The Department of Education has published a summary, with statewide scores and comparisons. The district's Office of Assessment and Accountability has released the following information:

** Math - Grades 3-10: Executive Summary, 5-Year Comparison
** Reading - Grades 3-10: Executive Summary, 5-Year Comparison
** Science - Grades 5,8,10:Executive Summary, 5-Year Comparison
** Writing - Executive Summary, 5-Year Comparison

The FCAT Parent Network site allows parents to see their child's Sunshine State Standards (SSS) FCAT scores in Reading, Mathematics, Science, and Writing as soon as they are available. The information provided, as well as additional details found at the FCAT website (http://fcat.fldoe.org), can help you understand your student’s results.

On Saturday, May 31st Florida Representative Ray Sansom and FKCC's President Dr. Jill Landesberg-Boyle joined Take Stock dignitaries in participating in Monroe's eighth Take Stock In Children Graduation Ceremony, held at the new Marathon High School.  A full house attended  this ceremony, honoring the 45 Take Stock graduates from all three high schools.

Each year, the Monroe County School District conducts a survey of students, parents, and school faculty/staff members. The purpose of this survey is to gather information on whether the district and schools are meeting the goals and objectives that are most important to providing students with a quality education in a safe and secure learning environment. Click to access results of the last four years for both the district and each individual school.

Climate Survey Results

In a partnership with the Monroe County School District, The Cultural American Music Program debuts a new track for non-music students. CAMP, which kicked off June 14, now offers seventh- to 12th graders the opportunity to learn about culinary arts, hospitality management, tourism and video production.

With the scheduled closing of Sigsbee Elementary School at the end of the 2008-2009 school year, 64% of the parents turned out to vote on the future of the school as a charter school. The results indicate that 94% of the parents voting are in favor of converting Sigsbee School into a charter school.

Superintendent Randy Acevedo announced that three Monroe County teachers have been selected as “Outstanding Social Studies Teacher of the Year” for the 2007-2008 school year by the Florida Council for the Social Studies (FCSS). Each year FCSS recognizes teachers from all Florida counties at three levels---elementary, middle, and high school. Nancy Ramsdorf (Plantation Key Elementary School), Katie Balazs (Marathon Middle School) and Nora Laubenstein (Key West High School) will be honored by FCSS at their annual conference in October in St. Petersburg, Florida, October 23-26, 2008.

The Transition to Independence, Employment and Success TIES program sees three original adult students with disabilities graduate and take on new careers. “Through extensive community based work experience situations and assessments Dan, William and Kenny were offered expanded opportunities that the traditional high school courses of study do not offer,” said TIES Director Ruth Holland.

The Key West High School Adult ESOL class, under the direction of teacher Ms. Rodziah Josephson, has completed end-of-the-year projects. Pictured is Winie Justin, with her project entitled “Woman Within".

Superintendent Randy Acevedo recently presented a GED diploma to Key West graduate David Hawkins. For more information on earning your GED and a complete photo gallery and listing of all graduates, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420.

During National Safe Boating Week in Florida, Governor Charlie Crist and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourage boaters to wear a life jacket. The FWC reported 77 boating fatalities for 2007; however, following a few simple rules and paying attention while boating can make the difference between a safe and enjoyable day on the water and one that ends tragically. Statistics repeatedly show that boaters who have taken a basic boating safety class are also less likely to be involved in a boating accident. For more information on boating safety, visit www.wearitflorida.com.

Kindergarten-8th Grade Math teachers worked May 15-16 on revising and updating the K-8 Math Pacing Guides to  include the new state standards,  under the direction of Serge Sanchez, Math Program Specialist.

The number of math concepts for grades K–8 has been significantly reduced. The purpose behind this is to allow K–8 teachers more time to teach mathematical concepts in depth and to mastery rather than quickly "covering" concepts.

For the second year in a row, Newsweek ranks Key West High School in the top 5% of all U.S. schools. According to an announcement from Newsweek, Public schools are ranked according to a ratio devised by Jay Mathews.

Superintendent Randy Acevedo said, “Mr. Welsh and all the teachers at Key West High School have put out tremendous effort so our students can compete in the world market.”

KWHS Principal John Welsh said, “Being ranked in the top 5% shows me our students, with the help of their teachers and administrators, are doing a great job.”

For the third consecutive year Horace O’Bryant Middle School was crowned district champion in the Superintendent’s Middle School Academic Challenge held at the Marathon Government Center. The Academic Challenge is a highly academic middle school tournament in which teams of six members (a maximum of four players during each of the three rounds and two alternates) attempt to answer challenging questions from the areas of language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and technology. (Click on picture to enlarge)

Nine Monroe County students were honored at the Harry Truman Little White House Symposium, held at Beachside Resort and Conference Center.  They placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd in elementary, middle school and high school categories for the “Becoming a Citizen” Oral History/Essay Contest sponsored by the Atlanta branch of the NARA (National Archives and Records Administration).  Pictured from PKS: Mrs. Kim Browning, middle school teacher, Rashedul, Vanessa Strickland, principal, Noel, Nancy Ramsdorf, 5th grade teacher, and Rachel.

Keys Energy Services (KEYS) recently sponsored an Energy Conservation Art Contest for all elementary school students in the Lower Florida Keys. One overall winner and two winners from each grade level were selected to grace the pages of the KEYS Energy Conservation calendar.

The overall winner was Arnold B. Kravitz, a Fifth Grader from Glynn Archer Elementary school. His artwork will be featured on the cover of KEYS’ award-winning 2008-2009 calendar.
(Click on Picture to enlarge)

Mallory Weeks was recently presented the Congressional Medal of Merit by Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.

She was selected for this award for demonstrating excellence in school citizenship, community service, peer respect and academic excellence.

Plantation Key School proudly announces Natalie Davidson, from Mrs. Donna Roberts’ classroom, has won an essay contest sponsored by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.  Her essay was selected out of all participating fifth grade students from District #5 which covers Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties.

EKO, the 7th grade alternative education class at Key Largo School has dedicated their year to saving the environment.

The Office of Accountability and Assessment has completed an executive summary of the district's FCAT Writing Scores and has prepared a comparison of the scores from the year 2004 to 2008, posting the information on the department's webpage. Three elementary schools showed an increase in their average score. All five middle schools either showed an increase or maintained their average combined score. All three high schools either maintained or displayed an increase in average combined score when compared to those from 2007.

Parents may view their students’ scores via the FCAT Parent Network using the secure login and password provided by the school. More information includes: 2008 FCAT Writing+ fact sheet , Interactive Search by School and District

Twenty-one Horace O’Bryant Middle School students recently took a trip to Washington D.C., Williamsburg, and Jamestown, Virginia. 

Through an innovative, large three-screen multimedia presentation, elementary school students and teachers throughout Monroe County participated in “Count on Me”. The content of each “Count on Me” show is produced to reach students with a positive, powerful message about responsibility. Each student was challenged and motivated to be responsible for themselves, others and the world.

What do you call a room full of 400 eighth-graders? Opportunity, fun, and challenge!  This describes the 8TP or eighth-grade transition programs that took place at all three Monroe County public high schools. These 8TPs were designed by students for students through the sponsorship and leadership of Monroe Youth Challenge Program to reduce school violence.

Horace O’ Bryant Middle School’s Relay For Life team has raised $15,193.15 for the American Cancer Society. This year’s Relay theme was “Let’s Make Cancer a Game We Can Win,” with each team representing a different game. 

Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented GED diplomas to Upper Keys graduates on April 30th.. Upper Keys Adult Education instructor Jackie Chapman was on hand to help with the celebration. For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420.

The Office of Accountability and Assessment has completed an executive summary of the district's FCAT Writing Scores and has prepared a comparison of the scores from the year 2004 to 2008, posting the information on the department's webpage. Three elementary schools showed an increase in their average score. All five middle schools either showed an increase or maintained their average combined score. All three high schools either maintained or displayed an increase in average combined score when compared to those from 2007.

Parents may view their students’ scores via the FCAT Parent Network using the secure login and password provided by the school. More information includes: 2008 FCAT Writing+ fact sheet , Interactive Search by School and District

Ten teams of fifth graders participated in the First Annual Math and Science Bowl, sponsored by the Keys Council for Math and Science Educators. Stanley Switlik’s Team 2 took first place in the bowl, with team members Aaron Grube, Kody Sparks, and Jaasiel Baccallao taking home medals and a trophy for their school.

