Focused on Excellence: Alice Stinson
Focused on Excellence: Alice Stinson
03/08/2024
Let's sneak in another Focused on Excellence before spring break! Our next winner is: Alice Stinson from South Pointe Elementary!
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Polk County School News Release Logo
School Choice Acceptance Notices Going Out March 18
03/07/2024
If your child is accepted, you will receive an email with further instructions, as well as an alert in Parent Portal. If your application is not accepted, you will see a “waiting” status in Parent Portal.
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Southwest Middle School Ribbon Cutting
PCPS Completes Modernization Project at Southwest Middle
03/05/2024
We gathered in Lakeland yesterday evening to celebrate the completion of Southwest’s rebuilt campus. Southwest was founded in 1956 and PCPS began the modernization project in September 2022, essentially creating a new school. Students have been attending classes in the new facilities since January.
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Student playing and sorting blocks
Applications for 2024-25 Head Start, VPK Now Live
03/04/2024
Applications are available online through polkschoolsfl.com/earlychildhood. Once your application has been submitted, PCPS staff will contact you to complete the process.
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Photo of Focused on Excellence Winner Barbara Ritacco
Focused on Excellence: Barbara Ritacco
03/01/2024
It's Focused on Excellence Friday, join us as we celebrate Barbara Ritacco from Loughman Oaks Elementary!
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Picture of Stephanie Carte Standing in front of a school
PCPS Adds ESE Parent Liaison
02/29/2024
Stephanie Carte recently joined our district as an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) parent liaison. The new position is focused on helping families navigate our school system, and providing resources to improve student achievement.
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3 Students holding signs Love the Bus
PCPS Hiring Bus Drivers, Come Ride With Us!
02/28/2024
PCPS has an immediate need for bus drivers, and our school board just approved a pay increase.
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Student standing with two teachers from Winter Haven High School
WHHS Cambridge Student Earns “Top in Country” Award
02/27/2024
“He has an extreme passion for computer science,” said Nikki Jordan, head of the Cambridge program at WHHS. “He’s an amazing student and a fantastic young man.”
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Education Town Hall Logo
PCPS Announces Town Halls to Discuss School Start Times
02/23/2024
The new law will require school districts, beginning in 2026-27, to start middle school classes after 8 a.m., and high school classes at 8:30 a.m. or later.
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A picture of Sabrina Reel infron of the PCPS Logo
Focused on Excellence: Sabrina Reel
02/23/2024
Sabrina is an administrative secretary with our Early Childhood department, which oversees programs like VPK and Head Start.
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Three Students standing together.
Mission: Transition Info for PCPS Students of All Ages
02/22/2024
Mission: Transition programs are designed to assist students and families as they make the jump from elementary to middle school, and then progress to high school.
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Focused on Excellence: Alex McLuckey
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Bartow IB Winning Award
Bartow High Team Wins High School Academic Tournament
02/15/2024
The Bartow High Team was crowned champions on Tuesday evening, after the final round of the 40th annual tournament hosted at the Bartow Civic Center. IB Bartow finished ahead of All Saints Academy and Harrison School for the Arts.
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Lawton Childs MathCount Team Wins Again
Lawton Chiles Middle Team Wins MathCounts Again
02/15/2024
Congratulations to the winning LCMA students: Johan Bijiyos, the event’s top individual competitor for the second consecutive year; Asher Brickhouse, Liam Maloney and Arya Patel.
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Focused on Excellence: Rachel McDowell
Focused on Excellence: Rachel McDowell
02/09/2024
It's a Focused on Excellence Friday, and our next winner is ... Rachel McDowell, from the PCPS Recruitment and Teacher Engagement team!
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Sunshine State Scholars Graphic Logo
PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2024
02/09/2024
Congratulations to our Sunshine State Scholars for 2024: Sahil Ande from International Baccalaureate Bartow, Jason Bueno Iduyan from Winter Haven High, and Juan Quintero from Frostproof High.
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Gloria Jones Prepares to Say Goodbye
Alturas Elementary’s Gloria Jones Prepares to Say Goodbye
02/08/2024
After an extraordinary 45-year career, Jones is preparing to leave the cafeteria behind. She was once an Alturas student herself and has served multiple generations of children at this “hidden gem” of a school.
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Congratulations to PCPS alum and Grammy Award winner Jonathan Gautier!
PCPS Alum Wins Grammy Award
02/06/2024
Congratulations to PCPS alum and Grammy Award winner Jonathan Gautier!
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Focused on Excellence: Dr. Nikeshia Leatherwood
Focused on Excellence: Dr. Nikeshia Leatherwood
02/02/2024
Happy Friday, let's celebrate our next Focused on Excellence winner: Dr. Nikeshia Leatherwood from Citrus Ridge: A Civics Academy!
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South Pointe Students on a Bus
PCPS Celebrates “Love the Bus” Month
02/02/2024
February is Love the Bus month, an annual, nationwide event that gives us time to focus on the essential service provided by our school bus drivers and transportation staff.
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International Society for Key Women Educators
Twenty PCPS Teachers Named “Rising Stars” for 2023-24
01/29/2024
Twenty new PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma.
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next Focused on Excellence winner: Stephen Klupp from Chain of Lakes Elementary
Focused on Excellence: Stephen Klupp
01/25/2024
next Focused on Excellence winner: Stephen Klupp from Chain of Lakes Elementary
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Abdel Rodriguez is making history
JSA History Teacher Receives Special Commendation
01/24/2024
Rodriguez, who teaches history at Jewett School of the Arts, was visited by members of the Winter Haven chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
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Tamika is a paraeducator at Mulberry Middle next Focused on Excellence winner
Focused on Excellence: Tamika Kelly
01/17/2024
Tamika is a paraeducator at Mulberry Middle next Focused on Excellence winner.
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District News Release Logo
PCPS Volunteers Needed to Review Challenged Books
01/16/2024
Polk County Public Schools is seeking volunteers to serve as book reviewers for school library books that have been challenged and retained at the school level, and appealed to the district level for further review.
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Lakeland Highlands Middle Students Advocate for Touchless Water Fountains
Lakeland Highlands Middle Students Advocate for Touchless Water Fountains
01/12/2024
Superintendent Heid visited Lakeland Highlands Middle to recognize two students, Kiana Imperial and Julie Warren, who are making a splash in our district.
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MLK Essay Challenge
Winners Announced for 23rd Annual MLK Essay Challenge
01/12/2024
Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 23rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!
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Robert J. Fisher
PCPS Remembers Robert J. Fisher
01/11/2024
Fisher taught English, speech and drama at Haines City High, where the auditorium is named in his honor. He also went on to serve as our district’s supervisor of language arts.
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LGHS Teacher
LGHS Teacher Shares Experience as a Foster Parent
01/10/2024
We love this video spotlighting Maria and Levi Hargrove -- Levi is an economics teacher and football and wrestling coach at Lake Gibson High
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Storm Information
PCPS After-School Activities and Sports Canceled Tuesday, Jan. 9
01/08/2024
All PCPS after-school activities and sports are being canceled tomorrow (Tuesday, Jan. 9)
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Polk County School Board Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for January 2024
01/05/2024
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 9. The board will also have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 23, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for January 2024
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District News Release Logo
PCPS School Choice Application Window Opens Monday, Jan. 8
01/03/2024
Polk County Public Schools will begin accepting school choice applications on Monday, Jan. 8, for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.
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District News Release Logo
Polk County Public Schools and AFSCME Union Reach Tentative Agreement
12/15/2023
Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) and the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 2227 union reached a tentative agreement on Dec. 14 for the 2023-2024 salary and benefits package totaling an increase of $4 million.
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Millie Flores
Focused on Excellence: Millie Flores
12/14/2023
Millie is the registrar at Horizons Elementary. She says she always taught her daughters to do their best in life.
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Oscar J. Pope Elementary
Bezos Academy to Open at Oscar J. Pope Elementary in 2025
12/13/2023
Polk County Public Schools has announced that a new tuition-free, full-day preschool will soon be coming to Lakeland.
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Extra Care Getting There Logo
An Important Message to Help Protect Students
12/11/2023
As Polk County grows our roads are busier than ever, putting student pedestrians and cyclists at risk.
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The School Board of Polk County Sign
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for December 2023
12/07/2023
Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 12
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PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Jan. 2-15
PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Jan. 2-15
12/06/2023
Polk County Public Schools will open our library opt-out system from Jan. 2-15, 2024 for the spring semester.
Read More about PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Jan. 2-15
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Focused on Excellence: Autumn Ashley
Focused on Excellence: Autumn Ashley
12/04/2023
Autumn is the administrative secretary for the Facilities and Operations department.
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Deidre Skaggs received the FSCA's School Counselor Advocate
Deidre Skaggs Honored by Florida School Counselor Association
12/01/2023
Deidre Skaggs received the FSCA's School Counselor Advocate: District Leader award, which recognizes individuals who have had "outstanding impact in the school counseling field."
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PCPS Learning Support Symposium on Saturday, Dec. 2
11/27/2023
Department leaders will be sharing information on supports and services available to students from the Behavior & Mental Health, ESE and Student Services departments
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Superintendent Heid Receives Administrator Advocacy Award
11/16/2023
Our own Superintendent Fred Heid has received the Administrator Advocacy Award from the Florida Association for Media in Education (FAME)!
