as you take care of all the details that you must complete before the first bell rings!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Letter from Superintendent Rick Mills ................... 4 District rethinks technology program..................... 6 Manatee implements new teacher evaluation system.....................................................

8

East County schools welcome new administrators...............................................

10 Elementary school profiles........................12-23 On the Menu: What’s new inside cafeterias this school year...................................

24

Health: Scoliosis may indicate brain conditions .....................

25

Middle school profiles......................

26-29 High school profiles...30-32 On campus: Meet Lakewood Ranch High’s new principal...........

Alternative/ private school profiles................

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4 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

A MESSAGE FROM

SUPERINTENDENT RICK MILLS The Manatee County School District looks forward to another great year.

I am honored and excited to welcome our students, families, teachers and our entire school district team of employees to the 2014-2015 school year.

Our school district has shown significant signs of progress academically, financially and organizationally over the past 18 months.

Working together in a spirit of openness and collaboration, we have laid a secure foundation for our school district’s return to the greatness our children and community expect and deserve.

On the academic front, FCAT results for the 20132014 school year showed Manatee District students

exceeded the state averages in fourth-, fifth- and seventhgrade math for the first time since 2008. Our students also exceeded state averages in eighth-grade math, fourthgrade writing and on the U.S. history end-of-course exam for the first time ever.

Our gains in FCAT writing and third-grade reading and math prompted Florida Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart to place the school district at the top of her list when recognizing the progress of individual school districts. I thank our students and teachers for their hard work and achievements, and I want them to know we expect even greater success.

Financially, we are closing out the previous school year with a positive fund balance for the first time in three years, and we are projecting

to post the state-required fund balance of $11.5 million for this school year – a feat that has not been accomplished the past five years.

As an organization, we have assembled an incredibly talented and dedicated team of leaders, and we are aligning all of our resources, departmental efforts and academic programs to our district’s new strategic plan.

Developed in cooperation with our community, our district’s strategic plan provides us with a clearly-defined focus as we move forward together and a means to rigorously monitor our results to make sure we are achieving our goals.

This year will also be a time of transition as we move away from the FCAT to a new state accountability system based on the Florida stan-

dards approved by the Florida State Board of Education in February 2014. We will implement a new teacher evaluation tool known as the Charlotte Danielson Model, approved in collaboration with the Manatee Education Association. In addition, we have begun a new Principal Leadership Development Program designed to develop current and future leaders.

There are plenty of opportunities for you to get involved in helping our children, even if you don’t have a child in our school system.

You can mentor a student through our Take Stock in Children program, participate in our school advisory committees, community engagement forums or volunteer at any one of our 64 schools.

Welcome back, and let’s have another GREAT year!

—Rick Mills, superintendent

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AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

technology by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

District ‘thinks’ technology The Manatee County School District plans to use its buying power to improve classroom technology districtwide.

The Lenova ThinkPad Twist laptops are perfect for the classroom setting because they allow for both creating and consuming content, Manatee County School District Chief Information and Technology Officer Mike Borysiewicz said.

The devices will be stored at schools and placed in technology carts that can be wheeled from classroom to classroom.

technology officer.

“The vast majority of the devices in the school district are more than five years old,” Borysiewicz said.

“In the world of technology, that’s ancient.

Our job is to teach.

A school district employee brings the new computers into a We need to have cur- warehouse. rent technology in the Walmart, but the concepts are about $1.2 million from techhands of the teachers the same. We can get econonology allocations last year and and the students.” mies of scale.” about $1.4 million from the disIn previous years, the school The deal with the Lenova trict’s 2013/2014 capital budget. district has allotted funding Twist showcases that strategy, School Board members voted for technology to individuBorysiewicz said. The district July 22 to expend an additional als schools, which purchase learned of an opportunity to $90,000 to have an outside venmachines according to their purchase the machines for 30 dor configure the devices in just needs. But the district now will cents on the dollar — about two weeks, so they are ready hold technology dollars in its $425 per machine compared when school begins. operating budget. with its regular price of $1,400 The district now is working “We will look at how to per unit. And, it acted quickly on a “refresh” program to bring purchase technology in bulk,” to secure the machines, using in new computers each year.

Borysiewicz said. “We aren’t

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Mike Borysiewicz is on a mission to ensure Manatee County students have technology at their fingertips.

In June, the Manatee County School District purchased 6,139 Lenova ThinkPad Twist Secure Convertible laptops and tablets to use in schools starting in August. The devices will support student online testing, specifically end-of-course exams for up to 70 courses, and be used in the classroom setting for online research, simulation activities and collaborative partnership and communication activities.

The purchase of the devices is part of an aggressive information technology agenda pushed out by Superintendent Rick Mills and his leadership team, including Borysiewicz, the district’s chief information and

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AUGUST 2014

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

7

8 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

Growing together by Amanda Sebastiano | Staff Writer

County to implement new evaluations As students prepare to head back to school, teachers and administrators brace for a closer look at the classroom.

As the 2014-2015 school year begins, the Manatee County School District will implement a new teacher-evaluation system aimed at making the evaluation process consistent and improving the quality of classroom instruction.

The Charlotte Danielson 2007 evaluation model consists of four categories: planning and preparation, classroom experience, instruction and responsibilities.

Teachers are evaluated on components, such as learning activities, within each category Administrators base scores on about six classroom observations and other visits to classrooms during the year.

The number of visits varies, depending on the number of years the instructor has taught in the school district and the ratings received in previ-

Manatee Education Association President Pat Barber thinks the district’s new teacher evaluation, the 2007 Charlotte Danielson model, will bring continuity to teacher evaluations.

Things to know • Educators are evaluated on a scale of unsatisfactory, needs improvement, efficient and highly efficient • Teachers who receive an unsatisfactory rating will be placed on probation for 90 days. Within two weeks after the 90 days expires, an administrator will conduct another evaluation. If the teacher receives the lowest rating again, Superintendent Rick Mills will make a recommendation to the school.

ous years. Danielson’s rubric encourages administrators to meet with teachers after each observation.

“This (evaluation) gives administrators a chance to delve into what each classroom looks like,” Haile Middle School

Principal Sharon Scarbrough said. “This is going to be a partnership between administrators and teachers to make sure we’re all on the same page with educating our students.”

Principals will use the scores received in each category to help the district determine the earnings of teachers for the new performance-based pay system.

A collaborative committee of administrators, Manatee Education Association representatives and MEA President Pat Barber developed and will monitor the new evaluation system. Barber believes the Danielson model will create better continuity from school to school.

Contact Amanda Sebastiano at amandas@yourobserver.com.

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AUGUST 2014

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

leadership by Amanda Sebastiano | Staff Writer

East County principals to implement new practices EAST COUNTY — As the 2014-2015 school year begins, three principals who share common approaches to leadership prepare to lead East County schools.

Sharon Scarbrough will lead Carlos E. Haile Middle School;

David Marshall is taking the reins at Gene Witt Elementary; and Scot Boice is the new principal of R. Dan Nolan Middle School.

Each of the principals, whose careers in education collectively exceed 70 years, have visions

Sharon Scarbrough

she sees the learning experience and happenings in the classroom through a teacher’s perspective, as well as a principal’s, she said. She will ensure teachers at her school that they have the tools they need, both in terms of tangible materials and support, as well as making sure educators know the expectations spelled out in the new teacher evaluations.

Like Haile’s former principal Janet Kerley, she’s a hands-on leader, she said.

“If you’re looking for me,

Sharon Scarbrough identifies with teachers because she has been in their position, worrying about evaluations and test scores, while also staying focused on educating students.

Her career in education started as a long-term substitute at Southeast High School in the late ‘90s.

Although she has spent 10 years as an administrator,

Three principals plan to pave their own paths at East County schools.

they plan to implement.

