Southeast High
Home of the Seminoles
Let’s celebrate 22 outstanding Manatee County public high school students who are making a difference through service and leadership! Many of them joined their families at Tuesday’s School Board meeting to be recognized.
The Florida Department of Education, in partnership with the Florida Lottery, launched the Student Service Challenge to inspire student leadership, civic responsibility, and community engagement.
We’re proud that the School District of Manatee County, in partnership with the Manatee Education Foundation, was selected as one of only 20 school districts statewide to participate!
From September 7 to October 5, these dedicated teens each completed 20+ hours of volunteer service and wrote an essay reflecting on their experience. As a reward for their commitment, each student received a $500 scholarship!
Congratulations to:
Josilah S., Braden River High
Denise S., Bayshore High
Genesis R., Bayshore High
Kayla G., Lakewood Ranch High
Faith F., Lakewood Ranch High
Lily P., Lakewood Ranch High
Molly F., Lakewood Ranch High
Lexi S., Lakewood Ranch High
Merritt S., Lakewood Ranch High
Zoe C., Lakewood Ranch High
Leah D., Lakewood Ranch High
Yadira K., Manatee High
Elliot C., Manatee High
Leonard H., Manatee High
Rayna H., MSA
Mason E., Palmetto High
Jermar P., Palmetto High
Nora E., Parrish Community High
Conor K., Parrish Community High
Chloe K., Southeast High
Dulce C., Southeast High
Nohemi T., Southeast High
A special thank-you to the community partners, including Soar in 4 and Manatee County Government, who helped make these meaningful service opportunities possible.
Together, we’re empowering students to lead, serve, and create lasting positive change.
Congratulations to our student leaders and thank you to everyone helping build a stronger Manatee County!
When your budget gets the thumbs-up! Big Bank Theory is kicking off its 2026-2027 season.
Students are putting their budgeting skills to the test as they make real-life choices about housing, transportation, food, insurance and more. It’s an interactive way to turn financial literacy into a real-life learning experience.
Want to learn more and join the Manatee Chamber of Commerce as a volunteer? Visit https://www.manateechamber.com/BigBank/
The School District of Manatee County is joining our community partners, CareerSource Suncoast and RI5E, to host a High School Student Job Fair to inspire, equip, and launch the next generation into successful careers and leadership opportunities.
Students, ages 14 and older, are invited to join their families at Manatee Technical College - Main Campus, located at 6305 State Road 70 East from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
About RI5E: Founded by Adrian McPherson, a Manatee County native and Southeast High School graduate, RI5E empowers youth and young adults through leadership development, academic support, financial literacy, workforce preparation, mentorship, athletics, and exposure to educational and career opportunities.
Register today: https://form.jotform.com/CareerSource/the-launchpad-student-registration
2026 FAFSA Workshops kickoff on Tuesday, October 6!
The FAFSA—or Free Application for Federal Student Aid—is an official form that students use to apply for financial help to pay for college or career school.
If you do not fill out the FAFSA, you are losing access to all federal, state, and many institutional financial aid programs for college.
All high school seniors are invited to learn how to earn money for college or technical school regardless of income.
The following in-person events take place from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 6: Lakewood Ranch High School
Thursday, October 8: Parrish Community High School
Thursday, October 22: Braden River High School
Tuesday, October 27: Manatee High School
Thursday, October 29: Southeast High School
Tuesday, November 3: Palmetto High School
Thursday, November 12: Bayshore High School
Two additional events are being held at public charter schools on October 13 & 15.
Seniors should contact their college and career advisor with questions.
The FAFSA—or Free Application for Federal Student Aid—is an official form that students use to apply for financial help to pay for college or career school.
If you do not fill out the FAFSA, you are losing access to all federal, state, and many institutional financial aid programs for college.
All high school seniors are invited to learn how to earn money for college or technical school regardless of income.
