School District of Manatee County
Education with Innovation and Imagination
Some moments change a life forever.
“It’s surreal,” said Braden River Middle School Safety Guardian Joe Human, reflecting on the days leading up to the 25th remembrance of September 11, 2001. “It still feels like it’s not real.”
A retired NYPD detective who served for 20 years, Joe says his life was forever changed by that day. After first being assigned to secure a school on Staten Island, he went on to spend the next four months supporting recovery efforts at Ground Zero and other critical locations, including security checkpoints.
He and others worked 16-hour shifts in conditions we now know were dangerously toxic — service and sacrifice that continue to impact countless first responders and their families today.
This week, Guardian Human will speak with students in classrooms on campus, sharing a simple but powerful message: “Life is precious. Treasure it while you can.”
For Joe, September 11 will forever be a reminder of the close friends he lost following their brave service after the attacks.
Thank you to all of our School Safety Guardians who help protect Manatee County students and schools every day.
“It’s surreal,” said Braden River Middle School Safety Guardian Joe Human, reflecting on the days leading up to the 25th remembrance of September 11, 2001. “It still feels like it’s not real.”
A retired NYPD detective who served for 20 years, Joe says his life was forever changed by that day. After first being assigned to secure a school on Staten Island, he went on to spend the next four months supporting recovery efforts at Ground Zero and other critical locations, including security checkpoints.
He and others worked 16-hour shifts in conditions we now know were dangerously toxic — service and sacrifice that continue to impact countless first responders and their families today.
This week, Guardian Human will speak with students in classrooms on campus, sharing a simple but powerful message: “Life is precious. Treasure it while you can.”
For Joe, September 11 will forever be a reminder of the close friends he lost following their brave service after the attacks.
Thank you to all of our School Safety Guardians who help protect Manatee County students and schools every day.
On Friday, we were proud to SURPRISE and announce the inaugural recipient of the School District of Manatee County's Champion of Good News Award — Kristen Simpson from Ida M. Stewart Elementary School!
This award was created to recognize staff members who help move the school district forward, preparing every student for life, learning, and leadership.
Our Good News team recently shared a story about how one lesson in Ms. Simpson's classroom led to a meaningful father-son art business.
The fourth-grade student creates Gyotaku fish prints, which are now selling in several businesses on Anna Maria Island and West Bradenton with proceeds going to his college savings. You can watch the video at this link: https://vimeo.com/1213710794
By inspiring students, Ms. Simpson is setting them up for future success! We're grateful to have talented SDMC Visual & Performing Arts educators in our schools. #ManateeMomentum
Special thanks to our award sponsors, Detwiler's Farm Market and Tidal Wave Auto Spa.
This award was created to recognize staff members who help move the school district forward, preparing every student for life, learning, and leadership.
Our Good News team recently shared a story about how one lesson in Ms. Simpson's classroom led to a meaningful father-son art business.
The fourth-grade student creates Gyotaku fish prints, which are now selling in several businesses on Anna Maria Island and West Bradenton with proceeds going to his college savings. You can watch the video at this link: https://vimeo.com/1213710794
By inspiring students, Ms. Simpson is setting them up for future success! We're grateful to have talented SDMC Visual & Performing Arts educators in our schools. #ManateeMomentum
Special thanks to our award sponsors, Detwiler's Farm Market and Tidal Wave Auto Spa.
Imagine experiencing your first-ever American baseball game and thinking… “It’s like in the movies!” That’s exactly what happened on Thursday when our 10 visiting teachers from Spain headed to LECOM Park in Bradenton.
Pablo (Daughtrey Elementary) and Sofía (Prine Elementary), two first-year School District of Manatee County Dual Language Program teachers, got to throw out the first pitch! But this experience is about so much more than baseball.
Our teachers from Spain are here to exchange ideas, share their culture, inspire our students, and learn about ours. Every classroom conversation, community experience, and new adventure gives them something to take back to Spain and share with their own students years from now.
Sometimes, the best lessons happen outside the classroom.
