School District of Manatee County

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

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

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

October is National School Principals Month. We recently asked "What makes your school leader special?". Here's what was said about Samoset Elementary's greatest cheerleader: "Samantha Webb is an amazing hands on leader. She greets the students every morning in the cafeteria and reminds them over morning announcements how much they are loved. She still manages to be supportive of the faculty and staff both personally and professionally. She hasn't asked anything of her team that she's not willing to do." We're grateful for you, Mrs. Webb! Thanks for all you do. Stay tuned... more highlights to come this month. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #PrincipalAppreciation #PublicSchoolProud

🎉 Happy Fri-YAY! 🎉 A big shoutout to Monique and her team from Swig for surprising the Sea Breeze Elementary staff with treats today! ✨ They’re celebrating the release of Taylor Swift’s new album (FRIDAY ONLY) with a special drink called The Showstopper — and we love the way they’re showing support for teachers, too. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews 💙 Thank you to all the local businesses who go out of their way to celebrate and encourage our incredible teachers and staff. Interested in partnering with our Good News team? Reach out at goodnews@manateeschools.net

You might not always see them, but you always feel the impact of their work. Our custodians are the quiet force behind every clean classroom and worksite, every polished hallway, and every safe space our students learn and grow in. They don’t just take care of our buildings and school campuses — they take pride in it. And we’re endlessly grateful. Here’s to the custodians who go above and beyond, every single day! We met these hardworking employees during our travels to schools and District worksites this week. For a chance to feature your favorite custodian(s), please tag us or email goodnews@manateeschools.net 🌟#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

We’re proud to share that Lakewood Ranch High School is one of only three FFA chapters in Manatee County to earn national recognition through the prestigious National Chapter Award Program!

This 3-Star distinction, the highest level awarded, is a testament to the dedication, leadership, and passion of the students, advisors, and the entire Mustangs' agriscience program.

As Ms. J, agriscience teacher and FFA advisor, put it best:

“Earning recognition as a 3-Star National FFA Chapter is an incredible achievement. Our FFA chapter is an extension of the agriscience program, where classroom instruction in horticulture and animal science comes to life through leadership, hands-on experiences, and career development. This honor from National FFA validates the countless hours of hard work our students have poured into planning and executing impactful events, and it highlights the strength of agricultural education here at Lakewood Ranch High School.”

Congratulations to the LRHS FFA chapter for continuing to grow leaders, build community, and strengthen agriculture right here in Manatee County! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Congratulations to Joseph Baker, recently recognized by ABC7 as a Chalkboard Champion!

A dedicated educator at Buffalo Creek Middle School, Mr. Baker has been inspiring students for more than 35 years with his creativity, passion, and commitment to education.

On the day he was surprised by attorney Carl Reynolds, Mr. Baker was doing what he does best: making learning fun and memorable. He had his students playing Geo Twist — think Twister, but with a global twist! Students had to use their geography knowledge to move hands and feet to the correct countries on a world map mat.

Join us in celebrating Mr. Baker for his decades of dedication and innovative teaching style that keeps students engaged and excited to learn.

ABC 7's Chalkboard Champion Joseph Baker: https://www.mysuncoast.com/2025/09/29/manatee-county-history-teacher-mr-baker-making-learning-active

A life-size Lite-Brite?! Yes, please! Today's the perfect day to step into the glow of childhood nostalgia and let your little ones light up their imaginations at The Soar Lab!

Hands-on learning, creative play, and early childhood fun—all FREE for qualifying families.

📍 The Soar Lab at Harllee Center
📅 Open this week:
✔️ Tuesday, Sept. 30 | 3–7 PM
✔️ Thursday, Oct. 2 | 3–7 PM
✔️ Saturday, Oct. 4 | 9 AM–1 PM
📍 6413 9th Street East, Bradenton
🔗 soarin4.org/soar-lab

Because learning should be bright, fun, and unforgettable!

Meet Mr. Bazell, Daughtrey Elementary school safety guardian!

A Southeast High graduate, Mr. Bazell is posted just down the road from schools he attended, Bayshore Elementary and Harllee (formerly Middle). He’s a former Bradenton Beach police officer who also served with the district’s Safety & Security team before joining the Dolphins.

His mission goes beyond safety. He makes it a point to learn the name of each student on campus. Every morning, he greets them at the front of the school alongside the principal, and no one heads to class without a fist bump from him.

Thank you, Mr. Bazell, for protecting and uplifting our students! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews