Osceola School News Archives - Positively Osceola https://www.positivelyosceola.com/category/news/osceola-school-news/ Osceola News That Informs, Impacts and Inspires! Sat, 23 Nov 2024 11:44:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Kowboys to Ride into Regional Championship Game after Overpowering Durant Cougars with Dominant Ground Attack, Staunch Defense, and Big Special Teams https://www.positivelyosceola.com/kowboys-to-ride-into-regional-championship-game-after-overpowering-durant-cougars-with-dominant-ground-attack-staunch-defense-and-big-special-teams/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/kowboys-to-ride-into-regional-championship-game-after-overpowering-durant-cougars-with-dominant-ground-attack-staunch-defense-and-big-special-teams/#respond Sat, 23 Nov 2024 11:42:53 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=58999 The post Kowboys to Ride into Regional Championship Game after Overpowering Durant Cougars with Dominant Ground Attack, Staunch Defense, and Big Special Teams appeared first on Positively Osceola.

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Dan PearsonBy:  J. Daniel Pearson
For Positively Osceola

The recipe for Osceola’s win over Durant was not particularly complicated.  

Start with an awesome running attack, combine with a dominant defensive effort and toss in some outstanding special teams play and it was the formula for success in the Kowboys 35-6 win over Durant at Markus Paul Stadium Friday night!

With the victory, Osceola’s seventh in a row, the Kowboys (10-2) now travel to Seffner (Fla.), where they will meet #1 seed Armwood (12-0) for the Class 6A, Region 2 Championship next Friday night.  Armwood needed two fourth quarter touchdowns, including one in the final minute, to slip by Plant, 21-17, in their semifinal game.

“A lot of credit needs to go to our defense and our coordinator Brad Lennox,” Osceola Coach Eric Pinellas said.  “They really did an outstanding job shutting them down all night.   Brad told me that he noticed something on tape about their kicking game and that he thought we could exploit.  In fact, he even mentioned that he thought we could get a couple of blocked kicks.”

Osceola Kowboys
Osceola Kowboys
Osceola Kowboys
Osceola High School
Osceola Kowboys
Osceola Kowboys

Osceola‘s first two drives in the game ended on a missed field goal and a punt, but after that they scored touchdowns on five consecutive possessions to take a 35-0 lead.

It was the special teams that made a huge difference on three of those scores.  Osceola blocked two punts in the first half and also tackled punter Isaiah Sawyer on a third attempt on his own 10 to set up three first half touchdowns. 

After the kicking game mistakes, those short drives came on a 20-yard run by Jeff Sinophat, a five-yarder by Taevion Swint and one-yard plunge by Elijah Hickson.

Even though Osceola took advantage of that field position (seven of their first half possessions had an average starting position of the Cougar 36-yard line), the Durant defense offered little resistance to the Kowboys running game.  On the other two scoring possessions that did not involve a kicking breakdown by Durant, Swint broke off a 49-yard touchdown run and Sinophat added a 35-yard run.

Hickson’s score at the 5-minute mark of the second quarter insured the second half would be played under the Mercy Rule, triggering an automatic running clock.

That running clock essentially limited the teams to two possessions each in the second half. 

Durant was able to avoid the shutout when Jayden Cornelius intercepted a Camren West pass and returned it 82 yards to the Osceola 10.  Three plays later, Cornelius ran it over from the one to make it 35-6.

Cornelius’ touchdown was the lone bright spot for the Cougars’ offense, which managed just 87 net yards and three first downs on 33 plays in the game.  Durant played most of the game without their starting quarterback Michael Ryan, who was injured a week earlier in their quarterfinal game.  Still Osceola shut down their opponent’s other playmakers.  Emmanuel Lee, who rushed for over 1000 yards this season, was held to 14 yards on nine carries by the Kowboys defense. 

Meanwhile, Swint and Sinophat combined for 238 rushing yards and four touchdowns on just 15 carries.  The two broke off six runs of 20 or more yards.  Osceola finished with 306 yards of total offense on 35 plays.

“We wanted to start out the game fast and that’s why we elected to receive,” Pinellas said.  “But we stopped ourselves on the first two drives with a couple of mistakes.  Defensively, we knew if they had to go to their backup quarterback (Cornelius) he would have a hard time moving the ball against us in the wildcat.”