Although plans are specific to each administrator, they share some common ideas, such as a greater emphasis on technology in the classroom and working more closely with teachers.

They hope to create their

bio Age: 42 Previous school: W.D. Sugg Middle School Unknown fact: Her family has multiple sets of twins. Scarbrough has twins — a boy and a girl — as does her sister and three of her cousins. Her husband also has twin brothers.

chances are I’ll be out around campus, meeting with teach-

own trails in their schools’ histories, while building upon their predecessors’ proven practices.

Below, Scarbrough, Marshall and Boice describe their versions of the schools’ next chapters. ers and talking to students,” Scarbrough said. “I take a direct approach to education. I want to see what’s happening in classrooms. I want to lead, support and challenge our teachers and students to reach their full potential every day.”

She also plans to place emphasis on extra-curricular activities, clubs and sports.

“We encourage students in the classroom, on the stage, in a studio, on the court and out in the fields to be the best they can be,” Scarbrough said.

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AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

Dave Marshall David Marshall, a Bradenton native who has spent all of his years in education in his hometown, takes both a handson and hands-off approach to leading a school.

Marshall, who taught secondthrough-fifth grades and a gifted class more than 18 years, believes teachers perform their best when administrators grant them certain liberties in their classrooms.

“My job is to facilitate learning, not to micromanage the teachers,” Marshall said. “I believe in letting teachers teach, to allow them to do what they do best, without constant monitoring.”

He also plans to become heavily involved in understanding students’ performance, as he believes former Witt Principal Myra Russell did.

He plans to meet with teachers throughout the school year to determine which students are struggling before too much time passes in the school year.

Marshall also plans to expand on technology’s increasing

Scot Boice

bio

Although Scot Boice plans to continue the close-knit relationship his former colleague and retired Nolan Principal Nancy High had with teachers, he’s most excited to work with his favorite grade level of students.

Boice started his career in 1982 as a seventh- and eighthgrade science teacher at W.D. Sugg Middle School.

“The students are at that age where they’re getting to know the world around them,” Boice said, “and they don’t quite know what they’re good at, yet. I enjoy their enthusiasm and their energy when I ask them things, not tell them. They’re curious.”

Another principal that can’t sit still in his office, Boice plans to explore his new campus as much as possible, while talking with teachers and students.

Boice also focuses on new programs he will implement this school year, including students using iPads, tablets, smart phones, laptops and other technology in the classroom.

School policy previously allowed students to use certain

Age: 54 Previous school: Anna Maria Elementary Unknown fact: He attended Florida State University and both of his children attend the school currently.

presence in the classroom at Witt Elementary. He wants students in all grade levels to take more tests, not just end-of-year assessments, on computers.

“Online testing is the way of the future,” Marshall said.

Although Witt sits 21 miles away from Anna Maria Elementary, where Marshall previously worked, he sees similarities between the schools, particularly their strong community and parent support.

Marshall believes by attending PTO meetings when he is able, he will get a closer look at issues important to parents.

“I want to get to know these parents and find out, ‘What makes this a great community school?’” Marshall said.

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bio Age: 55 Previous school: Electa Lee Magnet Middle School Unknown fact: He likes to scuba dive. He visited the Florida Keys for the first time this summer to dive.

technology in class for assignments, as long as the children adhered to certain guidelines.

Adding more devices to the acceptable list will expand on what he believes to be an innovative approach to learning.

Boice also wants to improve safety. This year, students and faculty members will wear photo name badges at all times.

“It will provide an extra sense of security,” Boice said.

“Students can also use the barcodes on the back of the badges to check out library books and in the lunch line.”

Boice will establish a web page for each teacher on Nolan’s website — a practice at his former school, Lee Middle.

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‘‘

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

WILLIAM H BASHAW

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

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JUST THE FACTS Principal: Josh Bennett Mascot: Bobcats Colors: Garnet and gold

#

Open house: 5 to 7 p.m.

Aug. 14 Projected enrollment: 620 PTO president: Kristen Whitson Special programs: Schoolwide artand-music festival

C (2013-14)

I would like to welcome you to Bashaw Elementary School, the school that celebrates diversity.

FROM THE We have been PRINCIPAL: working all summer, planning lessons, activities and a few surprises for the year.

Students should be prepared to come to school with the needed supplies. All grade-level lists can be found on the school's website.

Students should also be prepared to have the appropriate uniform attire. The PTO will have uniforms for sale at Back to School Night on Aug. 14.

Bashaw has a reputation of celebrating diversity, which is seen in our classrooms, around

our school campus and at all school events. Students are taught the importance of respecting others and how to make a positive influence on their community, in addition to the high academic standards we hold for all our students.

We welcome all families and community members to become involved by volunteering, serving on school committees or partnering with your child's teacher to support the

I am excited about the new school year because I will get to learn new things in second grade. One of my favorite subjects is reading.

When I read a book, I get to use my imagination and that is a lot of fun.

I have missed seeing my friends over the summer break. Bashaw is the best school ever because of all the teachers, students and all the fun I have there.

— Ryan Fitzstephens

‘‘

•

school-and-home connection.

Our staff is excited for another great year, and we are looking forward to seeing you.

— Josh Bennett, principal

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AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

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14 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

‘‘

BRADEN RIVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Principal: Hayley Rio Mascot: Wranglers Colors: Red and blue

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Open house: 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 14 Projected enrollment: 650 PTO president: Sara Mayo Special programs or offerings: Inspiring Elementary Engineering and Runners Club

A (2013-14)

6215 River Club Blvd. Bradenton • 751-7012

manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/elementary/bradenriver

FROM THE Dear PRINCIPAL: Braden River Elementary Students, I am looking forward to welcoming you back to school and hearing about your summer adventures!

Be sure to come to our Open House from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 14. You will be able to meet your new teacher, see your classroom and catch up with friends. Our new theme that you selected will be unveiled during our Open House.

I will be in the cafeteria, so come by and say hello.

I hope you have been filling your summer learning note-

book with notes of the books you have been reading, stories of places you have been visiting and your opportunities for practicing math. We will be sharing these with each other when we return to school, so be sure to bring your notebook with you when school starts in August.

As usual, we will be working hard this year, yet we will still have time for plenty of fun.

You will be able to continue to earn BRES Bucks, and we have been planning our special events. We are going to continue with some of your favorites, like the dance party and field day, and we have a couple of new surprises!

While you are enjoying these last couple of weeks of sum-

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

‘‘

JUST THE FACTS

I love my school because the teachers here at BRE are the coolest and they make learning fun!

— Nathan Parker

mer, keep reading! It is one of my favorite summer activities.

If you have not already been filling your summer learning notebook, you still have time.

Come back to school refreshed and ready to learn. Enjoy the rest of your summer break and I will see you soon!

— Hayley Rio, principal

FUN FACT: Will we will be going on a camping adventure, blasting off into space, or jumping into sports? Our theme for the 20142015 school year will be revealed at our open house on August 14th! Our students voted and the results will soon be known!

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

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16 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

‘‘

FREEDOM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL JUST THE FACTS Principal: Jim Mennes Mascot: Falcons Colors: Red, white and blue Open house: 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 14

#

Projected enrollment: 760 PTO president: Christina Fairey Special programs or offerings: National Elementary Honor Society

A (2013-14)

Freedom FROM THE PRINCIPAL: Families, We hope everyone is having a relaxing summer.

Soon, we will be ready to kick off another amazing year at Freedom. We progressed well last year, and, again, our students performed great on state-and-local testing.

We have several new teachers joining us as Freedom continues to grow.

Each brings skills and enthusiasm to help your children reach their full potential.

Our National Honor Society and our award-winning TSA Engineering program are just two opportunities children

have here at Freedom that make us unique.

