🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/MNkI-IrZTmE
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with Putnam County Commissioners Terry Suggs and Leota Wilkinson for a straightforward conversation about leadership, partnership, and the work being done across Putnam County. They discuss county priorities including infrastructure, public safety, parks, and economic development, and how collaboration between local government and the school district supports families, students, and the community as a whole.
This episode offers insight into how county leadership decisions shape the place our students live, learn, and grow—today and into the future.
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Andrew Walwik from Palatka Jr.–Sr. High School — A standout in our aerospace program, Andrew has already completed his solo flight and is on track to become one of our youngest pilots at just 16 years old!
William Cohen from Interlachen Jr.–Sr. High School — A dedicated JROTC student, William has shown exceptional commitment to service through his many hours of community support and leadership within the program.
These students were nominated by their schools and selected for their commitment to leadership, community service, and excellence. Congratulations to Andrew and William for representing PCSD with pride!
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We also recognize Siya Patel (Q.I. Roberts Jr.-Sr. High School), selected as a Putnam Sunshine State Scholar Finalist, for her exceptional accomplishments and dedication to STEM studies.
These students represent the very best of PCSD, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to both scholars on this well-deserved honor!
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🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/VgwCqgi36nA
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this episode of The Pulse, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency highlights the R.A.I.S.E. Program (Reading Achievement Initiative for Scholastic Excellence) with guests Jen Azula and Kim Baggs.
This high school tutoring initiative pairs trained juniors and seniors with K–3 students to support early literacy in elementary schools. Once grant-funded and now district-supported, R.A.I.S.E. strengthens reading skills for young learners while giving high school students valuable leadership experience and insight into careers in education.
A great example of students supporting students—building confidence, skills, and a stronger foundation for success.
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Interested in becoming a Teen Court attorney, juror, or volunteer? Join us for our Teen Court Kickoff Training! This required training will provide an overview of the program, courtroom roles, and expectations for the program. Dinner will be served so RSVP required!
🗓️ Monday, January 12th, OR Thursday, January 15th, 2026
⏰ 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
📍Putnam County Courthouse 410 St. Johns Avenue Palatka, Florida 32177
Registration is required to attend. Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfhKSbVMUz2DyNGmJ0AOd_Dq9hk8pf9ozCciiK2111lkK8awQ/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawOuf1pleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFVVEw5MnN5aUZZeTBNVlNHc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHqzjPQg3FtbkUoX_lBk1BLvnnDRhie7JhlsHxS7JPRxeWTvoMKI51zxzT9O-_aem_fPdlAkE2bT9bmuzV4EZD1A
For the second year in a row, Shoe Show manager Margaret Chamberlin partnered with PCSD Student Services by hosting an Angel Tree in the store—giving customers the opportunity to purchase shoes or donate toward footwear for local students. With the help of Shoe Show’s loyal customers, local churches, businesses, and community members (plus a little help from Facebook!), the response was overwhelming.
We are so grateful to everyone who stepped up to ensure our students have what they need. This is what community support looks like—and our kids felt the love. 💙💚
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School Board Meeting – 12/16/2025 at 3:30PM at 200 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177
Join us in person or tune in LIVE on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/ce659z4mqcU
Find meeting agendas and upcoming dates here: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/school-board
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Watch now: https://youtu.be/wKrxF8E89uY
Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this week’s episode, Superintendent Rick Surrency sits down with Kirk Collier, Community Liaison for Putnam County’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers. Kirk offers an inside look at this federally funded, highly competitive after-school program that provides students with daily academic support and hands-on enrichment in STEAM, robotics, drones, archery, journalism, entrepreneurship, Girl Scouts, and more.
He also breaks down how the program boosts student achievement, the importance of community partnerships, and how local organizations and volunteers can get involved.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about opportunity, innovation, and the impact of extended learning across PCSD.
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🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/jS2orBhzBcA
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this episode, Dr. Rick Surrency speaks with district leaders Jonathan Hinke and Shelly Raburn about the new Cambridge Global Perspectives pilot now underway at Kelley Smith Elementary and James A. Long Elementary.
This initiative, typically offered at the secondary level, is helping our youngest learners build skills in research, collaboration, and critical thinking. You’ll also hear from students as they share how they’ve explored topics like water conservation, recycling, fair trade, and renewable energy, and even taken action through projects like campus cleanups.
