Putnam County School District - Shaping the Future

City Commissioner Rufus Borom presented a generous $500 donation from the Florida League of Cities to Project Praise, Putnam County School District’s program that serves over 500 students identified as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act. Accepting the donation on behalf of PCSD were Nathan Eddins, Homeless Education Coordinator, and Ashley McCool, Executive Director of Federal Programs. Also pictured and showing their support were Palatka Mayor and Commissioner Robbi Correa, Commissioner Anne Henderson Davis, and Commissioner Will Jones. Though not pictured, Commissioner Justin Campbell is a steadfast supporter of all students across the district and remains a strong advocate for programs like Project Praise. We are deeply grateful to Commissioner Borom and the Florida League of Cities for this meaningful contribution—and to all our city leaders for standing with our students and families. #ProudtobePCSD

🌴 New Teacher Institute (NTI) - End of Year Luau 🌴 The PCSD Mentor Team recently hosted our first annual New Teacher End of the Year Luau — a culminating celebration of a year spent mentoring, encouraging, and recognizing the dedication of our amazing first-year teachers. We shared a joyful afternoon filled with great food, fellowship, music, dancing, and games — including limbo (built by one of our talented new CTE teachers!), a cornhole tournament, and a hula hoop contest. We were honored to have members of our district executive team join in the fun, showing their support and sharing in the camaraderie with our new educators. To close out the event, our mentor team gave a heartfelt (and fun!) farewell by serenading our new teachers with Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up,” the unofficial theme song of this year’s NTI gatherings. A very special "THANK YOU!" to our generous sponsors who helped make this celebration possible: New York Life Burney Cattle Company Aqua & Outdoors of North East Florida, Inc. McClellan Construction Parrish and Son Electric Wishams Electric Douglas Law Firm Doane Transport, LLC 📸 Check out more photos from the luau: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-0aT2eAVVy4AEpk1GaQjQ-j2nNO4oVwN?usp=drive_link #ProudtobePCSD

Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with Colonel Daniel Lewandowski (AKA Colonel Ski), aerospace instructor at Q.I. Roberts Jr.-Sr. High School and adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, along with two current aerospace students, to discuss the exciting growth of the PCSD Aerospace Program on this week’s episode of The Pulse. Together, they share how the program began at Q.I. Roberts in 2018 and has grown to be offered in all PCSD Jr.-Sr. High Schools. They dive into the expanded college-level courses, specialized teacher training, and unique flight lessons—offering 15–20 hours of flight time to 22 students this year alone. The students share firsthand their experiences and the impact the program has on their futures. This innovative initiative is part of the statewide Space Florida Academy Program, designed to equip students with high-demand skills in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and more. Be sure to tune in weekly as we engage employees, students, and community members in topics surrounding education in Putnam County. 🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse 📺 Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEDp6I8lULg&list=PL-iIUMW7EW25zKU3kJS9ltKBpUHPAVpsv&index=1 #ProudtobePCSD

🎉 Congratulations to the 2025 Product of Putnam Honorees! 🎉 This morning, we proudly celebrated some of our most distinguished alumni at the Product of Putnam Awards Breakfast, sponsored by Georgia-Pacific. 🏆 Agriculture: Heather Deloach Pogue 🏆 Business: Jini McCool Robbins 🏆 Community Service: Yvette Jones 🏆 Education: Ron Whitehurst 🏆 Healthcare: Kayla McClain 🏆 Industrial Manufacturing: Jeffrey Cahan 🏆 Public Service: Charles Overturf III These incredible individuals exemplify the spirit and success of the Putnam County School District. 💙💚 Full article, video, and photos from the event can be found here: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/product-of-putnam #ProudtobePCSD

We are SO proud of Mellon Learning Center's Principal, Tracy Taylor! She was honored today at the Florida TaxWatch Principal Leadership Awards ceremony for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and positive impact on students and staff. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved recognition! Read more about her achievement here: https://www.putnamschools.org/o/pcsd/article/2048434 #ProudtobePCSD

Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with Logen Cheatham: A Rising Star on this week’s episode of The Pulse. Logen is a true triple threat—gifted in dance, singing, and acting—whose journey inspires us all. A 2018 graduate of Palatka High School, Logen earned a full-ride scholarship to the Florida School of the Arts, where her passion for theater blossomed. She was later accepted into Syracuse University’s elite theater program, one of only 24 chosen from over 2,000 applicants. When COVID disrupted her plans, Logen made the brave decision to forgo Syracuse rather than take on debt for online classes. Instead, she pivoted to education, working as a paraprofessional at Browning Pearce Elementary while continuing to chase her artistic dreams. Her dedication paid off when a simple audition tape for a Hallmark Christmas movie led to a callback, a trip to Los Angeles, and a role in a film set for release in 2025. Alongside teaching, Logen has been an instructor at DanceWorkz Studio for five years and currently performs with the Alhambra Theater. Logen’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and pivoting—a shining example of following your dreams no matter the obstacles. Be sure to tune in weekly as we engage employees, students, and community members in stories and topics surrounding education in Putnam County. 🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse 📺 Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3g9dTzQBsM #ProudtobePCSD