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]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/kowboys-to-ride-into-regional-championship-game-after-overpowering-durant-cougars-with-dominant-ground-attack-staunch-defense-and-big-special-teams/feed/ 0 Don Simon Returns as Head Coach of Harmony Longhorns Football https://www.positivelyosceola.com/don-simon-returns-as-head-coach-of-harmony-longhorns-football/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/don-simon-returns-as-head-coach-of-harmony-longhorns-football/#respond Fri, 22 Nov 2024 14:51:43 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=58983 By:  J. Daniel Pearson Harmony has a new football coach. Well sort of new.   Late Thursday, Harmony Principal James Hickey announced that Don Simon would return as Head Football […]

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]]> By:  J. Daniel Pearson

Harmony has a new football coach.

Well sort of new.  

Late Thursday, Harmony Principal James Hickey announced that Don Simon would return as Head Football Coach of the Longhorns.  He replaced Nick Lippert, who stepped down earlier in the week. Simon served as head football coach of the Longhorns for six seasons, before resigning in the spring of 2023 to become Athletics Director at Tohopekaliga.  

Lippert, who came to Harmony with Simon in 1997 as his defensive coordinator, was elevated to head coach when Simon left.

In his two seasons, Lippert was 5-20 –including a 3-7 mark this year.  Although his defenses continued to play with the same grit and determination they displayed when he was defensive coordinator, his offenses struggled to score points – averaging just 10 per game over the last two seasons.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce Coach Don Simon is moving back to Harmony and will take over the head football coach responsibilities,” Harmony Principal James Hickey said.  “Coach Simon is excited to move back to the Ranch to continue building on the success he had prior to becoming an athletic director.  Coach Simon will return as a teacher here after the winter break and will assume our off-season conditioning program immediately.”

In his six previous seasons as head coach at Harmony, Simon compiled a 34-27 record and took the Longhorns to the state playoffs twice.  The totals include just one sub .500 season (3-7 in 2019) and a 9-2 record in 2018.

Simon said his return to coaching was made without hesitation.   “It’s been a crazy couple of days for me and my family,” Simon said.  “The last 18 months in athletic administration has been a great experience, but during that time, I came to the realization that I am a football coach and it’s what I want to be.”

In making the announcement, Hickey took time to recognize the contributions of Lippert.  “As we welcome Coach Simon back, I want to send my gratitude and appreciation to Coach Lippert, who has given so much of his time and effort to our football athletes. He has chosen to step back into the assistant football coaching position. We are looking forward to new leadership and success as we prepare for the 2025-26 season.”

It was not the only athletic shakeup for Harmony, as Athletics Director Dan Kerr stepped down earlier this month to accept a position with the United States Tennis Association.  The Longhorn’s Athletic Director since 2019, Harmony has won the last four Orange Belt Conference All-Sports trophies under his leadership.  Hickey elevated Kerr’s assistant Randy Schafer to the position earlier this week.

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]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/don-simon-returns-as-head-coach-of-harmony-longhorns-football/feed/ 0 Back to School Meet The Teacher Events Begin Today For Osceola County Schools’ 2024-2025 School Year https://www.positivelyosceola.com/back-to-school-meet-the-teacher-events-begin-today-for-osceola-county-schools-2024-2025-school-year/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/back-to-school-meet-the-teacher-events-begin-today-for-osceola-county-schools-2024-2025-school-year/#respond Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:00:27 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=54191 All Osceola students and parents are encouraged to attend their school’s Meet The Teacher event  to prepare for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. Here is the schedule which begins tonight: […]

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All Osceola students and parents are encouraged to attend their school’s Meet The Teacher event  to prepare for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. Here is the schedule which begins tonight:

  • Wednesday, August 7 – All high schools will host Meet The Teacher from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (including The Osceola County School for the Arts Grades 6-12) 
  • Thursday, August 8 – All middle schools and K-8 schools will host Meet The Teacher from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • Friday, August 9 – All elementary schools will host Meet the Teacher from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet teachers, tour the school, and get important information about the new school year. Don’t miss out on this chance to start the year off right!

Students in Osceola County will begin classes on August 12, 2024. Parents can find the 2024-2025 school year academic calendar under the “About Us” tab on the district’s homepage at https://www.osceolaschools.net

Eventos de regreso a clases para conocer a los maestros de las escuelas del condado Osceola

Se les exhorta a todos los estudiantes y padres de Osceola a asistir al evento de regreso a clases para conocer a los maestros de su escuela con el fin de prepararse para el año escolar 2024-2025 de acuerdo con el siguiente calendario:
–miércoles, 7 de agosto – Todas las escuelas superiores celebrarán su evento para conocer a los maestros de 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (incluyendo The Osceola County School for the Arts Grados 6-12)
–jueves, 8 de agosto – Todas las escuelas intermedias y K-8 celebrarán su evento para conocer a los maestros de 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
–viernes, 9 de agosto – Todas las escuelas elementales celebrarán su evento para conocer a los maestros de 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Los estudiantes tendrán la oportunidad de familiarizarse con el maestro y el entorno del salón de clases antes del primer día de clases, lo que puede reducir la ansiedad y ayudar a los estudiantes a sentirse más cómodos y seguros. Este evento para conocer a los maestros también proporcionará a los padres la oportunidad de establecer una conexión personal con los maestros de sus hijos, lo que puede facilitar una mejor comunicación y colaboración a lo largo del año escolar. Conocer el enfoque del maestro, sus expectativas y las normas del salón de clases proporcionará a los padres la información que necesitan para apoyar el aprendizaje de sus hijos.
Los estudiantes del condado Osceola comenzarán las clases el 12 de agosto de 2024. Los padres pueden encontrar el calendario académico del año escolar 2024-2025 en la pestaña “Sobre nosotros” en la página principal del sitio web del distrito en https://www.osceolaschools.net

The post Back to School Meet The Teacher Events Begin Today For Osceola County Schools’ 2024-2025 School Year appeared first on Positively Osceola.

]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/back-to-school-meet-the-teacher-events-begin-today-for-osceola-county-schools-2024-2025-school-year/feed/ 0 Rabies Alert Issued for Parts of Osceola County by Florida Health Department After Confirmed Case in Cat https://www.positivelyosceola.com/rabies-alert-issued-for-parts-of-osceola-county-by-florida-health-department-after-confirmed-case-in-cat/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/rabies-alert-issued-for-parts-of-osceola-county-by-florida-health-department-after-confirmed-case-in-cat/#respond Thu, 11 Jul 2024 19:23:44 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=55255  The Florida Department of Health in Osceola County has issued a rabies alert in Osceola County in response to a confirmed case of rabies in a cat that was captured […]

The post Rabies Alert Issued for Parts of Osceola County by Florida Health Department After Confirmed Case in Cat appeared first on Positively Osceola.

]]>  The Florida Department of Health in Osceola County has issued a rabies alert in Osceola County in response to a confirmed case of rabies in a cat that was captured in the Mill Creek Woods area off Orchid Lane in Osceola County on July 8, 2024. 

DOH-Osceola is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population. 

People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals (e.g., raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes), which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment. If you are exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will protect you from the risk of rabies. 

This rabies alert is for 60 days and includes the following boundaries in Osceola County: 

  • • Northern boundary: 522 E. Osceola Parkway 
  • • Southern boundary: U.S. Highway 192 – Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway 
  • • Eastern boundary: Florida’s Turnpike 
  • • Western boundary: S. John Young Parkway 

Take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure: 

  • • Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule. 
  • • Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Osceola Animal Services at 407-742-8000. 
  • • Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention, and report the injury to DOH-Osceola by calling 407-343-2155. 
  • • Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. 
  • • Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Osceola Animal Services at 407-742-8000. 
  • • Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied 

The post Rabies Alert Issued for Parts of Osceola County by Florida Health Department After Confirmed Case in Cat appeared first on Positively Osceola.

]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/rabies-alert-issued-for-parts-of-osceola-county-by-florida-health-department-after-confirmed-case-in-cat/feed/ 0 Osceola School District Students Show Substantial Improvement in Statewide Testing Across All Grade Levels https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-school-district-students-show-substantial-improvement-in-statewide-testing-across-all-grade-levels/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-school-district-students-show-substantial-improvement-in-statewide-testing-across-all-grade-levels/#respond Tue, 02 Jul 2024 15:57:28 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=54951 The Osceola County School District announced on Monday that its students on nearly all grade levels have achieved significant gains in proficiency rates across core subjects, including Mathematics, Science, English/Language […]

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The Osceola County School District announced on Monday that its students on nearly all grade levels have achieved significant gains in proficiency rates across core subjects, including Mathematics, Science, English/Language Arts (ELA), and Social Studies.

Highlights of the results of Osceola School District’s Progress Monitoring from 2022-2023 to 2023-2024 include:
  • 3rd grade increased from 45% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 49% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA and increased from 47% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 52% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Math.
  • 4th grade increased from 43% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 45% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA.
  • 5th grade increased from 39% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 46% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA, increased 38% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 41% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Math, and increased 40% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 42% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Science.
  • 6th grade increased from 41% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 45% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA and increased from 34% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 39% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Math.
  • 7th grade increased  from 40% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 45% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA and increased from 37% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 40% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Math.
  • 8th grade increased from 42% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 45% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA, increased from 45% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 46% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Math, and increased from 35% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 37% on grade level in 2023-2024 in Science.
  • 9th grade increased from 43% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 49% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA.
  • 10th grade increased from 44% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 49% on grade level in 2023-2024 in ELA.
  • Algebra 1 B.E.S.T EOC increased from 44% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 47% on grade level in 2023-2024.
  • Geometry B.E.S.T EOC increased from 38% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 47% on grade level in 2023-2024.
  • Biology EOC increased from 65% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 66% on grade level in 2023-2024.
  • Civics EOC increased from 63% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 65% on grade level in 2023-2024.
  • U.S. History EOC increased from 57% on grade level in 2022-2023 to 62% on grade level in 2023-2024.
Superintendent Mark Shanoff expressed great pride in the achievements, “We are thrilled to see such substantial progress across the board. This success is a clear indication that our targeted interventions and enhanced curriculum are making a real difference. Our educators and school administrators have worked tirelessly to create an engaging and supportive learning environment, and these results demonstrate the positive impact of their efforts. As we celebrate these achievements, we recognize that our work is not done. The Osceola County School Board remains committed to continuous improvement and to providing every student with the resources and opportunities necessary for success.”

Heather Kahoun, Chairwoman of the Osceola County School Board, remarked, “The progress we’ve seen is extremely encouraging and reflects the effectiveness of our strategic initiatives. We will continue to build on this positive momentum to support all students in reaching their full potential.”

El Distrito Escolar del Condado de Osceola anunció el lunes que sus estudiantes en casi todos los niveles de grado han logrado aumentos significativos en las tasas de competencia en materias fundamentales, incluyendo Matemáticas, Ciencias, Artes del Lenguaje Inglés (ELA) y Estudios Sociales.

Aspectos destacados de los resultados del Monitoreo de Progreso del Distrito Escolar de Osceola de 2022-2023 a 2023-2024 incluyen:

  • 3er grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 45% en el 2022-2023 a un 49% en el 2023-2024 en ELA y aumentó de un 47% en el 2022-2023 a un 52% en el 2023-2024 en Matemáticas.
  • 4to grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 43% en el 2022-2023 a un 45% en el 2023-2024 en ELA.
  • 5to grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 39% en el 2022-2023 a un 46% en el 2023-2024 en ELA, de un 38% en el 2022-2023 a un 41% en el 2023-2024 en Matemáticas y de un 40% en el 2022-2023 a un 42% en el 2023-2024 en Ciencias.
  • 6to grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 41% en el 2022-2023 a un 45% en el 2023-2024 en ELA, y de un 34% en el 2022-2023 a un 39% en el 2023-2024 en Matemáticas.
  • 7mo grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 40% en el 2022-2023 a un 45% en el 2023-2024 en ELA y de un 37% en el 2022-2023 a un 40% en el 2023-2024 en Matemáticas.
  • 8vo grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 42% en el 2022-2023 a un 45% en el 2023-2024 en ELA, de un 45% en el 2022-2023 a un 46% en el 2023-2024 en Matemáticas y de un 35% en el 2022-2023 a un 37% en el 2023-2024 en Ciencias.
  • 9no grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 43% en el 2022-2023 a un 49% en el 2023-2024 en ELA.
  • 10mo grado aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 44% en el 2022-2023 a un 49% en el 2023-2024 en ELA.
  • Álgebra 1 B.E.S.T EOC aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 44% en el 2022-2023 a un 47% en el 2023-2024.
  • Geometría B.E.S.T EOC aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 38% en el 2022-2023 a un 47% en el 2023-2024.
  • Biología EOC aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 65% en el 2022-2023 a un 66% en el 2023-2024.
  • Cívica EOC aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 63% en el 2022-2023 a un 65% en el 2023-2024.
  • Historia de los E.U. EOC aumentó el porciento de estudiantes a nivel de grado de un 57% en el 2022-2023 a un 62% en el 2023-2024.
El Superintendente Mark Shanoff expresó su gran orgullo referente a estos logros diciendo “Nos sentimos fascinados de ver el considerable progreso a través del distrito escolar. Este éxito es una clara indicación de que las intervenciones dirigidas y el enriquecido plan de estudios están haciendo una diferencia real. Nuestros educadores y administradores escolares han trabajado sin descanso para crear un ambiente escolar basado en el apoyo y la participación y estos resultados demuestran el impacto positivo de sus esfuerzos. Celebrando estos logros, reconocemos que nuestra labor ha sido cumplida. La Junta Escolar del Condado Osceola se compromete al mejoramiento continuo y a ofrecerle a cada estudiante los recursos y oportunidades necesarios para el éxito.” 