Our Beyond The Bell extended day program is here to support families with childcare before and after the school day.

Our program is run entirely by Freedom faculty, and families can be assured their child will have a safe, educational and fun time while in the program.

Our Freedom Back to School Night will be from 4 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 14.

We look forward to seeing

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9515 S.R. 64 E., Bradenton • 708-4990 edline.net/pages/sdmcfreedomes

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

I love my school because the teachers and staff are great. They are the best!

— Caleb Waldrop

you and welcoming you all to Freedom Elementary!

— Jim Mennes, principal

FUN FACT: Freedom Elementary dedicated its special Let Freedom Ring Courtyard in 2007.

Exploration of creativity and expression through movement is at the heart of The Sarasota Ballet School. Where your children can, as young as age 3, learn from our prestigious company and where we help them develop musicality, coordination, spatial awareness, expression and creativity.

Offering the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus which provide a solid foundation for students moving forward to the higher learning levels, The Sarasota Ballet School is open to everyone.

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Come and be a part of something special and let us welcome you into The Sarasota Ballet Family.

The Sarasota Ballet School 941-359-0099 x 120 | education@sarasotaballet.org | www.SarasotaBallet.org

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AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

Experience the Difference of Catholic Education Pre-K through 8th Grade

B D GULLETT •

17

•

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 12125 44th Ave. E., Bradenton • 727-2067

St. Martha Catholic School

edline.net/pages/sdmcgullettes

Principal: Kathy McLean Mascot: Gators Colors: Royal blue and green

A (2013-14)

ACCREDITATION

• Florida Catholic Conference • National Council for Private School Accreditation • National Catholic Education Association • National Council of Teachers of Mathematics • National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

O

H

FUN FACT: B.D. Gullett Elementary is the newest school in the Lakewood Ranch area. It is beginning its eighth year as a school.

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WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

Gullett Elementary is marvelous because of the teachers' and staff's dedication to balance scholarly and physical education, while developing the whole student. The teachers and staff are wonderful!

— Ryan Yanevich

CATHOLIC HA S RT

L OO CH

Runners Club, guitar, drums, i-Pad, chess, cheerleading, dance, art, cooking, science, creative writing and many others. Clubs are sponsored by school staff, and parents are welcome to assist.

Please join us for our fifth annual Neal Communities Golf Challenge scheduled for Sept.

20. Contact our Golf Challenge chairperson, Danielle Downes, (ariete0416@yahoo.com) to learn how you can be involved in this community event.

— Kathy McLean, principal

• Religion • Language Arts • Math • Science • Social Studies • Technology Fully integrated into all classrooms • Art • Music • Physical Education • Spanish • Library • Chapel • Association of Student Leaders • Christian Service Program • National Junior Honor Society • KNN News Production • Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Football, Tennis & Golf (6-8 Grades: Florida Gulf Coast Atlantic Conference)

P

N E VIN S A C

A

SAVE THE DATES

October 4, 2014 - Escape To The Caribbean Interactive Dinner January 25, 2015 - Open House March 28, 2015 - 4th Annual Crawfish Festival

ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 4380 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34232

www.stmarthaschool.net • 941.953.4181

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Special programs or offerings: Quarterly after-school enrichment clubs, 100-Mile Runners Club, Jackie's Art Club and Gullett Dance Team

ACADEMICS, ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES:

MY

PTO president: Stefani Lis

OUR MISSION

In partnership with Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church, the mission of St. Martha Catholic School is to provide each student with diverse opportunities which develop strength in faith and excellence in knowledge and learning. Students build character through their Christian service to the school, parish and world communities.

DE

Projected enrollment: 600

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Open house: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Aug. 15

BIS

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JUST THE FACTS

ST. M

FROM THE Dear PRINCIPAL: Families, Welcome! I look forward to teaming our efforts for another successful year for your child.

B.D. Gullett Elementary students strive to excel in a nurturing and challenging academic environment, supported by an integral partnership between staff, parents and community members.

Our faculty is comprised of a talented team of teachers and instructional-support members. More than 85% of our teachers have dual certifications and more than one-third have advanced degrees or National Board Certification.

Our school has achieved a school accountability grade of “A” for six consecutive years.

Gullett continues to respond to our community’s request for affordable before- and after-school enrichment clubs, including the 100-Mile

Strength in Faith | Excellence in Knowledge | Character in Service

18 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

GILBERT W MCNEAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 6325 Lorraine Road., Lakewood Ranch • 751-8165 manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/elementary/mcneal/Home.html

Principal: Norma Scott Mascot: Wildcats Colors: Periwinkle, gold, green and white

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Open house: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Aug. 14 Projected enrollment: 748 PTO president: Monica Thomas Special programs or offerings: engineering and enrichment clubs

A (2013-14)

Welcome FROM THE PRINCIPAL: Wildcats to the 2014-2015 school year!

At McNeal Elementary, the staff is committed to recognizing your child's strengths and abilities.

From our offerings of finearts classes — engineering, science, music, physical education, art and media — to the various classroom teaching models, we see each child as an individual with unique hopes, dreams, skills and needs.

Due to the support and hard work of our teachers, parents and students, last year was a banner year for McNeal.

FUN FACT: A turtle laid her eggs by the greenhouse door the second week in June.

In county competition, both our Math Superstar Team and Speech winners won first place, while our Technology Student Association (TSA) placed!

McNeal Elementary continues a legacy of learning and excellence.

As we open our doors to new

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families on Aug. 18, I invite you to join the McNeal PTO. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet people who make a difference in the life of our children.

Looking forward to a super year!

— Norma Scott, principal

‘‘

JUST THE FACTS

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL All the teachers are nice and we do some pretty fun activities, like engineering, where we create new stuff. — Lindsey Morehead

Full Service Music Store For Back to School

Band & Orchestra Instruments • Lessons Rentals-Repairs-Accessories

Fogt’s

Gulf Coast Music Center 4209 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota www.fogtsmusic.com

146291

929-1595

Back to School Jumping Jacks 100% leather shoes

The best school uniforms

Jansport

Lifetime guaranteed backpacks

games & toys

that make learning fun

4525 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 955-6999 childrensworlduniform.com

145896

145535

CHILDREN’S WORLD

AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

TARA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

This year FROM THE PRINCIPAL: marks the 22nd anniversary of Tara Elementary.

We have been planning all summer for this exciting school year.

Through Aug. 8, school uniforms will be on sale in the front office from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Back to School Night is scheduled for Aug. 14, and I look forward to seeing everyone that evening. Families will meet their teachers, visit their classroom and reconnect with classmates from 5 to 6 p.m.

Partnering with families will be one of our focuses for the upcoming year. We encourage families to volunteer, join our school PTO, become a business partner and support their child by asking what they learned at school each day.

Tara Elementary will be continuing with its site-based, after-school program called “Knights Academy.” Child care will be available from 6:30 to 8 a.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. Call the front office for more information and to receive an application.

We are expanding our gifted/ advanced full-day inclusion classes to second-through-fifth grades for the upcoming school year.

— Steve Royce, principal

The Highest Standard of Service, Quality, and Expertise in Pediatric Dentistry, Ages 1-18

JUST THE FACTS Principal: Steve Royce Mascot: Knights Colors: Red and black Open house: 5 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 14

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Dr. M&M 941.953.2111 SmileWorksKids.com

Projected enrollment: 600 PTO president: Susan Evans Special programs or offerings: Full day gifted/ advanced classes for grades 2-5

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A (2013-14)

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL I love my school because everyone is nice and the teachers never give up on their students.

If we struggle in our work, they stop and explain it and help us understand it.

— McKinley Evans

FUN FACT: The principal cooks breakfast for straight-A students.

