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
Congrats to Palmetto High School senior, Maebry Paris, the new Miss Manatee County Fair Queen. Save the Date for the Manatee County Fair: January 15 to January 25, 2026 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Last week, Lakewood Ranch High School celebrated the grand opening of its brand-new College & Career Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony! Under the leadership of College & Career Advisor Vito Bavaro, students were invited to explore the new space — a hub designed to connect them with scholarship opportunities, jobs, internships, colleges, technical schools, and military options.
The center offers something for every Mustang, whether they plan to attend a 4-year university, 2-year college, technical college, enlist in the military, or enter the workforce after graduation.
A special thank you goes out to Career Pathways Coordinator Erin Koerper-Novarro for sharing this #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews and to Vito Bavaro and the entire LRHS administration team for their dedication and hard work in making this resource a reality for students.
The center offers something for every Mustang, whether they plan to attend a 4-year university, 2-year college, technical college, enlist in the military, or enter the workforce after graduation.
A special thank you goes out to Career Pathways Coordinator Erin Koerper-Novarro for sharing this #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews and to Vito Bavaro and the entire LRHS administration team for their dedication and hard work in making this resource a reality for students.
💛 Celebrating World Kindness Day with a Heartfelt Farewell! 💛
In honor of his retirement, Myakka City Elementary's principal, school secretary, and registrar, surprised longtime school district courier Alton Lilly with shirts featuring his likeness! 🎉
For 19 years, Mr. Lilly has traveled nearly 60 miles round-trip from Myakka City to the Matzke complex — and all across Manatee County — keeping our schools connected and receiving the packages, envelopes, and letters they need.
“We couldn’t let Mr. Lilly retire without showing him how much he means to us,” said Principal Carol Ricks. It was an emotional moment filled with gratitude, kindness, and maybe a few tears.
Thank you, Mr. Lilly, for your years of dedication. As you make your last deliveries throughout November, we cheer you on 🎉 and hope you enjoy your well-earned retirement! 💛
#WorldKindnessDay #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
In honor of his retirement, Myakka City Elementary's principal, school secretary, and registrar, surprised longtime school district courier Alton Lilly with shirts featuring his likeness! 🎉
For 19 years, Mr. Lilly has traveled nearly 60 miles round-trip from Myakka City to the Matzke complex — and all across Manatee County — keeping our schools connected and receiving the packages, envelopes, and letters they need.
“We couldn’t let Mr. Lilly retire without showing him how much he means to us,” said Principal Carol Ricks. It was an emotional moment filled with gratitude, kindness, and maybe a few tears.
Thank you, Mr. Lilly, for your years of dedication. As you make your last deliveries throughout November, we cheer you on 🎉 and hope you enjoy your well-earned retirement! 💛
#WorldKindnessDay #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Congratulations to Makayla M., an art student at King Middle School, whose acrylic painting “The Starry Croak” was selected as this year’s Art in the Capitol winner!
Florida State Senator Jim Boyd joined School Board Chair Chad Choate, Vice Chair Cindy Spray, Superintendent Laurie Breslin, and members of the district’s leadership team to surprise the young artist during her art class with teacher Robert Truby.
Makayla’s beautiful artwork will now be proudly displayed in the Florida Capitol. Her mother and sister were on hand for the surprise celebration, along with Principal Mike Mullen and the King Middle team — all proud of Makayla’s incredible accomplishment.
Congratulations Makayla, on representing our school district with creativity and excellence. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Florida State Senator Jim Boyd joined School Board Chair Chad Choate, Vice Chair Cindy Spray, Superintendent Laurie Breslin, and members of the district’s leadership team to surprise the young artist during her art class with teacher Robert Truby.
Makayla’s beautiful artwork will now be proudly displayed in the Florida Capitol. Her mother and sister were on hand for the surprise celebration, along with Principal Mike Mullen and the King Middle team — all proud of Makayla’s incredible accomplishment.
Congratulations Makayla, on representing our school district with creativity and excellence. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The Southeast High School football team built more than just skills on the field this season, they’re building community and confidence!
A brand-new barbershop for players, Legend's Lounge, is operating inside the locker room with alumni barbers lending a hand, the Seminoles are looking sharp and staying united. Congratulations, Coach Bradley and team!
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Check out this inspiring story by FOX 13 News - Tampa Bay: https://www.fox13news.com/sports/southeast-high-football-team-builds-barbershop-locker-room-build-team-chemistry
A brand-new barbershop for players, Legend's Lounge, is operating inside the locker room with alumni barbers lending a hand, the Seminoles are looking sharp and staying united. Congratulations, Coach Bradley and team!