Heather Kahoun, Presidenta de la Junta Escolar del Condado Osceola, comentó que “El progreso que hemos visto es extremadamente alentador y refleja la efectividad de nuestras iniciativas estratégicas. Continuaremos con la construcción de una dinámica positiva para apoyar a todos los estudiantes a alcanzar su potencial máximo.” 

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]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-school-district-students-show-substantial-improvement-in-statewide-testing-across-all-grade-levels/feed/ 0 Supporting Osceola County Students: Join the Education Foundation’s Annual ‘Gift for Teaching’ School Supply Drive! https://www.positivelyosceola.com/supporting-osceola-county-students-join-the-education-foundations-annual-gift-for-teaching-school-supply-drive-fl/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/supporting-osceola-county-students-join-the-education-foundations-annual-gift-for-teaching-school-supply-drive-fl/#respond Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:47:30 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=54726 As the new school year approaches, the Education Foundation of Osceola County invites the community to participate in the annual Gift for Teaching School Supply Drive. From July 1 to […]

The post Supporting Osceola County Students: Join the Education Foundation’s Annual ‘Gift for Teaching’ School Supply Drive! appeared first on Positively Osceola.

]]> As the new school year approaches, the Education Foundation of Osceola County invites the community to participate in the annual Gift for Teaching School Supply Drive. From July 1 to August 31, this initiative aims to support local students by providing essential school supplies, ensuring they have the tools needed for academic success.

Access to quality education begins with having the right supplies. With 76% of students in Osceola County living in poverty, many families struggle to afford the necessary items. By contributing to the School Supply Drive, you can directly impact a child’s learning experience and help set them up for success.

How You Can Help

Collect Supplies: Consider donating items such as backpacks, notebooks, pencils, pens, rulers, erasers, and other school essentials. If your company, civic group, or family would like to organize a collection team, contact Kathy Ejnioui at Kathy.Ejnioui@osceolaschools.net. Most requested items include pencils, loose leaf paper, crayons, colored pencils, dry erase markers, glue sticks, and disinfecting wipes. Supplies can be dropped off at participating locations or at the Education Foundation office. Call 407-870-4855 to schedule a drop-off.

Make a Financial Donation: Every $25 donation enters you into a drawing to win a $5,000 cash award. The funds raised will be used to purchase new school supplies for students in need. Remember, every dollar received can be transformed into $10 worth of supplies!

Spread the Word: Share this information with friends, family, and colleagues to create a ripple effect of kindness.

Volunteer to be a Collection Spot: We need partners to help collect donated supplies. Flyers and bins are available for those willing to participate.

Impact and Goals

The Education Foundation of Osceola County’s Gift for Teaching program has a significant impact, having provided over $28.5 million in school supplies over the past 20 years. This year, the goal is to continue this legacy and ensure every child in Osceola County starts the school year with the supplies they need to thrive academically.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Let’s rally behind this cause and support our community’s students. With your help, we can ensure that every child in Osceola County has the supplies they need to succeed in school. For more information and to get involved, visit the Education Foundation of Osceola County’s website.

Join us in making a positive impact in our community. Together, we can create a brighter future for our students.

The post Supporting Osceola County Students: Join the Education Foundation’s Annual ‘Gift for Teaching’ School Supply Drive! appeared first on Positively Osceola.

]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/supporting-osceola-county-students-join-the-education-foundations-annual-gift-for-teaching-school-supply-drive-fl/feed/ 0 Osceola County School District Hosts Teacher Job Fair This Thursday, Apply Now to Establish Eligibility https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-county-school-district-hosts-teacher-job-fair-this-thursday-apply-now-to-establish-eligibility/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-county-school-district-hosts-teacher-job-fair-this-thursday-apply-now-to-establish-eligibility/#respond Tue, 25 Jun 2024 18:12:25 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=54710 The Osceola County School District will host its 2024 Teacher Job Fair on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in Kissimmee. This invitation-only event is an […]

The post Osceola County School District Hosts Teacher Job Fair This Thursday, Apply Now to Establish Eligibility appeared first on Positively Osceola.

]]> The Osceola County School District will host its 2024 Teacher Job Fair on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in Kissimmee. This invitation-only event is an excellent opportunity for prospective teachers to explore full-time positions within the district.

To be considered for an invitation, candidates must be eligible for a Florida teaching certificate. Interested applicants should complete the online application and submit relevant documents such as teaching certificates, college transcripts, statements of eligibility, and passing test scores. Qualified candidates will receive further details about the event location and schedule upon invitation.

The Job Fair is part of the district’s broader effort to attract high-quality educators to support its mission of delivering exceptional education. The minimum salary for new teachers is $49,000, with additional benefits and career development opportunities.

For more information on how to apply and to determine eligibility, prospective candidates can visit the Osceola County School District’s careers page.

The upcoming Teacher Job Fair is a great opportunity for prospective teachers to join the district.

Eligible candidates should apply below and submit necessary documents to receive an invitation to the job fair.

Click here now to apply:

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]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-county-school-district-hosts-teacher-job-fair-this-thursday-apply-now-to-establish-eligibility/feed/ 0 Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS Hosts Career Signing Day for 20 High School Graduates https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-county-fire-rescue-ems-hosts-career-signing-day-for-20-high-school-graduates/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-county-fire-rescue-ems-hosts-career-signing-day-for-20-high-school-graduates/#respond Fri, 03 May 2024 10:44:37 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=53006 The post Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS Hosts Career Signing Day for 20 High School Graduates appeared first on Positively Osceola.

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Twenty high school graduates participated in a “career signing day” ceremony with Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS, formalizing their enrollment as the department’s first-ever class of full-time, non-certified firefighter candidates known as Fire Cadets. 

Each candidate, joined by their family, had the opportunity to “sign” with Osceola County in a similar fashion to student-athlete signings; donning an official Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS hat, and posing for a photo with Fire Chief Larry Collier. This program is one of several avenues the department is exploring to increase recruitment and retention within the department, especially among candidates from the local Osceola County community. 

Osceola County Fire Rescue
Osceola County Fire Rescue

The program, developed in coordination with the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners and the County’s Human Resources department, brings candidates on board as full-time employees with Osceola County during their training and certification process. Under the premise of “earn while you learn,” each Fire Cadet will earn a competitive full-time salary and a slate of employee benefits – including insurance, retirement, vacation time, and more – while they are enrolled in certification coursework through Valencia College. The County has piloted a similar program with partially-certified candidates in the past, though this is the first time the department has extended the opportunity to non-certified high school graduates.

Following their onboarding process as County employees, the Fire Cadet cohort will begin their Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification coursework this summer before moving to Florida Firefighting Standards in the fall. Upon completion of their coursework and certifications, the Fire Cadet class will transition to their initial training as probationary firefighters with Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS.

The broader emphasis on recruiting “locally” stems from a need for the department to combat the rising deficit of qualified firefighters statewide, while meeting the fast-growing public safety needs of a county that is one of the fastest growing in the state.

Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS has opened 2 new fire stations since 2019, with 3 more stations planned to open within the next 5 years, which present significant staffing needs in addition to expected openings caused by annual retirements. By deploying strategies that bring candidates on-board as employees immediately – like the cadet program, one of the first of its kind in the region – the department seeks to develop a culture of career investment among firefighters that encourages growth and longevity within the organization.

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]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-county-fire-rescue-ems-hosts-career-signing-day-for-20-high-school-graduates/feed/ 0 Osceola School District Honors Celebration Foundation as 2024 Partner of the Year https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-school-district-honors-celebration-foundation-as-2024-partner-of-the-year/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-school-district-honors-celebration-foundation-as-2024-partner-of-the-year/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:40:03 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=52915 The Osceola School District has honored the Celebration Foundation with the 2024 Partner of the Year award. This accolade highlights the foundation’s significant impact on public education through its business […]

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]]> The Osceola School District has honored the Celebration Foundation with the 2024 Partner of the Year award. This accolade highlights the foundation’s significant impact on public education through its business and civic engagements that substantially bolster and elevate student success. As a longstanding Partner in Education, the Celebration Foundation’s support for students is comprehensive and diverse:

  • Students facing hunger can often experience academic challenges due to lack of focus and concentration. Since 2017, Celebration Foundation has supplied items for food pantries in schools across the Celebration, Kissimmee, and Poinciana areas through their Learning Without Hunger initiative. Every Friday, nonperishable easy-to-prepare and ready-to-eat snacks are discreetly distributed to 1,800 identified students so that they can eat healthy food over the weekend when school lunches are not available. By meeting the most fundamental needs of students, Celebration Foundation is ensuring that Osceola children are able to learn and grow.

  • Bookmark Buddies is a program through the Education Foundation – Osceola that pairs community volunteers with third graders to help them strengthen their literacy skills in preparation for state reading assessments. When the program experienced budget cuts in 2021, Celebration Foundation was adamant about reinstating it and donated $5,000 for materials. They also recruited volunteers to keep Bookmark Buddies going at an Osceola school with the greatest need. Thanks to their efforts, volunteers come in every week excited and ready to help their assigned “Buddy” learn. Next year, Celebration Foundation is committing to two schools for $5,000 each, as this program makes a difference in both the mentors’ and students’ lives.
  • The Celebration Foundation has created Medical Career Pipeline field trips and Campus Express field trips in past years. Celebration Foundation provided 1,000 students each year with a visit to a local hospital to participate in hands-on activities to learn CPR basics and to explore the wide range of exciting high-wage and high-demand careers in the medical field. On more than one occasion, students have reported that because of this opportunity, they were actually able to respond to an emergency situation and become a lifesaver in their own families. This medical pipeline program is now part of the Education Foundation.
  • The Campus Express brought high school and middle school students to Valencia College. Providing students with a campus tour that allowed the college to be a possibility for plans after high school.  This program has been adopted by the Osceola School District. Another Celebration Foundation program, WINGS, hosted power lunches at schools to empower young women in leadership skills.
  • By funding college scholarships for graduating seniors who have demonstrated a strong  commitment to community service, Celebration Foundation is placing students on the pathway to future success. Celebration Foundation offers students opportunities to earn community service hours that are required for scholarships and, at the same time, stimulate development of involved citizens.

“Our students are not just the future workforce; they are the architects of tomorrow’s society,” said Osceola School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff. “Collaborating with the Celebration Foundation is as much about preparing them for jobs as it is about nurturing their potential as informed, engaged citizens. The partnership enriches our educational ecosystem, providing real-world context, mentorship, and resources that empower our students to thrive in an ever-evolving world. I am extremely proud to recognize Celebration Foundation as the 2024 Commissioner’s Business Recognition Awards nominee for the Osceola School District.”

Celebration Foundation nombrado Socio del Año 2024 del Distrito Escolar de Osceola

Reconociendo que una comunidad solidaria e involucrada construye un sistema escolar público fuerte, lo cual es esencial para la prosperidad de nuestra comunidad, el Distrito Escolar de Osceola ha nombrado a Celebration Foundation como su Socio del Año 2024. El premio reconoce las valiosas contribuciones de las empresas y la participación cívica en la educación pública que apoya y mejora directamente el éxito de los estudiantes. Celebration Foundation es un socio en la educación del Distrito Escolar de Osceola desde hace mucho tiempo y su apoyo a los estudiantes es multifacético:

  • Los estudiantes que padecen hambre a menudo pueden experimentar dificultades académicas debido a la falta de atención y concentración. Desde el 2017, Celebration Foundation ha suministrado artículos para las despensas de alimentos de las escuelas de las zonas de Celebration, Kissimmee y Poinciana a través de su iniciativa Aprender sin Hambre. Todos los viernes, se distribuyen discretamente bocadillos no perecederos fáciles de preparar y listos para comer a 1,800 estudiantes identificados para que puedan comer alimentos saludables durante el fin de semana cuando no hay almuerzos escolares disponibles. Al satisfacer la necesidad más fundamental de los estudiantes, Celebration Foundation se asegura de que los niños de Osceola puedan aprender y crecer.

  • Bookmark Buddies es un programa a través de Education Foundation – Osceola que une a voluntarios de la comunidad con estudiantes de tercer grado para ayudarlos a fortalecer sus habilidades de alfabetización en preparación para las evaluaciones estatales de lectura. Cuando el programa experimentó recortes presupuestarios en 2021, Celebration Foundation se mantuvo firme en restablecerlo y donó $5,000 para materiales. También reclutaron voluntarios para mantener a Bookmark Buddies en funcionamiento en una escuela de Osceola con mayor necesidad. Gracias a sus esfuerzos, los voluntarios llegan todas las semanas emocionados y listos para ayudar a aprender a su “compañero” asignado. Para el próximo año, Celebration Foundation se ha comprometido con dos escuelas, $5,000 por cada una, ya que este programa marca una diferencia en la vida de los mentores y de los estudiantes.
  • Como incubadora, Celebration Foundation ha creado excursiones de Trayectoria a Carreras Profesionales Médicas y excursiones Campus Express en los pasados años. Con sus excursiones de Trayectoria a Carreras Profesionales Médicas, Celebration Foundation ofrece a 1,000 estudiantes cada año una visita a un hospital local para participar en actividades prácticas, aprender los conceptos básicos de reanimación cardiopulmonar y explorar la amplia gama de emocionantes oportunidades de altos salarios y alta demanda de carreras en el campo médico. En más de una ocasión, los estudiantes han informado que gracias a esta oportunidad pudieron responder a una situación de emergencia y convertirse en un salvavidas para sus propias familias. Este programa de trayectoria médica es ahora parte de la fundación educativa.
  • El Campus Express acercó a los estudiantes de escuela intermedia y superior a Valencia College. El recorrido por el recinto universitario les brindó la oportunidad de ver a la universidad como una posibilidad para sus planes después de la escuela superior. Este programa ha sido adoptado por el Distrito Escolar de Osceola. Otro programa de Celebration Foundation, WINGS, organizó almuerzos en las escuelas para capacitar a las jóvenes en habilidades de liderazgo.
  • Al financiar becas universitarias para estudiantes que han demostrado un firme compromiso con el servicio a la comunidad, Celebration Foundation sitúa a los estudiantes en la senda del éxito futuro. Celebration Foundation ofrece a los estudiantes oportunidades para obtener horas de servicio comunitario necesarias para becas y, al mismo tiempo, estimular el desarrollo de ciudadanos involucrados.

“Nuestros estudiantes no son sólo la fuerza laboral del futuro; son los arquitectos de la sociedad del mañana”, expresó el Dr. Mark Shanoff, superintendente del Distrito Escolar de Osceola. “Colaborar con Celebration Foundation se trata tanto de la preparación para empleos como del fomento de su potencial como ciudadanos informados y comprometidos. La asociación enriquece nuestro ecosistema educativo, proporcionando contexto del mundo real, tutoría y recursos que capacitan a nuestros estudiantes para prosperar en un mundo en constante evolución. Estoy sumamente orgulloso de reconocer a Celebration Foundation como la nominada a los Premios de Reconocimiento Empresarial del Comisionado de 2024 del Distrito Escolar de Osceola.”

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]]> https://www.positivelyosceola.com/osceola-school-district-honors-celebration-foundation-as-2024-partner-of-the-year/feed/ 0 Governor DeSantis Visits Tohopekaliga High: Signs Legislation for School Chaplains and Patriotic Organizations https://www.positivelyosceola.com/governor-desantis-visits-tohopekaliga-high-signs-legislation-for-school-chaplains-and-patriotic-organizations/ https://www.positivelyosceola.com/governor-desantis-visits-tohopekaliga-high-signs-legislation-for-school-chaplains-and-patriotic-organizations/#respond Fri, 19 Apr 2024 10:27:39 +0000 https://www.positivelyosceola.com/?p=52568 On Thursday, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Tohopekaliga High School in Kissimmee and signed HB 931 and HB 1317 that, beginning July 1, will make it possible for schools to host […]

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On Thursday, Governor Ron DeSantis visited Tohopekaliga High School in Kissimmee and signed HB 931 and HB 1317 that, beginning July 1, will make it possible for schools to host chaplain programs and patriotic organizations on campus.

“Faith leaders and civic organizations are important additional resources for students who may be facing challenges or need to build community and camaraderie,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I’m pleased to be able to expand the variety of options that students have at their disposal in school and we have no doubt that these options will enhance the experiences of our students.”

HB 931 introduces a comprehensive statewide school chaplain program. Under this new law, school districts and charter schools in Florida are authorized to appoint volunteer chaplains to offer counseling and other forms of support on campus. These chaplains, who will be assigned by the respective district school boards or charter school governing boards, aim to provide additional layers of emotional and spiritual guidance for students seeking support.

Importantly, the law stipulates that any student wishing to engage with a school chaplain’s services must have written consent from a parent, ensuring that families maintain oversight of their children’s participation in the program.

The second bill HB 1317 focuses on strengthening community ties and enhancing civic engagement among students. The legislation permits civic and patriotic organizations to access schools for the purpose of promoting participation in their programs. Organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, The Boy Scouts of America, The Boys & Girls Clubs of America, The Civil Air Patrol, Future Farmers of America, The Girl Scouts of the United States of America, Little League Baseball, The Marine Corps League, and The Navy Seal Cadet Corps are now encouraged to collaborate with schools to foster an environment of active community involvement and leadership among the youth.

Both bills are seen as steps forward in Governor DeSantis’s ongoing efforts to integrate comprehensive support systems into the educational framework, which not only provide necessary counseling and mentoring but also actively involve young individuals in community and national service initiatives.

These legislative measures reflect a dual approach to enhancing the educational environment in Florida by addressing both the internal support needs of students and the external engagement that helps cultivate well-rounded, civically active individuals.

“This legislation provides yet another option to serve all students in Florida,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Volunteer chaplains offer faith-based support and are uniquely suited to serve students and families throughout our state and I’m pleased that we are providing another valuable resource for our schools.”

Not everyone is excited about the idea. Recently, the ACLU expressed its strong opposition to the introduction of chaplains in public schools, a position detailed on its website. The organization argues that permitting chaplains to operate within public educational settings breaches the constitutional principle of church-state separation, claiming the move is unconstitutional. The ACLU has also urged school boards to reject school chaplain proposals.

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