School District of Manatee County

On Friday, Palma Sola Elementary pulled out all the stops to celebrate their beloved crossing guard, Maggie Pappa, on her 92nd birthday! 🎂💐 The devoted matriarch and lifelong Pittsburgh fan also stays active and healthy by being a fixture at LECOM Park during Pirates’ spring training and the Bradenton Marauders’ baseball season. More than two decades and running! See how the community came together to honor her kindness and spirit at https://www.manateeschools.net/goodnews We love you too, Ms. Maggie! 💛🖤

Bridget Jones had quite the Wednesday! After a regular day at work, she headed home with a brand new 65” smart TV. It was the grand prize in the School Bus Safety Week raffle held at the Matzke Complex, a gift provided with support from sponsors.

Bridget is a long-time district employee with more than three decades of dedicated service. Recently, she transitioned from her role as a teacher aide to become a bus aide in the Transportation Department. Though she’s only been with her new team for a few weeks, her coworkers were quick to celebrate her big win and even helped load the TV into her car!

Congratulations, Bridget, and thank you for your continued commitment to our students and schools! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

The School District of Manatee County’s 👑 King of the Road 👑 is Nick Buto! This rookie school bus driver, who joined the district in August, scored the highest while maneuvering and avoiding errors on an obstacle course at Matzke Complex on Wednesday. He drives students to-and-from Palmetto High School and Harvey K-8 Copperstone & North River Ranch campuses. Welcome to the team! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #SchoolBusSafetyWeek

Drumroll, please! 🥁 The results are in for the 2025 Manatee County School Bus Rodeo, and the winning team is The Roadrunnerz (Beep Beep)! Led by longtime route supervisor Gina Miller, who has dedicated 26 years of service to transportation, this team proved that even our newest drivers can rise to the challenge. The four drivers who skillfully navigated the challenging obstacle course on Wednesday are all fairly new to our district: 🚌 Edinson and Nicholas – both joined in August 🚌 Don – celebrating one year of service 🚌 Zeke – proudly driving for five years on and off All the participating teams were celebrated by Director Jamie Warrington and Asst. Director Melanie Johnson. We’ve tagged the schools whose routes they drive — please join us in congratulating them and sharing this #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews! 🎉👏

It’s School Bus Safety Week! Our Transportation team was all smiles while cheering on their favorite drivers at today’s District School Bus Rodeo! 🚌

After a decade-long hiatus, this friendly competition is back on the road and drivers were revved up to claim the title of King or Queen of the Road! 👑

Here’s a look at our Transportation family enjoying the fun in between school drop-offs and pick-ups.

A special thank you to all the sponsors who supported the event by providing lunch, prizes, and T-shirts. Your generosity kept the energy rolling!

Stay tuned - we’ll post the winning teams up next…#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #SchoolBusSafetyWeek

Things are going swimmingly at Anna Maria Elementary! Curriculum Coordinator Amber Platowski recently visited the Guy Harvey Academy of Arts and Science, and the excitement was off the charts! Each week, students celebrate “Guy Day Friday” — diving into STEM, the arts, and literacy with lessons created by the Guy Harvey Foundation. In the Guy Harvey Classroom, STEM teacher Ms. Pidge Barreda brings learning to life through creative, hands-on exploration — including a custom board game and Play-Doh marine models! Upstairs, Media Specialist Ms. Becky Demo led students in songs about manatees, reading activities, and discussions on protecting marine life. One student even convinced her family to buy a propeller guard to help save manatees! With Principal Dr. Fradley at the helm, this school is charting a course toward curiosity, conservation, and creativity. As part of the district’s marine science career pathway, Anna Maria Elementary is helping students set sail for success — and we can’t wait to “sea” where they go next! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #STEAM #GuyHarveyAcademy #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC

Palm View K-8 8th Graders Dive into Ocean Discovery What a fin-tastic field trip! On Wednesday, October 15, Palm View 8th graders set sail for a day of discovery at the Florida Institute of Oceanography in St. Petersburg. Students had the rare opportunity to board and tour two research vessels, guided by none other than the ships’ captains themselves — an unforgettable experience for our future scientists and explorers! The excitement continued as students gathered around the ship’s moon pool — a large opening in the vessel’s hull that allows scientists to lower tools, instruments, and even submersibles directly into the ocean. They also got a close-up look at a remote operated vehicle (ROV), and each student even had the chance to pilot a $200,000 mini-ROV using a controller that looked surprisingly like an Xbox game controller! Two presenters shared insight into the many careers connected to marine research, from ship operations to ocean science and environmental studies, inspiring students to think about future possibilities on (and under) the water. Docked alongside the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and a U.S. Coast Guard Station, the research vessels are surrounded by incredible real-world learning opportunities. Students even watched planes take off at Albert Whitted Airport, adding another layer of excitement to the day. As a Woz Ed Career Pathways school, Palm View K-8 encourages students to explore STEM careers and future-ready skills through hands-on experiences just like this one. From technology to teamwork, the day reinforced how curiosity, creativity, and innovation open the door to endless opportunities. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