Twenty-one Horace O’Bryant Middle School students recently took a trip to Washington D.C., Williamsburg, and Jamestown, Virginia. 

Through an innovative, large three-screen multimedia presentation, elementary school students and teachers throughout Monroe County participated in “Count on Me”. The content of each “Count on Me” show is produced to reach students with a positive, powerful message about responsibility. Each student was challenged and motivated to be responsible for themselves, others and the world.

What do you call a room full of 400 eighth-graders? Opportunity, fun, and challenge!  This describes the 8TP or eighth-grade transition programs that took place at all three Monroe County public high schools. These 8TPs were designed by students for students through the sponsorship and leadership of Monroe Youth Challenge Program to reduce school violence.

Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented GED diplomas to Upper Keys graduates on April 30th.. Upper Keys Adult Education instructor Jackie Chapman was on hand to help with the celebration. For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420.

How well is your School Supporting your Involvement in Your Child’s Education? The Florida Department of Education is conducting a survey to provide the state with information on how well the schools are supporting parents’ involvement in their child’s education. Parents will receive the survey by mail in early May. You have a choice of completing the paper survey or going online to complete the survey.  All responses are confidential. Parents are encouraged to take part in this unique opportunity to be heard by completing and returning the survey no later than May 31, 2008. For additional information, contact Marty Jacquette at 293-1418 Ext. 66309.

Florida Tutor Network is a Web site developed by the Florida Department of Education for students, parents, and mentors. Florida Tutor Network provides online tutoring in reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students, parents, and librarian users may create an account from the website.

Ms. Richard's students at Marathon High did a lesson observing Florida's Math Day on financial literacy. The students are pictured holding their posters, which explain the advantages and disadvantages of deferred payment options.

Working collaboratively with the Monroe County Courts and the Monroe County Bar Association, Monroe County Schools will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Law Day  with a series of activities that began on May 1st, 2008. Pictured is Judge Peary Fowler, Dawn Albury and 5th grade students from Poincinana, and Cheryl Alfonso, Monroe County Courts, Law Day Coordinator.

Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented GED diplomas to Upper Keys graduates on April 30th.. Upper Keys Adult Education instructor Jackie Chapman was on hand to help with the celebration. For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420.

Five Monroe County American history teachers have been accepted into the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History’s summer seminar program for 2008. All five are participants in the district’s Teaching American History (TAH) grant program.   Marianne Esposito, Sugarloaf School , will be attending Yale;  Eric Nelson and Kari Hjerpe, both at HOB, and Jane McGill, KWHS, will be attending Harvard, and Anne Murphy, KWHS will attend Columbia.

More than 80 of Florida’s top business partners were honored by Education Commissioner Eric J. Smith at the 21st Annual Commissioner’s Business Recognition Awards ceremony. For the Monroe County School District, Sigsbee Elementary School Business Partner Naval Air Station Key West was recognized. Commander Michael Kutyba and his wife represented Monroe County at this event. Pictured: Navy Master at Arms First Class Garcia (at left) and Pavlich stand with Leslie Crabbs, the Sigsbee Parent Teacher Organization president,  at the school’s Fall Festival, where Navy volunteers are heavily relied on.

Grants for study abroad have been awarded to eleven Take Stock in Children students from Monroe County. Students will travel to ten different countries and live with host families for three to five weeks. Take Stock in Children is Florida's premiere mentoring and scholarship program for low-income students providing four year, fully paid college tuition scholarships. 

More than 100 high school students from Monroe County public and private schools attended a one-day event hosted by the Holocaust Documentation and Education Center in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, as a living memorial through education.  The experience was made possible by Monroe Youth Challenge Program and a donation toward transportation from the Keys Jewish Community Center. Pictured is Coral Shores High School Leadership Class with Kay McKenzie, teacher.