The following in-person events take place from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 6: Lakewood Ranch High School
Thursday, October 8: Parrish Community High School
Thursday, October 22: Braden River High School
Tuesday, October 27: Manatee High School
Thursday, October 29: Southeast High School
Tuesday, November 3: Palmetto High School
Thursday, November 12: Bayshore High School
Two additional events are being held at public charter schools on October 13 & 15.
Seniors should contact their college and career advisor with questions.
Manatee County Government and the School District of Manatee County are excited to announce Model Manatee, a multi-week program designed to educate high school juniors and seniors on how County government works, how it impacts them, and how to engage in the decision-making process.
During this program, students will hear from County Commissioners, staff, and other elected officials who are involved in the day-to-day operations of county government. The program will culminate in a mock commission session, where students will simulate the roles of county commissioners and other elected officials, discussing and voting on matters they find most important.
Students may apply at mymanatee.org/modelmanatee. Interested students must be able to provide their own transportation. All sessions will take place during the work week, with minimal interruptions to the school day. If a student is interested in applying, please review the full application packet for all relevant information, including release forms, program schedule, and more.
During this program, students will hear from County Commissioners, staff, and other elected officials who are involved in the day-to-day operations of county government. The program will culminate in a mock commission session, where students will simulate the roles of county commissioners and other elected officials, discussing and voting on matters they find most important.
Students may apply at mymanatee.org/modelmanatee. Interested students must be able to provide their own transportation. All sessions will take place during the work week, with minimal interruptions to the school day. If a student is interested in applying, please review the full application packet for all relevant information, including release forms, program schedule, and more.
Congratulations to Veterans Elementary School Principal Laura Campbell, Southeast High School Asst. Principal Craig Page, and Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction Tiffany Spradling on completing the Florida Department of Education Chancellor’s Leadership Academy!
This year-long leadership journey provided powerful opportunities to learn alongside state leaders, visit schools in nearby counties, and bring back valuable strategies to strengthen teaching and learning in Manatee County classrooms. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
This year-long leadership journey provided powerful opportunities to learn alongside state leaders, visit schools in nearby counties, and bring back valuable strategies to strengthen teaching and learning in Manatee County classrooms. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
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.
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
Dear Teachers, Here's a special message from Dr. Laurie Breslin regarding Teacher Appreciation Week.
https://vimeo.com/1184919879/fdb68f2a7f
#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
From one Golden Herald winner to another 🎭 1980 Golden Herald winner Terri Rohde proudly celebrates 2026 honoree Alecia Duerr, a graduating senior she’s had the joy of supporting as Southeast High School Media Specialist and Noles Read sponsor. 💫 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
A huge congratulations to our students who excelled at this year’s Florida TSA State Conference!
Manatee County traditional public high school results (by the numbers):
• Our students placed Top 10 in 37 of 39 categories
• Earned 10 State Championship titles
Special recognition to Braden River High School, named Florida TSA State Champions for the 14th year in a row!
Additional overall finishes:
• 9th place: Southeast High School
• 10th place: Lakewood Ranch High School
From coding and engineering to video production and robotics, our students showcased incredible innovation, skill, and determination.
Thank you to our TSA advisors, co-advisors, and volunteers who support these students every step of the way.
Manatee County traditional public high school results (by the numbers):
• Our students placed Top 10 in 37 of 39 categories
• Earned 10 State Championship titles
Special recognition to Braden River High School, named Florida TSA State Champions for the 14th year in a row!
Additional overall finishes:
• 9th place: Southeast High School
• 10th place: Lakewood Ranch High School
From coding and engineering to video production and robotics, our students showcased incredible innovation, skill, and determination.
Thank you to our TSA advisors, co-advisors, and volunteers who support these students every step of the way.
The energy was undeniable at Southeast High School this week!
AVID students in grades 9th through 11th heard from Andres Lara, also known as The Cuban Guy, whose powerful message centered on one key truth—success comes from hard work and relentless effort.
As he continued visiting schools across Manatee County, students were reminded to stay focused, stay driven, and never lose sight of their goals.
✨ Put in the work. See the results. ✨ #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
On Wednesday, students in the NSTEM program at Southeast High presented their hydroponics research, showcasing the innovative learning happening in our classrooms.
Using a hydroponics system that is one of only five in the country, students grew lettuce while testing different chemical variables to study how they impact plant growth. Representatives from the National STEM Honor Society National Office and EdRack manufacturers joined virtually to hear the students’ findings and answer questions.
Hands-on opportunities like this allow students to explore new passions, think critically, and take ownership of their learning.
Thanks to Brittany Devlin, M.Ed. for guiding these talented students. The future of STEM is growing right here in Manatee County! 🌱🔬 #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Last week, Southeast High School celebrated Signing Day as student-athletes officially took the next step in their academic and athletic journeys. From the court to the gridiron, their hard work, discipline, and determination have paid off!
🏐 Volleyball
• Jaeda Dean — State College of Florida
• Layla Holmbeck — State College of Florida
• Annabelle Kemper — Hollins University
🏈 Football
• Jayden Fields — Webber International University
• Liam Fernandez — SUNY Maritime College
• LaDavion Johnson — Clarke University
• Myreon Lowe — William Penn University
• Caleb Steele — William Penn University
We couldn’t be prouder of these Seminoles as they sign on to become future collegiate athletes and leaders beyond Southeast.
Once a Seminole, always a Seminole!
🏐 Volleyball
• Jaeda Dean — State College of Florida
• Layla Holmbeck — State College of Florida
• Annabelle Kemper — Hollins University
🏈 Football
• Jayden Fields — Webber International University
• Liam Fernandez — SUNY Maritime College
• LaDavion Johnson — Clarke University
• Myreon Lowe — William Penn University
• Caleb Steele — William Penn University
We couldn’t be prouder of these Seminoles as they sign on to become future collegiate athletes and leaders beyond Southeast.
Once a Seminole, always a Seminole!
Behind the scenes and into the future!
An incredible group of students recently visited Manatee Schools Television, where they got an inside look at how a team of communications pros shares good news from more than 50 schools.
From touring the TV studio to stepping inside the live truck that broadcasts high school sports, students learned what it takes to build a career behind the camera and become powerful storytellers.
These experiences are part of a partnership between the School District of Manatee County’s ESE Department, the Manatee Education Foundation, and The Able Trust, giving students hands-on exposure to college and career opportunities right here in our community.
From Manatee Technical College to upcoming visits at LECOM Park and the State College of Florida, the journey is all about building confidence, discovering interests, and envisioning future success.
Huge thanks to our community partners for helping inspire and empower our students every step of the way!
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
Behind the scenes and into the future! An incredible group of students recently visited Manatee Schools Television, where they got an inside look at how a team of communications pros shares good news from more than 50 schools. From touring the TV studio to stepping inside the live truck that broadcasts high school sports, students learned what it takes to build a career behind the camera and become powerful storytellers. These experiences are part of a partnership between the School District of Manatee County’s ESE Department, the Manatee Education Foundation, and The Able Trust, giving students hands-on exposure to college and career opportunities right here in our community. From Manatee Technical College to upcoming visits at LECOM Park and the State College of Florida, the journey is all about building confidence, discovering interests, and envisioning future success. Huge thanks to our community partners for helping inspire and empower our students every step of the way! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews
The Florida Department of Education released the Florida Value Added Model (VAM) Fiscal Transparency Tool, a web-based fiscal transparency tool that identifies public schools and districts with high academic achievement based on the ratio of classroom expenditures to total expenditures. VAM is intended to help taxpayers evaluate the financial efficiency of a school district with other similarly situated school districts. View the VAM for the School District of Manatee County at https://floridavam.org/e/vamPublic.html?w4=54#/entity/262385.
A big NOLES thank you goes out to Cheney Brothers!!! Chef Andrew and TJ, our sales rep, from Cheney Brothers visited Southeast High School Culinary and Agriculture students and presented a meat and seafood demonstration. The students were able to try sushi-grade salmon and beef tenderloin. It was nice seeing the students step out of their comfort zone. Thank you Chef Allen for setting this up!