A glowing review for the Marching Seminoles of Southeast High School on Friday night, and their guest musicians from Braden River Middle School, Louise R. Johnson K-8 School of International Studies, Sugg Middle School, and Electa Lee Middle School. Bravo 👏 You wowed the crowd, making families, students, and fans proud! Glow, Noles! (Neon Night, 10.17.25)

The results and moments captured during Saturday’s Middle School XC meet are in… Girls - Teams and Individuals 🥇 Dr. Mona Jain Middle School 🥈 R. Dan Nolan Middle School 🥉 Martha B. King Middle School 🥇 Tatum B., Dr. Mona Jain MS 🥈 Katelyn M., Nolan MS 🥉 Emma V., Nolan MS Boys - Teams and Individuals 🥇 Buffalo Creek Middle School 🥈 Dr. Mona Jain Middle School 🥉 Haile Middle School 🥇 Maddox R., Buffalo Creek MS 🥈 Rafe T., King MS 🥉 Mitchell F., Dr. Mona Jain MS Congratulations to ALL the runners from Manatee County middle schools and their families for finishing the race and supporting your teams! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Dear Families, This is a friendly reminder that all School District of Manatee County Traditional Public Elementary Schools will have early release at 1:00 p.m. this Friday and next Friday, October 17th and October 24th. These early release days allow time for Parent/Teacher conferences.  Please plan accordingly.  For students who participate in the after-school care program, after-school care is available on both Fridays. Thank you for your continued partnership!

He may not have a Super Bowl ring, but he’s a campus legend. When Myakka City Elementary’s Mr. S (Joseph Szewczyk) met Tampa Bay Buccaneers Super Bowl champ Martín Gramática at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature on Thursday, he asked for two autographed footballs 🏈 Not for himself, but for students. His idea? Use them as rewards for those who make the biggest learning gains in reading this year. 🏆 Mr. S isn’t just the bus driver. He’s also the PE teacher, fifth-grade math teacher, and a 21-year Mustang who commutes from North Port because he loves his school that much. He’s not chasing touchdowns, but he’s definitely scoring big for his students. Thank you, Mr. S, for going the extra yard for Myakka City Elementary! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Right this very minute, students from Myakka City Elementary are buzzing with excitement after an unforgettable day at Tackling Reading at The Bishop Museum! This inspiring annual event, hosted in partnership with The Mosaic Company and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, aims to show students that a love for reading and learning can lead to big wins in life. Special guest and Super Bowl Champion Martín “Automatica” Gramática, legendary former Buccaneers kicker, brought his championship energy to the event. Joining the fun were Bucs Cheerleaders Brooke, Dante, Paige, and Sarah, who added spirit and enthusiasm to every moment. Kids got to wear replica jerseys of QB Baker Mayfield and Bucky Irving, numbers 6-7 (hmmmmmm....🙃) Enjoy these photos from the special event! A #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews video is coming soon! @topfans

Spend just five minutes with Tania Vidal from School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services, and it feels like flipping open a page of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Her warmth, humor, and heart for children have made her a beloved figure at Prine Elementary School, where she’s been serving breakfast, lunch (and a whole lot of love!) for the past 28 years.

It all began when Tania’s own children were students at Prine. Living just across the street, she was already a familiar face on campus as a daily volunteer. Then came the thought that changed everything:
"I figured, I might as well get paid if I’m going to be up here all the time."

So, she joined the cafeteria team as a four-hour food service worker. Fast forward nearly three decades, and she’s now the school’s cafeteria manager, a role she’s held for the past 12 years. But ask anyone at Prine, and they'll tell you: Tania is much more than her title.

She’s the one in the colorful hat. The tutu. The costume. Whatever it takes to bring joy to the kids.

“We do a lot of theme days and special events,” she says with a proud smile. “First Responders Day is one of my favorites. The firefighters come in and eat with the kids. It’s a big deal for them.”