Designed to delight and warmly engage children from 1-18 years old, Sarasota’s most modern and unique pediatric dental office will entertain and invite your kids to learn about their dental health. Children love the open, playoriented environment and parents love the high level of one-on-one pediatric dental expertise they receive. Come visit our state-of-the-art office and experience a whole new way of caring for infants, toddlers, children, and teens!

Dr. M&M’s

Mini M lars Ages 1-3

Similar to well-­‐checks at the Pediatrician, our dedicated infant oral health program, Dr. M&M’s Mini Molars, helps identify, monitor, and prevent future dental problems in children ages 1-­‐3.

Dr. M&M -­‐ Manav Malik, DMD -­‐Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry -­‐Sarasota native & Pine View School graduate -­‐Fluent in Spanish and English -­‐Consultant to the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Oral Clinical Exam

3103 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34237 SmileWorksKids.com – 941.953.2111

145178

edline.net/pages/sdmctaraes

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6950 Linger Lodge Road, Bradenton • 751-7660

19

20 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

‘‘

ROBERT E WILLIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Principal: Bill Stenger Mascot: Geckos Colors: Lime green and navy blue Open house: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Aug. 14

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Projected enrollment: 724 PTO president: Yazzie Bruss

A (2013-14) FUN FACT: Last year, Willis students and staff launched more than 900 tennis balls aimed at Principal Bill Stenger, who stood on a raft for the day in the middle of school’s lake. Who knows what he will do this year?

14705 The Masters Ave., Lakewood Ranch • 316-8245 manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/elementary/willis/Site/Welcome.html Welcome to FROM THE PRINCIPAL: the 2014-2015 school year! This will be the 10th year for Willis Elementary, and we are honored to welcome students and parents from our community.

We hope you all had a very safe, relaxing and enjoyable summer.

I would like to share some Willis news with you. Mrs. Connie Dixon has been transferred to be the Assistant Principal at Blackburn Elementary School and will not be at Willis. Our new assistant principal will be Mrs. Michele Danowski. She is very excited to be part of our school and is looking forward to meeting all of you. Please be sure to introduce yourself and welcome her to Willis when you meet her.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

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JUST THE FACTS

"I really like Willis because it has great teachers that make learning fun. I especially like when our principal does silly things like being taped to the wall in the cafeteria when we reach our fundraising goals.

— Emily Conelias

The Willis staff continues to be committed to excellence in teaching and providing an environment where creative minds can flourish, excel and think and respond in a more critical way. An emphasis will be placed on working together to achieve the highest possible academic standards while teaching students to employ our “Eight Keys of Excellence” in support of our

school theme of ‘Living Above the Line.”

The 2014-2015 school year promises to be an exciting and productive year. Please plan on attending our Open House Aug. 14 to find out who your teacher will be and check out your new classroom. We look forward to seeing you all soon.

— Bill Stenger

arel p p A n’s 0.99 e r d l Chi art at $ st

I---YOUR STYL

S v------ -k--------------------------------*-*-----------* ------* -- -----!

146258

*Please visit our website for a list of locations.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

GENE WITT

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 200 Rye Road, Bradenton • 741-3628 manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/elementary/witt

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JUST THE FACTS Principal: David Marshall

21

Back to School with Baker Orthodontics

Mascot: Eagles Colors: Teal, silver and white

#

Open house: 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 14 Projected enrollment: 590 PTO president: Mary Fisher and Megan Matras

A (2013-14) after-school programs, provides a well-rounded learning and growing experience for all students.

We would like to invite each family to our Open House from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 14.

Students will meet their new teachers and see their classrooms. Parents will hear information about our new reading program for Manatee County schools and learn about the new Florida State Standards that have been adopted for the 2014-2015 school year.

I will be available to meet and greet students and parents, and I look forward to this initial opportunity to build a relationship with Witt families.

In the meantime, please enjoy the remainder of your summer vacation.

— David Marshall, principal

FUN FACT: This year our Special Area Team will be growing by one and changing by two. We are hiring a second physical-education coach and welcoming a new media specialist and a new music teacher.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL I love Gene Witt because the teachers love kids. — Ashlyn Fisher

We offer a COMPLIMENTARY INITIAL CONSULTATION that includes X-rays and exam • Individualized treatment for children, teens, and adults • Convenient location serving the tricounty area of Sarasota, Manatee, and Desoto • Equipped with the latest digital technology and state of the art sterilization • Most insurance accepted and flexible payment plans including interest free financing

Matthew S. Baker, DDS, MS

5911 North Honore Ave., Suite 222 Sarasota, FL 34243 Located just south of University

941-355-3808 www.drbakerorthodontics.com

145893

Welcome to Gene Witt Elementary School. We are looking forward to another exciting year of excellence.

As the newly appointed principal, I am looking forward to meeting students, parents and community members who have supported this wonderful school over the years.

Because of our talented staff and unwavering community support, Witt Elementary has enjoyed an amazing reputation, defined by being an A-rated school for 17 years.

Our emphasis on the core content areas of reading, writing, math and science, along with enrichment opportunities, such as our fine arts and

‘‘

FROM THE PRINCIPAL:

AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

146198

22 AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

23

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

ROUNDUP

DROP OFF YOUR LITTLE TREASURE AND

treat yourself!

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Expo Center

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146104

SARASOTA NORTH

24 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

nutrition by Pam Eubanks | Managing Editor

ON THE MENU The Manatee County School District this year will implement a revised wellness policy.

As the Manatee County School District prepares for the arrival of students, its Food and Nutrition Services Department staff has rolled out measures to improve nutrition and food safety for students.

The district’s revised wellness policy reinforces existing policies, while also implementing new federal guidelines that set nutritional standards for school lunches, snacks and classroom party

NICKELED, NOT DIMED

School lunch prices increased by 5 cents this year. Prices are now: Level Breakfast Lunch Elementary $1.10 $2.05 Secondary $1.20 $2.30 Adult $1.60 $3.00

foods through the federal Smart Snacks in School program. It aims to reduce the overall number of calories — and especially the number of calories attributed to sugars and solid fats ­—

What’s on a plate?

New requirements dictate that a student meal at breakfast or lunch must include either 1/2 cup fruit or vegetable and two other components.

Components include: protein, grains, milk, fruits and vegetables. At breakfast, students may choose up to two grains or up to two proteins or one grain/ one protein to complete the meal.

REVISED Wellness and Nutrition Policy Highlights include: • Parents may only bring meals into the cafeteria for their student.

• Classroom parties will be held the last hour of the day in elementary schools.

• All food used for parties or for snacks will meet Smart Snack requirements, have an ingredient label and be from a licensed food serve establishment.

• Non-food alternatives should be used as rewards for children.

• Foods used as classroom fundraising or other fundraising during the school day must meet Smart Snack nutritional standards.

• Fundraising foods cannot be sold during meal-service hours.

• Pizza for in-classroom parties will be purchased through the cafeteria.

TAKING A ‘SLICE’ OUT OF NUTRITION

in snack items.

“Foods brought in have (to be from) a food service establishment. That’s for food safety,” says Skye Grundy, dietician and nutrition coordinator for Food and Nutrition Services. “They can order it through us, and they know it meets that nutritional (requirement).”

To make following the guidelines easier for parents, the school district also has launched a new online

Need to check your school’s cafeteria menu? Now you can view it on your smartphone. The district’s new Nutrislice application allows parents to see their child’s school menu, as well as nutrition and allergen information for menu items.

catering program. They can use it to order food that meet the standards.

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6260 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34243

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941-359-9642 www.reflexarts.com

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LEARNING FOR FUN. LEARNING FOR LIFE.®

AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

25

unique case by Amanda Sebastiano | Staff Writer

TEEN RECOVERS FROM BRAIN SURGERY

Michele Mercier believes her daughter’s scoliosis may have indicated her brain condition.