How well is your School Supporting your Involvement in Your Child’s Education? The Florida Department of Education is conducting a survey to provide the state with information on how well the schools are supporting parents’ involvement in their child’s education. Parents will receive the survey by mail in early May. You have a choice of completing the paper survey or going online to complete the survey.  All responses are confidential. Parents are encouraged to take part in this unique opportunity to be heard by completing and returning the survey no later than May 31, 2008. For additional information, contact Marty Jacquette at 293-1418 Ext. 66309.

Florida Tutor Network is a Web site developed by the Florida Department of Education for students, parents, and mentors. Florida Tutor Network provides online tutoring in reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students, parents, and librarian users may create an account from the website.

Those recognized at the April 22nd Board Meeting were: MHS Girls Tennis Team with the highest Team GPA of 3.589, Katie Greenman, 2007-2008 District Youth Volunteer of the Year, students that received the Congressional Medal of Merit presented by Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Letinen at a recent recognition ceremony, MHS and Switlik – Recipients of The Five Star School Award, Jaclyn Clairmont, 4th grade student recognized by the Disabled American Veterans for her Patriotic Essay. Suzanne Terpos for her leadership at the Veteran's Red White and Blue Day. Tami Wile's enthusiasm in helping channel dollars to several worthy causes in the Marathon community, Patti Joyce, the designation of National Certified Board Teacher, Christine Smith as the Switlik's Volunteer of the Year, and FKCC student Ryana Frederick as Switlik's Student Volunteer of the Year.

The Florida Department of Education Office of Math and Science will recognize its first-ever Math Day on May 1. On this day, every school in the state is invited to teach a specific mathematics lesson relating to financial literacy. The Florida Council of Teachers of Mathematics (FCTM) and Florida Association of Mathematics Supervisors (FAMS), in support of Florida Math Day will also be offering an award to the writers of each of the four selected lessons for implementation.

Plantation Key School has just completed another big year of Odyssey of the Mind competition.  Under the direction of Donna Roberts, PKS had nine teams compete on the Regional level February 23rd and six teams to go on to State level April 5th.  Two of the six teams placed in the top five for their division and problem.

A parade of classes carrying banners and wearing hats and other shark clothing paraded before the County Commissioners and Members of the Monroe County School Board today for the Grand Opening of Sugarloaf’s Fields.  The Cheerleaders, both elementary and middle school performed a thank you cheer.  The band and the hand bell choir also played.  Karen Sharp, president of First State Bank formally pledged the bank’s support  in purchasing scoreboards for the fields. 

“If you can’t read the directions or measure the flour, how can you bake a cake?” Chef Green and Glenn Naklicki demonstrated their skills and shared their knowledge and experience with 5th and 6th grade students.  These students will be attending Marathon Middle/High School next year.  They also received a tri-fold brochure of all the Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings and were stressed the importance of reading and math in these programs. (click on picture to enlarge)

Frankie St. James, Deputy Superintendent, has announced the following Outstanding Leaders: Principals of the Year - Connie Adams, Vanessa Strickland, Marian Smith; Assistant Principals of the Year - Darren Pais, Julia Clemons, Henry Boza; Outstanding Instructional Employee - Serge Sanchez, and Outstanding Management Employee - Bruce King.

The TIES plant sale on Friday, April 14th was a huge success! It was the culmination of a service learning project. The students raised the plants within the School District, City of Key West, and Navy Base offices. Through weekly interior landscaping services, they learned to communicate with customers and met many new people. The customers enjoyed meeting the young people and have reported that their lives were enriched by the relationships they developed.

The Key West High School Academic Challenge Team placed 4th in the state region III competition in Orlando.  This is best any Monroe County Academic Challenge Team has ever done in state competition. Principal John Welsh stated, "I am extremely proud of, (front row) Rhonda Bacher, Sara-Wyn Eppes, Olivia Kent (back row) Carson Neymoss, Noah Kent, Vincent LeNeures and coach Kerri McLean.

Marathon High School Principal Harry Russell has announced that April 30th is the date for the school's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, officially set to open the new school. The event will take place from 5:30 - 7:30 PM in the new auditorium, with Student Government Association students leading Open House tours. The Groundbreaking Ceremony took place on November 10, 2005 and the school has been under construction since that date. (link to Keynoter Article)

The following  high school students from Monroe County attended the 2008 Congressional Recognition Ceremony at Southwest Miami Senior High School in Miami:  Mallory Weeks (Coral Shores), Thomas Lowry (Key West) and Kathleen Greenman (Marathon). Each received the Congressional Medal of Merit. 