Pablo (Daughtrey Elementary) and Sofía (Prine Elementary), two first-year School District of Manatee County Dual Language Program teachers, got to throw out the first pitch! But this experience is about so much more than baseball.
Our teachers from Spain are here to exchange ideas, share their culture, inspire our students, and learn about ours. Every classroom conversation, community experience, and new adventure gives them something to take back to Spain and share with their own students years from now.
Sometimes, the best lessons happen outside the classroom.
Opportunity to Earn Volunteer Hours - Stuff the Bus: October 11, 2026
Apply: www.volunteersuncoast.org/stuffthebus
Stuff the Bus brings together volunteers, community partners, and generous shoppers to support The Food Bank of Manatee County. Since 1985, The Food Bank of Manatee, a program of Meals on Wheels PLUS, has been Manatee County’s only local food bank and a trusted source of nutrition for those in need.
Last year, 162 volunteers helped collect more than 69,000 pounds of food and cash equivalents, providing critical support for neighbors facing food insecurity. This year, you can be part of that impact. 100% of donations stay local to support Manatee County families.
Join us Sunday, October 11, at participating Manatee County Publix stores through a community-wide partnership with Meals on Wheels PLUS, the School District of Manatee County, Publix, Mosaic, and United Way Suncoast.
Volunteers will greet shoppers, accept and sort food donations, pack boxes, and load the bus. Two shifts are available per location, and spots first come, first served.
Volunteer Age Requirements:
Children 8-12 are welcome to volunteer but must have a parent/guardian volunteering with them and they must be added as a guest when their parent/guardian registers.
Youth 13-15 can register using their own volunteer account but must have a parent/guardian volunteering with them.
Teens 16+ can register using their own volunteer account and can volunteer independently.
All volunteers must register in advance to participate.
Apply: www.volunteersuncoast.org/stuffthebus
Stuff the Bus brings together volunteers, community partners, and generous shoppers to support The Food Bank of Manatee County. Since 1985, The Food Bank of Manatee, a program of Meals on Wheels PLUS, has been Manatee County’s only local food bank and a trusted source of nutrition for those in need.
Last year, 162 volunteers helped collect more than 69,000 pounds of food and cash equivalents, providing critical support for neighbors facing food insecurity. This year, you can be part of that impact. 100% of donations stay local to support Manatee County families.
Join us Sunday, October 11, at participating Manatee County Publix stores through a community-wide partnership with Meals on Wheels PLUS, the School District of Manatee County, Publix, Mosaic, and United Way Suncoast.
Volunteers will greet shoppers, accept and sort food donations, pack boxes, and load the bus. Two shifts are available per location, and spots first come, first served.
Volunteer Age Requirements:
Children 8-12 are welcome to volunteer but must have a parent/guardian volunteering with them and they must be added as a guest when their parent/guardian registers.
Youth 13-15 can register using their own volunteer account but must have a parent/guardian volunteering with them.
Teens 16+ can register using their own volunteer account and can volunteer independently.
All volunteers must register in advance to participate.
High school juniors... ready to see where your leadership can take you? Don’t just be a part of Manatee County’s future - help lead it!
Junior Leadership Manatee offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, businesses, government, and organizations shaping our community - while helping 11th graders build leadership skills, make connections, and explore your future.
Apply for Junior Leadership Manatee at juniorleadershipmanatee.org
Deadline: Monday, August 31st.
Junior Leadership Manatee offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, businesses, government, and organizations shaping our community - while helping 11th graders build leadership skills, make connections, and explore your future.
Apply for Junior Leadership Manatee at juniorleadershipmanatee.org
Deadline: Monday, August 31st.
All Manatee County high school students and their families are invited to attend the annual Post-Secondary Education Night on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Manatee Technical College - Main campus (6305 State Road 70 East, Bradenton).
Join us to meet with admissions representatives from colleges, universities and technical colleges, as well as representatives from military branches.
Learn more about college applications, admissions, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
Join us to meet with admissions representatives from colleges, universities and technical colleges, as well as representatives from military branches.
