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Opportunity to Earn Volunteer Hours - Stuff the Bus: October 11, 2026

Apply: www.volunteersuncoast.org/stuffthebus

Stuff the Bus brings together volunteers, community partners, and generous shoppers to support The Food Bank of Manatee County. Since 1985, The Food Bank of Manatee, a program of Meals on Wheels PLUS, has been Manatee County’s only local food bank and a trusted source of nutrition for those in need.

Last year, 162 volunteers helped collect more than 69,000 pounds of food and cash equivalents, providing critical support for neighbors facing food insecurity. This year, you can be part of that impact. 100% of donations stay local to support Manatee County families.

Join us Sunday, October 11, at participating Manatee County Publix stores through a community-wide partnership with Meals on Wheels PLUS, the School District of Manatee County, Publix, Mosaic, and United Way Suncoast.

Volunteers will greet shoppers, accept and sort food donations, pack boxes, and load the bus. Two shifts are available per location, and spots first come, first served.

Volunteer Age Requirements:
Children 8-12 are welcome to volunteer but must have a parent/guardian volunteering with them and they must be added as a guest when their parent/guardian registers.
Youth 13-15 can register using their own volunteer account but must have a parent/guardian volunteering with them.
Teens 16+ can register using their own volunteer account and can volunteer independently.

All volunteers must register in advance to participate.
3 days ago, School District of Manatee County
Flyer advertising volunteer opportunity for Stuff the Bus event on October 11, 2026
Volunteers hold a banner in front of a school bus promoting a food drive
High school juniors... ready to see where your leadership can take you? Don’t just be a part of Manatee County’s future - help lead it!

Junior Leadership Manatee offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, businesses, government, and organizations shaping our community - while helping 11th graders build leadership skills, make connections, and explore your future.

Apply for Junior Leadership Manatee at juniorleadershipmanatee.org

Deadline: Monday, August 31st.
3 days ago, School District of Manatee County
A flyer for Junior Leadership Manatee. Applications due August 31st on www.juniorleadershipmanatee.org
Students gathered in front of a hospital sign reading 'Manatee Health'.
All Manatee County high school students and their families are invited to attend the annual Post-Secondary Education Night on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Manatee Technical College - Main campus (6305 State Road 70 East, Bradenton).

Join us to meet with admissions representatives from colleges, universities and technical colleges, as well as representatives from military branches.

Learn more about college applications, admissions, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
5 days ago, School District of Manatee County
A flyer with details of a Post-Secondary Education Night for families interested in learning more about college. Tuesday, September 8th from 5:30-7 p.m. at Manatee Technical College.
High school seniors and families, do you have questions about FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)? It's the form used to apply for financial aid for college or career and technical school.

Join us for a free FAFSA Informational Workshop on Thursday, August 20th from 6-8 p.m. at Manatee Technical College - Main Campus, located at 6305 State Road 70 East in Manatee County.

This event will answer any questions you have regarding upcoming FAFSA workshops and need-to-know information about filling out the application beginning October 2026.
11 days ago, School District of Manatee County
An informational flyer promoting a FAFSA workshop.
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.
11 days ago, School District of Manatee County
A graphic that reads, "Model Manatee Program - Apply Now www.mymanatee.org" with an American flag
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
3 months ago, School District of Manatee County
Three smiling adults standing in front of a backdrop with logos for the Florida Department of Education
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
3 months ago, School District of Manatee County
A graphic that reads, "Happy Graduation. Discover Excellence. Follow Your Pathway. Success Starts Here."
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.
3 months ago, School District of Manatee County
Glow in the dark sloths
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
4 months ago, School District of Manatee County
A flyer celebrating a scholarship recipient.
A flyer celebrating a scholarship recipient.

Dear Teachers, Here's a special message from Dr. Laurie Breslin regarding Teacher Appreciation Week.
https://vimeo.com/1184919879/fdb68f2a7f
#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

4 months ago, School District of Manatee County
A school district leader wearing a red blouse smiling in front of a chalkboard graphic which reads, "Thank you, Teachers".
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
4 months ago, School District of Manatee County
superintendent smiles, while standing near a table of seated students speaking
A student speaking while standing up to a room full of high school peers
The superintendent of schools looks on as a student standing, speaks to her seated peers
part of a group of high school superintendent advisory members
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
4 months ago, School District of Manatee County
A student wearing a Dr. Pepper t-shirt holding a trophy smiles while standing next to a school media specialist wearing a black polo shirt.
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.
4 months ago, School District of Manatee County
Braden River High School students, dressed in TSA uniforms, hold up their trophies with big smiles on their faces.
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
5 months ago, School District of Manatee County
A young woman covers her mouth in astonishment as a man in a suit ask her to jump up higher and draw a line on a sheet of paper taped to the wall

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

5 months ago, School District of Manatee County
Students smiling in a classroom.
Students discussing their research project in front of the class.
Lettuce growing in an EdRack.
Students participating in a research presentation.
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!
6 months ago, School District of Manatee County
High school athletes hold up their jerseys and stand together in celebration of college signing day.
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
7 months ago, Melissa Parker
A student puts his face in the lens of a television camera
A student gives a peace sign in front of a television camera
A high school student maneuvers a television camera
students tour, a television studio and check out the live truck
A portrait of a young man
A portrait of a young woman giving a peace sign
A portrait of a young man in a black sweatshirt
A picture of a young woman with long hair
A portrait of a young man with glasses
A portrait of a young man wearing a SpongeBob T-shirt
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
7 months ago, School District of Manatee County
students tour, a television studio and check out the live truck
A student gives a peace sign in front of a television camera
A student puts his face in the lens of a television camera
A high school student maneuvers a television camera
A portrait of a young man
A portrait of a young woman giving a peace sign
A portrait of a young man with glasses
A portrait of a young man wearing a SpongeBob T-shirt
A portrait of a young man in a black sweatshirt
A picture of a young woman with long hair

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.

7 months ago, School District of Manatee County
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!
7 months ago, School District of Manatee County
A chef doing a cooking demonstration in a culinary classroom at a high school with raw meat on the table