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and local law enforcement partners recently unveiled a new addition to the state’s Sexual Offender / Predator Web site – the Florida Offender Alert System.

The system allows you to sign up to receive e-mail alert notifications when a registered sexual offender or predator moves to your neighborhood, or within a radius of any other designated address – all for free. To sign up, go to www.flsexoffender.net.

The Florida Department of Education recently unveiled its new Web site at www.fldoe.org. The redesigned site offers portals for students, educators, administrators and staff, families and communities. To view the site or to offer your comments and feedback, go to www.fldoe.org.

Annette Martinson, Principal of Key Largo School has announced that Second Grade Teacher Mrs. Myriam Bernal (center) was named the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers - Teacher of the Year.

Founded in 1996, The Florida Fund for Minority Teachers, Inc. has been awarding scholarships to eligible minority students to increase the number of minority teachers in Florida’s public school classrooms.

The Coral Restoration Project, one of the components of the Coral Shores High Marine Biology Program is now featured on Channel One. Ken Nedimyer, Coral Restoration Founder, was featured on NBC Nightly News and Channel One, which is an NBC affiliate, contacted him and asked to do a segment on the program. Jessica Kumari, a Channel One reporter, did the segment as part of a "Going Green" feature.
Once you click on Channel One's Going Green feature , the video is listed as on of the segments, entitled,  Going Green - Coral Reefs.

Marathon High School Principal Harry Russell has announced that April 30th is the date for the school's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, officially set to open the new school. The event will take place from 5:30 - 7:30 PM in the new auditorium, with Student Government Association students leading Open House tours. The Groundbreaking Ceremony took place on November 10, 2005 and the school has been under construction since that date.

Thanks to a school district mini service learning grant, members of Coral Shores' early childhood class meet with a group of Hispanic mothers and children in Key Largo each week for Grupo de Juego, which means playgroup in Spanish.

Monroe Youth Challenge Program, a non profit organization that runs programs on every school campus in the county, is to recognize community partners and outstanding student participants Friday, May 9. The reception is set for 6 p.m. at Sombrero Country Club in Marathon. Tickets are available at $15 for adults and $10 for students. To RSVP email Nancy Lucas or Sunny Booker or call (305) 797-1328.

Despite more rigorous audit standards, declined enrollment, and an economic downturn, the Monroe County School District received the cleanest bill of health for its fiscal operations since 2002. With a peak of 19 findings on both federal and operating standards in the year ending 2005, the 2007 audit has only five findings. Director of Finance Kathy Reitzel, CPA said, “This was a district effort. All the directors have worked hard to get their department’s procedures in order.”

Lisa Giles, Key Largo School Science Instructor, recently received the "Making a Difference" award, sponsored by the Drug, Chemical and Associated Technology Association (DCAT) at the National Science Teachers Association Conference in Boston. The award was presented by John Whitsett, NSTA President and Pam Tyler, Chair of the Scholarship Committee for DCAT

Coach Gwidt, teacher at Sigsbee,   has announced that Sigsbee set a record high for the Keys and South Florida’s online fundraising for the Rope for Heart Program. This was done througsh the P.E. classes. 

Congratulations to the following juniors who were honored by Mayor McPherson at a recent City Commission Meeting:  Academic Achievement - Victoria Brisson and Jace Thompson;  Excellence in the Visual Performing  -  Diana Baucom and David Parker;  and Outstanding Achievement - Kaya Lydamore and Tylor Wilhide.

Since the PACE Center closure announcement March 10, Monroe County School District Superintendent Randy Acevedo and Florida Keys Community College President Dr. Jill Landesberg-Boyle, with the help of MCSD Program Specialist Carol Eisenman and other staff, have come up with an agreement to start a new program at FKCC.

The Key West High School Wind Ensemble earned STRAIGHT SUPERIORS at the Florida Bandmaster’s Association Concert Band Music Performance Assessment.  They were given “A” in all categories for all selections, including sight reading.  This group will be performing at the FBA STATE Music Performance Assessment in April. 