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PCPS Announces Presidential Scholars for 2024
11/15/2023
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our honorees for the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
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Eight PCPS Schools Receive PBIS Awards
11/14/2023
Eight PCPS schools earned Model School status last year from the Florida Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Project!
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PCPS School Choice Application Window is Jan. 8 to Feb. 16
11/13/2023
Polk County Public Schools will soon begin accepting school choice applications for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.
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Kathleen High Dedicates Freshman Academy
10/30/2023
Kathleen High Dedicates Freshman Academy to Johnnie Jackson, Jr.
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Roosevelt Academy Welding Program Commemoration Group Photo
PCPS Commemorates New Welding Program at Roosevelt Academy
10/27/2023
What's the hottest new thing in Polk County Public Schools? Arguably, it's the welding program at Roosevelt Academy.
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PCPS Announces Principals of the Year
PCPS Announces Principals of the Year
10/24/2023
Polk County Public Schools has announced our district’s principals of the year!
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Shelby Montgomery accepting her reward as the Arts Educator of the Year
Shelby Montgomery Named Arts Educator of the Year
10/23/2023
Congratulations to Shelby Montgomery for being named Arts Educator of the Year by the Polk Arts and Cultural Alliance!
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Secretary John Davis speaking at the Bright Futures Event
Ridge Community High Hosts Florida Bright Futures Event
10/19/2023
Ridge Community High did an excellent job today hosting an event to promote Florida's Bright Futures scholarship program.
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News Release Polk County Public Schools
Open Enrollment For PCPS Employee Benefits Starts Oct. 14
10/12/2023
This is an important reminder for employees of Polk County Public Schools about their benefits.
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Scenic Terrace
PCPS Celebrates Scenic Terrace Project
10/11/2023
We hosted an event this morning to commemorate the Scenic Terrace project.
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News Release
Polk County Public Schools and Educators Union Reach Tentative Agreement
10/11/2023
Polk County Public Schools and the Polk Education Association have reached a tentative agreement regarding salaries and benefits for the 2023-24 fiscal year.
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ESOL Parent Academy | October 14, 2023
ESOL Parent Academy
10/09/2023
You are invited to ESOL Parent Academy, a free event honoring Hispanic Heritage Month and organized by the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department.
Read More about ESOL Parent Academy
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College & Career Fairs
10/09/2023
The PCPS College & Career Fair can't be stopped! Originally postponed due to Hurricane Idalia, this year's event has been rescheduled to Thursday, Oct. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Florida Southern College.
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PCPS Conducting Survey for Grant Application
10/09/2023
The Stronger Connections Grant provides school districts with funding to help establish and support safer and healthier learning environments in their communities.
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School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for October 2023
10/06/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10. The board will also have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for October 2023
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PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
10/03/2023
Today was the final stop for the PCPS surprise patrol. Congratulations to the District 6 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School Related Employee of the Year
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PCPS Cuts the Ribbon at South Pointe Elementary
09/29/2023
South Pointe opened in August and is PCPS’ newest elementary school. It measures nearly 127,000 square feet, located near the southernmost point of Winter Haven — which inspired the school’s name.
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Headshot photo of District 3 finalists, TOY - Kelly Larrow and SRE - Angela Love
PCPS Announces District 3 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/27/2023
Guess what day it is! Hump Day. But also, the day we announce the District 3 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Volunteer of the Year Medal
Honoring the PCPS Volunteers of the Year for 2022-23
09/25/2023
The new school year is moving fast, but we are overdue in recognizing our district’s extraordinary volunteers.
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Headshot photo of District 5 finalists, TOY - Kara Holt and SRE - Debra Glisson
PCPS Announces District 5 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/22/2023
Fridays are for finalists! Congratulations to our District 5 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Headshot photo of District 4 finalists, TOY - Elizabeth Ashmore and SRE - Laura Kovachy
PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/19/2023
Lucky number seven! Congratulations to our District 7 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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23rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge Graphic
Annual MLK Essay Challenge Open to Polk Students; Deadline is Nov. 1
09/19/2023
Polk County Public Schools and the Board of County Commissioners are inviting students to participate in the county’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Challenge.
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Headshot photo of District 4 finalists, TOY - Robert Brown and SRE - Richard Reich
PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/18/2023
Let’s hear it for the District 4 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!
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National Merit Scholarship Corp logo
Nine PCPS Students Announced as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
09/15/2023
Nine students from Polk County Public Schools are among this year’s semifinalists for National Merit Scholarships.
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McLaughlin Academy student pose for a group picture as they celebrate the new Duke Energy Academy
McLaughlin Academy Celebrates New Career-Readiness Program
09/13/2023
McLaughlin partnered with Duke Energy to open the Duke Energy Academy this year. The program covers technical knowledge and job-specific skills to help students explore careers in the energy industry.
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Headshot photo of District 2 finalists, TOY - Sherrie Blackwood  and SRE - Alberto L. Cosme
PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/12/2023
The PCPS surprise patrol was back on the road today, as we announced the District 2 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Headshot photo of District 1 finalists, TOY - Christina Wainwright and SRE - Teri Whitehead-Richardson
PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/08/2023
Earlier today, the PCPS surprise patrol visited two schools to announce our District 1 finalists for the 2023-24 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Storm Information
Storm Update: PCPS Schools and Offices to Reopen Friday, Sept. 1
08/30/2023
This is just a quick update on where things stand today. As originally planned, PCPS schools and offices will remain closed today (Wednesday, Aug. 30) and tomorrow (Thursday, Aug. 31). We will resume normal operations on Friday, Sept. 1.
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Storm Information
PCPS Schools and Offices Closed Wednesday and Thursday Due to Storm
08/28/2023
Superintendent Fred Heid is ordering that PCPS schools and district offices will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 30, and Thursday, Aug. 31, in response to Tropical Storm Idalia.
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Storm Information
PCPS Schools Will Be Open Tuesday, After-School Activities Canceled
08/27/2023
At this time there are no changes planned to the PCPS school day schedule for Tuesday, Aug. 29. While we expect to operate on a regular schedule tomorrow, all after-school activities for Tuesday, Aug. 29, are canceled and will be rescheduled as needed.
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Storm Information
PCPS Monitoring Tropical Storm Idalia
08/27/2023
Polk County Public Schools is monitoring the path of Tropical Storm Idalia, which could impact Central Florida this week.
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Textbooks
Volunteers Needed for Review of Science and Social Studies Materials
08/25/2023
Polk County Public Schools is starting the adoption process for new instructional materials for science and social studies during the 2023-24 school year.
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Polk County Teachers
PCPS is Hiring, Come Work With Us!
08/22/2023
Come work with us! PCPS is hosting a series of online and in-person hiring events for teaching positions and other jobs.
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
An Update on A/C Systems in PCPS Schools
08/17/2023
You may have seen recent news coverage about A/C systems in PCPS schools. We’ve compiled some information to update our students, staff and community.
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College & Career Fair
PCPS College and Career Fair on Aug. 29
08/16/2023
Our annual College and Career Fair is coming up on Tuesday, Aug. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Florida Southern College.
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News Release
New State Requirement for Use of Student Names
08/15/2023
On July 19, 2023, the Florida State Board of Education modified Rule 6A-1.0955 Education Records to include a section requiring written parental consent for the use of student names other than their legal names.
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PCPS Student Devices
Insurance Available for PCPS Student Devices
08/09/2023
All PCPS students are issued a device every year as part of our One-to-One Digital Learning Initiative.
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PCPS 2023-24 Back-to-School Guide Now Available
08/04/2023
The Polk County Public Schools 2023-24 back-to-school guide is now available!
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Summer Graduates 2023
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Polk County News Release
PCPS Library Opt-Out System Available Aug. 7-18
07/31/2023
Polk County Public Schools will open our library opt-out system from Aug. 7-18 for the fall semester
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PCP Students
No Cost for PCPS Student Meals for 2023-24
07/26/2023
Inflation is the worst! But thankfully, our student meal prices are staying the same this year: $0.00.
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Melissa Konkol Special Recognition
Gause Academy Teacher Melissa Konkol Named to FBLA Wall of Fame
07/25/2023
Gause Academy’s Melissa Konkol received a special recognition last month during the Future Business Leaders of America’s (FBLA) annual conference in Atlanta.
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Polk County School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for July 2023
07/20/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25, followed by a regular monthly board meeting at 5 p.m.
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Gianna Junqueira National Merit
Davenport High Student Wins National Merit Scholarship
07/11/2023
Davenport High’s Gianna Junqueira has won a National Merit Scholarship.
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Bill Castle Hall of Fame
Lakeland High’s Bill Castle Named to Hall of Fame
07/11/2023
Lakeland High’s Bill Castle is being named to the Florida Athletic Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame.
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Watch out Kindergarten
Tips for New PCPS Families Enrolling for 2023-24
07/10/2023
If you’re new to the area or are enrolling in a PCPS school for the first time this year, here are a few tips to get you started:
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PCPS Students Working on Computer
Scheduled Internet Outage Will Impact PCPS on June 30
06/29/2023
Please be aware that PCPS will experience a scheduled districtwide outage on Friday, June 30, as we work with vendors to improve our internet speed and security. The outage will begin about 9 a.m. and should last most of the day.
