School District of Manatee County
Education with Innovation and Imagination
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 from Lakewood Ranch High School! Your dedication inside and outside the classroom has led to incredible accomplishments and your excellence shines brightly. Go forward with confidence, Mustangs!
Happy Graduation Week! ✨ Superintendent Laurie Breslin has a message for the Class of 2026 and all who have helped them reach this milestone. Watch this video: https://vimeo.com/1191294933/2b0ef8bf2e
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
On Thursday, we were invited to Louise R. Johnson K-8 School of International Studies for a one-of-a-kind visual and performing arts showcase. Suzan Abadjian and Angela Faust teamed up to transform the school’s multipurpose room into a magical glow-in-the-dark wonderland.
Families were invited to experience an immersive exhibit where students’ thumbprints and art projects glowed beneath black lights while a recording of whimsical xylophone music played softly in the background.
A forest of trees, mushrooms, owls, sloths, and other joyful creatures seemed to dance throughout the glowing room, creating an atmosphere filled with imagination and wonder.
In the gymnasium, visitors discovered a special collaborative display — a partnership project between the art teachers at Johnson K-8 and Southeast High, including Southeast IB educator Sherie Pierce.
The collaboration was so inspiring that we couldn’t help but photograph every single piece of artwork!
The creativity of the elementary students was brought to life through incredible 3-D works produced by their older peers at the nearby IB-pathway high school.
Princesses, houses, cats, firefighters, and more were reimagined through the lens of emerging young artists, creating meaningful connections between students of different ages and schools.
Kudos to these outstanding arts educators for bringing excellence into their classrooms and for working together to create unforgettable experiences and memorable works of art that families will cherish for years to come.
Families were invited to experience an immersive exhibit where students’ thumbprints and art projects glowed beneath black lights while a recording of whimsical xylophone music played softly in the background.
A forest of trees, mushrooms, owls, sloths, and other joyful creatures seemed to dance throughout the glowing room, creating an atmosphere filled with imagination and wonder.
In the gymnasium, visitors discovered a special collaborative display — a partnership project between the art teachers at Johnson K-8 and Southeast High, including Southeast IB educator Sherie Pierce.
The collaboration was so inspiring that we couldn’t help but photograph every single piece of artwork!
The creativity of the elementary students was brought to life through incredible 3-D works produced by their older peers at the nearby IB-pathway high school.
Princesses, houses, cats, firefighters, and more were reimagined through the lens of emerging young artists, creating meaningful connections between students of different ages and schools.
Kudos to these outstanding arts educators for bringing excellence into their classrooms and for working together to create unforgettable experiences and memorable works of art that families will cherish for years to come.
Adventure took us into wonderful fine arts programs on Thursday, beginning with Kristen Simpson’s art class at Ida M. Stewart Elementary School.
Students were using heat to create stunning 3-D works inspired by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.
Others working with fibers proudly shared their handmade creations — tiny pillows they’ll get to take home.
The delightful group welcomed us with open arms into their creative corner of the school, where they were quick to introduce us to their class pet, a bearded dragon named after bearded artist — Bob Ross.
It was a joyful reminder that art classrooms are more than places to learn techniques — they’re spaces where imagination, confidence, and community grow every day.
Students were using heat to create stunning 3-D works inspired by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.
Others working with fibers proudly shared their handmade creations — tiny pillows they’ll get to take home.
The delightful group welcomed us with open arms into their creative corner of the school, where they were quick to introduce us to their class pet, a bearded dragon named after bearded artist — Bob Ross.
It was a joyful reminder that art classrooms are more than places to learn techniques — they’re spaces where imagination, confidence, and community grow every day.
Anchors aweigh! Thanks to dual enrollment, hard work, and dedication, Lakewood Ranch High School senior Johnny Kornett has already launched his career, landing a job with local boat manufacturer Yellowfin before graduating high school next Monday.
Johnny will also graduate in June from Manatee Technical College’s Marine Science Technology program after traveling to Atlanta to compete at the SkillsUSA National Championships, where he qualified after earning 1st place at the state competition!
