School District of Manatee County

Please join us in congratulating Manatee High School custodian Lucas Dechelbor on his incredible achievement at the Special Olympics swim meet in St. Petersburg last weekend! Lucas brought home the silver medal 🥈, and we couldn’t be more proud! He practiced all summer in the pool at G.T. Bray Park, and told us it was lucky lane #3 that brought the fast magic for him at competition. His hard work, determination, and positive spirit shine both in and out of the pool. Lucas is not only a valued member of the Manatee High community, but also an inspiring example of perseverance and passion. He graduated from MHS in 2017, where he received on-the-job training. Principal Shannon Fleming said he’s one of the most hard working custodians in the Hurricanes’ history! Way to go, Lucas – we’re cheering you on! 🏊‍♀️ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

The School Board of Manatee County has selected Dr. Laurie Breslin to serve as the district’s next superintendent, pending approval of her contract. "Dr. Breslin represents the absolute best of Manatee County. She knows our schools, our families, and our community because she is lived it—as a student, teacher, parent, and leader,” said School Board Chair Chad Choate. “We are confident she will guide us with integrity and continue our tradition of excellence.” Dr. Breslin, a proud graduate of the District, is expected to officially step into the role in early September. “I am proud that our next superintendent is one of our own,” said Vice Chair Cindy Spray. “Dr. Breslin’s story—from student to teacher to district executive—reflects her lifelong dedication to Manatee County and the belief that public education changes lives.” Her appointment is both a professional achievement and a full-circle moment for a leader whose life and career have been deeply rooted in the community she will now guide. "I am deeply honored by the trust the School Board has placed in me, and I am humbled to serve the community that shaped me as both a student and an educator,” said Dr. Breslin. “I am committed to building on our strengths, listening to our families, and ensuring every child has a path to success. This is more than a professional responsibility—it is a personal calling.” Dr. Breslin began her career as a teacher at Southeast High and Manatee High schools, later serving as an assistant principal at both Manatee High and Palmetto High. She went on to serve as Assistant Principal at Booker High in Sarasota before being named Principal of Sarasota Middle School. Under her leadership, the school ranked in the top 10% of state assessments, expanded Career and Technical Education and arts offerings, and achieved continued academic growth despite the challenges of hybrid learning during the pandemic. "As a former teacher and now as a board member, I value Dr. Breslin’s perspective,” said School Board Member Heather Felton. “She has walked in the shoes of our families and educators, and I believe that will help her make thoughtful, student-centered decisions.” Returning to the School District of Manatee County, she rose to key leadership positions including Director of Secondary Curriculum, Executive Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment, and most recently, Executive Director of Student Support & Family Engagement, where she managed a $40 million budget and oversaw critical programs such as Exceptional Student Education, early childhood education, and crisis response. Through her leadership, schools flagged for low performance among English Language Learners and Students with Disabilities saw measurable gains within a single year. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Breslin has remained deeply engaged in the community. She has served as Vice Chair of the Take Stock in Children Board of Directors, mentored local students, and served on the board of Parenting Matters. “Dr. Breslin brings both experience and vision to this role,” said School Board Member Richard Tatem. “Her ability to deliver measurable results while staying connected to the community ensures she will keep our district focused on what matters most: student success.” She is a Leadership Florida Education Class 6 Lifetime Member and has been active in initiatives such as “Soar in 4,” resiliency programs for students, and efforts to strengthen family engagement across the district. She is also co-author of Constructing an Online Professional Learning Network for School Unity and Student Achievement (Corwin Press, 2013). Dr. Breslin holds a doctorate in Teaching and Learning from Argosy University, along with advanced degrees in Curriculum and Instruction with Educational Technology from the University of Florida. "I believe Dr. Breslin will continue to strengthen trust between the district, families, and the broader community while keeping students at the center of every decision,” said School Board Member Charlie Kennedy. As a mother of a current Manatee County student and a lifelong advocate for public education, Dr. Breslin embodies the values of servant leadership and community connection. Her professional path, from classroom teacher to district executive, reflects both her dedication to student success and her belief in the schools. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Today’s #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews Day in the Life at Lakewood Ranch High School began and ended with two familiar faces of safety: School Guardians Tim and Danny. Tim, a retired NYPD detective who also served on the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, and Danny, a retired Bradenton police officer who previously served as the School Resource Officer at both Manatee High and Sugg Middle, now dedicate their expertise to protecting Lakewood Ranch students. Alongside their SRO colleagues from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, these school safety guardians ensure that every student walks onto campus — and heads home — with safety and peace of mind. 💙

Spending the day at Lakewood Ranch High School for a special Day in the Life series — come along with us! ✨ "When life gives you a rainy day, play in the puddles." #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Rain or shine, our bus drivers, bus attendants, and school teams always deliver! Thank you for your patience and care during Monday's stormy dismissal, making sure every student got home safe and sound. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

You did it! 🏆 To celebrate a fantastic first week of school, the Bradenton Marauders and the School District of Manatee County are treating our amazing students, teachers, staff, and families to a night out at the ballpark. 📅 Saturday, August 23, 2025 🎟️ Free admission + snack pack ⏰ Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Quick clarifications to make game day easy: ✅ Show your voucher on your phone OR printed ✅ Only one per family is needed — you’ll receive game + food tickets for each family member at the box office ⚾ Let’s keep the momentum going! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