Her energy is contagious, and her love for students is unwavering. That’s what also led her to volunteer with Girls on the Run, an extracurricular club that empowers girls through movement.

“I love showing them that a 63-year-old can still get out there, stretch, and have some fun,” she laughs. “They get a real kick out of me in my tutus.”

Tania and her cafeteria crew don’t just feed Prine students. They also prepare meals for a local private school and charter school. And yes, when she shows up in full costume to deliver lunches, she’s met with cheers and hugs.

She’s now feeding the children and grandchildren of former students, a legacy that humbles and delights her. She shares a favorite memory from a visit to Walmart with her late husband, when a little boy couldn’t take his eyes off her. He tugged on his mother’s pants and whispered, “She’s the one.” When his mother asked who he meant, he answered without hesitation:
“She’s the one who cooks better than you!”

Even in the grocery store, Tania gets questions about lunch balances, though she laughs and gently reminds people, “I deal with 800 students. I can’t tell you how much little Johnny has on his account.”

But even with the long days, the laughter, and the occasional costume, what Tania talks about most is her team.

“I am so extremely fortunate. I have a true team effort here,” she says. “Everybody steps up and helps anybody that needs help.”

Even when they’re short-staffed, even when the day gets tough, the cafeteria crew keeps going. Staff from across the school have been known to jump in with hairnets and gloves to help when needed. Because at Prine, that’s just how things are done.

“This is what I live for... working here,” Tania says, eyes lighting up. “I really do. I love it.”

And judging by the generations of students who still remember her, laugh with her, and feel cared for in her cafeteria, the love she gives has never gone unnoticed. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close on Wednesday, October 15th, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated educators and professionals who work every day to uplift students across Manatee County.

Meet Iris Garcia-Velez, an ESOL Resource Teacher at Sea Breeze Elementary. From inspiring young writers to organizing Hispanic Heritage events on campus, Mrs. Garcia’s journey into education began through volunteering in her own children’s schools. Since 2006, she has been a passionate advocate for students in Manatee County.

Proud of her Puerto Rican heritage, Mrs. Garcia encourages all students, regardless of where they come from, to celebrate and embrace the richness of all cultures. Thank you, Mrs. Garcia, for your dedication and for being a role model in our community! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Teen Volunteers in Action: (L-to-R) Meet Conor (Parrish Community High School) and Alessandro (Manatee High School). These high school juniors, who are best friends, have teamed up to serve at The Soar Lab to help inspire passion and help kids develop a love of learning! They’re both involved in service and community organizations at their schools, including Key Club and Student Government. Bright futures ahead! The Soar Lab Open Friday, October 10th - 9AM-1PM FREE for children (infants to 3rd grade) with an adult 📍6413 9th Street East, Bradenton #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Today marks one month since Dr. Laurie Breslin officially stepped into her role as Superintendent, and we’re proud to recognize this milestone!

In just a few short weeks, Dr. Breslin has already begun building strong connections, listening closely to school communities, and championing the success of every student and staff member. Her commitment to excellence shines through in every conversation and decision.

As we look ahead, we’re excited about the vision, experience, and heart Dr. Breslin brings to our district. Please join us in celebrating this first month of leadership and welcoming the many great things still to come.

#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

MSTV Game of the Week (Football)
Lakewood Ranch High at Palmetto High
Scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Watch live at https://youtube.com/live/arA7hIPAkow?feature=share

We thought we had seen it all, but clearly The Pirates proved us wrong. To the student who brought their books to class in an air fryer for Braden River High School's #AnythingButABackpack spirit day, you are the GOAT! 🫠 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Mr. Jeff is the first smile, the first high-five, the steady presence who makes every child feel safe at Sea Breeze Elementary. This school safety guardian once wore a badge as a New York City police officer. Five years ago, when retirement left him restless, he found a new calling by protecting and caring for the students of Sea Breeze. “I’m like the Costco greeter… without the membership fees,” he jokes, but everyone knows Mr. Jeff is so much more. Last week, his school family surprised him with flowers and balloons, naming him their site finalist for Support Staff Employee of the Year. For Mr. Jeff, it was “like receiving a badge of honor.” For them, it was simply a chance to say thank you to the man who means everything to their school. And while Sea Breeze has become his second family, nothing means more to Mr. Jeff than his first. Each morning on the commute across town, he shares a quick phone call with his daughter, a third-grade teacher at Palmetto Elementary, before they both step into their classrooms. It’s a daily reminder that service, protection, and love for students truly run in the family. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #GoodNewsGuardians