Learn more #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews from Mustangs Ahead at https://www.manateeschools.net/o/lakewoodranch/news
Unforgettable moments during Tara Elementary School's Pre-K Prom. 👀 Tiny smiles, big personalities, and memories families will cherish forever. 🩷 More heartwarming moments coming soon... 📸 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Congratulations to Ms. Lizbeth Karlsson for being named one of LMCU 25 Roots in Education grant recipients! The Good News team was there when she was surprised on Friday.
A dedicated educator for more than 20 years — including the last three at Daughtrey Elementary School — Mrs. Karlsson teaches Dual Language second grade and inspires students every day through her compassion, encouragement, and commitment to learning.
Selected for her dedication to uplifting students and encouraging their dreams, Mrs. Karlsson received $1,000 classroom grant to continue making a difference.
Thank you for inspiring students every single day. Principal Melissa McCullough and team said this recognition is so well deserved!
From the School Garden to the Lunch Table!
This week, Sugg Middle School Agricultural Education students turned fresh garden harvests into a full-day “Farm to Fork” pickle taste test and it was a HUGE hit!
Students sampled:
🥒 Dill Pickles
🍬 Sweet Pickles
🌶️ Tajin Lime Dill Pickles
The best part? Watching students try fresh homemade pickles for the VERY first time! The laughs, reactions, and smiles filled the classroom all day long.
A special THANK YOU to School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services for supplying extra cucumbers as the garden grows and Mrs. Roxie for teaching Ag students how to make fresh ice box pickles in the café kitchen.
By the end of the day… there were ZERO pickles left.
Watch out, Takis — fresh farm produce stole the show today!
This #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews was submitted by proud teacher, Kimberley Lough.
This week, Sugg Middle School Agricultural Education students turned fresh garden harvests into a full-day “Farm to Fork” pickle taste test and it was a HUGE hit!
Students sampled:
🥒 Dill Pickles
🍬 Sweet Pickles
🌶️ Tajin Lime Dill Pickles
The best part? Watching students try fresh homemade pickles for the VERY first time! The laughs, reactions, and smiles filled the classroom all day long.
A special THANK YOU to School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services for supplying extra cucumbers as the garden grows and Mrs. Roxie for teaching Ag students how to make fresh ice box pickles in the café kitchen.
By the end of the day… there were ZERO pickles left.
Watch out, Takis — fresh farm produce stole the show today!
This #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews was submitted by proud teacher, Kimberley Lough.
Last week, four outstanding robotics teams from our schools competed at the VEX Robotics World Championship in St. Louis, earning international recognition and showcasing the very best of our community.
Against teams from around the globe, our students demonstrated elite communication, resilience through challenging matches, and true collaboration with international alliance partners. This is what excellence looks like!
Behind every great team? Incredible support. Families traveled, cheered, encouraged, and stood beside these students every step of the way — proving that success like this is truly a community effort.
Celebrating our world competitors:
The Thunderbolts | McNeal Elementary School
Coached by Vic Kolomiychenko, with proud support from Principal Sheila Waid, who attended to cheer them on. Their positivity was unmatched, and they embraced every moment of learning on the world stage.
Whiteout Geckos | Willis Elementary
Coached by Hanna Cuervo & Jennifer Hubley
Winners of the Energy Award (Engineering Division) — an incredible honor at the WORLD level!
The Sesame Squad | Willis Elementary School
Also coached by Cuervo & Hubley, these students represented with heart, teamwork, and determination.
The Pibblers | Nolan Middle School
Led by Dominique Bagunu with assistant coach Hanna Cuervo
Placed 24th out of 83 teams in the Design Division — competing with excellence and showing respect and positivity throughout.
We are beyond proud of these students, their educators, and their families for representing Manatee County on the international stage.
The future is bright and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish next with the new VEX game, Level Up!
Shout out to STEM Coordinator Lynne Johnston for sharing this #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews!
Against teams from around the globe, our students demonstrated elite communication, resilience through challenging matches, and true collaboration with international alliance partners. This is what excellence looks like!
Behind every great team? Incredible support. Families traveled, cheered, encouraged, and stood beside these students every step of the way — proving that success like this is truly a community effort.
Celebrating our world competitors:
The Thunderbolts | McNeal Elementary School
Coached by Vic Kolomiychenko, with proud support from Principal Sheila Waid, who attended to cheer them on. Their positivity was unmatched, and they embraced every moment of learning on the world stage.
