See you next year!
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
01.06.26 | Schools Reopen to Students
Samoset Elementary wishes to thank Lakewood Ranch residents in Mallory Park, including Maryann Goetsch, for adopting their school! Your generosity and support are appreciated #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Bayshore Elementary welcomed every student into Santa’s workshop to choose one special toy for Christmas. With the generous support of our community partners, including Legacy Church, the joy was unmistakable.
Excitement and gratitude filled the room as each child proudly clutched their new treasure to take home. Because of the kindness of our community, we’re able to share moments like these and spread so much #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews. Thank you for making this possible.
Bayshore Elementary welcomed every student into Santa’s workshop to choose one special toy for Christmas. With the generous support of our community partners, including Legacy Church, the joy was unmistakable.
Excitement and gratitude filled the room as each child proudly clutched their new treasure to take home. Because of the kindness of our community, we’re able to share moments like these and spread so much #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews. Thank you for making this possible.
Congratulations to Isabella, one of our Southeast IB Diploma Program students, on her acceptance to Yale University! This remarkable achievement reflects her dedication, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to excellence. We are so incredible proud of her and excited to see all she will accomplish! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Our hearts are full after spending a short time at Daughtrey Elementary School’s winter wonderland! We’re so grateful to be invited to capture the grateful smiles and holiday cheer, which is the result of an incredible staff and support from their community partners.
This year, a team of fantastic fifth grade elves joined Santa and the “chief elf” because they had the highest learning gains in science. Merry Christmas, Dolphins! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Stay safe out there! We have reports from Tara Elementary, a school safety guardian is in pursuit of Santa’s elves on campus #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
He’s not your average Santa. When you meet Steve Hensell, you quickly learn he is the official district Santa—and has been for decades. Hensell said he was hired more than 30 years ago by the late Gene Witt to play Santa, and the tradition continues.
The Air Force veteran says that every year, he answers the call to visit schools across Manatee County, listening to the wish lists of children of all ages. He began his career as a school bus mechanic and retired years ago as a painter. He even painted Harllee, the location of The Soar Lab.
You can meet Santa Steve this Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the Soar Lab from 9-11AM. Free for most families, including infants-3rd grade students enrolled in traditional public schools. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Jasmine Colon’s festive spirit is a GIFT 🎁 to Oneco Elementary School. The behavior specialist was the first wave families received during morning drop-off on Wednesday. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Holiday spirit week is the gift that keeps on giving.
Thank you to bus driver Tinysha Holmes (on right) who is seen celebrating the season with Palm View K - 8 School Principal Jessica Kane 🎄 and bus aide Shanna Robinson.
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Thank you to bus driver Tinysha Holmes (on right) who is seen celebrating the season with Palm View K - 8 School Principal Jessica Kane 🎄 and bus aide Shanna Robinson.
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
At Palmetto Elementary School, it takes a village... and Tamika Brown is a perfect example of that.
As a school bus attendant, Tamika already plays an important role in students’ daily routines, but she doesn't stop there.
She recently volunteered to chaperone the first grade field trip to Mote SEA, once again showing her dedication to students.
Thank you for always going above and beyond, Tamika!
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews submitted by Assistant Principal Susie Ebbesmeyer.
As a school bus attendant, Tamika already plays an important role in students’ daily routines, but she doesn't stop there.
She recently volunteered to chaperone the first grade field trip to Mote SEA, once again showing her dedication to students.
Thank you for always going above and beyond, Tamika!
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews submitted by Assistant Principal Susie Ebbesmeyer.
Mike Y.’s résumé reads like a season of a TV crime drama.
For 20 years, he served the streets of New York City working in street control, housing developments, anti-crime, and plainclothes units. He took on organized crime, narcotics, robberies, and homicides as part of the detective squad. It was intense, meaningful work but eventually, Mike knew it was time. The right time for change.
So he moved to Florida, guided by former NYPD officers who showed him how the skills he learned in the Big Apple could open new doors. Doors that led to protect hallways filled with students.
Now, Guardian Mike is celebrating his first school year as a school safety guardian at Parrish Community High. And while the setting has changed, the mission hasn’t.
“I like communicating with the kids,” he says. “It keeps me grounded and helps me communicate better with my own teenagers.”
As someone who grew up as a teen in the inner city of New York, the respect he receives means everything to him. No badges needed. “A fist pound is more than enough for me," he said.
Thank you, Guardian Mike, for your continued service and for keeping our students safe every single day. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #GoodNewsGuardians
For 20 years, he served the streets of New York City working in street control, housing developments, anti-crime, and plainclothes units. He took on organized crime, narcotics, robberies, and homicides as part of the detective squad. It was intense, meaningful work but eventually, Mike knew it was time. The right time for change.
So he moved to Florida, guided by former NYPD officers who showed him how the skills he learned in the Big Apple could open new doors. Doors that led to protect hallways filled with students.
Now, Guardian Mike is celebrating his first school year as a school safety guardian at Parrish Community High. And while the setting has changed, the mission hasn’t.
“I like communicating with the kids,” he says. “It keeps me grounded and helps me communicate better with my own teenagers.”
As someone who grew up as a teen in the inner city of New York, the respect he receives means everything to him. No badges needed. “A fist pound is more than enough for me," he said.
Thank you, Guardian Mike, for your continued service and for keeping our students safe every single day. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #GoodNewsGuardians
Hour of Code was celebrated during Computer Science Education Week, December 8–14, 2025. Hour of Code is a global movement designed to introduce millions of students to computer science and show that anyone can learn the basics of coding.
According to STEM Coordinator Lynne Johnston, teachers across the district incorporated coding into their classrooms throughout the week.
Mrs. Sara Broom shared photos of R. H. Prine Elementary School fifth-grade students investigating coding and exploring how it can be used for more than just video games and apps. Students learned how coding can be used to create and draft music. After coding their own musical compositions, students presented “table concerts” for the class to showcase their creations.
Kinnan Elementary STEM teacher Tammy Butler also shared photos of her students working with Ozobots, which are small, programmable robots that teach coding and computational thinking through hands-on, interactive activities. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
According to STEM Coordinator Lynne Johnston, teachers across the district incorporated coding into their classrooms throughout the week.
Mrs. Sara Broom shared photos of R. H. Prine Elementary School fifth-grade students investigating coding and exploring how it can be used for more than just video games and apps. Students learned how coding can be used to create and draft music. After coding their own musical compositions, students presented “table concerts” for the class to showcase their creations.
Kinnan Elementary STEM teacher Tammy Butler also shared photos of her students working with Ozobots, which are small, programmable robots that teach coding and computational thinking through hands-on, interactive activities. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews featuring the School District of Manatee County's IT Department, as shared by The Patterson Foundation: We're excited to announce a new milestone in The Patterson Foundation’s Digital Access for All initiative.
The Patterson Foundation partnered with the School District of Manatee County, led by Scott Hansen, to expand local access to essential digital devices.
Scott has been a long-time advocate for student technology needs. Before COVID, he worked closely with Tech4Students, helping distribute between 1,000 and 2,000 devices each year to families who needed them most.
After seeing the device drive flyer in The Patterson Foundation's newsletter, Scott grew curious about the possibilities and reached out to explore how they might work together to create an even greater impact.
The collaboration quickly turned into action.
Recently, Marla Smith and Beth Duda picked up 304 laptops that have been fully restored and cleaned.
All devices will be given to the Sarasota Technology Users Group (STUG) for distribution.
This partnership demonstrates a commitment to closing the digital divide, and to date, DA4A has collected more than 600 devices!
Do you have an idea or a device to donate? If you’d like to learn how to wipe your own computer or get involved, reach out to Marla Smith, Device Drive Project Lead, at msmithtpf@gmail.com or 941-713-9724. You can also click here to see our drop-off locations: https://thepattersonfoundation.org/.../Device-Drive-Flyer...
When a community works together, progress is not just possible. It becomes unstoppable!
The Patterson Foundation partnered with the School District of Manatee County, led by Scott Hansen, to expand local access to essential digital devices.
Scott has been a long-time advocate for student technology needs. Before COVID, he worked closely with Tech4Students, helping distribute between 1,000 and 2,000 devices each year to families who needed them most.
After seeing the device drive flyer in The Patterson Foundation's newsletter, Scott grew curious about the possibilities and reached out to explore how they might work together to create an even greater impact.
The collaboration quickly turned into action.
Recently, Marla Smith and Beth Duda picked up 304 laptops that have been fully restored and cleaned.
All devices will be given to the Sarasota Technology Users Group (STUG) for distribution.
This partnership demonstrates a commitment to closing the digital divide, and to date, DA4A has collected more than 600 devices!
Do you have an idea or a device to donate? If you’d like to learn how to wipe your own computer or get involved, reach out to Marla Smith, Device Drive Project Lead, at msmithtpf@gmail.com or 941-713-9724. You can also click here to see our drop-off locations: https://thepattersonfoundation.org/.../Device-Drive-Flyer...
When a community works together, progress is not just possible. It becomes unstoppable!
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