Last night, Georgia-Pacific sponsored the Johnny Theobold All-County Softball and Baseball Banquet, where 32 students were honored as the top players from across Putnam County. These athletes were recognized for their exceptional performance during this season. The selection of these teams was made by the high school coaches, based on factors such as player statistics, performance in key games, and overall contributions to their teams. The girls’ softball honorees included: Zophia Clark, Brooklyn Davis, Haleigh Faulkner, Hannah Faulkner, Caylee Goff, Charla Griffin, Skylar Hall, Emma Hansford, Allie Peacock, Lexi Peacock, Ashlynn Poole, Baileigh Riddley, Whitney Seebacher, Lilyann Smith, Cali Taylor, and McKenzie Zurn. The boys’ baseball honorees included: Tanner Akers, Layne Bagnall, Giancarlo Baylon, Rodney Blackwelder, Preston Fields, Miles Hoffman, Brayden Johns, Mason Malloy, Holden Moore, Luke Oberman, Andrew Roosa Jr., Ryan Surrency, Paxton Sweat, Cason Thomas, Cason Turner, and Devon Williams. A special congratulations to Haleigh Faulkner of Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School and Devon Williams of Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School, who were named this year's Most Valuable Players. We extend our gratitude to all the coaches throughout the county for their dedication and commitment this season. Thank you, Georgia-Pacific, for sponsoring this event and celebrating the athletic achievements of our students. #ProudtobePCSD

School Board Meeting 05/13/2025 at 3:30PM. Join us in person or tune in LIVE via Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/live/KtVLT_2HJqg #ProudtobePCSD

Introducing Resilient Roots – A Family Therapy Group Hosted by the Mental Wellness Department Starting May 27th | 6:00–8:00 PM This group is designed to strengthen family bonds, improve communication, and build emotional resilience—together. If your child is a student in the Putnam County School District from the age of 12-17 and your family could benefit from group therapy, we invite you to join us. This program is offered at NO COST to you and is a 5 week commitment. The group will meet every Tuesday evening and food will be provided! Spaces are limited—call 386-312-2286 to sign up today!

🚨 FREE STEM SUMMER CAMPS! 🚨 Putnam County students—don’t miss out on exciting opportunities to learn, explore, and build this summer! ✅ No cost to attend ✅ Breakfast & lunch provided ✅ Open to PCSD and PVS students *Rising 6th–8th Graders* Goldberg Gator Engineering Explorers (GGEE) 📅 June 16–18 🕗 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM 📍 Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School 🔗 Register Here: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6mK9O7wWr0RY9Wm *Rising 5th Graders* 5th Grade STEM Camp 📅 June 23–26 🕘 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM 📍 Moseley Elementary School 🔗 Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2Q8xTVUzMYeJW0OHMfcU36tWQ8dKdIGBkfjT5AMhElh140Q/viewform *Rising 7th–12th Graders* Putnam Society of Future Engineers & Scientists 📅 June 25, 26, 30 & July 1, 2, 3 🕘 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM 📍 Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School 🔗 Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZG1Bmx58D5ymkvHgg5Rv-37Fq22DzXW9d_0GNbH3ivD_z8Q/viewform *Rising 9th–12th Graders* Rural Scholars SMART Farm 📅 June 30 – July 3 🕗 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM 📍 Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School 🔗 Register Here: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6mK9O7wWr0RY9Wm Please contact Lorena Dominey (Ldominey@my.putnamschools.org) with any questions.

Girls Scouts would like to invite you to a fun and inspiring afternoon filled with hands-on activities, creativity, and new friendships! Open to all girls in grades K–12 and their caregivers, this special event will include: -Make your own airplane -Explore exciting STEM activities -Design friendship bracelets -Create your own "sit-upon" craft Saturday, June 7, 2025 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM ET Jenkins Community Center – Multi-Purpose Room 1900 Napoleon Street, Palatka Come see what Girl Scouts is all about—adventure and connection await!

