Southeast High

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

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.

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

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.

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

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!

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

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!

Congratulations to Isabella, one of our Southeast IB Diploma Program students, on her acceptance to Yale University! This remarkable achievement reflects her dedication, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to excellence. We are so incredible proud of her and excited to see all she will accomplish! #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

We recently had the opportunity to meet Liam F., a senior and QB for Southeast High School. He said Athletic Director Matt Kitchie and the Seminoles coaching staff welcomed him with open arms and led Liam in the right direction. “They’ve given me the tools to succeed and taught me integrity and leadership,” he said. “Coach Kitchie loves the community and is going to impact a lot of student’s lives, including my own.” Liam expressed interest in a future career in marine sciences. He was recently featured by Spectrum Bay News 9, while volunteering at Mixon Farms. You can check out the story by clicking this link: https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2025/11/07/manatee-county-celebrates-the-ownership-of-mixon-fruit-farms-property #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews #DiscoverExcellenceSDMC

The Southeast High School football team built more than just skills on the field this season, they’re building community and confidence!

A brand-new barbershop for players, Legend's Lounge, is operating inside the locker room with alumni barbers lending a hand, the Seminoles are looking sharp and staying united. Congratulations, Coach Bradley and team!

#ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Check out this inspiring story by FOX 13 News - Tampa Bay: https://www.fox13news.com/sports/southeast-high-football-team-builds-barbershop-locker-room-build-team-chemistry

This week, we announced the winner of our first-ever Good News Award of Excellence. We also visited the creators of the award trophy, and the qualifying prototypes, which are now on display in Nicholas Smith's classroom at Southeast High School. The students have moved on to new projects solving real-world problems, but we appreciate their skill and time helping us recognize the Good News happening in our schools. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

The story of our #GoodNewsAwardofExcellence creator 🏆 When the Good News team asked Southeast High School technology teacher Nicholas Smith to help create a trophy for the inaugural Good News Award of Excellence, he didn’t hesitate. Instead, he turned the request into a teaching moment—an opportunity for students in his technology lab to take on a real-world design challenge.

Over the course of two weeks, students brainstormed, designed, and tested prototype trophies. There were highs and lows along the way—some of the early models even melted like spaghetti! But through trial, error, and persistence, the class produced a collection of creative, meaningful designs.

In the end, Miranda Herrera, a senior and President of Southeast’s Technology Student Association (TSA), had her design chosen by her peers to represent the project. She proudly presented the finished trophy to the Good News team in early October.

Several students stood out during the process:
Nicholas L., a senior, used CAD software and 3D modeling to craft his prototype. He plans to join the U.S. Marines after graduation and eventually study mechanical engineering. A motorcycle enthusiast, he dreams of designing engines one day.

Eli O., a senior, created a traditional-style trophy and had fun throughout the design process, which took an impressive seven hours to print.

David M., a junior who loves a challenge, is still exploring his future path but hopes it will involve engineering or marine mechanics.

Will W., also a junior, focused on creating a simple, clean design. He enjoyed the project for the way it expanded his knowledge of 3D printing. When he’s not in the lab, you can find him training with the Seminoles’ weightlifting team.

Aaron V., a junior and aspiring aerospace engineer, was proud of his design and grateful for the chance to sharpen his time management skills through the project.

This collaboration between the Southeast technology lab and the Good News team didn’t just produce a beautiful award—it showcased the creativity, resilience, and bright futures of Southeast’s talented students.

Thank you for sharing your time and talents! Manatee Education Foundation partnered with the District for the Good News Award of Excellence to recognize your incredible designs. #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews

Pssst... Palmetto High School. Southeast High School has a message for you and Principal Monica DeLesline.
Thanks to SETV TV teacher Ricky Bowden and students for delivering this *BREAKING NEWS* from the #ManateeSchoolsGoodNews team! #GoodNewsAwardofExcellence

Video: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Gb4efokjm/