Florida forecast: 0% chance of snow, 100% chance of school spirit.
Lakewood Ranch High School's admin team is geared up for “Winter Sports Day," from ski slopes to slapshots… and maybe a mysterious black eye 👀🏒
You stay safe out there, Mrs. Carlson! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Lakewood Ranch High School's admin team is geared up for “Winter Sports Day," from ski slopes to slapshots… and maybe a mysterious black eye 👀🏒
You stay safe out there, Mrs. Carlson! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Discover Your Pathway to Excellence: Class of 2030 High School Preview Events!
Is your student graduating 8th grade in 2026—or are you simply exploring the outstanding opportunities available in Manatee County high schools?
Now is the perfect time to see everything our schools have to offer!
From STEM academies and world-class arts programs to career & technical pathways, honors and AP courses, athletics, student leadership, and more—Manatee County high schools are ready to help your student thrive.
Manatee County high schools are hosting special preview events and/or offering private campus tours leading up to School Choice Open Enrollment in early 2026.
Families will have the chance to:
-Meet teachers, administrators, and current students
-Explore academic and specialty programs
-Tour classrooms, labs, and performance spaces
-Learn about clubs, sports, and enrichment opportunities
-Ask questions and find the best fit for your student’s interests and goals
Whether your student is part of the Class of 2030 or is simply ready to discover their future, these events are designed to help every family make an informed and confident choice.
📅 Save the Dates:
Bayshore High School:
January 13, 2026 - Time TBA or To schedule a private tour, email Jessica Schaefer at schaeferj@manateeschools.net.
Braden River High School - 7:45-9AM
Wednesday, December 10th and Friday, December 12th
RSVP Required: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hucFNeoFeEepTiFu5FjLNEZBhOmgSP1DvlQ7k8xAioBUQURNMFJURTlKUkU1MURFQTBPOFhMSFBXNi4u&origin=QRCode&fbclid=IwY2xjawOkDyVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF3RGFLWjJxWnlKbnZVMXZhc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrtI1x4Zoe6sPApiUdcThUywLpw0ouxq743gJINmiBVgsyhYnEA9Opv5E-zG_aem_2rC9w-PzaxltutqzrWI__w
Lakewood Ranch High School - 6-8PM
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Manatee High School - 5:30-7PM
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Palmetto High School -
Private Tours Available
Email: Jennifer Little at littlej@manateeschools.net
Parrish Community High School -
TBA (Early 2026)
Southeast High School - 5:30-7:30PM
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Your student’s bright future starts here in Manatee County schools!
Sharing Good News Pays Off! Dr. Tawanda Means, Student Support Specialist, and AICE Coordinator Nicole Candelora from Samoset Elementary are truly megaphones for the Good News in their school community.
They celebrate partnerships, community generosity, and learning wins, all week long.
Dr. Means often sends in Good News on weekends and evenings, ensuring the positivity never stops! Ms. Candelora uses creativity and kindness to share the positive things happening from the cafeteria to the classroom.
Because of their enthusiasm and dedication, they were surprised last Friday with recognition as a Good News Champions!
This school year, we’ve partnered with Gecko's Grill & Pub, and other businesses including: Jeremiah's Italian Ice and MISSION BBQ to honor staff who go above and beyond to spread positivity across our district.
Congratulations Dr. Means and Ms. Candelora. Thanks for all you do to support your students and school!
Who will be next? Keep submitting your stories by tagging us, sharing news using #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews and emailing goodnews@manateeschools.net.
(Photo L-to-R: Principal Samantha Webb, Dr. Tawanda Means, Nicole Candelora, Jamara Clark, and Lisa Taylor)
They celebrate partnerships, community generosity, and learning wins, all week long.
Dr. Means often sends in Good News on weekends and evenings, ensuring the positivity never stops! Ms. Candelora uses creativity and kindness to share the positive things happening from the cafeteria to the classroom.
Because of their enthusiasm and dedication, they were surprised last Friday with recognition as a Good News Champions!
This school year, we’ve partnered with Gecko's Grill & Pub, and other businesses including: Jeremiah's Italian Ice and MISSION BBQ to honor staff who go above and beyond to spread positivity across our district.
Congratulations Dr. Means and Ms. Candelora. Thanks for all you do to support your students and school!
Who will be next? Keep submitting your stories by tagging us, sharing news using #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews and emailing goodnews@manateeschools.net.
(Photo L-to-R: Principal Samantha Webb, Dr. Tawanda Means, Nicole Candelora, Jamara Clark, and Lisa Taylor)
As middle school athletes prepare for the soccer playoffs, the intensity on the practice field is rising for the Louise R. Johnson K-8 Eagles.
Coach Troy Murray, a science teacher who thrives in both the classroom and on the pitch, captures the balance perfectly: “At the end of the day, I like being in the classroom and the release of being outside. Being able to run and seeing the students in a different light—it’s awesome.”
Originally from London, Coach Murray credits sports for helping him chase his dreams all the way to the U.S. Now in his fourth year teaching and coaching at Johnson K-8, he builds young players through leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
In the final huddle before practice ended, his message for the playoffs was clear: “Compete. We’ve been working hard—take that confidence into the game and have fun.”
And once soccer season wraps? He’ll shift onto the hardwood, bringing the same competitive drive to basketball.
Let’s go! 🦅⚽️ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
We’re grateful for Dep. John Murrell, Manatee County Sheriff's Office deputies, and Bradenton Police officers, who made the season brighter by taking local kids shopping for their holiday wishes.
A beautiful reminder of community support and holiday giving shared by Dr. Tawanda Means from Samoset Elementary. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
A beautiful reminder of community support and holiday giving shared by Dr. Tawanda Means from Samoset Elementary. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Meet Guardian Chris Scardino, now proudly serving his fifth school year at Parrish Community High School. A retired Union City, New Jersey police sergeant with 27 years of service, Chris brings a lifetime of dedication, leadership, and heart to the Bulls community.
At PCHS, Chris goes far beyond his daily duties. He pours his passion into training the Bulls’ JROTC cadets, inspiring the next generation of leaders. He also serves as a girls JV soccer coach, teaching teamwork, discipline, and confidence on and off the field.
You’ll also find Chris at the Soar in 4 Lab, where he’s part of the rotating team supporting this early learning center, which is free for most families with children from infancy through third grade.
His service touches every corner of the campus and beyond. Chris thrives on partnership and connection. “Everybody at PCHS works together,” he says. “They are family.”
Before joining the Bulls, Chris made a lasting mark in New Jersey by designing a memorial and leading the successful renaming of six city streets to honor fallen heroes of his former police department, an accomplishment he holds close to his heart. He continues to stay in touch with many of their families, keeping their legacies alive.
Whether he’s coaching, mentoring, or serving the broader community, Chris leads with purpose. Working with teens and teaching them values (especially the importance of giving back) is his bottom line.
Thank you, Guardian Scardino, for your service, passion, and unwavering commitment to our students and community! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
At PCHS, Chris goes far beyond his daily duties. He pours his passion into training the Bulls’ JROTC cadets, inspiring the next generation of leaders. He also serves as a girls JV soccer coach, teaching teamwork, discipline, and confidence on and off the field.
You’ll also find Chris at the Soar in 4 Lab, where he’s part of the rotating team supporting this early learning center, which is free for most families with children from infancy through third grade.
His service touches every corner of the campus and beyond. Chris thrives on partnership and connection. “Everybody at PCHS works together,” he says. “They are family.”
Before joining the Bulls, Chris made a lasting mark in New Jersey by designing a memorial and leading the successful renaming of six city streets to honor fallen heroes of his former police department, an accomplishment he holds close to his heart. He continues to stay in touch with many of their families, keeping their legacies alive.
Whether he’s coaching, mentoring, or serving the broader community, Chris leads with purpose. Working with teens and teaching them values (especially the importance of giving back) is his bottom line.
Thank you, Guardian Scardino, for your service, passion, and unwavering commitment to our students and community! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Hello December! This holiday season, we are reflecting on our blessings, and this year, we are especially grateful to welcome the Taggart Family Foundation into our Lincoln Memorial Middle School family.
Their mission to empower youth through education, sports, workforce development, and personal growth is already making a powerful impact in our community.
Recently, 300 families were served with help from incredible volunteers, including Mayor Dan West, the Palmetto High School Boys Basketball Team, and everyone who helped make the Thanksgiving Turkey Drive a success.
From meal bags to hot meals served on-site, the day was filled with joy, gratitude, and service — everything this season is about. #DoSomething #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Their mission to empower youth through education, sports, workforce development, and personal growth is already making a powerful impact in our community.
Recently, 300 families were served with help from incredible volunteers, including Mayor Dan West, the Palmetto High School Boys Basketball Team, and everyone who helped make the Thanksgiving Turkey Drive a success.
From meal bags to hot meals served on-site, the day was filled with joy, gratitude, and service — everything this season is about. #DoSomething #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Let’s hear it for our fabulous route administrator and bus driver, Gina Miller, who safely transported the EEA Prize Patrol from Lakewood Ranch to Anna Maria Island on Thursday — helping us surprise outstanding educators and support staff across Manatee County! 🚌💙 Thank you for keeping the journey smooth, safe, and full of excitement! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
🎉 The EEA (Excellence in Education Awards) Prize Patrol made its final stop at Anna Maria Elementary School!
Congratulations to Nicole O’Neill, Fifth Grade teacher, on being selected as a Manatee County Educator of the Year Finalist!
Her leadership, creativity, and dedication make a powerful difference in students’ lives across Manatee County.
We’re so proud of you, Mrs. O’Neill! 🌟
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
*When the Superintendent and dozens of people stop by to surprise you—and you’re dressed like a shark.
🎉 The EEA (Excellence in Education Awards) Prize Patrol brought Good News to Bayshore Elementary School!
Congratulations to Mara Gonzalez, Paraprofessional, on being selected as a Manatee County Educational Support Employee of the Year Finalist!
Her dedication to students—whether one-on-one or in small groups—makes Bayshore shine. She is committed to inspiring them, even if it means dressing as a shark from Disney’s Finding Nemo on underground spirit day.
Thank you for everything you do, Ms. Gonzalez! 🌟
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
🎉 The EEA (Excellence in Education Awards) Prize Patrol surprised “The History Dude” at Bayshore High!
Congratulations to John Walker, AICE Psychology & U.S. History teacher, on being named a Manatee County Educator of the Year Finalist!
His enthusiasm and impact continue to shape the culture and success of Bayshore High.
We’re honored to celebrate with you, Mr. Walker! 🌟
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
🎉 Next stop for the EEA (Excellence in Education Awards) Prize Patrol... Harllee Support Center!
Congratulations to Shannon Lueders, Guidance Clerk for ACCESS & SABLE, on being named a Manatee County Educational Support Employee of the Year Finalist!
Her experience, heart, and commitment help support students and staff at Harllee.
We’re so proud of you, Shannon! 🌟
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
🎉 The EEA (Excellence in Education Awards) Prize Patrol is on a roll... Hello, Oneco Elementary School! Congratulations to Sylvia Wilson, Paraprofessional, on being selected as a Manatee County Educational Support Employee of the Year Finalist! A proud and devoted member of the SDMC family since the 1980s, she continues to uplift Cougars every day. Thank you for all you do, Ms. Wilson! 🌟 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
🎉 The EEA (Excellence in Education Awards) Prize Patrol rolls along to Braden River Middle School! Congratulations to Kat Brown, Mathematics teacher, on being named a Manatee County Educator of the Year Finalist! For 25 years, she has inspired Panthers through exceptional teaching, leadership, and passion for STEAM. We appreciate you, Ms. Brown! 🌟 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
🎉 The EEA Prize Patrol made their next surprise stop at Lakewood Ranch High School! Congratulations to Kristen Martin, Registrar, on being selected as a Manatee County Educational Support Employee of the Year Finalist! Her dedication, organization, and Mustang pride keep LRHS moving forward every day. We’re grateful for you, Kristen! 🌟 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
The Prize Patrol kicks off surprise EEA finalist tour at Braden River High School! Congratulations to Cliff Dawson, Director of Bands, on being named a Manatee County Educator of the Year Finalist! His passion for performing arts and leadership of the state-champion marching band program continue to inspire Pirate Nation. We’re proud to celebrate with you, Mr. Dawson! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #GoodNewsEEA2026
The First-Ever Otter Thanksgiving Boat Parade was a splash!
Lake Manatee K-8 School students built sponge boats, powered them with nothing but straws, and raced them down a rain gutter with help from lots of deep breaths.
There were epic wins, dramatic capsizings, tons of cheering — and of course, the legendary 3-D printed turkey trophies for top finishers and Best Design!
So proud of these creative, determined young engineers, fabulous first-mates (parent and teacher volunteers), and their fearless captain, STEM Teacher Jenn Poplaski. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The Parrish Community High School Girls’ Golf team achieved their goal of winning the Class 3A FHSAA State Championship for the first time in program history.
Read details from The Bulletin, a student journalism program sharing #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews from PCHS: https://www.manateeschools.net/o/parrish/article/2554405?fbclid=IwY2xjawOK2hZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe1ZIyPjmFvuf1kx8wM9v-GQh2Nfi1Vd0TxVRUpfurMKVWSyNXNNzQk15Q-qc_aem_Kq9uFASK9G1fyeLZkeCydg
Read details from The Bulletin, a student journalism program sharing #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews from PCHS: https://www.manateeschools.net/o/parrish/article/2554405?fbclid=IwY2xjawOK2hZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe1ZIyPjmFvuf1kx8wM9v-GQh2Nfi1Vd0TxVRUpfurMKVWSyNXNNzQk15Q-qc_aem_Kq9uFASK9G1fyeLZkeCydg
Learning is a big "dill" at Louise R. Johnson K-8 School of International Studies with Ms. Johnston! This meaningful experience gave students their first taste of participating in a science experiment. It also brought excitement to youth who need extra behavioral support.
From measuring ingredients to practicing patience while they brine, the class got to learn, explore, and take pride in something they made themselves. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
From measuring ingredients to practicing patience while they brine, the class got to learn, explore, and take pride in something they made themselves. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
We recently had the opportunity to meet Liam F., a senior and QB for Southeast High School. He said Athletic Director Matt Kitchie and the Seminoles coaching staff welcomed him with open arms and led Liam in the right direction.
“They’ve given me the tools to succeed and taught me integrity and leadership,” he said. “Coach Kitchie loves the community and is going to impact a lot of student’s lives, including my own.”
Liam expressed interest in a future career in marine sciences. He was recently featured by Spectrum Bay News 9, while volunteering at Mixon Farms. You can check out the story by clicking this link: https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2025/11/07/manatee-county-celebrates-the-ownership-of-mixon-fruit-farms-property
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC