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Check out this inspiring story by FOX 13 News - Tampa Bay: https://www.fox13news.com/sports/southeast-high-football-team-builds-barbershop-locker-room-build-team-chemistry
The Braden River High School 2025 Marching Band of Pirates participated in the FFCC Outdoor State Championships this weekend in Orlando earning top honors in Percussion, Colorguard, General Effect, 1st Place in Division 3A and GRAND CHAMPION of Class 1A – 3A. Congratulations to Director of Bands Cliff Dawson and the entire team!
From the red carpet to the awards stage... a huge round of applause to the Robert E. Willis Elementary School Geckos who recently competed in the Jim Harbin Student Media Festival.
These young filmmakers shined at the state level, earning first place in Animation (Ava G. and Holly R. for "Color Fight"); second place in the Drama category (Grant M., Emily P., Eliana G., and Sloane R. for "Pencil Box Feud"; and third place in Animation (Fanya Z. and Avery Z. for "The Great Rescue".
Your creativity, teamwork, and hard work truly paid off. We are so proud of you and we can’t wait to see what you create next!
This #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews was submitted by proud principal Natalie Jadid and teacher, Hanna Cuervo. Email news@manateeschools.net to share your students and/or staff members amazing accomplishments!
These young filmmakers shined at the state level, earning first place in Animation (Ava G. and Holly R. for "Color Fight"); second place in the Drama category (Grant M., Emily P., Eliana G., and Sloane R. for "Pencil Box Feud"; and third place in Animation (Fanya Z. and Avery Z. for "The Great Rescue".
Your creativity, teamwork, and hard work truly paid off. We are so proud of you and we can’t wait to see what you create next!
This #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews was submitted by proud principal Natalie Jadid and teacher, Hanna Cuervo. Email news@manateeschools.net to share your students and/or staff members amazing accomplishments!
A familiar face is getting some well-deserved recognition! Clifford Lim, a dedicated physical education teacher in Manatee County, has been named Spectrum Spectrum Bay News 9's latest A+ Teacher!
Coach Lim didn’t start his career in public education, but he’s found his true calling by inspiring students to stay active, build confidence, and strive for their personal best every day.
Let’s give a huge round of applause to Coach Lim and the awesome students from Barbara A. Harvey K-8 at Copperstone for keeping #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews rolling!
Here's a link to the story from Bay News 9: https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2025/10/28/a--teacher-shows-students-how-to-live-healthy-lifestyle-
Coach Lim didn’t start his career in public education, but he’s found his true calling by inspiring students to stay active, build confidence, and strive for their personal best every day.
Let’s give a huge round of applause to Coach Lim and the awesome students from Barbara A. Harvey K-8 at Copperstone for keeping #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews rolling!
Here's a link to the story from Bay News 9: https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2025/10/28/a--teacher-shows-students-how-to-live-healthy-lifestyle-
Meet Shawn, one of our dedicated School Safety Guardians in Manatee County. A proud local, Shawn’s roots run deep in this community. He attended Oneco Elementary School, Harllee Middle, and graduated from Bayshore High School.
After an impressive 30-year law enforcement career, beginning with the Bradenton Police Department and concluding with the Tampa Police Department, Shawn returned home two years ago to continue serving—this time, protecting students and staff.
Every morning, Shawn can be found at Palma Sola Elementary School, greeting students with high-fives and smiles during drop-off. It’s his favorite part of the day, and it shows. His caring nature and connection with students make a lasting impact, especially on those who need a little extra support.
When asked about the best part of being a guardian, Shawn shared a story that speaks volumes about his heart:
“The other day, I helped a little boy put his shoe on, and he remembered me from about a month ago. You don’t often get a lot of responses out of children with special needs. After I put his shoe on, he grabbed me by the hand and led me to the swing because he remembered me pushing him before. It’s little stuff like that.”
Outside of school, Shawn is eagerly expecting his first grandchild in January, and it’s clear that family means everything to him. In fact, education runs in the family; his brother is a PE teacher at another elementary school in the district.
Thank you, Shawn, for your dedication, compassion, and commitment to keeping our students and staff safe. You are a true hometown hero! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #GoodNewsGuardians
After an impressive 30-year law enforcement career, beginning with the Bradenton Police Department and concluding with the Tampa Police Department, Shawn returned home two years ago to continue serving—this time, protecting students and staff.
Every morning, Shawn can be found at Palma Sola Elementary School, greeting students with high-fives and smiles during drop-off. It’s his favorite part of the day, and it shows. His caring nature and connection with students make a lasting impact, especially on those who need a little extra support.
When asked about the best part of being a guardian, Shawn shared a story that speaks volumes about his heart:
“The other day, I helped a little boy put his shoe on, and he remembered me from about a month ago. You don’t often get a lot of responses out of children with special needs. After I put his shoe on, he grabbed me by the hand and led me to the swing because he remembered me pushing him before. It’s little stuff like that.”