Be sure to tune in weekly as we highlight the programs, people, and partnerships shaping education in Putnam County.
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The Putnam County School District utilizes GovDeals to auction items that are no longer in use by the district — including furniture, vehicles, equipment, and more. Auction listings vary throughout the year, and all online sales remain open for bidding for a minimum of 7 business days.
We encourage the public to regularly check our GovDeals page for current items available for auction: http://bit.ly/47pbSEL
New users will need to create a GovDeals account by following the instructions on the website. Once registered and logged in, users can easily find PCSD’s listings by searching for “Putnam County School District, FL” under the seller filter.
For additional information, please visit our Purchasing Department webpage: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/purchasing
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A huge thank-you to PCSD’s Teaching and Learning Department for making this opportunity possible!
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Students, enjoy your break! Classes will resume Monday, December 1, 2025.
As we gather with family and friends this season, PCSD is grateful for the heart of our district, our students, families, and dedicated staff. 💙💚 Each day, across classrooms, offices, and hallways, our team works alongside families to ensure every student feels valued, inspired, and ready to thrive.
From our PCSD family to yours, we wish you a safe, happy, and restful Thanksgiving!
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The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Supporting Toys for Tots in Putnam County
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/LJrarZsz1rU
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this week’s episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency highlights the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Campaign and the important work happening right here in Putnam County. He is joined by local coordinators Paige Chase Novack and Charles McGuire, who share how this program is expanding, evolving, and relying on community partnerships more than ever before.
This episode is a call to action for our entire community. Together, we can help ensure Putnam County children experience the joy and magic of Christmas. To get involved, find drop-off locations, or learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit: https://hollister-fl.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/local-events.aspx
Tune in, take action, and help brighten a child’s holiday season.
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💙 Our Families — your support and partnership make student success possible.
💚 Our Education Support Professionals — from transportation and food service to paraprofessionals, office staff, maintenance, and more, you keep our schools running with care and excellence.
💙 Our Substitute Educators — your flexibility and commitment ensure learning never stops.
💚 All PCSD Staff — teachers, leaders, and every team member who shows up with dedication, passion, and belief in our students’ potential.
Thank you to our staff, families, and community partners for advocating for public education and supporting the important work happening every day in our schools. Together, we are shaping the future of Putnam County.
Together, we are PCSD. 💙💚
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School Board Meeting – 11/18/2025 at 3:30PM at 200 Reid Street, Palatka, FL 32177
Join us in person or tune in LIVE on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/4yT1_r17mmw
Find meeting agendas and upcoming dates here: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/school-board
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PCSD Annual District Chili Cook-Off!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our annual Chili Cook-Off at the District Office! This tradition brings our team together each year for fellowship, fun, and some incredible chili. 🌶️
A huge thank you to our judges Donna Taylor, Gail Dahlgren and our School Board Chairman, Phil Leary.
And congratulations to this year’s winners:
🥇 1st Place — Bryan Helms
🥈 2nd Place — Shelly Raburn
🥉 3rd Place — Phillip Wilkinson
We’re grateful for the good food and the time spent together. Looking forward to next year!
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📅 Tonight’s the night!
Join Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency for our Community Engagement Session at 6:00 PM — Kelley Smith Elementary School, 141 Kelley Smith School Rd., Palatka.
Come hear the latest district updates and share your thoughts! 💬
Can’t make it in person? Join us on Zoom:
🔹 Meeting ID: 705 941 2533
🔹 Passcode: 1234
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Palatka High School’s Theatre Department is among the first in Florida granted rights to perform the full Broadway version of Disney’s Frozen: The Musical! Hear the story behind this incredible milestone on this week’s episode of The Pulse, featuring Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency and two talented student cast members who share what it means to bring this magical show to life.
Watch: https://youtu.be/TtRR-sklPOM
Listen: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
This full-scale Broadway production runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes with an intermission — and it’s perfect for both adults and children!
📅 Performance Dates: December 4th-7th
🎟 Tickets on Sale Now: $15 in advance at Ralph’s House of Flowers (Cash or Check only – NO credit/debit) or $20 at the door
📍 Location: C.L. Overturf District Center Jim Pignato Auditorium
Don’t miss your chance to experience this enchanting Broadway musical and celebrate our students’ incredible achievement — right here in our community! 💙❄️