Learn more about college applications, admissions, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
We're excited for another year of inspiring the next generation of communications professionals!
Our MSTV High School Internship Program gives students a behind-the-scenes look at live television broadcasting from camera operation and production to play-by-play broadcasting.
And the learning doesn't stop there! Past interns continue to be an important part of the program, returning to mentor and inspire the next generation of young broadcasters.
We’re proud to watch these students learn, grow, and find their voice in the world of communications!
📸 L-to-R: Jackson H. (Braden River High grad); Pierce F. (Southeast High-10th grade); Brooke H. (Southeast High-11th grade); Brady D. (Parrish Community High-12th grade), Sophia L. (Southeast High-11th grade); Reenen S. (Parrish Community High-12th grade); Samantha T. (Parrish Community High-11th grade); Will P. (Parrish Community High grad); Tommy L. (Southeast High-12th grade); "Jammer" (Manatee Technical College grad and MSTV volunteer); and Carl (MSTV). Not pictured: Brooklynn D. (Parrish Community High-12th grade) and Yomar G. (Palmetto High-12th grade).
Our MSTV High School Internship Program gives students a behind-the-scenes look at live television broadcasting from camera operation and production to play-by-play broadcasting.
And the learning doesn't stop there! Past interns continue to be an important part of the program, returning to mentor and inspire the next generation of young broadcasters.
We’re proud to watch these students learn, grow, and find their voice in the world of communications!
📸 L-to-R: Jackson H. (Braden River High grad); Pierce F. (Southeast High-10th grade); Brooke H. (Southeast High-11th grade); Brady D. (Parrish Community High-12th grade), Sophia L. (Southeast High-11th grade); Reenen S. (Parrish Community High-12th grade); Samantha T. (Parrish Community High-11th grade); Will P. (Parrish Community High grad); Tommy L. (Southeast High-12th grade); "Jammer" (Manatee Technical College grad and MSTV volunteer); and Carl (MSTV). Not pictured: Brooklynn D. (Parrish Community High-12th grade) and Yomar G. (Palmetto High-12th grade).
Manatee County Government and the School District of Manatee County are excited to announce Model Manatee, a multi-week program designed to educate high school juniors and seniors on how County government works, how it impacts them, and how to engage in the decision-making process.
During this program, students will hear from County Commissioners, staff, and other elected officials who are involved in the day-to-day operations of county government. The program will culminate in a mock commission session, where students will simulate the roles of county commissioners and other elected officials, discussing and voting on matters they find most important.
Students may apply at mymanatee.org/modelmanatee. Interested students must be able to provide their own transportation. All sessions will take place during the work week, with minimal interruptions to the school day. If a student is interested in applying, please review the full application packet for all relevant information, including release forms, program schedule, and more.
During this program, students will hear from County Commissioners, staff, and other elected officials who are involved in the day-to-day operations of county government. The program will culminate in a mock commission session, where students will simulate the roles of county commissioners and other elected officials, discussing and voting on matters they find most important.
Students may apply at mymanatee.org/modelmanatee. Interested students must be able to provide their own transportation. All sessions will take place during the work week, with minimal interruptions to the school day. If a student is interested in applying, please review the full application packet for all relevant information, including release forms, program schedule, and more.
It's an exciting new year for the Samoset Elementary community, who recently learned they improved their school grade from a "D" to an "A". This change didn't happen overnight.
It's a powerful reflection of what can happen when educators, students, families, non-profit organizations, volunteers, and community business partners work together. Congratulations, Samoset - let’s keep the momentum going!
Watch a news story from ABC 7: https://www.mysuncoast.com/2026/08/07/samoset-elementary-principal-credits-students-staff-with-one-year-grade-jump/
It's a powerful reflection of what can happen when educators, students, families, non-profit organizations, volunteers, and community business partners work together. Congratulations, Samoset - let’s keep the momentum going!
Watch a news story from ABC 7: https://www.mysuncoast.com/2026/08/07/samoset-elementary-principal-credits-students-staff-with-one-year-grade-jump/
A new tradition begins on Monday at Veterans Elementary School. We are proud to welcome the very first class of Stars as they start their educational journey in a beautiful new learning environment. Go, Stars - we can't wait to see you shine!