A heartfelt THANK YOU to Carl Reynolds Law, ABC 7, and our incredible community for making the Chalkboard Champions Day of Giving a huge success! 🌟 Because of your generosity, the School District of Manatee County received a check today on behalf of the Manatee Education Foundation for $18,351 in support of our teachers and students. 🍎📚 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Sherry Freeman-Douglas, a beloved "lunch lady" at Southeast High is in quite the pickle. She LOVES her Seminoles. Serves them smiles and salads every day. But we had to ask… if Southeast is facing off against her alma mater, Palmetto High School: "Sherry, who are you cheering for?" Without missing a beat, she grinned and said: “I’m a Tiger to the bone!” 🐅 followed by a roar of laughter. We still love you, Sherry — even if you're cheering for the "other" team. Thanks for feeding bellies and hearts every day! 🧡💙 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #ViralLunchLadies

AVID Spotlight: Building Success At Bayshore Elementary School! AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is helping students across grade levels build the skills they need to succeed! Students learn how to stay organized, take focused notes, and set meaningful goals to take charge of their learning. Teachers use enhanced AVID strategies like WICOR—Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading—to create engaging lessons that encourage deeper thinking and teamwork. These practices help students ask thoughtful questions, work together, and think critically. With AVID, students are developing strong habits and confidence that prepare them for future academic success and lifelong learning. Fifth grade students in the spotlight this week are being guided by Ms. Nichols, Ms. Rath, and Dr. Ward. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Student leaders from Ringling College teamed up with Turning Points to give back in a big way—beautifying the Office of Student Assignment near Lincoln Memorial Middle. With fresh landscaping and creative touches, they’ve helped transform the space into a welcoming spot for families and staff. 🌱✨

On Monday, the two finalists for Manatee County Superintendent — Dr. Laurie Breslin and Dr. Misty Mathis — toured Braden River High School ahead of tonight’s community event. ✨ You’re invited to meet & greet the finalists! 📅 Tonight | Monday, August 18, 2025 🕕 6:15 – 7:45 PM 📍 Manatee Technical College 6305 State Road 70 E., Bradenton, FL 34203 Your voice matters—come be part of the conversation about our district’s future!

As we begin the second week of the new school year, we’re proud to spotlight the Guardians who keep safety at the heart of our campuses. Meet Mr. Dan — once a plumber in Romania and later a New York City police officer, he now protects and serves on our campuses. Thank you to all of our School Safety Guardians for your courage and commitment to keeping students safe! 💙 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

We kicked off the week at Palmetto High School, not realizing our photos would spark one of the biggest responses yet—nearly 96,000 views and counting! The Tigers’ love and admiration for Ms. Renae, a PHS grad who has been serving students for 31 years, and the entire Food & Nutrition Services team brought us back to the cafeteria today to say THANK YOU and encourage them to keep up the amazing work. Go Tigers! 🐅 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Shoutout to Rober Velez, a dedicated district pest control technician entering his 20th school year! The former head custodian says it’s a family business, doting on his wife, sister, and brother-in-law, who all serve in the district . “It’s a great place to work because of the kids,” he said, “we do it for them.” Rober was hard at work at Abel Elementary School on Friday #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Explore Alternative Pathways to Teaching
Informational Meeting

📅 Date: Wednesday, August 27, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Wakeland Support Center
1812 27th St. E, Bradenton, FL 34208

Are you interested in becoming a teacher but unsure where to start? Join us to learn how you can begin a rewarding career in education—even if your degree isn't in teaching.

What You’ll Learn:
✔️ How a Bachelor's degree can lead to teacher certification
✔️ Earn your certification while you teach
✔️ Starting teacher salary in Manatee County: $59,239
✔️ Enjoy a work schedule with weekends, holidays, and summers off
✔️ Full-time benefits, health insurance, and retirement plan available

Come discover how you can make a difference in the classroom—no prior teaching experience required!

Register today online at www.manateeschools.net under HOT TOPICS.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS & FAMILIES : Is your student planning to attend college or technical school? Not sure where to start with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?

Join us for a free FAFSA Information Workshop designed to guide families through the process of applying for financial aid.

📅 Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
🕕 Time: 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Manatee Technical College - 6305 State Road 70 East, Bradenton 34203

During this workshop, you'll learn:
✅ What the FAFSA is and why it’s important
✅ Key deadlines and documents you’ll need
✅ Where to get help if you need it

Palma Sola Elementary is celebrating Color Days all month long in support of our pre-K and kindergarten students learning their colors! On Wednesday, the whole campus was decked out in red. This year’s school theme ties in with campus construction: “Building Memories, One Brick at a Time!” 🧱✨

Shoutout to Paul (right) and D (left), a pair of dedicated school district plumbers with nearly 60 years of service combined! They were hard at work at Palma Sola Elementary School on Wednesday, keeping things running for students and staff. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

The School District of Manatee County is hosting an Operations Job Fair at Wakeland Support Center, located at 1812 27th Street East in Bradenton. Join us on Thursday, August 21, 2025, to learn more about your new career!

Open positions include: bus drivers, bus aides, food service, custodians, maintenance, electrical, HVAC, and more. Register now at https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hucFNeoFeEepTiFu5FjLNKBTfa8XY1pJk3P6LgY8iwVURE5WS01JT1RKMlY2MU1IMExENFRGUzBHNC4u