Sigsbee 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students competed to find out who memorized the most digits of Pi.  A King and Queen of Pi from each class was chosen.  Fifth graders Samantha and Collin memorized the most digits of Pi out of all three grade levels. 

Samantha memorized 173 digits and Collin memorized 86!  They were the Ultimate Queen and King of Pi.  All kings and queens were rewarded with a piece of pie as well as a chance to pie one of their teachers.  Serge Sanchez, MCSD Math Program Specialist, was on site to congratulate the participants.   

Sixth grade students in Monroe County may never smoke after what they saw and learned recently. In a county-wide smoking prevention program targeted at sixth-graders, the Monroe County School District office of Safe and Healthy Schools partnered with Florida Keys Area Health Education Center and the University of Miami to present a smoking prevention program called “They’re Rich, You’re Dead.”

Monroe County School District will host a four day Teaching and Learning Institute, sponsored by the Florida Digital Educator Program (FDEP), and administered by administered by the Florida Center for Instructional Technology (FCIT). The institute, which is one of many state-wide, will be at Poinciana Elementary from June 24-27. Scholarships are available to help with registration costs.

The Marathon Adult Education Center has announced that: Anthony Torrijos, Zachary Sims and Chelsea Howard have earned their GED diplomas..

The GED Preparation Program is offered yearr-around For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420. A complete listing of all GED graduates for the 2007- 2008 school year, and previous years, is also listed on the adult education website under photo galleries.

Now in its 6th year, the Educational Coalition for Monroe County, in collaboration with Monroe County School District and Florida Keys Community College presents the Cultural American Music Program (CAMP) & Careers 2008. CAMP is a day program in the Middle Keys that offers professional instruction and performance opportunities to students in Monroe County. 

NEW in 2008: two career focused programs for non music students.  Culinary arts/hospitality management/tourism and film/video productions offered for dual enrollment credit for non music students and as elective choices for music students.  
 

The Department of Food Services has announced the winners of the high school "National Breakfast Week" contest. Winners of the Nike Book bags are: Meredith Rider, Marathon High School; Lops Nicolas, Key West High and Latrice Johnson, Coral Shores High.

Plantation Key School celebrates Pi Day on March 14 (3.14) in the middle school math classes.  Students bring pies of all sorts to play competitive math games and eat pie.  Pictured here is Mrs. Absten-Murphy’s (wearing her American Pi shirt) and Mrs. Amanda Putetti’s math classes eating the pie for their prize! (click on picture to enlarge)

Sixth grade students in Monroe County may never smoke after what they saw and learned recently. In a county-wide smoking prevention program targeted at sixth-graders, the Monroe County School District office of Safe and Healthy Schools partnered with Florida Keys Area Health Education Center and the University of Miami to present a smoking prevention program called “They’re Rich, You’re Dead.”

Plantation Key School raised an impressive $4,356.41 for the American Heart Association last week by participating in the Jump Rope for Heart program through P.E. classes.  Pictured with P.E. Teacher Amy Rembisz is second grade student Ashley Wilson, who was the top fundraiser collecting $300.00. 

Thanks to the support of the Coral Shores High School Advisory Council (SAC), a Reading Reward-Book Adoption was held for challenged readers. They were invited to come to the Media Center and pick out a book to own.

Superintendent Acevedo has announced the approval of the Habitech Project, a Habitat for Humanity home built by the school district's Architectural, Construction and Engineering Academy at Marathon High School.

Pictured at the official signing with Superintendent Randy Acevedo is Bruce Ferraro, Habitat for Humanity's Middle Keys President, Glenn Nakliki, Instructor in charge of the project, and Harry Russell, Marathon High Principal.

Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented certificates of appreciation to the Key West ESOL class. As a group project they donated a DVD player and English Spanish software to the Key West ESOL lab.

Students present for the awards were: Alison Naraez, Giovanna Diaz, Mabis-Kuhn Torres, and Eugenio Rivera.

The Upper Keys GED graduation took place on March 6th. Left to right: Deputy Frankie St. James, Connor Mitzel, Gregory Tencer, Gregory's Mom Sandy, Richard Jenkins, and Superintendent Randy Acevedo. (click on pictures to enlarge)

Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented Robert Parrault has GED diploma during a ceremony in Key West. Pictured is Superintendent Acevedo and Robert, with his proud family and friends. The GED Preparation Program is offered yearr-around For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420. A complete listing of all GED graduates for the 2007 school year, and previous years, is also listed on the adult education website under photo galleries.

A cadre of Monroe County high school math and science teachers has completed an intensive program of study to assist them with technology integration in their classrooms.  

Select teachers have engaged in nine days of training to learn how Texas Instruments (TI) graphing calculators, TI Navigators, and scientific probes and sensors can be used to bring real-world lessons and engaging activities to their students.  Each participating teacher has received TI graphing calculators, TI Navigators and appropriate probes and sensors for classroom use with students. 

On Wednesday, February 27th,  Monroe County School District welcomed the Teacher of the Year for the state of Florida, Richard Ellenburg.  Pictured with Richard is Brady Hodgerson, a teacher at Marathon High

Ralph Major finished his high school wrestling career with a State Championship title and a perfect 33-0 season.  He wrestles in the 189 pound division and he has been to the state level for three years, finally capturing first place in his senior year. 

On Friday February 22, 2008 the Key West Adult Education ESOL class took a field trip to the Key West Library. Adult Education instructor Rodziah Josephson, along with library staff, was able to introduce students to the library system and assist all students in applying for a library card.

Key West High School Senior, Jimmy Hirshbeck was recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Southernmost VFW Post 3911 with a generous donation of $500.00. Presenting Jimmy with the check are Superintendent Randy Acevedo and John Dick, School Board Member.

Marathon High School was recently designated as a bronze award winner in the ‘Best High Schools 2008 Search’ by U.S. News & World Report. “All of the teachers, administrators and students in our schools have worked diligently to ensure student success  -- for every student,” said Monroe County Superintendent Randy Acevedo.

A five-member team from Marathon High has won the State LifeSmarts Championship held at the Florida State Fair in Tampa. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson congratulated the team and awarded a check for $4,400 to be used to defray travel expenses when the team vies for the national LifeSmarts title in Minneapolis in April. Kathy Loggie from Marathon High School served as the team’s coach.  Team members included Michael Koppel, Elizabeth Pape, Gabriela Hernandez, Andrew Vassil and James Joseph.

Superintendents are pivotal to the effective implementation and use of technology in the nation’s schools. The Tech-Savvy Superintendent Awards, produced each year by eSchool News, honors exemplary chief school executives for their ed-tech leadership and vision.

Randy accepted the award on February 15, during the 2008 American Association of School Administrators conference .

Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented Big Pine Adult Education student Jessi Webber with her GED diploma on February 11,2008.

The GED Preparation Program is offered year-around For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420. A complete listing of all GED graduates for the 2007-2008 school year, and previous years, is also listed on the adult education website under photo galleries.

Justice Peggy Quince, visiting Monroe County Schools, is presented with the Superintendent’s “Student Success, Whatever It Takes” Award following the Q/A session with 5th grade students, Anthony Henriquez (Poinciana) and Kencia Petithomme (Gerald Adams). 5th grade students from throughout the Keys submitted questions to be posed to Justice Quince. The session was broadcast live on channel 78 on Thursday and will be replayed this week.
(Link to Schedule of Events)

The Monroe All-County Band Festival took place February 1st - 2nd at the Key West High School Performing Arts Center.  Students from all Monroe County band programs formed one middle and one high school band.  The students worked extremely hard over two day period and performed an outstanding concert for the public. 

Take Stock In Children juniors and seniors from Marathon High School and Coral Shores High School attended a day-long trip to Florida International University recently on January 25. Gina Hipson, TSIC Student Advocate and Katrina Wiatt, Monroe County Education Foundation board member and mentor, accompanied 12 students on this college visit. The trip was sponsored by the Monroe County Education Foundation.

The Key West Chamber of Commerce recognized " Teachers of the Quarter" at their luncheon on Wednesday, January 23rd at Beachside Resort. Left to right: Pamela Kessler, Cita Charette Kym Momaly, Charity King, Cameron Murray, Belinda Rodriguez, Jaclyn O’Connell, Jennifer Walker, and Superintendent Randy Acevedo.

On January 30th in the Trumbo Palms dining room of the Naval Visitors Quarters, seven students of the TIES program honored their supporters, partners and employers with certificates and raffle prizes.

Key West High School was crowned district champion on Monday, January 28th in the Superintendent’s Academic Challenge held at the Marathon Government Center.  The Academic Challenge is a highly academic high school tournament in which teams of six members (a maximum of four players during each of the three rounds and two alternates) attempt to answer challenging questions from the areas of language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the fine arts, world languages (French and Spanish), the humanities and technology. 

While cities across the nation have seen public safety agencies and school officials pull together after a shooting or accident affecting a school, Monroe County officials have pulled together ahead of time. In a full-day workshop held Jan. 15 Monroe County Safe School Coordinator Sunny Booker brought more than 40 county-wide school and emergency-related officials together to review and improve the school system’s crisis plan.
 

"With kids representing more than 30 nationalities, dealing with diversity is as natural as learning the alphabet at a Stock Island elementary school. " (Quote from Miami Herald article, Jan. 9, by Cammi Clark). Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen visited Gerald Adams and is pictured with Dolphin Ambassadors Araley Castellanos-Cruz and Rodney Maxime, Student Council President Hannah Kent, Historian Alex Lichtl,   Principal Fran Herrin and Assistant Grace Willis. Following the visit, the US. Department of Education OELA (Office of English Language Aquisition) recognized the school on their OELA Newsline Website.

If you like the original Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple”, you’ll split your sides with his newest version of this comedy classic “Oscar and Felix – a new look at THE ODD COUPLE”.  The show opens Thursday, Jan. 24th and runs through Saturday the 26th at Key West High School auditorium.  This updated version is a Keys Kids production directed by Cameron Murray and double-cast starring many familiar high school stars and a few new performers.  The show runs Thursday – Saturday at 7:30 with a 2:00 matinee on Saturday.  Ticket prices start at $10 for students and senior citizens, $12 for adults, and a family ticket for $25.00.   Tickets can be purchased at Mac Arthur Music or one hour prior to curtain.  For information call 509-1370 or nora.revelin@keysschools.com. 

The Middle Keys Adult Education Center has announced that Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented diplomas on Dec 20th. Proud graduates were Dominique Davis, Colin Hoffman, Brittney Weber and Kevin McPherson. The GED Preparation Program is offered yearr-around For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420. A complete listing of all GED graduates for the 2007 school year, and previous years, is also listed on the adult education website under photo galleries.

Florida Keys Community College and Monroe County School District's Adult Education Department are jointly announcing courses offered at all three high schools, starting this month. Courses varying from computer applications, culinary arts, home improvements and boat maintenance. Click on the link below to see the registration information in your area.
   *** Coral Shores High     *** Marathon High      *** Key West High

The Coral Shores High School student newspaper, the Hurricane Watch, and the yearbook, the Reef, have won First Place from the American Scholastic Press Association. This award marks the fourth consecutive First Place award to both publications by the ASPA which judges on design, writing, editing and content.
 

The Key West Adult Education has announced that Superintendent Randy Acevedo presented  diplomas to Francisco Cabrera and Cecilly Gartenmayer during an awards ceremony on Dec 17th. The GED Preparation Program is offered year-around For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420. A complete listing of all GED graduates for the 2007 school year, and previous years, is also listed on the adult education website under photo galleries.

In a message to all district personnel, School Board Chairman Steven Pribramsky discusses the continued focus on increased student achievement and the anticipated passage of the January 29th referendum. The School Board is asking that everyone become informed about the referendum and has announced that more information can be accessed at: www.SupportKeysSchools.com
 

The Big Pine Adult Education site has announced the first two graduates earning their GED Diploma. Amber Cahill (left) and Bridget Kaestner (right) are shown accepting their diplomas from Superintendent Randy Acevedo. The GED Preparation Program is offered year-around For more information on earning your GED, visit the Adult Education website or call 305-293-1549 Ext. 54420. A complete listing of all GED graduates for the 2007 school year, and previous years, is also listed on the adult education website under photo galleries.