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Ray Cruze Roosevelt Academy
Roosevelt Academy’s Ray Cruze Wins Excellence in Teaching Award
06/29/2023
Ray Cruze from Roosevelt Academy has won Florida’s 2023 Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award.
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PCPS News Release
More Magnet School Acceptances Going out June 28
06/27/2023
PCPS is sending out more acceptance notices for families who have pending applications for magnet schools for 2023-24.
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Student Reporter Jonathan Davis
HSA’s Jonathan “JD” Davis Serves as Student Reporter at the Jimmy Awards
06/27/2023
Congratulations to Jonathan “JD” Davis from Harrison School for the Arts, who was one of two student reporters chosen for this year’s National High School Musical Theatre Awards, aka the Jimmy Awards.
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Two Students win life Scholarships
Harrison Duo Win Arts for Life! Scholarships
06/22/2023
Two students from Harrison School for the Arts were among just 25 statewide winners of Arts for Life! scholarships this year.
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Tenoroc High Concludes First Year
Tenoroc High Concludes First Year as a 3DE School
06/21/2023
“Great morning spending time with community leaders showcasing the 3DE program and students at Tenoroc High School. Listening to them share their stories about how the program has helped with attendance, engagement and academic performance was inspiring.”
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Bus Drivers Needed
Bus Drivers Needed for 2023-24 School Year
06/20/2023
A new school year is approaching and PCPS has a critical need for bus drivers to serve our growing community. We would love to have you come join us for 2023-24!
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Polk County School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for June 2023
06/08/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 13, followed by a regular monthly board meeting at 5 p.m.
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South Pointe Elementary
South Pointe Elementary Preparing to Open for 2023-24
06/08/2023
Construction is humming along at our newest school: South Pointe Elementary, home of the Ospreys!
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National Merit Scholarship Logo
Three More National Merit Scholarship Winners Announced From PCPS
06/07/2023
Polk County Public Schools had a trio of National Merit Scholarship winners announced today.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
PCPS Families Can Still Apply for Controlled Open Enrollment for 2023-24
06/05/2023
PCPS is taking more applications for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the upcoming 2023-24 school year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
PCPS Summer Meal Sites Open June 7
06/01/2023
Don’t be hangry this summer! PCPS is participating in the statewide Summer BreakSpot program.
Read More about PCPS Summer Meal Sites Open June 7
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
Acceptance Notices for Magnet Schools, Controlled Open Enrollment Going out Friday, May 26
05/25/2023
PCPS is sending out more acceptance notices for families who have pending applications for magnet schools and/or Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for 2023-24.
Read More about Acceptance Notices for Magnet Schools, Controlled Open Enrollment Going out Friday, May 26
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
No Backpacks Allowed for Remainder of Current School Year
05/22/2023
Just a reminder that no backpacks are allowed at anPCPS school sites for the remainder of this current school year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
Statement Regarding Incident at Blake Academy
05/19/2023
We are aware of an incident at Blake Academy involving a student who made a TikTok video about another student.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
PCPS ESOL Department Hosting Haitian Heritage Event on May 25
05/18/2023
You are invited to a free event honoring Haitian Heritage Month organized by the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) department.
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Breaking News from Polk County Public Schools
Education Academy Students Get Job Offers From PCPS
05/16/2023
The high school seniors from Polk County Public Schools’ education academies will soon head to college to pursue a teaching career.
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Breaking News for Polk County Public Schools
Davenport Elementary Named a Polk County Heritage Site
05/15/2023
We always knew that Davenport Elementary was a historical treasure, but now it’s official.
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PCPS Graduates overcome Homelessness
Celebrating PCPS Graduates Who Overcame Homelessness
05/11/2023
All students face challenges on their path to graduation, but every year we take time to celebrate a special group of seniors who have endured and overcome homelessness.
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Davenport School of Art Lighthouse
Davenport School of the Arts Earns Lighthouse Certification
05/11/2023
Davenport School of the Arts has been officially certified as a Leader in Me Lighthouse School.
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Inaugural Class of inside PCPS
Members of Inaugural Class of Inside PCPS Celebrate Final Day Together
05/09/2023
Today more than 20 community leaders celebrated their final day together as members of the inaugural class of Inside PCPS.
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Polk County School Board
Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for May 2023
05/08/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, followed by a regular monthly board meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for May 2023
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District Office Butterfly
Student Artwork Honors Mental Health Awareness Month
05/04/2023
You might notice more butterflies flitting around our campuses this month.
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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
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Polk County Breaking News
Controlled Open Enrollment, Magnet School Acceptances Going Out This Week
05/02/2023
This week we are conducting a lottery drawing for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) applications, as well as a second lottery drawing for magnet school applications.
Read More about Controlled Open Enrollment, Magnet School Acceptances Going Out This Week
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About Face Celebration
PCPS Celebrates Students’ Progress at the About-Face Awards
04/27/2023
Every year we make a point to celebrate students who have turned their lives around.
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Polk County School Board Meeting on April 25
04/24/2023
The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25, followed by a regular board meeting at 5 p.m.
Read More about Polk County School Board Meeting on April 25
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Florida Prepaid
Florida Prepaid College Plan Enrollment Ends April 30
04/21/2023
Don’t forget that open enrollment for Florida Prepaid College Plans is available until April 30. Visit myfloridaprepaid.com for more info.
Read More about Florida Prepaid College Plan Enrollment Ends April 30
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PCPS Career Academies Honored by Lakeland Leads
PCPS Career Academies Honored by Lakeland Leads
04/20/2023
Earlier this week we had the pleasure of gathering with Lakeland Leads for an awards ceremony honoring our career academies and business partners in the Lakeland area. Former Gov. Jeb Bush served as the keynote speaker.
Read More about PCPS Career Academies Honored by Lakeland Leads
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BBQ Battle Group Pose
PCPS Students Face Off in a BBQ Battle
04/18/2023
The barbecue wars heated up on Saturday, as PCPS students gathered at George Jenkins High and put their skills to the grills.
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Job Fair
PCPS Online Hiring Event on April 25
04/17/2023
Come work with us! We’re holding an online job fair to recruit teachers, paras, bus drivers and other positions for the 2023-24 school year
Read More about PCPS Online Hiring Event on April 25
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Offering Summer VPK and Kindergarten Readiness Camps
04/14/2023
We’re offering a summer VPK program at Kathleen Elementary. This is another option in addition to our Kindergarten Readiness Camps being offered at sites throughout the district.
Read More about PCPS Offering Summer VPK and Kindergarten Readiness Camps
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Auditorium Ribbon Cutting
Rochelle School of the Arts Celebrates Revamped Auditorium
04/11/2023
The revamped auditorium at Rochelle School of the Arts made its official debut last week.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Volunteers Needed to Review ESE Curriculum Materials
04/10/2023
Polk County Public Schools is seeking help with evaluating potential instructional materials for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Polk School Board Officially Names Newest School: South Pointe Elementary
04/06/2023
The Polk County School Board has approved South Pointe Elementary as the name for a new school under construction on State Highway 653 in Winter Haven.
Read More about Polk School Board Officially Names Newest School: South Pointe Elementary
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Deadline to Accept School Choice Invites is April 10
04/04/2023
Please check your Parent Portal account, as well as your email, for notifications regarding your child’s application for magnet/choice schools, IB, Cambridge AICE, or career academies.
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PCPS Breaking News
Controlled Open Enrollment Begins April 3
03/29/2023
Polk County Public Schools is moving forward with controlled open enrollment for the 2023-24 school year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Acceptances for PCPS School Choice Applications Going Out March 24
03/23/2023
Acceptance notices for magnet/choice schools, career academies, and IB/Cambridge for the 2023-24 school year will start going out tomorrow (Friday, March 24).
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CODE-Kindergarten
Kindergarten Enrollment for 2023-24 Begins April 3
03/23/2023
Kindergarten enrollment for the 2023-24 school year begins on Monday, April 3.
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Hannah Kaufmann Spessard Holland Elementary
Spessard Holland Elementary Teacher Has a Personal Connection to Story From the Holocaust
03/07/2023
As Spessard Holland Elementary was preparing for a book fair last week, teacher Hannah Kaufman saw a familiar face among the titles on display
Read More about Spessard Holland Elementary Teacher Has a Personal Connection to Story From the Holocaust
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CPE VPK
PCPS Head Start and VPK 2023-24 Application Window Opens March 7
03/06/2023
Head Start, Title I pre-K and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) applications for the 2023-24 school year will go live tomorrow (Tuesday, March, 7).
Read More about PCPS Head Start and VPK 2023-24 Application Window Opens March 7
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Superintendent Heid
PCPS Announces Community Conversations Tour With Superintendent Fred Heid
03/03/2023
Superintendent Heid will be making stops throughout Polk County for another Community Conversations tour.
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LRHS Students Compete
Lake Region High Culinary Students Advance to Finals of Universal Orlando Competition
03/02/2023
A team of students from Lake Region High’s culinary academy have made it to the finals of a Universal Orlando cooking competition.
Read More about Lake Region High Culinary Students Advance to Finals of Universal Orlando Competition
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Frostproof
Class of 2023 Graduation Schedule Now Available
03/01/2023
The graduation schedule for the PCPS Class of 2023 is now available.
Read More about Class of 2023 Graduation Schedule Now Available
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
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FHS News
Frostproof Middle-Senior Hosting Two Ceremonies Honoring Dedicated Staff Members
02/17/2023
Frostproof Middle-Senior is hosting two ceremonies in honor of dedicated staff members and naming two facilities after them.
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Student Crossing
Help Us to Protect Pedestrians
02/17/2023
To our families and community, I’m reaching out to you because I’m very concerned about the safety of our students as they walk to and from school, or the bus stop every day.
Read More about Help Us to Protect Pedestrians
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Lawton Chiles Wins MathCounts
Lawton Chiles Middle Academy Students Win Polk MathCounts Competition
02/15/2023
A team of Mathletes from Lawton Chiles Middle Academy won first place in a recent MathCounts competition.
Read More about Lawton Chiles Middle Academy Students Win Polk MathCounts Competition
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Jesse Keen Elementary Swimming with Sharks
Swimming With the “Sharks” at Jesse Keen Elementary
02/09/2023
Supposedly Polk County is landlocked, but we’ve been getting a lot of reports of shark sightings at Jesse Keen Elementary.
Read More about Swimming With the “Sharks” at Jesse Keen Elementary
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Elementary Science Showcase Features Great Work
02/09/2023
The students are small but the brains are big at the Elementary Science Showcase.
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Davenport High Step Team
Davenport High Step Team Makes an Impression at Regional Debut
02/07/2023
A group of students from Davenport High are leaving a big footprint on the step world.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Events to Help Families Prepare for 2023
02/07/2023
PCPS Hosting “Mission Transition” Events to Help Students and Families Prepare for 2023-24
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DKG International Society logo
“Rising Stars” Awards Recognize Outstanding New PCPS Teachers
01/30/2023
Eighteen new PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma.
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PCPS Varsity Tutors
PCPS Launches New Teacher-Led Tutoring Program
01/23/2023
Polk County Public Schools and Varsity Tutors have launched a new online tutoring partnership that brings live instruction and lessons to 40,000 students across the district.
Read More about PCPS Launches New Teacher-Led Tutoring Program
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Bartow High Modernization Ribbon Cutting
PCPS Celebrates Completion of Bartow High Modernization Project
01/19/2023
Yesterday we made the short trip to Bartow High to put the finishing touches on a years-long modernization project.
Read More about PCPS Celebrates Completion of Bartow High Modernization Project
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Sunshine State Scholars
PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2023
01/18/2023
We are pleased to announce our Sunshine State Scholars for 2023!
Read More about PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2023
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Martin Luther King I have A Dream
PCPS Students Honored at MLK Essay Challenge Celebration
01/17/2023
Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 22nd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!
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Southwest Elementary Debut First Career Academy
Southwest Elementary to Debut PCPS’ First Career Academy for Elementary Students
01/17/2023
As you consider your options during our school choice application window, check out the Digital Media Academy at Southwest Elementary.
Read More about Southwest Elementary to Debut PCPS’ First Career Academy for Elementary Students
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Floridians Encouraged to Submit Internet Access Data by Friday, Jan. 13
01/10/2023
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity needs PCPS parents to verify their access to broadband internet by this Friday, Jan. 13th.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS School Choice Application Window Now Open Until Feb. 15
01/09/2023
The PCPS school choice application window is now open until Feb. 15. This is your opportunity to apply for magnet schools, career academies and other programs for the 2023-24 school year.
Read More about PCPS School Choice Application Window Now Open Until Feb. 15
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Luisa Meyer Named FFLA Teacher of the Year
Bartow Middle’s Luisa Meyer Named FFLA Teacher of the Year
01/05/2023
Bartow Middle Spanish teacher Luisa Meyer has been named the Florida Foreign Language Association’s (FFLA) Teacher of the Year.
Read More about Bartow Middle’s Luisa Meyer Named FFLA Teacher of the Year
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Library Opt-Out System Reopens Jan. 2-16
12/14/2022
Polk County Public Schools will reopen our library opt-out system from Jan. 2-16.
Read More about PCPS Library Opt-Out System Reopens Jan. 2-16
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS School Choice Application Window is Jan. 9 to Feb. 15
11/30/2022
Polk County Public Schools will soon begin accepting school choice applications for the upcoming 2023-24 school year.
Read More about PCPS School Choice Application Window is Jan. 9 to Feb. 15
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
New Polk County School Board Members Sworn In
11/22/2022
Rick Nolte and Justin Sharpless were sworn in as new members of the Polk County School Board today, during a meeting at the school district’s headquarters in Bartow.
Read More about New Polk County School Board Members Sworn In
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Presidential Scholars Medallion
PCPS Announces Presidential Scholars Honorees for 2023
11/16/2022
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our honorees for the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
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PCPS Breaking News
PCPS Announces Expansion of Magnet School Programs
11/14/2022
Polk County Public Schools has secured a grant that will allow us to expand and improve our magnet school offerings.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Polk County Public Schools Announces Principals of the Year
10/26/2022
There are many excellent principals throughout Polk County Public Schools, but every year we have the pleasure of highlighting some of our very best school leaders.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Lake Region High’s Israel Mirtil Becomes a Cross Country Sensation
10/24/2022
The Lake Region High cross country runner won the county championship earlier this month and added a district title to his resume last week. He’s now moving on to compete at the regional level.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
East Area Adult School’s Karen Hagerty Receives Teacher of the Year Award
10/11/2022
Karen Hagerty has been named Teacher of the Year by the Adult and Community Educators (ACE) of Florida.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Susan Searls from Davenport School of the Arts Named Middle School PE Teacher of the Year
10/10/2022
Susan Searls from Davenport School of the Arts has been named Florida’s Physical Education Teacher of the Year at the middle school level.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Employees to Assist Hurricane Recovery Efforts in Lee County
10/07/2022
Early this morning a team of Polk County Public Schools employees headed out to assist our neighbors in Lee County who were impacted by Hurricane Ian.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/22/2022
The surprise visits continued today as PCPS announced the District 6 finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year. Congratulations to: – Debra Braden, Teacher of the Year finalist, art teacher, Snively Elementary – Jared Lowe, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, safety guardian, Eagle Lake Elementary
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Kirstin Voitus From Loughman Oaks Elementary Named Elementary PE Teacher of the Year
09/20/2022
Kirstin Voitus from Loughman Oaks Elementary has been named Florida’s Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/19/2022
Monday was a little brighter for two PCPS employees, as we made surprise visits to announce the District 5 finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/16/2022
PCPS officials made surprise visits to more schools today as we announced our District 4 finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Modernization Project
PCPS Breaks Ground on Modernization Project
09/15/2022
Officials gathered to break ground on a modernization project that will essentially create a new campus for the school.
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Seven PCPS Students Announced as Semifinalists
09/14/2022
Seven students from Polk County Public Schools are among this year's semifinalists for National Merit Scholarships.
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Principals at a Meeting
Principals Honored for School Improvement
09/13/2022
At last week’s meeting of the Polk County School Board we honored a special group of principals.
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D2 Finalists
PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
09/13/2022
The PCPS surprise patrol hit the road again yesterday to announce our District 2 finalists for the 2022-23 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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D1 Finalists
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1-to-1 Device
Optional Insurance Available for PCPS-Issued Devices
09/08/2022
PCPS families can now purchase insurance for their children’s school-issued laptops and tablets.
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1-to-1 Citrus Ridge
PCPS Providing Devices to All Students Through One-to-One Digital Learning Initiative
08/31/2022
Polk County Public Schools has begun an exciting new initiative that will help improve learning for all of our students.
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KES Students
PCPS Ranked as Florida’s Most Equitable School District
08/24/2022
WalletHub has posted a list of Florida’s Most & Least Equitable School Districts in Florida for 2022, and PCPS ranks at the very top!
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100 Pass Rate
IB Bartow Makes School History With 100% Pass Rate
08/18/2022
An astonishing 100% of last year’s graduating class earned their IB diploma.
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Perla Latorre-Suarez
Winter Haven High Grad Named Among Top Aerospace Students in the World
08/17/2022
UCF student and Winter Haven High grad Perla Latorre-Suarez has been named among “the most promising graduate students in the world who are likely to change the aerospace industry.”
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Breaking News
Polk County School Board Approves Raises for Non-Union, Professional and Technical Employees
08/16/2022
The Polk County School Board has approved pay increases that include raises for the district’s non-union, professional and technical employees.
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New Teacher Reception
PCPS Welcomes New Teachers for 2022-23
08/09/2022
We look forward to our annual reception for new PCPS teachers, held at Venue 650 in Winter Haven. It’s an opportunity to welcome and celebrate our new educators before everything kicks into high gear.
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Back To School
PCPS Back-to-School Updates
08/03/2022
As we get ready to go back into the classroom, I’ve got some important news and information to share. Click on any of the following topics for information:
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Forbes List
PCPS on Forbes’ List of “America’s Best Employers for Women”
08/01/2022
Polk County Public Schools has been named to Forbes’ 2022 list of America’s Best Employers for Women.