Whiteout Geckos | Willis Elementary
Coached by Hanna Cuervo & Jennifer Hubley
Winners of the Energy Award (Engineering Division) — an incredible honor at the WORLD level!
The Sesame Squad | Willis Elementary School
Also coached by Cuervo & Hubley, these students represented with heart, teamwork, and determination.
The Pibblers | Nolan Middle School
Led by Dominique Bagunu with assistant coach Hanna Cuervo
Placed 24th out of 83 teams in the Design Division — competing with excellence and showing respect and positivity throughout.
We are beyond proud of these students, their educators, and their families for representing Manatee County on the international stage.
The future is bright and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish next with the new VEX game, Level Up!
Shout out to STEM Coordinator Lynne Johnston for sharing this #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews!
Innovation in action at Manatee Elementary!
The school hosted an unforgettable STEAM Night on April 30th, where the courtyard and STEAM Lab were filled with hands-on displays, live demonstrations, and interactive learning for families to explore.
From science and technology to art, agriculture, and math, community partners, museums, and libraries helped bring learning to life in exciting ways!
Proud to be part of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading's Remake Learning Days, inspiring curiosity and creativity across our community. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The school hosted an unforgettable STEAM Night on April 30th, where the courtyard and STEAM Lab were filled with hands-on displays, live demonstrations, and interactive learning for families to explore.
From science and technology to art, agriculture, and math, community partners, museums, and libraries helped bring learning to life in exciting ways!
Proud to be part of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading's Remake Learning Days, inspiring curiosity and creativity across our community. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Encore! Excellence in Music Education at Lakewood Ranch High School
Lakewood Ranch High School’s Music Department has once again earned national recognition as a Best Communities for Music Education School Award recipient from the NAMM Foundation marking their second year in a row receiving this prestigious honor!
Out of schools across the country, only a select few are recognized for their outstanding commitment to music education and Lakewood Ranch stands among the best in Florida.
This achievement reflects the dedication of incredible educators, supportive families, talented students, and a community that truly values the power of music. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Lakewood Ranch High School’s Music Department has once again earned national recognition as a Best Communities for Music Education School Award recipient from the NAMM Foundation marking their second year in a row receiving this prestigious honor!
Out of schools across the country, only a select few are recognized for their outstanding commitment to music education and Lakewood Ranch stands among the best in Florida.
This achievement reflects the dedication of incredible educators, supportive families, talented students, and a community that truly values the power of music. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The School District of Manatee County is proud to celebrate this year’s Manatee School Counselor Association scholarship recipients.
Lorah Cerfrère, a senior from Southeast High School, will be furthering her education at State College of Florida and aspires to become a nurse.
Jenna Herbert from Parrish Community High School will be attending Hillsborough Community College to study in the dental hygiene program, while also participating in USF's Army ROTC.
Each senior was selected for their essay, sharing how a school counselor made a meaningful difference in their life. Proof that the support students receive goes far beyond the classroom.
Now in its third year, the association awarded two $500 scholarships to these outstanding students whose words and experiences rose to the top among applicants across the county.
Here’s to bright futures ahead and the counselors who help guide the way. ✨ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Lorah Cerfrère, a senior from Southeast High School, will be furthering her education at State College of Florida and aspires to become a nurse.
Jenna Herbert from Parrish Community High School will be attending Hillsborough Community College to study in the dental hygiene program, while also participating in USF's Army ROTC.
Each senior was selected for their essay, sharing how a school counselor made a meaningful difference in their life. Proof that the support students receive goes far beyond the classroom.
Now in its third year, the association awarded two $500 scholarships to these outstanding students whose words and experiences rose to the top among applicants across the county.
Here’s to bright futures ahead and the counselors who help guide the way. ✨ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Pre-K learning in action. Fresh, fun, and full of flavor!
School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services and Jessie P. Miller Elementary's cafeteria staff teamed up with Ms. Kopinsky’s class for a hands-on Cinco de Mayo celebration--making homemade salsa. Yum!
The secret ingredient? Fresh cilantro straight from the school garden. Learning, teamwork, and a little spice… now that’s something to celebrate! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services and Jessie P. Miller Elementary's cafeteria staff teamed up with Ms. Kopinsky’s class for a hands-on Cinco de Mayo celebration--making homemade salsa. Yum!