Being a member of the Braden River High dance team is just one reason Megan Mercier is excited to go back to school.

For the 14-year-old, who has been taking classes online for more than five months via

KEY WORDS Chiari Malformation — An abnormality in the cerebellum, the portion of the brain that controls balance and motor skills Kyphosis — A curving of the spine that causes a bowing or rounding of the back Lordosis — Inward curvature of the spine Scoliosis — An abnormal curvature of the spine, typically in the shape of an “S” Syringomyelia (syrinx) — A fluid-filled cyst that forms on the spinal chord

tion of the spine’s major curve of scoliosis tended to be on the same side as the syrinx.

Megan experienced daily headaches, vertigo and an offbalance feeling before her surgery. Her mom now knows the conditions are associated with chiari malformation.

Mercier also recommends parents pay attention to their children’s physical structure.

Uneven shoulder blades, a bump that’s prominent on one side of the back or one leg being a different length from the other could all be indicators of a problem, she said.

HEALTHY START

for the School Year

• Walk-in Services • Illness Management • Physicals • Immunizations • Annual Wellness

25

$

Courtesy of Mike Fults Kid Action Photography

Although Megan Mercier has undergone more medical tests and procedures than some adults, she still sees herself as a regular teenager, she says.

SCHOOL

PHYSICALS

Stephen P Coppa, DO Board Certified Internal Medicine

Martha Sheils, DO

Board Certified Family Medicine

Michael J Dale, PA-C

941.755.4242

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY | SUMMER/FALL HOURS:

Walk-in Medical Clinic | 6110 SR 70 | E Bradenton

Mon, Thu & Fri 8am-7pm | Tue & Wed 8am-6pm | Sat 9am-2pm

WWW.HCAMG.COM

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A

Florida Virtual School, returning to school marks the return to normalcy, after having brain surgery in February.

Megan suffers from a range of health issues: lordosis kyphosis, severe curvature of the spine; chiari malformation — a condition in which the brain is too large for the skull; and syringomyelia, or syrinx, a fluid-filled cyst inside of the spinal chord.

Michele Mercier believes her daughter’s brain and back issues are related and plans to raise awareness on the correlation.

Although little is known about the history of scoliosis found in patients with syrinx, or if one condition causes the other, some information supports Mercier’s claim.

In one study conducted on 20 patients, who ranged in age from 2 to 13 years old, the loca-

26 AUGUST 2014

6215 River Club Blvd., Bradenton • 751-7080 edline.net/pages/sdmcbradenriverms

Principal: Randy Petrilla Mascot: Panthers Colors: Red, black and white Open house: 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 14; Back-to-School Night: 6 to 8 p.m.

Aug. 26

#

Projected enrollment: 936 PTO and SAC presidents: Bobbie Sue Letso and Wendy Orlando Special programs or offerings: Five high-school credit courses.

I would like FROM THE PRINCIPAL: to welcome parents and students to Braden River Middle School, home of the Panthers.

Students should be prepared to come to school with the “Keys4Success,” a positive attitude, respectful behavior, personal responsibility and a concern for a safe school environment. Students and parents should check the school website for handbook information, summer assignments and school supplies.

We welcome all families and community members to

become involved by volunteering, becoming a member of our PTSO or joining our School Advisory Counsel (SAC).

To foster a home/school connection, we encourage you to partner with your child’s teachers to reinforce school rules and expectations. Parents can monitor their student’s progress by signing up for FOCUS, a web-based tool for

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

The teachers have given me so many opportunities to grow and succeed. This school has given me the confidence to push myself further than I ever have in the past, and because of them, I have gone from an average elementary student to an above-average, honorroll, middle-school student.

— Baileigh Bockover

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BRADEN RIVER MIDDLE SCHOOL JUST THE FACTS

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

tracking grades, class assignments and attendance.

Our staff is excited for another great year.

— Randall J. Petrilla, principal

FUN FACT: Although the school’s mascot is a panther, when students first

A (2013-14)

voted, they were 20 votes away from choosing the armadillo as their mascot.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

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Classes beginning the week of September 15 *Scholarships Available

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Register TODAY!

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All kids in 6th - 12th grades are eligible to join in the excitement and participate in one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S.!

www.SarasotaScullers.org • 966-2244

146411

HAVE MORE FUN!

From beginning to advanced, FST offers:

AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

‘‘

27

CARLOS E. HAILE MIDDLE SCHOOL 9501 S.R. 64 E., Bradenton • 714-7240 edline.net/pages/sdmchailems

Mascot: Storm Colors: Teal, black and silver Open house: 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 14

#

Projected enrollment: 1,060

One reason we love Haile Middle School are the friendships we form competing in the TSA program.

— Larz Sesante

Students can explore their talents and find new ones.

We encourage students in the classroom, on the stage, in a studio, on the court and out in the fields to be the best they can be. Providing a variety of academic, athletic, FUN FACT: All of Haile’s social and extraclubs, teams and performance curricular activities groups competed and earned to meet all of the awards and recognitions at the local, needs and wants of state and national level last year. our students to help

PTO president: Krystal Sullivan Special programs or offerings: Agriculture, art, band, orchestra, chorus, dance, graphic design, technology and industry

A (2013-14)

Back to School Physicals

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

Sports Physicals

25 School & Sports PHYSICALS

$

Open 7 Days a Week • 8am-8pm No Appointment Necessary • Walk-Ins Welcome 1 Bradenton • 4647 Manatee Ave. W. • (941) 745-5999 2 Lakewood Ranch • 9908 S.R. 64 E. • (941) 747-8600 3 Sarasota • 6272 Lake Osprey Dr. • (941) 907-2800 4 Sarasota West • 1435 S. Tamiami Trail • (941) 554-4301 www.SarasotaUrgentCare.net

them grow to young adults is our No. 1 priority.

— Sharon Scarbrough, principal

Sprains Strains and Broken Bones

143577

Principal: Sharon Scarbrough

‘‘

FROM THE Carlos E. PRINCIPAL: Haile Middle School is such a special place, and I am so proud to be your principal this year.

Ten years ago, I came to Haile as an assistant principal and was so fortunate to have my first administrative experience here. To come back as principal in 2014 is such an honor.

Haile has a tradition of excellence, and we plan to continue to add new and exciting programs and opportunities for our students and school community.

JUST THE FACTS

28 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

R DAN NOLAN •

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

MIDDLE SCHOOL

6615 Greenbrook Blvd., Lakewood Ranch • 751-8200 manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/ middleschool/nolan

Y DASH PROGRAM

I am pleased FROM THE PRINCIPAL: to be principal of Nolan Middle School.

I have had the opportunity to meet the faculty, staff and many students.

Everyone has been kind in welcoming to me to Nolan.

I am especially impressed by the students and their politeness and interest in getting to know me.

On several occasions, students have approached me as I walked in the halls and classrooms.

They have introduced themselves, asked me questions and told me a little about themselves.

The impression I have is of a school that is caring, polite and proud. I look forward to working with the interesting

Y DASH is a youth development program that increases Development Assets, Fosters Academic Achievement, Teaches Social Responsibility and promotes Healthy Living for Manatee County children.

The Y provides before & after school care, and day camp (no school days, and winter, spring, summer and fall breaks) Camps held at our Y branches.

Before & After School participating locations:

JUST THE FACTS Principal: Scot Boice Mascot: Colts Colors: Blue and silver Open house: 5:45 p.m. Aug. 14 (sixth grade and new students)

#

Projected enrollment: 1,104 PTO president: Beth Grogan Special programs or offerings: eSTEAM Academy and BYOD program

A (2013-14) and engaging students, parents and staff at Nolan Middle School.