Outside of school, Shawn is eagerly expecting his first grandchild in January, and it’s clear that family means everything to him. In fact, education runs in the family; his brother is a PE teacher at another elementary school in the district.
Thank you, Shawn, for your dedication, compassion, and commitment to keeping our students and staff safe. You are a true hometown hero! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #GoodNewsGuardians
Early Literacy Summit: A Powerful Day of Learning!
On Saturday, October 25th, the Elementary Curriculum Department hosted the Early Literacy Summit at Palmetto High School, bringing together more than 130 passionate Pre-K through 3rd grade educators from across the School District of Manatee County.
This inspiring event focused on building the foundational skills essential to student reading success, equipping teachers with tools and strategies to make a lasting impact in their classrooms.
The summit began with an inspiring keynote session by Wiley Blevins, a renowned expert in phonics and fluency. Following the keynote, educators had the opportunity to choose from various breakout sessions covering topics such as dyslexia and interactive word walls.
Additionally, attendees participated in a community-sponsored giveaway, with prizes ranging from Bradenton Marauders tickets to educational books for their classrooms.
Check out photos from this extraordinary event! Let’s build strong readers—together! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Harrison Hove, senior lecturer and interim chair of the Journalism Department at the University of Florida, along with two of his students, visited with journalism and media studies students at Bayshore High School on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
Professor Hove presented students with options available to them in the Journalism Department, discussed avenues for attending University of Florida, related SMI (Summer Media Institute) information, along with the availability of scholarships.
This #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews was submitted by proud Paw Print newspaper advisor, Jean Faulk.
Professor Hove presented students with options available to them in the Journalism Department, discussed avenues for attending University of Florida, related SMI (Summer Media Institute) information, along with the availability of scholarships.
This #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews was submitted by proud Paw Print newspaper advisor, Jean Faulk.
At Palmetto High School, a blank wall became something beautiful when one of our own came home. The original artist who painted the mural on the old gym wall decades ago, stood once again on campus - brush in hand - adding fresh stripes to the new administrative building. Before: a clean canvas. After: a piece of PHS past brought forward with pride. There was something unforgettable about watching him, and his classmates, step back and admire the work — same school, same Tiger spirit. Stay tuned for the full story next week. 🐅🖤❤️ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
This week, we announced the winner of our first-ever Good News Award of Excellence. We also visited the creators of the award trophy, and the qualifying prototypes, which are now on display in Nicholas Smith's classroom at Southeast High School.
The students have moved on to new projects solving real-world problems, but we appreciate their skill and time helping us recognize the Good News happening in our schools. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
It’s Friday, friends—oh yes, it’s true,
A Halloween Friday? BOO-yeah, woo-hoo!
Costumes, candy, pumpkins that glow,
Stories of friendly ghosts saying hello.
From kindergarten giggles to seniors so cool,
Everyone’s feeling that Halloween rule:
Be kind, be safe, have fun with your crew,
Share laughs and smiles in everything you do.
Have a sweet day, enjoy every scene…
Happy Friday & Happy Halloween! 👻 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
In honor of National First Responders Day, School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services invited first responders to eat lunch with students at 11 elementary schools across Manatee County.
At R. H. Prine Elementary School, first responders from Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue sat shoulder-to-shoulder with kindergarten through fifth graders, talking about everything from Halloween costumes to math problems.
For the students, it was a chance to ask questions, say thank you and see their community heroes up close.
A simple lunch. A meaningful connection. A day our students won’t forget. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The story of our #GoodNewsAwardofExcellence creator 🏆 When the Good News team asked Southeast High School technology teacher Nicholas Smith to help create a trophy for the inaugural Good News Award of Excellence, he didn’t hesitate. Instead, he turned the request into a teaching moment—an opportunity for students in his technology lab to take on a real-world design challenge.
Over the course of two weeks, students brainstormed, designed, and tested prototype trophies. There were highs and lows along the way—some of the early models even melted like spaghetti! But through trial, error, and persistence, the class produced a collection of creative, meaningful designs.
In the end, Miranda Herrera, a senior and President of Southeast’s Technology Student Association (TSA), had her design chosen by her peers to represent the project. She proudly presented the finished trophy to the Good News team in early October.
Several students stood out during the process:
Nicholas L., a senior, used CAD software and 3D modeling to craft his prototype. He plans to join the U.S. Marines after graduation and eventually study mechanical engineering. A motorcycle enthusiast, he dreams of designing engines one day.
Eli O., a senior, created a traditional-style trophy and had fun throughout the design process, which took an impressive seven hours to print.
David M., a junior who loves a challenge, is still exploring his future path but hopes it will involve engineering or marine mechanics.
