Today at Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School, staff became aware of a notebook that contained a written threat to harm. School administration acted promptly, and the student involved was taken into custody and arrested by law enforcement. Appropriate disciplinary action is being taken in accordance with district policy. The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.
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.
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
#ProudtobePCSD #NSLW25
Goodwill Industries of North Florida and Take Stock in Children of Putnam County recently hosted a college trip for PCSD students, giving them the opportunity to tour Florida State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Students attended admissions information sessions and experienced campus life, including dining in the campus halls.
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.
#ProudtobePCSD
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.
#ProudtobePCSD
❄️✨ Get ready for a magical experience! ✨❄️
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! ❄️💙
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! ❄️💙
The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Celebrating Hispanic Heritage
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.
#ProudtobePCSD
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.
#ProudtobePCSD
🎉 We Did It, PCSD! 🎉
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.
#AttendanceMatters #ProudtobePCSD #EveryDayCounts
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.
#AttendanceMatters #ProudtobePCSD #EveryDayCounts
REMINDER: There will be no school for students on the following days:
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
#ProudtobePCSD
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
#ProudtobePCSD
🎉 Congratulations to Mechele Higginbotham, Principal at James A. Long Elementary School, for being named Putnam County School District’s Principal of the Year!
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! 🦁💙💚
#ProudtobePCSD
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! 🦁💙💚
#ProudtobePCSD
🎉 Congratulations to Belinda Taylor, Assistant Principal at Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School, for being named Putnam County School District’s Assistant Principal of the Year!
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! 💙💚
#ProudtobePCSD
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! 💙💚
#ProudtobePCSD
On 10/08/2025, at Middleton-Burney Elementary, it was reported that a student brought a knife to school and made threatening statements toward other students during recess. School staff acted immediately after learning of the situation, confiscated the knife, and contacted the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. The student involved has been arrested.
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.
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.
#ProudtobePCSD
Congratulations to PCSD Superintendent Rick Surrency for being named RTM Superintendent of the Year!
"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! 💚💙
#ProudtobePCSCD
"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! 💚💙
#ProudtobePCSCD
Help us celebrate Joann Kirkpatrick, our PCSD Administrative Office Nominee for Support-Related Employee of the Year! Joann keeps our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs moving forward with her incredible support, dedication, and passion for helping students prepare for the future. We’re so thankful for all she does to make PCSD shine! 💚💙
#ProudtobePCSD
#ProudtobePCSD
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
#ProudtobePCSD
Tomorrow kicks off FTE Week (Oct 6–10)! Every student matters, every day counts. 💙 When your child is present, our schools get the resources they need for teachers, programs, and support services.
Let’s start strong—make sure your student is in school all week long! Together, we can give our kids the best.
#AttendanceMatters #ProudtobePCSD
Let’s start strong—make sure your student is in school all week long! Together, we can give our kids the best.
#AttendanceMatters #ProudtobePCSD
CL Overturf, Jr. District Center Announces 2025 Staff of the Year!
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🎉
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🎉
Yesterday, at Browning-Pearce Elementary, a student reported a threatening statement made by another student. Staff immediately took action, confiscated a pocket knife, and contacted the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. The threat was deemed credible, and the student was arrested.
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.
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.
🌟 October is National Principals Month! 🌟
In Putnam County, our principals do more than manage schools — they inspire futures. They guide teachers, encourage students, partner with families, and bring communities together so learning can thrive. Their leadership makes a lasting impact on every classroom and every child.
This month, and every month, we celebrate our PCSD principals for leading with heart, vision, and dedication. Thank you for helping us shape tomorrow, today. 💙💚
#ProudtobePCSD
In Putnam County, our principals do more than manage schools — they inspire futures. They guide teachers, encourage students, partner with families, and bring communities together so learning can thrive. Their leadership makes a lasting impact on every classroom and every child.
This month, and every month, we celebrate our PCSD principals for leading with heart, vision, and dedication. Thank you for helping us shape tomorrow, today. 💙💚
#ProudtobePCSD
Today, we celebrate and thank the incredible custodial staff across PCSD. Their hard work keeps our schools clean, safe, and welcoming places for students and staff every single day.
Custodians are often the first to arrive and the last to leave, quietly making sure everything is ready for learning. They are an essential part of the heart of our schools, and we are grateful for their dedication and care. At PCSD, we believe public schools and the people who serve in them are the BEST — and our custodians prove that true every day. 👏
#ProudtobePCSD
Custodians are often the first to arrive and the last to leave, quietly making sure everything is ready for learning. They are an essential part of the heart of our schools, and we are grateful for their dedication and care. At PCSD, we believe public schools and the people who serve in them are the BEST — and our custodians prove that true every day. 👏
#ProudtobePCSD
PCSD administrators met with Everyday Labs (our Attendance partner) to dive into attendance data and support our district-wide push to combat chronic absenteeism. By reviewing last year’s patterns, leaders identified key timeframes where attendance dips and began developing targeted plans to better support families and students.
Our goal is simple but powerful: help every student get to school and stay in school. Together, we’re building a culture of showing up—for learning, for growth, for the future. 📚💙
#AttendanceMatters #ProudtobePCSD
Our goal is simple but powerful: help every student get to school and stay in school. Together, we’re building a culture of showing up—for learning, for growth, for the future. 📚💙
#AttendanceMatters #ProudtobePCSD
