The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Supporting Students with Disabilities: IEPs & Inclusion
Watch now: https://youtu.be/YtwkbtCOrmQ
Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with members of the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) team to discuss how our schools are evolving to better support students with disabilities.
The conversation dives into Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and an emphasizes the importance of collaboration between teachers, parents, and support staff, underscoring that student success is truly a team effort. They also explore how inclusion has transformed over the years. Once taught in separate classrooms, over 82% of students with disabilities now learn alongside their peers in general education settings. This shift toward the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) has created classrooms that foster acceptance, confidence, and growth for every student. Through inspiring examples and heartfelt stories, this episode reminds us that when we focus on ability—not limitation—everyone benefits.
Be sure to tune in weekly as we highlight the programs, people, and partnerships shaping education in Putnam County.
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Join us in person or tune in LIVE via YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/F73jNUnLyn0
Find meeting agendas and upcoming dates here: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/school-board
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All planned Homecoming events for Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School will continue as scheduled.
This incident underscores the importance of “See Something, Say Something.” Because a student spoke up, staff were able to act swiftly to ensure everyone’s safety. PCSD encourages families and students to use the FortifyFL app — a free and anonymous way to report unsafe situations directly to school officials and law enforcement. Learn more at www.getfortifyfl.com
We appreciate the continued support of our families, staff, and community as we work together to maintain a safe and positive environment for all students.
🌎 Taste the World at PCSD! 🍽️ Our Food & Nutrition Services team celebrated National School Lunch Week with a “Taste the World” menu — featuring delicious dishes inspired by cultures across the globe! 🌍 Each meal was prepared with care to keep students healthy, happy, and ready to learn.
Thank you to our amazing cafeteria teams for making every lunch a moment to celebrate! 💚💙
Read more about "Taste the World" and additional pictures here: https://www.putnamschools.org/article/2492126
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Experiences like this are invaluable for Putnam County students, providing guidance on the college admissions process and exposing them to the possibilities that lie beyond high school. PCSD is grateful to Goodwill Industries of North Florida and Take Stock in Children for their dedication to creating pathways to higher education and for helping our students envision a bright future.
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Palatka High School’s Theatre Department is thrilled to present the area premiere of Disney’s Broadway musical, Frozen!
This full-scale Broadway production runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes with an intermission, and is fun for both adults and children! Performances run December 4 through December 7 at C.L. Overturf District Center Jim Pignato Auditorium
🎟 Tickets on sale TODAY!
$15 in advance at Ralph’s House of Flowers (Cash or Check only – NO credit/debit)
$20 at the door
Don’t miss your chance to see this enchanting Broadway musical right here in our community! ❄️💙
Watch now: https://youtu.be/W0-NlsF8ja8
Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this episode, Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with Justin Campbell, Priscilla Perry, and Donna Ramirez, organizers of the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, to explore how the event builds cultural understanding through traditional dress, dance, food, and personal storytelling.
Under this year’s theme, “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past and Inspiring the Future,” they highlight unity, resilience, and the ongoing contributions of Hispanic and Latin American communities. Hispanic Heritage Month runs September 15 – October 15 and honors the rich history, culture, and achievements that continue to shape our shared tomorrow.
Be sure to tune in weekly as we spotlight the people, programs, and opportunities strengthening education and community in Putnam County.
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Thank you to our families, students, and staff for making FTE Week a success. Because of your commitment to showing up, our schools are better positioned to receive the resources needed to support every student. 💙
Let’s keep this momentum going—attendance isn’t just important this week, it matters all year long! Every day counts toward student success.
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October 13, 2025 – Monday, Planning Day ~ Student Holiday
October 14, 2025 - Tuesday, District In-Service ~ Student Holiday
We will see all our student again on Wednesday, October 15th!
📌 View & download the academic calendar: https://www.putnamschools.org/.../academic-calendar/469403
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Mrs. Higginbotham’s dedication to her students, staff, and community shines through in everything she does. Her leadership and Lion Pride inspire excellence and belonging across her school every day.
Thank you for your commitment to shaping the future of PCSD! 🦁💙💚
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Her leadership, compassion, and commitment to excellence help drive Crescent City’s #ALLIN culture every day. Mrs. Taylor goes above and beyond to support students and staff, making a lasting impact on her school and community.
We are so proud to have her representing PCSD! 💙💚
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We want to commend the students who came forward and the quick response of MBES staff. This swift action demonstrates the importance of “See Something, Say Something.”
The School District has zero tolerance for weapons on campus. We also encourage families and students to use the FortifyFL app, a free and anonymous way to report unsafe situations directly to law enforcement and school officials. Learn more at www.getfortifyfl.com
Working together, we can keep our schools safe.
The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Preparing Future Healthcare Leaders: The Allied Health Program
Watch Now: https://youtu.be/9ces-7W2CTY
Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the Allied Health Program one PCSD’s Career and Technical Education pathways. Guests, Toni Strickland & Sabrina Wilkinson from Palatka Jr. Sr. High School and Jessica Mills from Interlachen Jr. Sr. High School, share how students are prepared for both administrative and clinical roles in healthcare—gaining medical assisting skills and hands-on experience in local clinics.
They discuss the challenges and successes of placing students in real-world medical settings, the importance of qualities like empathy, communication, and patience, and how schools are building partnerships with local healthcare providers to strengthen the community workforce. Students are being introduced to these opportunities early, sparking interest in future careers and inspiring the next generation of medical professionals. This conversation highlights not just the training, but the passion behind helping students find their path in healthcare while supporting Putnam County’s medical system.
Be sure to follow The Pulse Podcast each week as we share stories that highlight the people, programs, and possibilities shaping the future of Putnam County.
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"I accept this honor on behalf of the incredible work our teachers, administrators, and support staff do every day to help shape the future for our students," Surrency humbly shared. "I’m grateful to my fellow educators from around the nation who nominated and selected me for this prestigious honor."
Under his leadership, PCSD continues to grow, innovate, and provide outstanding opportunities for every student. We’re proud to have such a dedicated leader guiding our district! 💚💙
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School Board Meeting – 10/07/2025 at 3:30PM
Join us in person or tune in LIVE via YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/cv9o_QtFwPQ
Find meeting agendas and upcoming dates here: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/school-board
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Let’s start strong—make sure your student is in school all week long! Together, we can give our kids the best.
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Teacher of the Year: Lorena Dominey, Federal Program Department – STEM Resource Teacher
"Lorena works tirelessly supporting STEM initiatives throughout our schools. She provides professional learning and curriculum support to our STEM teachers as well as collaborating with our CTE Department to support our aerospace and computer science programs. Lorena brings high energy and enthusiasm to all she does ensuring our students are prepared for the STEM careers of the future!"
Support Related Employee of the Year: Neftali Rivera, IT Department – Assistant Computer Technician
"Nef provides IT support to our staff regularly. No matter the task, we can depend on Nef to assist quickly and professionally. But most importantly, he always shows up with a smile and kind word! CLO is blessed to have Nef on our team."
Congratulations, Nef and Lorena🎉
We want to commend the student who came forward and the quick response of BPES staff. This swift action demonstrates the importance of “See Something, Say Something.”
The School District has zero tolerance for weapons on campus. We also encourage families and students to use the FortifyFL app, a free and anonymous way to report unsafe situations directly to law enforcement and school officials. Learn more at www.getfortifyfl.com
Working together, we can keep our schools safe.