Will W., also a junior, focused on creating a simple, clean design. He enjoyed the project for the way it expanded his knowledge of 3D printing. When he’s not in the lab, you can find him training with the Seminoles’ weightlifting team.
Aaron V., a junior and aspiring aerospace engineer, was proud of his design and grateful for the chance to sharpen his time management skills through the project.
This collaboration between the Southeast technology lab and the Good News team didn’t just produce a beautiful award—it showcased the creativity, resilience, and bright futures of Southeast’s talented students.
Thank you for sharing your time and talents! Manatee Education Foundation partnered with the District for the Good News Award of Excellence to recognize your incredible designs. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Over the course of two weeks, students brainstormed, designed, and tested prototype trophies. There were highs and lows along the way—some of the early models even melted like spaghetti! But through trial, error, and persistence, the class produced a collection of creative, meaningful designs.
In the end, Miranda Herrera, a senior and President of Southeast’s Technology Student Association (TSA), had her design chosen by her peers to represent the project. She proudly presented the finished trophy to the Good News team in early October.
Several students stood out during the process:
Nicholas L., a senior, used CAD software and 3D modeling to craft his prototype. He plans to join the U.S. Marines after graduation and eventually study mechanical engineering. A motorcycle enthusiast, he dreams of designing engines one day.
Eli O., a senior, created a traditional-style trophy and had fun throughout the design process, which took an impressive seven hours to print.
David M., a junior who loves a challenge, is still exploring his future path but hopes it will involve engineering or marine mechanics.
Will W., also a junior, focused on creating a simple, clean design. He enjoyed the project for the way it expanded his knowledge of 3D printing. When he’s not in the lab, you can find him training with the Seminoles’ weightlifting team.
Aaron V., a junior and aspiring aerospace engineer, was proud of his design and grateful for the chance to sharpen his time management skills through the project.
This collaboration between the Southeast technology lab and the Good News team didn’t just produce a beautiful award—it showcased the creativity, resilience, and bright futures of Southeast’s talented students.
Thank you for sharing your time and talents! Manatee Education Foundation partnered with the District for the Good News Award of Excellence to recognize your incredible designs. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
On Tuesday, we were proud to SURPRISE and announce the first-ever recipient of the School District of Manatee County's Good News Award of Excellence — Palmetto High School!
This award was created to recognize the outstanding efforts of those who actively share the positive, everyday stories happening in our schools and worksites.
It also shines a spotlight on the incredible talents of our District students who design and create the award trophies, while inspiring others to amplify the #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews around them.
Palmetto High School, under the leadership of Principal Monica DeLesline, has set the bar high. They submitted two joyful, creative stories celebrating connections between Palmetto High and well-known District administrators.
Thus were born:
🔸 The Travelin’ Badge of Ginger Collins (Southeast High)
🔸 The Travelin’ Badge of Dr. Guy Grimes (Johnson K-8)
In these fun, heartwarming stories, the administrators’ ID badges “traveled” around the campus of their alma mater with current Tigers' staff and students.
These playful posts didn’t just entertain; they sparked a wave of nostalgia, school pride, and connection across the community.
The response was awesome:
📱 130,000+ views on Facebook alone (Q1: Aug. 11-Oct. 10)
💬 A buzz that spread across schools and campuses throughout the District
Congratulations, Palmetto High School. Thank you for spreading the Good News with creativity, heart, and Tiger pride.
You've inspired us all to celebrate the everyday moments that make our District so special. Keep the Good News coming!
#GoodNewsAwardofExcellence
This award was created to recognize the outstanding efforts of those who actively share the positive, everyday stories happening in our schools and worksites.
It also shines a spotlight on the incredible talents of our District students who design and create the award trophies, while inspiring others to amplify the #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews around them.
Palmetto High School, under the leadership of Principal Monica DeLesline, has set the bar high. They submitted two joyful, creative stories celebrating connections between Palmetto High and well-known District administrators.
Thus were born:
🔸 The Travelin’ Badge of Ginger Collins (Southeast High)
🔸 The Travelin’ Badge of Dr. Guy Grimes (Johnson K-8)
In these fun, heartwarming stories, the administrators’ ID badges “traveled” around the campus of their alma mater with current Tigers' staff and students.
These playful posts didn’t just entertain; they sparked a wave of nostalgia, school pride, and connection across the community.
The response was awesome:
📱 130,000+ views on Facebook alone (Q1: Aug. 11-Oct. 10)
💬 A buzz that spread across schools and campuses throughout the District
Congratulations, Palmetto High School. Thank you for spreading the Good News with creativity, heart, and Tiger pride.
You've inspired us all to celebrate the everyday moments that make our District so special. Keep the Good News coming!
#GoodNewsAwardofExcellence