Monday, August 10th isn’t just the first day of school — it’s the day we made history at Rye Ranch Elementary School.
Today, Principal Dr. Melinda Lundy and founding staff members began building traditions that will last for generations.
For the very first time, students walked through the front doors and classrooms came alive with new friendships. A beautiful new media center was the site for first stories read and first meals (chicken or cheeseburgers) were served in the cafeteria.
There were so many “firsts” today for this brand new school in Parrish — and years from now, we’ll look back and remember that we were here together for the very beginning.
Welcome to the first day of something extraordinary! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
There's something special about welcoming first-year teachers back to the very school district that helped shape them.
Just four years after graduating from Lakewood Ranch High School, Ms. Gilbert and Ms. Hartwig are beginning their teaching careers at Buffalo Creek Middle School.
As FFA members, they developed leadership skills that prepared them for this next chapter.
Now, they're already meeting with their FFA club officers, planning activities, and getting ready to inspire the next generation of student leaders.
From students to educators, their journey has come full circle - and we can't wait to see the impact this dynamic duo makes in their agriculture classrooms and beyond.
Welcome back, Ms. Gilbert and Ms. Hartwig! Here's to an incredible first year.
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #FutureStartsHere
Just four years after graduating from Lakewood Ranch High School, Ms. Gilbert and Ms. Hartwig are beginning their teaching careers at Buffalo Creek Middle School.
As FFA members, they developed leadership skills that prepared them for this next chapter.
Now, they're already meeting with their FFA club officers, planning activities, and getting ready to inspire the next generation of student leaders.
From students to educators, their journey has come full circle - and we can't wait to see the impact this dynamic duo makes in their agriculture classrooms and beyond.
Welcome back, Ms. Gilbert and Ms. Hartwig! Here's to an incredible first year.
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC #FutureStartsHere
Plan Ahead. Every Day Counts.
School breaks are built into the calendar - so make the most of them!
Whether you're planning vacations, appointments, or family time in 2026-2027, use these scheduled days off to help keep your child in school on learning days.
Because when students are in class, every lesson, every connection, and every day counts.
Save this calendar for the school year ahead.
We can't wait to make it an amazing year together!
School breaks are built into the calendar - so make the most of them!
Whether you're planning vacations, appointments, or family time in 2026-2027, use these scheduled days off to help keep your child in school on learning days.
Because when students are in class, every lesson, every connection, and every day counts.
Save this calendar for the school year ahead.
We can't wait to make it an amazing year together!
New Educators - Welcome to the School District of Manatee County! We're excited to have you join our team for the 2026-2027 school year and we can't wait to see the lasting impact you'll make as you inspire, support, and prepare our students for future success every day.
Follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/manateeschoolsgoodnews) and Instagram (@manateeschoolsgoodnews) for Good News throughout the 2026-2027 school year!
Follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/manateeschoolsgoodnews) and Instagram (@manateeschoolsgoodnews) for Good News throughout the 2026-2027 school year!
Two of Manatee County's outstanding music programs are hitting all the right notes! Congratulations to Braden River High School and Parrish Community High School on earning the Florida Vocal Association's Choir of Distinction award.
A special congratulations to directors Steven Armstrong and Kerrie Carrier for inspiring excellence and showcasing the incredible talent of their student vocalists. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
A special congratulations to directors Steven Armstrong and Kerrie Carrier for inspiring excellence and showcasing the incredible talent of their student vocalists. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews Team is taking a short summer break to refresh and recharge our storytelling batteries.
Thank you for joining us this year as we celebrated the students, educators, staff, and families who make Manatee County schools an excellent place to learn and grow! Visit https://www.manateeschools.net/goodnews to learn more.
Thank you for joining us this year as we celebrated the students, educators, staff, and families who make Manatee County schools an excellent place to learn and grow! Visit https://www.manateeschools.net/goodnews to learn more.