The Pulse: PCSD Podcast Superintendent Rick Surrency sits down and discusses Work Based Learning, which allows students to gain hands on experience in a career field of their interest, on this week's episode of The Pulse. Be sure to tune in weekly as we engage employees, students, and community members in topics surrounding education in Putnam County. Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse Watch here: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qUNBL-W7PPo #ProudtobePCSD

We are thrilled to share that Renee Hough, Director of Career and Technical Education for Putnam County School District, has been honored as a 2025 Workforce Education Innovator at the FCAN Talent Strong Florida Summit in Orlando! This prestigious award celebrates Renee’s tireless commitment to creating opportunities that prepare our students for real-world success. Under her leadership, PCSD continues to align career and technical programs with the evolving needs of our local workforce—empowering students and strengthening our community in the process. Congratulations, Renee! We are #ProudtobePCSD and proud of YOU!

📚 National Teacher Appreciation Day | May 6 ✨ Today, we honor the educators who change lives — not just through lessons, but through love, patience, and purpose. Because of a teacher… 💙 Lives are changed 💚 Futures are shaped 💙 Confidence is built 💚 And dreams take flight. At PCSD, we are proud to celebrate the teachers who make a difference every single day. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom — into hearts, homes, and communities. Thank you for inspiring the future. 🌟 #ProudtobePCSD

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week at PCSD! 🎉 Join us as we celebrate the passionate educators who shape our students' futures every single day. Let’s show our love all week long! 💙 #ProudtobePCSD

📣 Calling all young men ages 11-17 in Putnam, St. Johns, and Flagler Counties! Join the Palm Coast Flagler County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for their annual E.M.B.O.D.I. Conference — Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence. Date: May 10, 2025 Time: 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Location: Pedro Menendez High School, 600 State Road 206 West, St. Augustine, FL 32086 THIS IS A FREE EVENT! This impactful day will focus on: -Culture & Life Skills -College Readiness -Leadership Training -Physical & Mental Health -Self-Esteem -Goal Setting & More! 🔗 Register today: https://form.jotform.com/250778058169065 📧 Questions? Contact Yvette Jones at palmcoastdsteducation@gmail.com

🎓 Congratulations, Class of 2025! ✨ You’ve put in the work, and now it’s your time to shine! From all of us at PCSD — we’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see how you’ll shape the future. Keep reaching high, chasing dreams, and making Putnam proud! 💙 Here’s the 2025 PCSD Graduation Schedule: 📅 May 22 @ 9:30 AM 🎓 Mellon Learning Center 📍 Mellon Learning Center 📅 May 27 @ 8:00 PM 🎓 Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School 📍 Doug Feltner Field at Thompson Baker Stadium 📅 May 29 @ 5:00 PM 🎓 Putnam Virtual School 📍 PCSD Board Room 📅 May 29 @ 7:30 PM 🎓 Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School 📍 Alan Wisnoski Field at Wiltcher Stadium 📅 May 30 @ 8:00 PM 🎓 Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School 📍 Bennett-Cooper Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium 📅 May 31 @ 8:00 PM 🎓 Q.I. Roberts Jr.-Sr. High School 📍 Bennett-Cooper Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium 🎥 All ceremonies will be live streamed and featured on our Graduation 2025 landing page — with details, links, and photos. (https://www.putnamschools.org/o/pcsd/page/graduation-ceremony-information-2025) ☔ If weather moves a ceremony indoors, tickets will be required, and each graduate will receive a set number of tickets. #ProudtobePCSD

Happy National Principal’s Day to all of our incredible PCSD principals! Your leadership, compassion, and tireless dedication shape the heart of our schools and inspire success every day. You lead with purpose, uplift with kindness, and go above and beyond to ensure every student, teacher, and staff member feels supported, valued, and empowered. Thank you for the countless ways you make a difference. Today, we celebrate each of you and the lasting impact you have on our district and community. #ProudtobePCSD

The Pulse: PCSD Podcast Superintendent Rick Surrency sits down with IJSHS's Competitive Cheer team on this weeks episode of The Pulse. Be sure to tune in weekly as we engage employees, students, and community members in topics surrounding education in Putnam County. Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4cFephOzTs #ProudtobePCSD

PCSD School Board Meeting Highlights – April 29, 2025 🏆 The board celebrated several special recognitions: – Tonya Whitehurst honored retiring district employees – ADK Lamp of Learning recipients received awards from ADK Sorority members – THRIVE Scholars were recognized for their achievements 📣 Superintendent Surrency and School Board members shared reflections on: – The Melrose lockdown – PJSHS Baseball’s first district championship in 9 years ⚾ – A successful PCSD Career Fair – This weekend’s Anastasia musical premiere 🎭 – 2025 Product of Putnam honorees – Gratitude to local civic groups recognizing PCSD students Watch the full meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-4BnH-5IyE #ProudtobePCSD