School District of Manatee County

Patriot Day, observed each year on September 11th, honors the memory of the lives lost and the bravery of the heroes who responded during the 2001 terrorist attacks. One such hero is Pepe Smith, a retired NYPD Youth Officer and current School Safety Guardian at Buffalo Creek Middle School. On that fateful day, he was stationed at a polling site in New York City—schools were closed for Election Day and being used as voting locations. As the tragic events of 9/11 began to unfold, he heard the chilling reports over his unit radio. In the days and months that followed, it was all hands on deck. Mr. Pepe was deployed to secure the area around Trinity Church, located just blocks from Ground Zero, as part of the recovery and response efforts. Today, we are deeply grateful for his service, then and now, and for all who played a role in helping our nation heal after that day. #WeWillNeverForget #PatriotDay #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

In a heartfelt tribute to the heroes who serve and protect our community, Buffalo Creek Middle School hosted their annual event to commemorate the events of September 11th and to honor local first responders and veterans. The reception, led entirely by students, highlighted the power of remembrance, gratitude, and community connection. Mr. Baker's Global Perspectives students paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, and military veterans. The event featured speeches, handmade thank-you cards, goodie bags, and the installation of 2,977 flags near the school marquee, to honor those who lost their lives in the attacks 24 years ago. It's more than just a history lesson. It’s an opportunity for our students to engage with the real heroes of our community and to say thank you in their own words and actions. Students had the unique opportunity to speak directly with first responders and veterans to learn more about their lives, experiences, and careers. Mr. Baker's students unknowingly extended their gratitude beyond Buffalo Creek. We surprised a few school safety guardians, many of whom served in NYC and police departments nationwide, with their heartfelt thank you cards and care packages. These heroes, now protecting our schools in retirement, were truly touched by the unexpected show of appreciation today. Pictured are guardians from Lakewood Ranch and Southeast High Schools. A huge shoutout to our Hawks for leading with kindness and inspiring us all to do the same! 💫

Bradenton Police Chief Josh Cramer joined Mayor Gene Brown and members of the department on Wednesday to officially pin badges on Rogers Garden-Bullock Elementary’s school safety patrols. “May this be the first of many badges you wear in your lifetime,” said Chief Cramer. As their peers watched proudly on, these fifth grade leaders took the pledge to promote safety and lead by example. What made the moment even more special? Many of the leaders doing the pinning once wore those very same badges as students: ⭐ Mayor Gene Brown – Bayshore Elementary ⭐ Assistant Chief Brian Thiers – Stewart Elementary ⭐ Captain Dennis Stahley – Prine Elementary We're proud of these fifth-grade leaders, and all Manatee County safety patrols, who show up every day to keep their classmates safe. Your service matters! 🙌🚸 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

We have EXCITING news to share! Out of more than 37,000 nominations, a handful of teachers nationwide were awarded $5,000 for classroom supplies by iHeartRadio (powered by DonorsChoose) - including one of ours.
Congratulations to the amazing Catherine Burke, fifth grade math and science teacher, from Gene Witt Elementary School 🎉

A parent nominated Mrs. Burke saying: "Catherine is amazing. She is always willing to help anyone and teaches students at their pace to ensure they understand the lesson. She volunteers to tutor students after school who need additional help - free of charge. She also attends the monthly School Advisory Council and PTO meetings to stay involved and provide her opinion from the teacher point of view." #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

BEHIND THE SCENES: Brain meets balance in Geotwist. On Tuesday, these students at Buffalo Creek Middle School showed off their geography skills and flexibility as Mr. Baker, social studies teacher, called out countries in this fun twist on Twister! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Honoring a Legacy with Love and School Supplies 💚💛 Thank you to Frank Maggio and the Skyway Casuals, an Independent Support Group of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, for donating a large supply of school materials to Haile Middle School in memory of their beloved late teacher, Matthew Cox.

Matt was not only the Social Studies Department Chair and Athletic Director, but also a proud Rowdies fan and member of the Skyway Casuals. Their generous donation is a beautiful tribute to his legacy of service, school spirit, and community love. ⚽️ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

✨ A perfect day to celebrate Grandmas and Pop Pops, Nanas and Abuelos! ✨ Palma Sola Elementary School held their annual Grandparents Day luncheon on Monday, bringing families together from Michigan to Lakewood Ranch. This heartwarming tradition is a beautiful opportunity for grandparents to spend quality time with their grandchildren #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