— Scot Boice

FUN FACT: This year is the Chinese Year of the Horse. Nolan's mascot is the Colts. So we will be celebrating our commonalities in the 10 years since Nolan opened. Go Colts!

Imagine North Manatee and Moody Elementary Schools.

Manatee County Y Bradenton Branch * Parrish Branch Lakewood Ranch Branch

‘‘

‘‘

For more information visit www.manateeymca.org or call the Y at 782-0220 ext. 123.

146429

Braden River, Buffalo Creek, Haile, Johnson, King, Lee, Nolan and Sugg Middle Schools.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

I Love all the friends i have made at Nolan and the learning experience from my teachers.

— Madi Grogan

AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

29

Dreams Are Free

Catholic School at Bishop Nevins Academy

MIDDLE SCHOOL

ROUNDUP

Catholic Successful Proven

Providing students with special needs the opportunity to succeed • Grades K-8 • Small Class Sizes (12 students or fewer per class) • ESE Certified Teachers • On-Site Occupational, Speech & Physical Therapy • Technology Lab & eBooks • Music & Art Programs • Daily Physical Education • Before & After School Care • McKay Scholarship Participant • Financial Aid Available

Open Enrollment

A Diocese of Venice School

DreamsAreFree.org (941) 366-4010 4380 Fruitville Road, Sarasota

146410

144126

Classes begin August 19, 2014

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

BRADEN RIVER HIGH SCHOOL 6545 S.R. 70 E., Bradenton • 751-8230 edline.net/pages/sdmcbradenriverhs

JUST THE FACTS Principal: Jennifer Gilray Mascot: Pirates Colors: Maroon, black and silver Open house: 9 a.m. or 6 p.m.

Aug. 14

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Projected enrollment: 1980 PTO president: Jamie Phillips Special programs or offerings: Wall-to-Wall model Academy

FCAT: N/A

FROM THE As the principal PRINCIPAL: of Braden River High School, it is my honor and pleasure to welcome all of the Pirate Nation to the 2014-2015 school year. Braden River has a rich history of academic and cultural excellence, which is a result of a collegial partnership between the school staff, the parents, and the surrounding community who provide a wealth of experience for the students.

The Pirate Nation has four academies: Arts and Communications; Business and International Studies; Engineering Design and Leadership; and Science Technology and Health. All these academies are model academies.

To be a successful wall-to-wall academy school, Braden River welcomes families and communities’ members to become involved with

the Pirate Nation as we work hard to continue the tradition of excellence of being a wall-to-wall model school.

The faculty and staff look forward to meeting our incoming Pirates at our new student orientation on Aug. 14. We will offer two sessions — a morning session at 9 a.m. and an evening session at 6 p.m.

Both sessions will be held in the auditorium.

I am looking forward to a wonderful school year. Let’s go Pirates!

— Jennifer Gilray, principal

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL Braden River High School is special because it perfectly balances everything I wanted from my high school experience. It offers a huge variety of unique extra-curriculars, some really good sports teams and fun after-school activities, all the while providing a strong education with many academic opportunities.

— Emma Slotabec

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30 AUGUST 2014

FUN FACT: This year Braden River celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Say goodbye to awkward...

PG-ratings don’t tell you everything, so hear what other parents have to say.

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

AUGUST 2014

31

HIGH SCHOOL

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ROUNDUP

32 AUGUST 2014

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LAKEWOOD RANCH HIGH SCHOOL 5500 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch • 751-8200 edline.net/pages/sdmclakewoodranchhs

JUST THE FACTS Principal: Craig Little Mascot: Mustangs Colors: Green, silver and black Open house: 5:30 p.m. Aug. 14

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Projected enrollment: 2,100 PTO presidents: Kim Arnold Special programs or offerings: Robotics, ceramics, and horticulture

FCAT: N/A

FROM THE I am so thankPRINCIPAL: ful to have the opportunity to be the new principal at Lakewood Ranch High School.

It is truly an honor to take over a school that has such an impressive tradition of academic, athletic and extracurricular excellence. The whole administrative team is working hard to ensure that we have a great 2014-2015 school year.

We are committed to providing our students with high quality educational experiences, while also preparing them for both post-secondary educations and careers.

Information about the 20142015 school year is available on our website. There, you will find information about our upcom-

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

I love my school because it has a superb theater program that provides me with many opportunities to experience new things.

— Jessica Kroupa

ing schedule pickup nights, student dress code information, and many other items. I look

forward to seeing everyone in a few short weeks. Go Mustangs!

— Craig Little, principal

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AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

33

high hopes by Amanda Sebastiano | Staff Writer

principal sets sights on national prize Lakewood Ranch High to begin new chapter with new principal, Craig Little.

Former Lakewood Ranch High Assistant Principal Craig Little, is now the school’s new principal.

He earned Lakewood’s administrator of the year award in 2012 and 2014.

Bio

Craig Little identifies with a range of titles.

He’s a father, husband, runner, New Englander, New York Yankees enthusiast and most recently, Lakewood Ranch High School’s principal.

After receiving the final approval from the Manatee County School District July 22, he will lead the East County high school into the 2014-2015 school year.

“I’d say one of my main goals is to not only maintain an A rating, but also to become a nationally ranked high school,” Little said. “I think we have the tools to do that.”

Little refers to the U.S. News ranking system that receives data on more than 19,400 high schools nationwide. Ranked schools are chosen based on test scores and the school’s

CRAIG LITTLE Age: 38 Former school: Lakewood Ranch High School Years as an educator: 15 Random fact: He wanted to be a police officer when he was in high school. He even attended a state police youth camp, before deciding on being an educator.

ability to prepare students for college.

Little believes by discovering which students are struggling and why, he can “close the achievement gap,” between disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged students, or students who have outside circumstances that make learning more difficult.

Once he discovers which students need the extra help through analyzing data on test scores and assignment grades,

he will work with his administrators and teachers to create tools to help students succeed in class, he explained.

By calling parents to discuss poor grades on students’ progress reports, he hopes to foster an environment that stresses academic importance outside of the classroom.

Ultimately, he wants to provide his students with a well-

rounded, thorough education.

“First of all, this school is an educational institution,” Little said. “But, data doesn’t improve student achievement, people do, although we will use data to identify (students) weaknesses.”

Little also hopes to improve campus safety and implement grade-level meetings to improve student achievement.

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IMAGINE SCHOOL JUST THE FACTS Principal: Selenia Quinones Mascot: Sharks Colors: Blue and yellow Open house: 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 14

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Projected enrollment: 500 Special programs or offerings: National Junior Honor Society, middle school drama and more

B (2013-14)

AT LAKEWOOD

RANCH

10535 Portal Crossing, Bradenton • 750-0900

imagineschoolslakewoodranch.sharpschool.com/ FROM THE I am very PRINCIPAL: excited in welcoming all of our Imagine students and families to the 20142015 school year.

Our Imagine family is ready to help our students continue to demonstrate academic growth and social growth through character development. Last year, our students achieved wonderful learning gains in state exams, and this year we are ready for continued success.

Join our Imagine family on Barbecue Night from 5 to 7

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

p.m. Aug. 7. Meet-the-Teacher Night will be from 4 to 6 p.m.

Aug. 14.

Looking forward to meeting and seeing all of our SHARKS. — Selenia Quinones, principal

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34 AUGUST 2014

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL I love my school because teachers are really nice and they help me in school.

— Sofia Flores

FUN FACT: Imagine's middle-school offerings include drama, music appreciation and Spanish.

ART MUSICBEST BETS

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EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

AUGUST 2014

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35

TABERNACLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 4141 Desoto Road, Sarasota • 365-1050 • tcssarasota.org

Principal: Ronda Crickenberger Mascot: Knights Colors: Navy and silver Parent-only Orientation: 6:30 p.m. Aug. 14

#

Projected enrollment: 260

The Tabernacle FROM THE PRINCIPAL: Christian School family is excited about the upcoming school year.

This is our 38th year of serving the community with academic excellence.

As we enter this new school year, we will continue to offer a strong academic program supported by a biblical

PTO president: Lori Sandwall Special programs or offerings: Fine arts, athletics, and honor societies

FUN FACT: This year’s school theme is “Transformed and Unashamed.”

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL The unique thing about my school is we are like a giant family. Some of my classmates have been friends since (kindergarten), so we know each other very well. The bonds we have made are amazing. One of my favorite parts of the Tabernacle is the fabulous theater productions of which I am a part. This upcoming school year is my eighth-grade and final year at The Tabernacle Christian School. I can't wait to see what's in store.

— Haley Stilwell

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JUST THE FACTS

world view that develops strong moral character in our students.

This year, students can look forward to our amazing middle school trips. These include Big Pine Key, Williamsburg and Washington D.C. Our athletic programs and award-winning fine-arts program continue to grow. Our faculty, staff and families are looking forward to another exciting school year at The Tabernacle Christian School.

— Ronda Crickenberger, principal

Back To School Special For Moms!

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OFFER LIMITED TO 10 PEOPLE WHO MENTION THIS AD.

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36 AUGUST 2014

THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY JUST THE FACTS Principal: David Mahler Mascot: Thunder Colors: Navy blue and white Open house: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 3 (Upper School)

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Projected enrollment: 700 PTO president: Daria Spina Special programs or offerings: Blended and online offerings

FUN FACT: The Out-ofDoor will celebrate its 90th year with the largest enrollment in school history.

5950 Deer Drive, Lakewood Ranch • 349-3223 • oda.edu FROM THE The 2014-15 PRINCIPAL: school year will be filled with excitement at The Outof-Door Academy.

A celebration for Out-of-Door’s 90th year will commence on the first day of school.

Special events to commemorate our school’s founding on Siesta Key in 1924 will continue throughout the year.

Faculty and students prekindergarten through 12th grades will return to classrooms that have been equipped with new interactive technology this summer. Our middle-school students will experience a totally remodeled campus.

Our entire school community will watch as a new Upper School Student & STEM Center is built over the course of the school year.

This 20,000-square-foot facility includes a cyber café, technology center, writing lab, academic commons, collaborative work spaces,

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

outdoor dining, state-of-the-art science labs, a design center with 3D printers and a STEM Project Lab for students to pursue individualized research and to transform ideas and dreams into functioning models.

The world of education is changing rapidly and these transformational academic spaces will provide our students with amazing new learning opportunities. As we prepare to celebrate Out-of-Door’s storied past, we also embrace a dynamic future in which the capacity to change and innovate will be essential for the success of the next generation..

— David Mahler

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL Out-of-Door strives to make its students better global citizens, better people, and better scholars.

When you have that as the driving force behind the school's development, everything else I love about my school simply falls into place. I treasure my dwindling time at The Out-of-Door Academy and look forward to seeing it change the lives of others as it surely changed mine.

— Cammy Harris

Local News that’s Local News.

The East County Observer, Longboat Observer, Sarasota Observer and Pelican Press are weekly newspapers that connect readers to their communities in Greater Sarasota and Manatee counties with 100% local, unique content. Every issue is packed with news, photos, events and newsmakers to inform, entertain and delight readers and help build a sense of community.

From backyard birthday parties to the black-tie social scene, if it’s news in your neighborhood, it’s in the Observers.

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The family-owned Observer Media Group has been sharing stories locally for more than 35 years. The Observers are passionate about offering the communities we serve a relevant and trusted source to connect you, your neighbors, your neighborhood.

AUGUST 2014

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

37

AREA ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS PRIVATE SCHOOLS

CHARTER/MAGNET SCHOOLS

For more information about magnet schools in Manatee County, visit magnet.manatee.k12.fl.us/index.html.

ELEMENTARY MANATEE ELEMENTARY MAGNET ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY PLUS ADDRESS: 1609 Sixth Ave. E. PHONE NUMBER: 741-3319 WEBSITE: edline.net/pages/

ROWLETT ELEMENTARY MAGNET COMMUNICATION AND THE CREATIVE ARTS ADDRESS: 3500 Ninth St. E. PHONE NUMBER: 708-6100 WEBSITE: manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/

elementary/rowlett/index.html PRINCIPAL: Brian Flynn

WAKELAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

sdmcwakelandes PRINCIPAL: Mario Mendoza

MIDDLE LOUISE R. JOHNSON MIDDLE SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL

IMG PENDLETON COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL

ADDRESS: 3304 43rd St. W.,

ADDRESS: 5500 34th St. W.,

WEBSITE:

PHONE: 739-3964 WEBSITE:

Bradenton PHONE: 792-5454

ADDRESS: 2121 26th Ave. E. PHONE NUMBER: 741-3344 WEBSITE: edline.net/pages/

bcspanthers.org/

sdmcjohnsonms PRINCIPAL: Carl Auckerman

sdmcmanateees PRINCIPAL: Deborah Houston

ADDRESS: 1812 27th St. E. PHONE NUMBER: 741-3358 WEBSITE: edline.net/pages/

STUDIES

BRADENTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

SUPERINTENDENT: Dan

Bradenton

imgacademy.com

LINCOLN MIDDLE MAGNET SCHOOL

vande Pol GRADES: K-12

PRESIDENT AND HEADMASTER: Rich Odell GRADES: Kindergarten

ADDRESS: 305 17th St. E., Palmetto PHONE NUMBER: 721-6840 WEBSITE: edline.net/pages/

CARDINAL MOONEY HIGH SCHOOL

PINNACLE ACADEMY

through post-graduate

sdmclincolnms PRINCIPAL: Ronnie King

ADDRESS: 4171 Fruitville

MANATEE SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS

WEBSITE:

Road, Sarasota PHONE: 371-4917

Road, Lakewood Ranch

ADDRESS: 700 Haben Blvd., Palmetto PHONE NUMBER: 721-6800 WEBSITE: msfta.org/site/default.

cmhs-sarasota.org Principal: Steve Christie GRADES: 9-12

PRINCIPAL: Dr. Bill Jones

COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

HIGH SOUTHEAST HIGH SCHOOL I.B. PROGRAM

ADDRESS: 5500 18th St. E.,

aspx?PageID=1

ADDRESS: 1200 37th Ave. E. PHONE NUMBER: 741-3366 WEBSITE: manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/

highschool/southeast/

PRINCIPAL: Jim Pauley

ADDRESS: 6215 Lorraine

Bradenton PHONE: 756-8748 WEBSITE: community christianfl.com ADMINISTRATION: Pastors Jesse Nicholson GRADES: K-12

PHONE NUMBER: 755-1400 WEBSITE:

thepinnacleacademy.com DIRECTOR: Dr. Kristina Ordetz AGES: 18 months to 6 years

ST. STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL ADDRESS: 315 41st St. W.,

Bradenton

PHONE NUMBER: 746-2121 WEBSITE:

saintstephens.org

HEAD OF SCHOOL: Janet

Pullen

GRADES: Pre-K through 12

Expect More

from your school !

• More Learning • More Care • More Commitment • More Focus • More Success

Why

Choose

146419

RENTALS & REPAIRS Sales & Lessons

Apply Now!

Band and orchestra Books and accessories

for the 2014-2015 School Year

Band & Orchestra instruments available for purchase and rental

www.keyboardsandmore.com

• Focus on character education and leadership to prepare students for the future • Students wear school uniforms to avoid distractions and enhance security • Meaningful parental involvement helps students perform better

4550 30th Street E Bradenton, FL 34203

Online: ManateeCharter.org Or call for more information 941-465-4296 146459

Desoto Junction 3611 1st Street Suite 520 Bradenton, FL 34208 941-746-1414

Manatee Charter School?

• Dedicated, caring, certified teachers • Core curriculum and enrichment classes to keep students engaged • Personal learning plans to assure each student’s success • Instruction is based on individual strengths and weaknesses

Keyboards & More

Ranch Lake Plaza 8734 State Road 70 East Bradenton, FL 34202 941-753-6633

Educating Grades K - 8

M ANATEE CHARTE R SCHOOL

Manatee Charter Schoos is a Tuition-Free Public Charter School 146479

38 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES PHONE: 316-8120 WEBSITE: med.fsu.

ARGOSY UNIVERSITY, SARASOTA ADDRESS: 5250 17th St., Sarasota PHONE: 1-800-331-5995 WEBSITE: argosy.edu

EAST WEST COLLEGE OF NATURAL MEDICINE ADDRESS: 3808 N. Tamiami Trail,

Sarasota PHONE: 355-9080 WEBSITE: ewcollege.edu

Blvd., Suite 106, University Park PHONE: 957-3397 WEBSITE: eckerd.edu

EVERGLADES UNIVERSITY

Suite 300, Sarasota

PHONE: 751-8479 WEBSITE:

PHONE: 313-3919 WEBSITE:

manateetechnicalinstitute.org

ITT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ADDRESS: 8039 Cooper Creek

MERIDIAN CAREER INSTITUTE

KEISER UNIVERSITY

Parkway E., Suite 200, Lakewood Ranch PHONE: 377-4880 WEBSITE: meridian.edu

Blvd., University Park PHONE: 309-9200 WEBSITE: itt-tech.edu

Drive, Lakewood Ranch

ADDRESS: 8031 Cooper Creek

ADDRESS: 5899 Whitfield Ave.,

edu/?page=sarasotaRegional.home

ADDRESS: 6151 Lake Osprey

ECKERD COLLEGE

SARASOTA SCHOOL OF MASSAGE THERAPY

PHONE: 907-3900 WEBSITE: keiseruniversity.edu

LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE BRADENTON ADDRESS: 5000 Lakewood Ranch

sarasotaschoolofmassagetherapy. edu

ADDRESS: 7020 Professional

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA ADDRESS: 5800 Bay Shore Road,

Sarasota

PHONE: 487-5000 WEBSITE: ncf.edu

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN ADDRESS: 2700 N. Tamiami Trail,

Drive, No. 110, Lakewood Ranch PHONE: 907-2262 WEBSITE: everglades university. edu

FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY REGIONAL MEDICAL SCHOOL CAMPUS — SARASOTA

MANATEE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

ADDRESS: 4748 Beneva Road,

ADDRESS: 6305 State Road 70 E.,

Sarasota

Bradenton

PHONE: 924-1365 WEBSITE: scti.edu

Sarasota PHONE: 351-5100 WEBSITE: ringling.edu

Bradenton (SCF Bradenton); 7131 Professional Parkway E., Lakewood Ranch (SCF Lakewood Ranch); 8000 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice (SCF Venice) PHONE: 752-5000 (Bradenton); 363-7000 (Lakewood Ranch) or 408-1300 (Venice) WEBSITE: scf.edu ADDRESS: 8043 Cooper Creek

Blvd., Suite 101, University Park

PHONE: 358-3840 WEBSITE: webster.edu

SARASOTA COUNTY TECHNICAL INSTITUTE Sarasota

kin’ I ic

After School Care

t ss

r Ka

at e e & Fitn

We will provide transportation from your childs school “Lakewood Ranch and East Manatee Areas Only” For $80 a week your child will be given a safe place to learn self defense and have fun while you work

Learn: Martial Arts / Self Discipline Social Skills / Responsibility Teamwork / Respect / and More!

Children will need to be picked up by 6:00pm each day

Kickin’ It Karate & Fitness /MyHouseOfPain

www.myhouseofpain.com

6815 SR 70 E Bradenton, FL 34203 Just West of I-75 next to La Petite Academy (941) 755-6000

146290

K

ADDRESS: 201 Cocoanut Ave.,

ADDRESS: 5840 26th St. W.,

WEBSTER UNIVERSITY

Blvd., Lakewood Ranch PHONE: 756-0690 (College of Medicine and College of Pharmacy); 405-1500 (LECOM School of Dental Medicine) WEBSITE: lecom.edu

ADDRESS: 6001 Lake Osprey

STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA MANATEE-SARASOTA

EAST COUNTY OBSERVER • BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

A private, non - profit K-12 school focused on individualized education and tolerance.

Helping children thrive in a small, emotionally supportive setting.

Offering services to students (including, but not limited to):

ADD/ADHD Various Learning Disabilities Dyslexia Anxiety Developmental Delays Developmental Disabilities Asperger’s/High Functioning

AUGUST 2014

Celebrating 10 years as Sarasota’s Premiere Social Skills and Bully-Free School!

Our Philosophy: The GAP School has a unique foundation that is based on individualized education and social skills. We support an anti-biased curriculum in a bully-free environment and enforce the concepts of personal character tolerance, diversity and social responsibility.

The staff strives to help students attain success by reconnecting them to their sense of respect, learning, belonging and acceptance.

Why The GAP School Works!

• The GAP School is a safe and nurturing environment • Teachers are dedicated, creative, consistent, well-trained and motivated!

• Student/Teacher ratio is 8:1 or less • Individualized education throughout all curriculum areas • Teamwork is the foundation for problem solving and cohesive relationships • Building emotional connections through communication • Students are recognized for their unique talents and accomplishments • Family are supported • Areas of curriculum: Social Skills, Art, Music, Personal Fitness, Executive Functioning Skills and core courses • Teachers instruct, encourage and support the students to reach their individual learning potential • Strong community involvement

Autism PDD-NOS We strive to bridge academic, cognitive, developmental, social and emotional GAPS.

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All students are welcome McKay Scholarship Participant, 501(c)(3)

“This year was really good for me. It was a reboot year and it was all made possible by you and your staff. This is, in my opinion, one of the best years, school-wise. So, thank you for restarting my career and giving me a chance. Also, in one word, something I learned from you is leadership.”

Jackson H. - former student, 2014 “Thank you for all you have done this year. Although my son excels in English, it is his least favorite subject and therefore more difficult to keep him engaged. It has required more patience and understanding on your part, which you have readily provided, while also maintaining your expectations.”

Parent -2012 to present

133 S. McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 941 - 552 - 9090 (p) | 941 - 552 - 9081 (f ) | thegapschool133@gmail.com

TheGapSchool.org

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40 AUGUST 2014

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE • EAST COUNTY OBSERVER

t r a t S t r ! r a e A Sma Y l o o h c S w e to the N

Lakew Our new ood are n Ranch offi ow ce 1150 5 Ran open at s g Brade eland Pkw nton, y.

FL

Back-to-School & Sports Physical Exams l l l l

Michael Bentze, D.O.

Nicole Bentze, D.O.,FAAFP

Felicia Canada, M.D.

Accepting new patients Most insurance plans accepted Convenient locations and hours Same day appointments often available

Josette Grice, M.D.

Anthony Hemmer, M.D. Samuel Quartermaine D.O., Pharm. D.

IMG Lakewood Ranch Medical Office 11505 Rangeland Parkway, Bradenton, Florida 34211 (SR 70, exit 217 off I-75) Your Neighborhood, Board Certified, Family Practice Physicians

145789

941-907-6016