This week, we were proud to SURPRISE and announce the Quarter 4 recipient of the School District of Manatee County’s Good News Award of Excellence -- Principal Quantas Simmons from Harllee Center!
This award was created to recognize staff members who consistently shine a light on the positive, everyday moments happening in our schools and worksites.
From the start of his new role, the former longtime assistant principal of Palmetto High School has taken the initiative to share #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews from programs such as Access to Education. From learning STEM to graduation day, stories shared by Mr. Simmons have received 6K+ views on social media.
The Good News Award of Excellence (pictured) also highlights the incredible talent of our District students. This trophy was designed and created by Braden River Middle School students, under the guidance of their technology teacher, Ms. Lindberg.
In addition to Mr. Simmons receiving a $100 Amazon gift card, the teacher whose students created the award did, too. Thanks to our partners at the Manatee Education Foundation. What a great year it has been! We're grateful for the support. #GoodNewsAwardofExcellence
This award was created to recognize staff members who consistently shine a light on the positive, everyday moments happening in our schools and worksites.
From the start of his new role, the former longtime assistant principal of Palmetto High School has taken the initiative to share #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews from programs such as Access to Education. From learning STEM to graduation day, stories shared by Mr. Simmons have received 6K+ views on social media.
The Good News Award of Excellence (pictured) also highlights the incredible talent of our District students. This trophy was designed and created by Braden River Middle School students, under the guidance of their technology teacher, Ms. Lindberg.
In addition to Mr. Simmons receiving a $100 Amazon gift card, the teacher whose students created the award did, too. Thanks to our partners at the Manatee Education Foundation. What a great year it has been! We're grateful for the support. #GoodNewsAwardofExcellence
What a year it’s been! Under the leadership of Dr. Laurie Breslin—a proud graduate of Manatee County public schools—we’ve Soar-ed and celebrated so much Good News, growth, and excellence in education.
To mark this milestone, she was presented with a special Award of Excellence designed by talented Braden River Middle School student Connor, who will begin 8th grade this August. Congratulations on your first year as Superintendent, Dr. Breslin! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
To mark this milestone, she was presented with a special Award of Excellence designed by talented Braden River Middle School student Connor, who will begin 8th grade this August. Congratulations on your first year as Superintendent, Dr. Breslin! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Congratulations to Veterans Elementary School Principal Laura Campbell, Southeast High School Asst. Principal Craig Page, and Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction Tiffany Spradling on completing the Florida Department of Education Chancellor’s Leadership Academy!
This year-long leadership journey provided powerful opportunities to learn alongside state leaders, visit schools in nearby counties, and bring back valuable strategies to strengthen teaching and learning in Manatee County classrooms. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
This year-long leadership journey provided powerful opportunities to learn alongside state leaders, visit schools in nearby counties, and bring back valuable strategies to strengthen teaching and learning in Manatee County classrooms. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
National recognition for some of Manatee County's brightest students!
On Wednesday, more than 2,500 recipients of National Merit Scholarships sponsored by colleges and universities across the country were announced.
We're proud to share that three of those prestigious scholarship winners are graduates of Manatee County high schools! 👏
Kevin Chen
Probable career field: Chemical Engineering
Braden River High School
Richard M. Lay
Probable career field: Materials Engineering
Manatee High School
Benjamin Barr
Probable career field: Engineering
Palmetto High School
All three scholars earned the National Merit University of Florida Scholarships.
Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. Your hard work, dedication, and academic excellence have earned you a place among the nation's best.
On Wednesday, more than 2,500 recipients of National Merit Scholarships sponsored by colleges and universities across the country were announced.
We're proud to share that three of those prestigious scholarship winners are graduates of Manatee County high schools! 👏
Kevin Chen
Probable career field: Chemical Engineering
Braden River High School
Richard M. Lay
Probable career field: Materials Engineering
Manatee High School
Benjamin Barr
Probable career field: Engineering
Palmetto High School
All three scholars earned the National Merit University of Florida Scholarships.
Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. Your hard work, dedication, and academic excellence have earned you a place among the nation's best.