The secret ingredient? Fresh cilantro straight from the school garden. Learning, teamwork, and a little spice… now that’s something to celebrate! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
At Tara Elementary School, one special tradition continues to leave a lasting impression on both hearts and taste buds.
For one evening, the cafeteria transformed into the beloved Banana Leaf Restaurant, where Tara’s youngest learners take center stage. Under the guidance of teacher Jo Johnson, kindergartners step into the roles of chefs, hosts, and servers, welcoming families and staff to an unforgettable dining experience.
From greeting guests with big smiles to carefully serving dishes inspired by authentic Asian cuisine, students recently brought their learning to life in the most delicious way. Ingredients grown right in the school garden made each bite even more meaningful, connecting classroom lessons to real-world experiences.
But the true highlight of the night wasn’t just the menu. It was the confidence, teamwork, and pride shining from every student. Laughter filled the room, families leaned in to savor the moment, and the joy was unmistakable.
At Tara Elementary, it’s traditions like the Banana Leaf Restaurant that turn learning into something you can see, feel, and even taste. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC
For one evening, the cafeteria transformed into the beloved Banana Leaf Restaurant, where Tara’s youngest learners take center stage. Under the guidance of teacher Jo Johnson, kindergartners step into the roles of chefs, hosts, and servers, welcoming families and staff to an unforgettable dining experience.
From greeting guests with big smiles to carefully serving dishes inspired by authentic Asian cuisine, students recently brought their learning to life in the most delicious way. Ingredients grown right in the school garden made each bite even more meaningful, connecting classroom lessons to real-world experiences.
But the true highlight of the night wasn’t just the menu. It was the confidence, teamwork, and pride shining from every student. Laughter filled the room, families leaned in to savor the moment, and the joy was unmistakable.
At Tara Elementary, it’s traditions like the Banana Leaf Restaurant that turn learning into something you can see, feel, and even taste. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC
Dear Teachers, Here's a special message from Dr. Laurie Breslin regarding Teacher Appreciation Week.
https://vimeo.com/1184919879/fdb68f2a7f
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
On Wednesday, creativity took center stage at Blackburn Elementary as our first graders celebrated National Poetry Month in a truly special way. 🌸📖
During the inaugural “Voices in Bloom” Poetry Slam, students proudly shared their original haikus with classmates, teachers, and families. With the support of their fourth grade buddies, these young writers collaborated to craft meaningful poems that beautifully showcased their interests, learning, and passions.
Adding to the excitement, several students were recognized with special awards for their creativity, highlighting the unique voices and imaginative spirit present in each poem. 🌼✨
What a wonderful reminder that even our youngest learners have powerful voices worth celebrating! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Big day at Palm View K-8! Thanks to Bernie’s Book Bank, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st grade students received book bags filled with four stories to take home. Executive Director Amy Bott even introduced herself as a “book banker”, which definitely got some excited reactions! Volunteers, many of whom are retired educators, took time to hear students read. With 20,000+ books donated across Manatee and Sarasota counties so far this year, this partnership is just getting started. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The 2026–2027 Superintendents’ Advisory Panel kicked off last week with current 11th-grade student leaders. Throughout the next year, they will meet with the superintendent and district leadership to share their perspectives on student success.
Through thoughtful discussions, students will provide input on access to programs and resources, college and career readiness, and what is working well across their schools—as well as areas that could be improved. Their insights will help inform key elements of the district’s next strategic plan.
The panel will reconvene in the fall when these students return as high school seniors, and we are grateful for their meaningful contributions and ongoing participation. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The VEX Robotics World Championships in St. Louis is officially underway! ✨
We’re so proud to have FOUR amazing teams representing Manatee County on the world stage, including two from Willis Elementary, one from McNeal Elementary, and one from Nolan Middle School!
Wishing all of our teams the best of luck as they compete, learn, and make unforgettable memories.
You’re representing our community with excellence — go show the world what Manatee County can do! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Some new friends blew into Manatee Schools Television this week, bringing a wave of joy to our amazing team of storytellers!
From portrait photography to studio production and even live TV, these Manatee High School Hurricanes reminded us to slow down and appreciate the everyday moments that make what we do so special.
A big thank you to teacher Tracey Swart and the MHS team for bringing these amazing young people through our doors.