🦖 Things got WILD today at Harllee Center! STEM teacher Tammy Merrell invited The Dino Experience to spread some Jurassic joy for students on campus. New Principal Quantas Simmons braved a photo next to the T-Rex and toddlers from Step Up Suncoast’s early learning program came to play. From digging for fossils to dancing with a dinosaur - what a “rawr-some” way to wrap up the school week while learning. ✨ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Just three minutes from where she graduated high school, Becky Humphrey is inspiring young minds inside a bright and welcoming first grade garden-inspired classroom at Samoset Elementary. A cheerful sign reminds everyone who walks in: “Happiness blooms inside this room.” Her students are thriving… and so is she. “I love to teach them how to read. They keep me young,” said Humphrey, who is one of the longest-serving educators at Samoset. A proud 1994 graduate of Southeast Sehseminoles, where she served on student government and was a member of the color guard, she brings that same school spirit to her classroom every day. Every morning on her way to class, former students greet her with hugs, a testament to the impact she’s made year after year. She is an absolutely heartwarming teacher who brings a spark to her classroom, filling it with joy, encouragement, and a love of learning. She affectionately calls her students her “silly heads,” but everyone knows they’re really smarties. On Thursday, they were tackling math equations, vibing to Jack Hartmann videos, and celebrating each other with high-fives and fist bumps. How lucky are we to have such a dedicated, joyful, and kind teachers shaping the future at Samoset Elementary? #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

At Samoset Elementary, students are greeted each day with fist bumps, hugs, and smiles from someone who truly sees them — Ron Vargas. A Marine veteran and retired Passaic County, NJ detective, Mr. Vargas has found his new calling as a school safety guardian. He’s carrying on the legacy of his friend and late educator Fabian Hankerson, an incredible man who passed away nearly a year ago. Mr. Hankerson once told him: “If you want these kids to respect you, learn their names.” And that’s exactly what he’s done. Mr. Hankerson’s photo still hangs in the front office at Samoset — a daily reminder of the countless lives he touched for decades. Following in that spirit, Mr. Vargas not only knows students’ names, but he remembers their siblings, encourages their smiles, and cheers them on through every milestone. He joins them on field trips, celebrates their graduations, and even hosts an annual pizza party for the safety patrol. As he shared with us recently: “These kids — they’ve opened me up. I love them.” We are so grateful for his service, his heart, and the joy he brings to Samoset each and every day.

The day may have ended with rain, but our visit to Samoset Elementary was filled with sunshine from start to finish. 🌟 The smiles, hard work, and joy of students and staff lit up every classroom and hallway. Here are just a few of our favorite moments — and we can’t wait to keep sharing all the amazing things happening at Samoset! ✨ ❤️ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Congratulations to Samantha Biggs of Lakewood Ranch High School, who has been recognized as a recipient of the 2025 Yale Educator Award. Only 61 educators and 26 counselors were honored worldwide. She was nominated by 2025 graduate, Addison Shea. Read more at www.manateeschools.net/goodnews #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

From the grab-and-go window to the lunch line, the dedicated School District of Manatee County Food and Nutrition Services team at Lakewood Ranch High School is always ready to serve the Mustangs with a smile! Meet Kim Newman and Carol Gorman — two incredible "lunch ladies" with a combined 18 years of service to the School District of Manatee County. Their favorite part of the job? The polite students, the occasional side hug, and the unexpected moments that make it all worthwhile.

Kim, a proud Southeast High alum (Class of 1982), still dreams of the days when milkshakes were on the menu. And while today’s most popular lunch picks include popcorn chicken and orange chicken bowls, it’s the students who leave the most lasting impressions. From being gifted a football jersey by LRHS grad CJ McRae, to a former student offering a discount on an oil change... these everyday heroes are making connections that go beyond the cafeteria.

Thank you, Kim, Carol, and the entire LRHS team, for the care, connection, and consistency you bring to The Ranch each and every day.

Happy Friday & Happy (almost) Labor Day! 🇺🇸 We continue celebrating the dedication of those who never stop serving like Mr. Nixon at Oneco Elementary School.

After more than 25 years with the Sarasota Police Department — investigating everything from burglaries to homicides — Mr. Nixon could’ve easily retired into relaxation. But instead, he answered a different kind of call. “After the tragedy in Parkland, the schools needed people like me,” he said.

And we couldn’t agree more. Thank you, Mr. Nixon, and all our school safety guardians for continuing to protect and serve where it matters most — our future! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

On Wednesday, district leaders were hard at work finalizing proposed rezoning maps. These updated maps will be shared with the School Board and the community in late October.

Thank you to HCA Florida for inviting Parrish Community High School Allied Health students and their teacher, April Thornton, to the ribbon-cutting of the new ER at North River Ranch!

Accompanied by School Board Member Heather Felton and Assistant Principal Paul Champagne, students toured the facility, explored real medical equipment, and got a firsthand look at their future in healthcare.

We’re also incredibly grateful to HCA Florida and the Manatee Education Foundation for awarding PCHS a grant in December 2024 to support this career pathway.