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Bob Ross
PCPS Superintendent, Elementary School Teacher Honored by Florida Art Education Association
07/26/2022
PCPS Superintendent Frederick Heid and teacher Rebecca Schempp are among this year’s award winners presented by the Florida Art Education Association (FAEA).
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Graduates Standing at Commencement
Honoring a Special Group of Grads at Summer Commencement
07/26/2022
Last night we gathered at Ridge Community High for our district’s annual summer commencement ceremony.
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News Release
PCPS Responds to Reports About District Employee
07/14/2022
On Friday (July 8), a blog post and podcast were published regarding the Polk County School Board’s hiring of Frederick Heid as superintendent.
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Jimmy Awards
Harrison Arts Student Honored as Semifinalist in 2022 Jimmy Awards
07/12/2022
Congratulations to Janiyah McAllister from Harrison School for the Arts, who was recently honored as a semifinalist in the 2022 National High School Musical Theatre Awards.
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Breaking News
PCPS Employee Salary Agreements and Raises Approved for 2022-23
07/12/2022
Breaking news from Polk County Public Schools The Polk County School Board has approved new salary agreements and raises for employees represented by the school district’s unions.
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PCPS News Release
2021-22 School Grades Announced for Polk County Public Schools
07/07/2022
The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) has announced school grades for 2021-22.
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Poetry Awards Winners
PCPS Congratulates Winners of 2022 Poetry Awards
07/06/2022
Polk County Public Schools congratulates the winners of the 46th annual Poetry Awards.
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Polk County News Release
2022 State Assessment Data Released for Polk County Public Schools
06/30/2022
The Florida Department of Education released 2022 standardized test scores this week, which show Polk County Public Schools maintained or improved in several academic areas.
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Adam Lane Principal of the Year Award
Haines City High’s Adam Lane Receives Florida Principal of the Year Award
06/28/2022
Haines City High’s Adam Lane has been named the Florida Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
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Get Involved DAC
PCPS Seeking Nominations for District Advisory Council
06/23/2022
Polk County Public Schools is seeking nominations for the District Advisory Council.
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PCPS Celebrates Juneteenth
PCPS Celebrates Juneteenth
06/17/2022
We are proud to celebrate Juneteenth (June 19)
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Auburndale High Wins Sportmanship Award
Auburndale High Wins 2022 FHSAA Sportsmanship Award
06/14/2022
Auburndale High is the winner of the 2022 Fred E. Rozelle Sportsmanship Award for Class 5A.
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Shelby Montgomery Rocks
George Jenkins High Teacher in the Running for Grammy Music Educator Award
06/09/2022
George Jenkins High’s Shelby Montgomery has been named a quarterfinalist for the 2023 Music Educator Award.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Adult Schools Relocating to Technical College Campuses
06/08/2022
PCPS’ East Area Adult School is relocating the bulk of its operations to Ridge Technical College, while West Area Adult School is doing the same and moving to Traviss Technical College.
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Three PCPS Schools Receive “Premier FFA Chapter” Awards
Schools Receive “Premier FFA Chapter” Awards
06/08/2022
Three PCPS schools have received the Premier Chapter Award from the Florida FFA Association. Congratulations to Frostproof, Kathleen and Westwood middle schools!
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Auburndale High Names Academic Building for Coach Paul Green
06/07/2022
It was a solemn and special day last month when Auburndale High honored the late Paul Green.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Educators Complete High Impact Teacher Corps Program
06/06/2022
Congratulations to this outstanding group of PCPS educators, who just completed the High Impact Teacher Corps (HITC) program through the Florida Department of Education.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Focused on Excellence: Outstanding Teachers Receive Special Recognition
06/02/2022
This school year, Polk County Public Schools honored the outstanding work of its more than 13,000 employees through Focused on Excellence, a special recognition campaign.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Increasing Minimum Wage for All Employees
05/19/2022
Polk County Public Schools will soon raise the minimum wage for all employees to $15 per hour. This new minimum wage will take effect on July 1, 2022.
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Esports Logo
Frostproof High Wins Inaugural PCPS Esports Championship
05/18/2022
Last week, Frostproof High emerged victorious as the winner of the inaugural PCPS Esports Championship. Our video team was there to capture the historic moment.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
PCPS Creating Committee to Review Reproductive Health Curriculum
05/18/2022
Polk County Public Schools will soon be conducting a review of its reproductive health curriculum.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Grant Available to Help Cover Costs for Traviss and Ridge Technical College Students
05/18/2022
Polk County Public Schools is proud to share an exciting new opportunity available to our Class of 2022 graduates.
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McLaughlin Middle Expanding into Middle High
McLaughlin Middle Expanding into Middle-High School for Lake Wales Area
05/11/2022
The Polk County School Board voted unanimously on Tuesday to expand McLaughlin Middle School & Fine Arts Academy into Polk’s newest middle-high school.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Bartow IB Senior Wins National Merit Scholarship
05/11/2022
Sachin Sivakumar from the International Baccalaureate School at Bartow High has won a National Merit Scholarship worth $2,500.
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
PCPS Completes Review of Challenged Library Books
05/10/2022
Earlier this year, a local organization initiated a formal challenge of 16 books that are available in some Polk County Public Schools libraries.
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Cole Thompson
HCHS Sr Pursues Dreams While Battling Cancer
05/09/2022
Last year Cole was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, but continued to pursue his dreams. Make-A-Wish of Central and Northern Florida reached out to Cole in the fall and
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PCPS Announces Volunteers of the Year for 2022
04/26/2022
The PCPS surprise patrol recently made the rounds to announce the district-level winners
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Union Academy Dedicates Media Center to J.J. Corbett
Union Academy Dedicates Media Center to J.J. Corbett
04/20/2022
Jordan Jerome “J.J.” Corbett wrote his name into history decades ago — and now, it’s forever part of Union Academy.
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Attendance Zones for New Elementary School
04/20/2022
Polk County Public Schools is hosting a community meeting to discuss the proposed attendance boundary zone for a new elementary school to be built in Winter Haven.
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PCPS Migrant Students Receive National Recognition
PCPS Migrant Students Receive National Recognition
04/14/2022
A trio of Polk County students received special awards and recognition last week during the National Migrant Education Conference in San Antonio.
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Dundee Elementary Honors Children of the Holocaust
Dundee Elementary Honors Children of the Holocaust
04/12/2022
In a hallway at Dundee Elementary Academy, thousands of paper butterflies have found a home. They blanket the walls in a storm of vivid colors and designs. Each is a symbol, representing a fraction of the estimated 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust.
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Superintendents Scholars 2021-2022
Congratulations to Our Superintendent’s Scholars for 2021-22
04/11/2022
PCPS is proud to recognize our top graduates of 2021-22 as Superintendent’s Scholars.
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2022 Commissioner's Academic Challenge Team Polk
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RCHS Esports
Let the Games Begin: PCPS Enters the Esports Arena
04/04/2022
Polk County Public Schools is officially entering the world of competitive video gaming, also known as esports (electronic sports).
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Bartow IB Students Win Polk High School Academic Tournament
Bartow IB Students Win Polk High School Academic Tournament
03/31/2022
A squad of Bartow IB students representing Bartow High took home the top prize this year in the 38th Polk County High School Academic Tournament.
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Coach Olin Gee
Haines City High Dedicates Weight Room to Revered Coach Olin Gee
03/15/2022
Coach Olin Gee left his mark at Haines City High, with nearly four decades of service to the school, its student-athletes, and the surrounding community.
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Kathleen Middle School Marker
Kathleen Middle School Recognized With Official Historical Marker
03/12/2022
A special thanks to all who joined us today for the official unveiling of Kathleen Middle School’s historical marker.
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City of Lakeland Partners with Lakeland High
City of Lakeland Partners With Lakeland High for Mentoring Initiative
03/09/2022
We’re overdue in recognizing a special partnership this year between the City of Lakeland and Lakeland High School.
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Polk Regional Science & Engineering Fair
Polk Science and Engineering Fair Winners Announced
03/02/2022
The annual event, hosted last month by PCPS, features projects from middle and high school students from the county’s public, private and charter schools.
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Media Center named for Frances Fowler
Cleveland Court Elementary Names Media Center for Beloved Paraeducator Frances Fowler
02/25/2022
It was a joyous occasion at Cleveland Court Elementary today, as the school held a ceremony to name its media center in honor of the late Frances Fowler.
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News Release
Committees Preparing to Review Challenged Library Books, First Meeting is March 1
02/24/2022
Polk County Public Schools is moving forward with its review of 16 library books whose content has been formally challenged by a community organization. Two committees have been organized to conduct a review of these books.
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Fort Meade BBQ
Extra Meat: Fort Meade High Joins the Competitive BBQ Scene
02/24/2022
We have an important, meat-related update to share. A few weeks ago we posted some news about the George Jenkins High BBQ team, and their impressive performance at Lakeland’s Pigfest.
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Young Scientists Shine at PCPS Showcase
Elementary Einsteins: Young Scientists Shine at PCPS Showcase
02/17/2022
Every year, PCPS fourth- and fifth-grade students come together at the Showcase to present their science projects and discuss their findings with peers from other schools. Notably, the event is not a competition — it’s an opportunity for students to interact as colleagues.
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Stock Market
How Loughman Oaks Elementary Students are Becoming Stock Market Savvy
02/16/2022
Loughman Oaks Elementary is technically the home of the Owls, but students in Melissa Gamache’s class are more interested in bull and bear markets.
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Breaking News
Update from PCPS Superintendent Regarding Review of Challenged Library Books
02/08/2022
There have been reports in the news media recently about a challenge to some library books in our school system.
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New Admins
PCPS Announces New Administrators
01/27/2022
Congratulations to our newest administrators, approved during this week’s meeting of the Polk County School Board.
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Rose
New PCPS Teachers Celebrated as “Rising Stars”
01/25/2022
Twenty-one new PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma.
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Ribbon Cutting
PCPS Cuts the Ribbon at Modernized Mulberry High
01/24/2022
Polk County Public Schools held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday to celebrate the completion of the main phase of MHS’ modernization.
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2022 Teacher and School Employee of the Year Image
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MLK Contest
MLK Essay Challenge Winners Announced
01/14/2022
Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 21st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!
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Forum
(EVENT CANCELED) Open Enrollment Forum Scheduled for Jan. 20
01/11/2022
UPDATE (Jan. 19): The forum has been canceled. Please see polkschoolsfl.com/schooloptions for information about Open Enrollment.
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News Release
Raises Approved for PCPS Teachers
01/11/2022
The Polk County School Board has unanimously approved the PCPS teacher salary and benefits agreement for 2021-22.
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Presidential Scholars Medallion
PCPS Announces Presidential Scholars Honorees for 2022
12/16/2021
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our honorees for the 2022 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
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CSI Van
Bartow High Students Work With Police to Get Hands-on CSI Experience
12/13/2021
Students in Bartow High’s forensic science class can boast that they’ve had hands-on experience working as crime scene investigators.
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Mulberry High Fans
PCPS Student-Athletes Have Successful Fall Season in the Classroom
12/08/2021
When it comes to academics, PCPS student-athletes tackled their objectives and went the extra mile this fall, as proven by our latest GPA Report Card.
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Westwood Gymnasium Celebration
Westwood Middle Celebrates New Gymnasium
12/08/2021
Throughout its nearly 60-year history, Westwood Middle has never had an indoor gymnasium — but it does now.
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Carol Jenkins Barnett
In Remembrance of Carol Jenkins Barnett
12/08/2021
Polk County Public Schools is mourning the loss of Carol Jenkins Barnett, a devoted education advocate and staunch supporter of our students.
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Donated Gifts Brightens the Holidays
Donated Gifts Brighten the Holidays for PCPS Students in Need
12/03/2021
It’s an unfortunate fact that many students in our community don’t expect to receive any presents during the holidays — but PCPS social workers are doing their best to help, and your donations can make a difference.
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National STEM Day
“Girls Who Code” Program Takes Root at Highland City Elementary
12/01/2021
When it’s lunchtime at Highland City Elementary, the girls in the cafeteria aren’t just there for chocolate milk. They’re learning valuable tech skills as part of Girls Who Code, an initiative to build the “world’s largest pipeline of future female engineers.”
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Home Depot Donation Image
Kathleen Elementary Scores a Major Donation From Office Depot
11/30/2021
Earlier this fall, KES was selected for the retailer’s Depot Difference initiative, which provides funds to Title I schools across the country to help purchase supplies. The amount awarded to KES: an eye-popping $32,197.
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Erica Porter
Music by Harrison Arts Graduate to be Performed Tonight at Carnegie Hall
11/17/2021
The young composer and Harrison School for the Arts graduate will have a piece of her music played tonight at New York’s famed Carnegie Hall. Porter’s composition, “Motion,” will be performed as part of a benefit concert by the United Nations Chamber Music Society.
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District 7 Finalists 2021
PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
11/17/2021
The PCPS surprise patrol has now recognized our finalists from all seven districts, and the overall winners will be announced at the Inspire Awards, which will take place on Jan. 20, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland.
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Hazel logo
PCPS Offering New Health Services Program for Students
11/09/2021
Polk County Public Schools is launching a new health services program, and we want to
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International Teachers Image
PCPS Welcomes New Teachers From Around the World
11/08/2021
Amid a national teacher shortage, PCPS has been recruiting educators from abroad to serve in our schools. In early October, we held a reception to welcome our new friends from around the globe.
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District 2 TOY & SRE Finalists
PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
11/08/2021
Today’s surprise patrol was a one-stop affair: Our latest finalists for the Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year work at the same school!
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District 6
PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
11/05/2021
Today’s rain couldn’t stop us from surprising our latest group of finalists for the 2022 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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District 4 TOY & SRE
PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
11/04/2021
The celebrations continued today as the PCPS prize patrol visited another group of finalists for the 2022 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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World Languages Teacher
Jewett Middle Academy Educator Recognized as a “Teacher of Promise”
11/03/2021
Jewett Middle Academy’s Marilyn De Leon was recognized as a Teacher of Promise during the Florida Foreign Language Association’s (FFLA) recent conference in Jacksonville.
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HSA Kim Tien-Vo
Harrison Arts Student Just One of 12 Worldwide With Perfect AP Scores
11/02/2021
Harrison School for the Arts is full of extraordinary students, but there aren’t many like Kim-Tien Vo.
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District 3 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
PCPS Announces District 3 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
11/02/2021
The surprise patrol didn’t have to travel far to congratulate our latest finalists for the 2022 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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PCPS, USF Celebrate First Cohort of Teacher Grads From Degree Program
PCPS, USF Celebrate First Cohort of Teacher Grads From Degree Program
11/01/2021
Last week we recognized 13 teachers who are the first cohort to receive a master’s degree in reading education through a special partnership with the University of South Florida.
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District 5 TOY & SRE Finalists
PCPS Reveals District 5 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
10/28/2021
In the coming weeks, Polk County Public Schools will continue to make surprise visits to the finalists from each of our seven districts. The overall winners will be announced during a special award ceremony and banquet in January.
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District 1 TOY & SRE Finalists
PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year
10/22/2021
Polk County Public Schools is making surprise visits to campuses throughout the county to celebrate each of our finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.
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Social Studies Teachers of the Year 2021
Social Studies Teachers of the Year Announced
10/21/2021
The Social Studies Teachers of the Year winners from PCPS have been announced.
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News Release Image
Polk School Board Approves Raises for Paraeducator and Educational Support Personnel
10/12/2021
The Polk County School Board voted today to approve pay raises for paraeducators and educational support (clerical) personnel.
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Amy Heiser-Meyers
PCPS Principal of the Year: Amy Heiser-Meyers from Horizons Elementary
10/08/2021
Amy Heiser-Meyers brings the sunshine to Horizons Elementary, and she’s a bright light among our school leaders.
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Tammy Ruhl
PCPS Assistant Principal of the Year: Tammy Ruhl from Floral Avenue Elementary
10/08/2021
Tammy Ruhl is one of the busiest Bees at Floral Avenue Elementary, and there always seems to be a positive buzz about the school.
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Adult Schools Racks up Awards
East Area Adult School Racks Up Awards
10/06/2021
East Area Adult School and its supporters are feeling pretty proud these days.
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Project Recognizes 44 Polk Schools
PBIS Project Recognizes 44 Polk Schools With “Model” Status
10/05/2021
The final count is in, and it’s official: PCPS had an outstanding year in 2020-21 when it comes to PBIS schools.
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Shelp Montgomery Receives award
George Jenkins High Music Teacher Receives “Exemplary Model Program” Award
09/30/2021
George Jenkins High’s Shelby Montgomery is the winner of the 2022 Exemplary Model Program Award, presented by the Florida Music Education Association.
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Teacher Receive Warm Welcome
Teachers From Abroad Receive Warm Welcome at Loughman Oaks Elementary
09/29/2021
Amid a national teacher shortage, PCPS recruiters have been searching abroad and taking advantage of teacher exchange programs.
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State Farm Presents Khakis
Westwood Middle School Needed Khakis, and State Farm Was There
09/29/2021
Let’s say you’re a school principal in need of some extra student uniforms, specifically, uh … khakis?
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HCHS New Record Board
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Luz Vazquez Hernandez
Michigan State University Spotlights Mulberry High Grad
09/16/2021
Back in December we wrote about the special connection between Mulberry High and Michigan State University.
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National Merit Scholarship Logo
PCPS Celebrates National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
09/15/2021
The semifinalists have been announced for this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program, and the list includes several students from Polk County Public Schools.
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Lake Region High Educators
Lake Region High Educators Recognized for Extraordinary Act of Service
09/09/2021
It was a special moment at the Polk County School Board meeting this week as two Lake Region High educators were recognized for an extraordinary act of service.
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Bus Driver Recruitment
Pay Raises Approved for PCPS Bus Drivers and Other Employee Groups
08/26/2021
The Polk County School Board has approved pay raises for the district’s bus drivers, attendants, custodians and other employee groups.
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Schools Recognized for Extraordinary Improvement
Six PCPS “Turnaround” Schools Recognized for Extraordinary Improvement
08/25/2021
Six PCPS schools are receiving well-deserved recognition for making gains and overcoming extraordinary challenges.
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KHS Logo
University of South Florida Offers “Guaranteed Admission” to Kathleen High Students
08/24/2021
The University of South Florida is once again offering guaranteed admission to Kathleen High students who meet minimum academic requirements.
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Rochelle SOTA Teacher
Rochelle SOTA Teacher Named Middle School Art Educator of the Year
08/24/2021
Simoni Bonadies from Rochelle School of the Arts has been named Florida’s Middle School Art Educator of the Year for 2021.
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PCPS Schools Recognized as “Models” for Positive Behavior Work
PCPS Schools Recognized as “Models” for Positive Behavior Work
08/11/2021
A dozen PCPS schools were recognized as Model Schools for 2020-21 by Florida’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support
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Hiring Drivers & Attendants
PCPS Reaches Tentative Agreement on Pay Raises for Bus Drivers, Other Employee Groups
08/06/2021
Polk County Public Schools has reached a tentative agreement with the union representing PCPS bus drivers and other non-instructional employees. The tentative
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Frederick Heid Swear In
PCPS Officially Welcomes New Superintendent Frederick Heid
07/28/2021
Frederick Heid was formally sworn in as superintendent on Tuesday, during the Polk County School Board meeting.
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Winter Haven High Student Awarded Scholarship at STEAM Conference
Winter Haven High Student Awarded Scholarship at STEAM Conference
06/29/2021
Winter Haven High’s Anderson Garner has been awarded a scholarship and recognized as one of Florida’s “highest achieving
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Mulberry Middle, Roosevelt Academy Administrators Complete Leadership Academy
Mulberry Middle, Roosevelt Academy Administrators Complete Leadership Academy
06/23/2021
Administrators from Mulberry Middle and Roosevelt Academy spent the past semester in a new professional learning
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Harrison Graduate Wins Florida “Arts for Life!” Scholarship
Harrison Graduate Wins Florida “Arts for Life!” Scholarship
06/16/2021
Chalk up another honor for Sylvia Nicholas-Patterson. The Harrison School for the Arts graduate is among this year’s winners of the Arts for Life! scholarships. There were just 25 recipients
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Two More PCPS Students Named National Merit Scholars
Two More PCPS Students Named National Merit Scholars
06/02/2021
Agastya Mittal from International Baccalaureate at Bartow High, and Diego Verdaguer from Harrison School for the Arts are winners
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Hall of Fame
PCPS Announces 2021 Hall of Fame Inductees
06/02/2021
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce the district’s Hall of Fame
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Bus Driver Betty Dupree Retires After 45 Years Behind the Wheel
Bus Driver Betty Dupree Retires After 45 Years Behind the Wheel
05/21/2021
This week, Dupree dropped off her last passengers, ending a 45-year career as a PCPS bus driver. She is retiring … again.
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Ben Hill Griffin Jr. Elementary Student Meets Reading Goals … and Keeps Going
Ben Hill Griffin Jr. Elementary Student Meets Reading Goals … and Keeps Going
05/20/2021
On Monday, the fourth-grader at Ben Hill Griffin Jr. Elementary officially hit a reading milestone of more than 3 million words, just this year alone.
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McLaughlin Middle Presents “The War of the Worlds” … on Zoom
McLaughlin Middle Presents “The War of the Worlds” … on Zoom
05/19/2021
McLaughlin Middle will debut a special online presentation of the classic science fiction story tomorrow, and it should be a unique experience. In a nod to Orson Welles' 1938 radio broadcast of “The War of the Worlds,” the McLaughlin version will leave much to the audience's imagination.
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Sleepy Hill Middle Makes History at Competition
Sleepy Hill Middle Makes History at Competition
05/18/2021
Amy Hamilton continues to make history with her students at Sleepy Hill Middle.
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The Lowdown on Bonuses: Who’s Eligible and Who’s Paying?
The Lowdown on Bonuses: Who’s Eligible and Who’s Paying?
05/14/2021
There's been a lot news lately about two different, $1,000 education-related bonuses. It can get a bit confusing..
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Ridge Community High Drill Team Captures National Championship
Ridge Community High Drill Team Captures National Championship
05/13/2021
The Lady Bolts JROTC drill team from Ridge Community High has captured its first national championship in school history.
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PCPS “Rising Star” Teachers Announced
PCPS “Rising Star” Teachers Announced
05/06/2021
DKG is an international society that promotes women educators. Every year, the local Lambda chapter names a list of Rising Stars, who are new “exemplary and promising” teachers (male or female)
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Frederick Heid Portrait
New Superintendent Selected, Contract Negotiations Underway
04/27/2021
The Polk County School Board voted tonight to select Frederick R. Heid as the next superintendent of Polk County Public Schools!
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Bartow Middle, Westwood Middle FFA Chapters Named Among “Florida’s Finest”
Bartow Middle, Westwood Middle FFA Chapters Named Among “Florida’s Finest”
04/23/2021
Bartow Middle and Westwood Middle can once again claim to have some of the “finest” FFA programs in our state.
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Socrum Elementary Teacher Gets Creative With Plans for a Drive-in Concert
Socrum Elementary Teacher Gets Creative With Plans for a Drive-in Concert
04/22/2021
As a music teacher, Jessica Gartrell lives for her students’ public performances. With COVID-19 safety restrictions this year, it wasn’t going to be easy — but you can always count on an arts educator to get creative.
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Two IB Bartow Students Win National Merit Scholarships
Two IB Bartow Students Win National Merit Scholarships
04/21/2021
The first list of National Merit Scholarship winners for 2021 has been announced, and it includes two students from International
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Meet Dena Sullivan
PCPS Celebrates National School Library Month: Meet Dena Sullivan
04/20/2021
It’s National School Library Month! Every year, the American Association of School Librarians sets aside the month of April to celebrate the contributions of school librarians and the role of school libraries in students’ education. PCPS has been spotlighting members of our Library Media Services staff throughout the month
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Meet Sara Gossman
National School Library Month: Meet Sara Gossman
04/16/2021
It’s National School Library Month! Every year, the American Association of School Librarians sets aside the month of April to celebrate the contributions of school librarians and the role of school libraries in students’ education. All month long, PCPS will be spotlighting members of our Library Media Services staff. Today we meet Sara Gossman,
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Lake Region High’s Bill Bullock Racks Up Accolades
Lake Region High’s Bill Bullock Racks Up Career Accolades
04/13/2021
Congratulations are in order for Bill Bullock, the head baseball coach and athletics director at Lake Region High
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Jane Jergensen
School Library Month: Meet Jane Jergensen
04/09/2021
It’s School Library Month, which makes it a perfect time to share a news item about Jane Jergensen, the library media specialist at Lena Vista Elementary.
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Mulberry Middle Students Send Postcards to Space, Leading to a Remarkable Act of Kindness
Mulberry Middle Students Send Postcards to Space, Leading to a Remarkable Act of Kindness
04/08/2021
In mid-January, a rocket launched from a site in the West Texas desert and headed into space, becoming yet another successful mission for the aerospace firm Blue Origin. More than a thousand miles away, in a classroom at Mulberry Middle School, Kelly Larrow's students watched the launch broadcast intently. The event was personal.
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Nikki Latarola Image
PCPS Celebrates National School Library Month: Meet Nikki Iatarola
04/05/2021
Every year, the American Association of School Librarians sets aside the month of April to celebrate the contributions of school librarians and the role of school libraries in students’ education. All month long, PCPS will be spotlighting members of our Library Media Services staff.
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U.S. Congressman Recognizes Bartow Middle Teacher With “MVP” Award
U.S. Congressman Recognizes Bartow Middle Teacher With “MVP” Award
03/30/2021
U.S. Rep. Greg Steube visited Bartow Middle School today to personally recognize Michele Parmer, the school’s longtime agriculture teacher.
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School Board Votes to Accept Special Magistrate’s Recommendations on Impasse Issues
School Board Votes to Accept Special Magistrate’s Recommendations on Impasse Issues
03/17/2021
The Polk County School Board conducted a public hearing Tuesday evening to resolve disputed issues in collective bargaining negotiations with the Polk Education Association (PEA).
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Haines City High’s Weightlifting Building to Be Named in Honor of Beloved Coach
Haines City High’s Weightlifting Building to Be Named in Honor of Beloved Coach
03/16/2021
The weightlifting building at Haines City High will soon be named in honor of Olin Gee — the school’s longtime coach, mentor and educator.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Horizons Elementary Second-Grader Tests Skills in 2021 Braille Challenge
03/15/2021
It was a proud day for Horizons Elementary last month when second-grader Harper M. took part in a unique academic competition.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
“Where I Belong”: Mary Isaac Finds Her Careerlong Home at Carlton Palmore Elementary
03/12/2021
As part of its efforts to recognize PCPS employees, the Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships is profiling the district’s longest-serving employees.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Mulberry High Senior Named Florida PASS Student of the Year
03/11/2021
Mulberry High’s Victoria Pineda has been named the Florida PASS Student of the Year.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
National School Social Work Week: Meet Evelyne-Cynthia McDowell
03/11/2021
It’s National School Social Work Week! Every year, the School Social Work Association of America sets aside the first full week of March to recognize the contributions of school social workers.
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Meet Claudette Garcon
National School Social Work Week: Meet Claudette Garcon
03/10/2021
It's National School Social Work Week! Every year, the School Social Work Association of America sets aside the first full week of March to recognize the contributions of school social workers.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
People of PCPS: Ben Ruch on Helping Students Overcome the Challenges of Homelessness
03/10/2021
When some Polk County Public Schools students go “home” at the end of the day, they go to a budget motel, a car, a mobile home divided by shower curtains, or even a shed.
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National School Social Work Week: Meet Victor Flores
National School Social Work Week: Meet Victor Flores
03/09/2021
It's National School Social Work Week! Every year, the School Social Work Association of America sets aside the first full week of March to recognize
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Gail Kimsey
National School Social Work Week: Meet Gail Kimsey
03/08/2021
It's National School Social Work Week! Every year, the School Social Work Association of America sets aside the first full
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Thousands of PCPS Students Enjoy Virtual Performance of Annual “Let Freedom Ring” Concert
Thousands of PCPS Students Enjoy Virtual Performance of Annual “Let Freedom Ring” Concert
03/02/2021
Live concerts have been sorely missed this past year, but thousands of PCPS students were able to enjoy a special performance in their classrooms last week.
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Debra Johnson
Speech Language Pathologist Debra Johnson
03/02/2021
Nearly 60 years ago, as a student at Garner Elementary, Debra Johnson accompanied her younger brother to his after-school speech therapy sessions. She'd play with toys, color pictures, and observe as the therapist helped her brother learn to pronounce “S” sounds.
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First-Generation College-Bound Seniors From Lake Gibson High Receive New Laptops
First-Generation College-Bound Seniors From Lake Gibson High Receive New Laptops
03/01/2021
A group of first-generation college-bound seniors from Lake Gibson High have some new technology to assist their future pursuits.
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Karla Santamaria
“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Karla Santamaria
02/25/2021
February is Love the Bus Month, a monthlong celebration created by the American School Bus Council to honor the contributions of drivers, attendants and all transportation personnel to public education.
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People of PCPS Podcast: Kamyra Farnell-Charles, Bus Driver
People of PCPS Podcast: Kamyra Farnell-Charles, Bus Driver
02/24/2021
This week we've got new episode of the People of PCPS podcast, featuring Kamyra Farnell Charles, a bus driver and former attendant.
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At Daniel Jenkins Academy, Teacher Tara Boucher Finds New Passion in Environmental Science
At Daniel Jenkins Academy, Teacher Tara Boucher Finds New Passion in Environmental Science
02/23/2021
At Daniel Jenkins Academy, Tara Boucher is proving that when you’re a teacher, every school year is a chance to reinvent your classroom, your curriculum — and even yourself.
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“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Clayton Keene
“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Clayton Keene
02/22/2021
February is Love the Bus Month, a monthlong celebration created by the American School Bus Council to honor the contributions of drivers, attendants and all transportation personnel to public education.
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The Ignite Project Podcast: Krista Stanley
The Ignite Project Podcast: Krista Stanley
02/19/2021
We’ve got a new episode of our teacher podcast The Ignite Project, and this one is extra special.
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“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Shemika Davis
“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Shemika Davis
02/19/2021
February is Love the Bus Month, a monthlong celebration created by the American School Bus Council to honor the contributions of drivers, attendants and all transportation personnel to public education.
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George Jenkins High Transition Student
George Jenkins High Transition Student Scores Special Memento, Prepares for His Next Step
02/16/2021
Evan Chappell will soon be leaving George Jenkins High, but he’s already picked out a place on his bedroom wall for a special memento from his alma mater
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“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Kamyra
“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Kamyra
02/15/2021
February is Love the Bus Month, a monthlong celebration created by the American School Bus Council to honor the contributions of drivers, attendants and all transportation personnel to public education.
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Bartow High Naming Ceremony Honors PCPS Construction Coordinator
Bartow High Naming Ceremony Honors PCPS Construction Coordinator
02/12/2021
Rodney Turner was instrumental in building the PCPS of today, and now, his name will forever be part of our district.
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Breaking News for Polk County Schools
Blinding Lights: PCPS Alumni Shine in Super Bowl LV Halftime Show
02/10/2021
On most days, Camerin Leiva is a college student. Kadesh Lewis does carpentry. Zac Marius is an HR professional at a medical office.
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U.S. Department of Education Spotlights Ridge Community High’s Chris Davidson
U.S. Department of Education Spotlights Ridge Community High’s Chris Davidson
02/08/2021
As Super Bowl anticipation continued to build last week, the U.S. Department of Education posted an excellent story about Chris Davidson, head football coach and teacher at Ridge Community High.
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“Love the Bus” Month: Meet Judy Schultheis
PCPS Celebrates “Love the Bus” Month: Meet Judy Schultheis
02/04/2021
February is Love the Bus Month, a monthlong celebration created by the American School Bus Council to honor the contributions of drivers, attendants and all transportation personnel to public education.
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Music Teacher Shelby Montgomery Finds New Ways to Excite Students Amid Pandemic
Music Teacher Shelby Montgomery Finds New Ways to Excite Students Amid Pandemic
02/03/2021
The pandemic has cancelled concerts and conferences, but it’s done nothing to diminish Shelby Montgomery’s determination.
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PCPS Celebrates “Love the Bus” Month
PCPS Celebrates “Love the Bus” Month
02/01/2021
February is Love the Bus Month, a monthlong celebration created by the American School Bus Council to honor the contributions of drivers, attendants and all transportation personnel to public education.
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Representation of a molecular structure
PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2021
01/28/2021
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our Sunshine State Scholars for 2021!
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People of PCPS Podcast: Karen Hagerty’s Career is Filled With Inspiring Stories of Nontraditional Students
People of PCPS Podcast: Karen Hagerty’s Career is Filled With Inspiring Stories of Nontraditional Students
01/27/2021
When Karen Hagerty thinks back on her 18-year teaching career, there’s one student in particular who stands out: a man who served in the military, earned a college degree, and become an engineer — all without ever earning a high school diploma.
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2021 Winners Image
Polk County Public Schools Announces 2021 Teacher of the Year, School-Related Employee of the Year
01/21/2021
Maude Graham, a third-grade teacher at Rosabelle W. Blake Academy, was unveiled tonight as the 2021 Polk County Teacher of the Year.
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PCPS Celebrates MLK Essay Challenge Winners
PCPS Celebrates MLK Essay Challenge Winners
01/15/2021
Polk County Public Schools is proud to celebrate our student winners in the 20th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge.
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PCPS Mourns Bill Bell
PCPS Mourns Bill Bell, Longtime Teacher and School Administrator
01/13/2021
Polk County Public Schools is mourning Bill Bell, a longtime teacher and school administrator, who used his own insatiable curiosity for science, technology and nature to inspire generations of students.
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Carole Martin on Podcast
People of PCPS Podcast: For Cafeteria Manager Carole Martin, Food Has Personal Connections
01/13/2021
For Carole Martin, food is a career, an enduring connection with her late son, and her way of making a difference in the lives of her students
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Student Benefit Clothes Closet
Haines City High Creates Clothes Closet to Benefit Students in Need
01/12/2021
Haines City High students no longer have to go without clean clothes, hygiene items or school supplies, thanks to a project spearheaded by IB Resource Specialist Morgan Hammett
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HSHC Garden
Seeds for Learning: Haines City High School Teacher Helps Create Community Garden
01/05/2021
Photo of students working on the community garden in Haines City Within the garden that Haines City High algebra teacher Martina White helped to create near downtown Haines City, the tomatoes are blooming
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Carley Jackson Art Student
PCPS Transition Student Found Her Passion – and Career Path – in Art
12/03/2020
Polk County Public Schools’ Transition program is designed to help adult students with special needs develop workforce skill
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Kiana Leslie
Disability Awareness Month: Kiana Leslie Keeps Moving Forward
11/02/2020
It was one lap around the track at Lake Gibson Middle School, but for Millicent Whitehead, it was proof that her daughter, who has cerebral palsy, is going to go far in life
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Volunteer of the year medal
PCPS Honors Volunteer of the Year Winners With Surprise Recognitions
09/21/2020
Polk County Public Schools and MidFlorida Credit Union recently honored the school district’s 2020 Volunteers of the Year with surprise, pandemic-safe recognitions at each volunteer’s school.
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Doris A. Sanders Student Has “Blossomed”
09/18/2020
When Chloe Wilson’s teachers think back on all she’s done in her time at Doris A. Sanders Learning Center, one of the first things
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Molly Sansom
School Support Helped Jean O’ Dell Student Develop Talents and Life Skills
09/17/2020
Molly Sansom is many things besides the brain injury she suffered at birth and the learning disability that resulted
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Electrical Worker
A Career Spark: Apprenticeship Program Readies Students for Better-Paying Electrician Jobs
12/19/2019
A student working as an electrician Polk County Public Schools’ partnership with a local trade group is preparing residents for better-paying jobs as electricians
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Polk County Public Schools News Release
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Tamara Lofgren New Career
PCPS Helps Teacher Candidates Succeed with Free Test Review Sessions
07/10/2019
After raising four kids, caring for developmentally delayed adults and working for nearly two decades as a paraprofessional, Tamara Lofgren will soon begin a new career as a fourth-grade teacher at Southwest Elementary.
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Hall of Fame May 2019
PCPS Announces 2019 Hall of Fame Inductees
05/28/2019
Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce the district’s Hall of Fame inductees for 2019.
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