Partnerships like these make a real difference in preparing our students for success beyond high school. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Please join us in congratulating Manatee High School custodian Lucas Dechelbor on his incredible achievement at the Special Olympics swim meet in St. Petersburg last weekend! Lucas brought home the silver medal 🥈, and we couldn’t be more proud! He practiced all summer in the pool at G.T. Bray Park, and told us it was lucky lane #3 that brought the fast magic for him at competition. His hard work, determination, and positive spirit shine both in and out of the pool. Lucas is not only a valued member of the Manatee High community, but also an inspiring example of perseverance and passion. He graduated from MHS in 2017, where he received on-the-job training. Principal Shannon Fleming said he’s one of the most hard working custodians in the Hurricanes’ history! Way to go, Lucas – we’re cheering you on! 🏊‍♀️ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

The School Board of Manatee County has selected Dr. Laurie Breslin to serve as the district’s next superintendent, pending approval of her contract. "Dr. Breslin represents the absolute best of Manatee County. She knows our schools, our families, and our community because she is lived it—as a student, teacher, parent, and leader,” said School Board Chair Chad Choate. “We are confident she will guide us with integrity and continue our tradition of excellence.” Dr. Breslin, a proud graduate of the District, is expected to officially step into the role in early September. “I am proud that our next superintendent is one of our own,” said Vice Chair Cindy Spray. “Dr. Breslin’s story—from student to teacher to district executive—reflects her lifelong dedication to Manatee County and the belief that public education changes lives.” Her appointment is both a professional achievement and a full-circle moment for a leader whose life and career have been deeply rooted in the community she will now guide. "I am deeply honored by the trust the School Board has placed in me, and I am humbled to serve the community that shaped me as both a student and an educator,” said Dr. Breslin. “I am committed to building on our strengths, listening to our families, and ensuring every child has a path to success. This is more than a professional responsibility—it is a personal calling.” Dr. Breslin began her career as a teacher at Southeast High and Manatee High schools, later serving as an assistant principal at both Manatee High and Palmetto High. She went on to serve as Assistant Principal at Booker High in Sarasota before being named Principal of Sarasota Middle School. Under her leadership, the school ranked in the top 10% of state assessments, expanded Career and Technical Education and arts offerings, and achieved continued academic growth despite the challenges of hybrid learning during the pandemic. "As a former teacher and now as a board member, I value Dr. Breslin’s perspective,” said School Board Member Heather Felton. “She has walked in the shoes of our families and educators, and I believe that will help her make thoughtful, student-centered decisions.” Returning to the School District of Manatee County, she rose to key leadership positions including Director of Secondary Curriculum, Executive Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment, and most recently, Executive Director of Student Support & Family Engagement, where she managed a $40 million budget and oversaw critical programs such as Exceptional Student Education, early childhood education, and crisis response. Through her leadership, schools flagged for low performance among English Language Learners and Students with Disabilities saw measurable gains within a single year. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Breslin has remained deeply engaged in the community. She has served as Vice Chair of the Take Stock in Children Board of Directors, mentored local students, and served on the board of Parenting Matters. “Dr. Breslin brings both experience and vision to this role,” said School Board Member Richard Tatem. “Her ability to deliver measurable results while staying connected to the community ensures she will keep our district focused on what matters most: student success.” She is a Leadership Florida Education Class 6 Lifetime Member and has been active in initiatives such as “Soar in 4,” resiliency programs for students, and efforts to strengthen family engagement across the district. She is also co-author of Constructing an Online Professional Learning Network for School Unity and Student Achievement (Corwin Press, 2013). Dr. Breslin holds a doctorate in Teaching and Learning from Argosy University, along with advanced degrees in Curriculum and Instruction with Educational Technology from the University of Florida. "I believe Dr. Breslin will continue to strengthen trust between the district, families, and the broader community while keeping students at the center of every decision,” said School Board Member Charlie Kennedy. As a mother of a current Manatee County student and a lifelong advocate for public education, Dr. Breslin embodies the values of servant leadership and community connection. Her professional path, from classroom teacher to district executive, reflects both her dedication to student success and her belief in the schools. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Today’s #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews Day in the Life at Lakewood Ranch High School began and ended with two familiar faces of safety: School Guardians Tim and Danny. Tim, a retired NYPD detective who also served on the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, and Danny, a retired Bradenton police officer who previously served as the School Resource Officer at both Manatee High and Sugg Middle, now dedicate their expertise to protecting Lakewood Ranch students. Alongside their SRO colleagues from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, these school safety guardians ensure that every student walks onto campus — and heads home — with safety and peace of mind. 💙

Spending the day at Lakewood Ranch High School for a special Day in the Life series — come along with us! ✨ "When life gives you a rainy day, play in the puddles." #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews