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Sherry Scott: Focused on Excellence

02/11/2026

Sherry is PCPS’ senior director of Student Services.

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Jewett Middle Team Wins MathCounts Competition

02/10/2026

A team of Jewett Middle Academy students have officially been crowned masters of mathematics!

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Early Childhood Applications Available for 2026-27

02/10/2026

Applications for PCPS Early Childhood programs are now live!

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Focused on Excellence: Humberto Rodriguez

02/05/2026

Humberto is a senior coordinator with our Instruction and Curriculum team.

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PCPS “Rising Star” Teachers Announced for 2025-26

02/03/2026

Twenty-two PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma (DKG).

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Winners Announced for 25th Annual MLK Essay Challenge

02/02/2026

Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 25th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!

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IB Bartow Student Wins Congressional App Challenge

01/30/2026

IB Bartow Student Wins Congressional App Challenge

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School Board Approves New High School Attendance Boundaries

01/27/2026

School Board Approves New High School Attendance Boundaries

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State Assessment Info for Homeschool Families and Scholarship Students

01/26/2026

Participation in the Florida Department of Education’s state assessment administrations

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for January 2026

01/23/2026

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Focused on Excellence: Kelly O’Neal

01/22/2026

Kelly is the school nurse at Union Academy.

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PCPS Athletics Shapes Hearts, Minds, and Futures

01/20/2026

Last year, more than 12,000 middle and high students participated in PCPS athletic programs

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Florida's Future: Powered by Public Schools

01/20/2026

Polk County Public Schools, in conjunction with the Florida Association of District School Superintendents (FADSS), is pleased to announce the launch of Florida’s Future: Powered by Public Schools Communications Initiative.

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Focused on Excellence: Peter McDougall

01/16/2026

Peter is the principal of Bella Citta.

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PCPS Makes History With Graduation Rate

01/14/2026

We’re in the graduation business … and business is booming!

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Cendall Williams from Harrison School for the Arts

Harrison Student Wins Prestigious YoungArts Award

01/13/2026

Cendall Williams from Harrison School for the Arts is among the winners of this year’s prestigious YoungArts awards.

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History-Making STEM Teacher Visits Wahneta Elementary

01/13/2026

Aymette Medina Jorge, who was part of a suborbital space flight last year on a Blue Origin New Shepard rocket, was the special guest for Wahneta’s Space Day event.

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PCPS School Choice Application Window Is Open

01/12/2026

PCPS School Choice Application Window Is Open

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Focused on Excellence: Nadia Lewis

01/09/2026

Nadia is the principal at Stephens Academy.

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Focused on Excellence: Eric Hutchinson

12/18/2025

Let’s do another Focused on Excellence before the holidays!

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PCPS Celebrates Kiddie Christmas 2025

12/16/2025

It’s never too early for Christmas!

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Bartow Middle Celebrates New Gymnasium Project

12/12/2025

Around this time next year, Bartow Middle will be unwrapping its first-ever gymnasium.

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Focused on Excellence: Kirk Hansen

12/11/2025

Congratulations to our next Focused on Excellence winner:

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Two IB Bartow Seniors Selected for QuestBridge Scholarship Program

12/10/2025

Jacob Heist and Maia Munera were among 2,550 seniors selected for this year’s QuestBridge National College Match. Heist received a full scholarship to Cornell University, and Munera received a scholarship to Rice University.

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Focused on Excellence: Mary Fisher

12/02/2025

Focused on Excellence: Mary Fisher

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DHH Parent Academy Set for Dec. 10

11/20/2025

You’re welcome to join us for the DHH Parent Academy on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

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PCSB Welcomes New Member

11/19/2025

The Polk County School Board welcomed a new member last night.

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Focused on Excellence: Teddy Brown

11/18/2025

Teddy is the principal at Lake Alfred Poly.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for November 2025

11/17/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Input Needed for Public Services Survey

11/14/2025

Polk County Public Schools has offered to help inform Polk residents about this survey, which was developed as an initiative of Polk County government and Polk Vision.

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PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2026

11/13/2025

PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2026

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Spook Hill Elementary Cafeteria Ribbon Cutting Group Photo

Spook Hill Elementary Shows Off New Cafeteria

11/13/2025

We gathered at Spook Hill today to officially cut the ribbon on the school’s 17,000-square-foot facility.

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Announcing the 2025-26 Teacher and SRE of the Year

11/07/2025

Announcing the 2025-26 Teacher and SRE of the Year

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PCPS Announces 2025-26 Principals of the Year

10/29/2025

Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our district’s Principals and Assistant Principal of the Year!

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Rochelle’s Simoni Bonadies Named Educator of the Year

10/28/2025

Simoni Bonadies Named Educator of the Year

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We broke ground on a new gymnasium at Lakeland Highlands Middle!

PCPS Breaks Ground on New Gym at Lakeland Highlands Middle

10/27/2025

We broke ground on a new gymnasium at Lakeland Highlands Middle!

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for October 2025

10/27/2025

Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for October 2025

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Your opinion matters! Take our online survey!

Your opinion matters! Take the PCPS online survey!

10/21/2025

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Open Enrollment for PCPS Employee Benefits Ends Oct 31

10/20/2025

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Email Message Sent to Florida School Districts Not Credible

10/15/2025

We want to inform you about a message received by school districts and universities in Florida.

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Pre-qualification Of Vendors For Priced-based Solicitations For Construction Projects

10/09/2025

The School Board of Polk County ("District") invites qualified vendors with current licenses in the State of Florida to register for the District's Pre-Qualification Vendor Program.

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PCPS Seeking Instructional Review Volunteers for CTE

10/09/2025

Polk County Public Schools is starting the adoption process for Career and Technical Education (CTE) instructional materials for secondary students in grades 6-12.

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2026 Graduation Schedule Now Available

10/09/2025

The graduation schedule for the PCPS Class of 2026 is now available!

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Jenna-Claire Sierzego from Lake Region High

LRHS Student is a National Merit Semifinalist

10/07/2025

Sierzego enrolled at LRHS this year from out of state.

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Update on Teacher Salary Increase Allocation (TSIA) Negotiations

09/30/2025

Update on Teacher Salary Increase Allocation (TSIA) Negotiations

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PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/30/2025

PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

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PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/25/2025

We’re back with more Inspire Awards finalists! Congratulations to our winners from District 2

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Firearms Are Prohibited on All PCPS Properties

09/24/2025

PCPS families and community members

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25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge Graphic

Annual MLK Essay Challenge Open to Polk Students; Deadline is Nov. 3

09/23/2025

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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Marissa Beck-Dean Receives Teacher of Excellence Award

09/22/2025

Marissa Beck-Dean Receives Teacher of Excellence Award

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PCPS Seeking Instructional Review Volunteers

09/22/2025

PCPS Seeking Instructional Review Volunteers

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PCPS Announces Principal of the Year Nominees

09/16/2025

The principal and assistant principal honorees were nominated by PCPS regional superintendents and approved by district leadership. The two overall winners will be announced at the Polk County School Board meeting on Oct. 28, and also recognized at the Inspire Awards on Nov. 7.

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PCPS Announces District 5 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/12/2025

PCPS Announces District 5 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

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Six PCPS Students Announced as National Merit Semifinalists for 2025-26

09/10/2025

Six students from Polk County Public Schools are among this year’s semifinalists for National Merit Scholarships.

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Share Your Thoughts! Attend our Townhalls on Proposed High school rezoning

Town Halls Scheduled on High School Rezoning Plans

09/04/2025

Polk County Public Schools is exploring various options for adjusting the attendance boundaries of high schools.

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PCPS Counselor Rachel Coombs Wins Rising Star Award

09/03/2025

Carlton Palmore Elementary’s Rachel Coombs has received the inaugural Rising Star Award!

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PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

08/29/2025

District 7 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

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PCPS Announces District 3 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

08/29/2025

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PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

08/27/2025

Heads up, here come two more Inspire Awards finalists!

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PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for 2025-26 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

08/26/2025

Inspire Awards season is here again, and we’re ready to announce our finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!

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PCPS Mourns the Passing of School Board Member Rick Nolte

08/20/2025

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PCPS Improves District Grade, Earns a "B"

08/19/2025

We just got our report card, and Polk County Public Schools is B-B-B-Back!

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CFAA Students Win NASA Competition

08/18/2025

The CFAA team was announced as a winner of NASA’s TechRise Student Challenge for 2024-25. There were just 60 winners nationwide, and CFAA was the only team from Florida.

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Important Updates on Student Devices

08/15/2025

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for August 2025

08/11/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Focused on Excellence: Zach View

08/06/2025

Let’s take a look at our final Focused on Excellence winner for 2024-25: Zach View from PCPS EERS!

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Lake Gibson Middle Celebrates New Gym

08/05/2025

We visited LGMS last week to cut the ribbon on the school’s new facility. It’s the first indoor gym in school history.

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Focused on Excellence: Tim Sherman

08/05/2025

It’s a terrific Tuesday for our next Focused on Excellence winner: Tim Sherman from PCPS Federal Programs!

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Focused on Excellence: Janet Robinson

08/04/2025

Kicking off the week with our next Focused on Excellence winner: Janet Robinson from PCPS Career, Technical and Adult Education!

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PCPS Preparing for High School Rezoning

08/01/2025

It’s no secret that Polk County is a growing community, with some areas experiencing significant population shifts over the last decade.

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Focused on Excellence: Delven Reed

07/31/2025

Congratulations to our next Focused on Excellence winner: PCPS warehouse manager Delven Reed!

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Volunteers Needed for Review of Fine Arts Instructional Materials

07/31/2025

The school district’s Department of Fine Arts is looking for volunteers to serve as members of the Fine Arts Instructional Materials Adoption Committee.

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Focused on Excellence: Richard Giroux

07/30/2025

Richard works with our Assessment, Accountability and Evaluation team.

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PCPS Hosts Summer Commencement

07/29/2025

We’re almost ready to start the new school year, but first, a final salute to the Class of 2025.

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Modernized Elbert Elementary Prepares to Open

07/29/2025

We’re almost ready to welcome the Eagles back to Elbert Elementary!

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Focused on Excellence: Meiling Feliciano Ruiz

07/29/2025

Meiling is the head custodian/foreman at Citrus Ridge.

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Focused on Excellence: Teresa Cain

07/28/2025

Please join us in congratulating our next Focused on Excellence winner: Teresa Cain from Kathleen Middle!

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Focused on Excellence: Troy Buell

07/24/2025

Troy is a pest control technician with our maintenance team.

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Focused on Excellence: Dennis Boltin

07/23/2025

Dennis manages one of our area shops that does maintenance work for the district.

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Focused on Excellence: Hortencia “Rosa” Alfonso

07/22/2025

osa is a custodian at LHS. Staff members say she’s extremely dedicated, loved by all, and a “truly valued part of our school.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for July 2025

07/21/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Focused on Excellence: Lauren Yearry

07/21/2025

Lauren taught science/agriculture at Dundee Elementary last year, and is heading to Davenport High for 2025-26.

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Magnet School Acceptances Going Out July 21

07/17/2025

PCPS is sending out more acceptance notices for families who have pending applications for magnet schools for 2025-26.

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Focused on Excellence: Denise Williams

07/17/2025

Denise is an ESE inclusion teacher at Sikes.

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PCPS Facing Potential Budget Challenges

07/17/2025

PCPS is facing potential budget challenges. Learn how you can help.

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Focused on Excellence: Courtney Upton

07/16/2025

Courtney teaches third grade at Winston Academy.

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Focused on Excellence: Trae Stokes

07/15/2025

Congratulations to our next Focused on Excellence winner: PCPS teacher Trae Stokes!

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Tips for New PCPS Families

07/14/2025

Summer is moving fast! 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 Unveils New ATC Training Technology

07/14/2025

Polk County Public Schools recently unveiled state-of-the-art simulators, which will be used to train students seeking careers as air traffic controllers (ATC).

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Focused on Excellence: Gabrielle Roman

07/14/2025

Gabrielle teaches fifth grade at Spessard.

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PCPS and Polk State College Launch New Program

07/09/2025

We are so delighted to partner with Polk State College for our new Teacher Apprenticeship Program!

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Winter Haven High Team Wins First Place at TSA

07/09/2025

Who has some of the best student video gurus in the nation ... and world? It's Winter Haven High!

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Focused on Excellence: Tanya Ramirez

07/08/2025

Tanya is an English language arts teacher at Citrus Ridge.

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PCPS Adjusting Football Ticket Prices for 2025-26

07/07/2025

Polk County Public Schools has announced upcoming increases to varsity football ticket prices

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Focused on Excellence: Simoni Limeira-Bonadies

06/30/2025

Simoni is a visual arts teacher at Rochelle.

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Attention Bus Drivers Bus Attendants Notice Of Election

Attention Bus Drivers and Bus Attendants: Election Will Be Held July 16 & July 17

06/26/2025

An election will be held for PCPS appointed bus drivers and bus attendants to determine whether they want to continue to be represented by AFSCME Florida Council 79 (AFL-CIO), Local 2227 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees for the purpose of collective bargaining with the school district.

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PCPS Students Compete at High School BBQ Championship

06/24/2025

PCPS Students Compete at High School BBQ Championship

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Focused on Excellence: Brittany Keller

06/24/2025

Congratulations to our next Focused on Excellence winner: Brittany Keller from Lake Alfred Elementary!

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More Magnet School Acceptances Going Out June 25

06/23/2025

PCPS is sending out more acceptance notices for families who have pending applications for magnet schools for 2025-26.

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Focused on Excellence: Hailey Keene

06/23/2025

Hailey teaches third grade at Chain of Lakes.

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Focused on Excellence: Mary Deal

06/16/2025

Mary teaches kindergarten at Alturas.

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Jessica Casey, kindergarten teacher, Sleepy Hill Elementary

Focused on Excellence: Jessica Casey

06/11/2025

Congratulations to our next Focused on Excellence winner: Jessica Casey from Sleepy Hill Elementary!

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Polk Students Celebrated at Poetry Awards

06/10/2025

PCPS hosted the 49th annual Poetry Awards last month at Florida Southern College, recognizing more than 230 students from local public, private and charter schools. Each student became a published poet, with their work appearing in the 2025 Polk County Schools Poetry Anthology.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for June 2025

06/09/2025

Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for June 2025

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Two More National Merit Winners From PCPS

06/04/2025

Polk County Public Schools has two more National Merit Scholarship winners this year.

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Five PCPS Educators Complete High Impact Teacher Corps

06/04/2025

We are proud to celebrate five PCPS educators who were part of the state’s High Impact Teacher Corps (HITC) this year.

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Free Meals Available This Summer in Polk

06/03/2025

Locations throughout Polk will be providing free breakfast and lunch to children 18 and under.

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Focused on Excellence: Misty Beynon

06/03/2025

School has ended, but Focused on Excellence must go on!

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Update on Controlled Open Enrollment, Magnet School Applications

05/28/2025

PCPS is taking more applications for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.

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Backpack Procedures for Final Week of School

05/22/2025

Beginning Tuesday, May 27, no backpacks will be allowed at all PCPS school sites for students in grades 3-12

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PCPS FFA Programs Earn “Premier Chapter” Status

05/15/2025

The Florida FFA Association has announced the state’s Premier Chapters this year, and several PCPS schools made the list!

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Mulberry High Educator and Kathleen Middle Win Farm Bureau Awards

05/14/2025

Mulberry High Educator and Kathleen Middle Win Farm Bureau Awards

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Focused on Excellence: Stacy Stedem-Wyma

05/08/2025

Stacy is a reading coach at Winston Academy.

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IB Haines City’s Madelyn Vido wins National Merit Scholarship

05/07/2025

Madelyn Vido from IB Haines City has won a National Merit Scholarship.

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PCPS Seeking Nominations for District Advisory Council for 2025-26

05/07/2025

Polk County Public Schools is seeking nominations for our District Advisory Council (DAC).

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Mr. Keir and Ms. Braaten Principal of DSA

DSA Honors Founding Principal Brian Kier

05/06/2025

On April 25, the school held a dedication ceremony to celebrate the naming of its music building and outdoor stage in honor of Kier, who was DSA’s founding principal.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for May 2025

05/05/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Focused on Excellence: Robyn Smith

05/01/2025

Robyn is a driver in our Area 5 region.

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Volunteer of the Year goodie bag - PCPA Hat, Cup, and Bag

PCPS Announces Volunteers of the Year for 2024-25

04/25/2025

Today we gathered to honor the school-level Volunteers of the Year for 2024-25, and name the district winners. Volunteers are critical to the success of our students and schools, and we greatly appreciate all who choose to serve with PCPS.

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Alexander White from IB Bartow has won a National Merit Scholarship.

IB Bartow’s Alexander White Wins National Merit Scholarship

04/23/2025

Alexander White from IB Bartow has won a National Merit Scholarship.

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Focused on Excellence: Denise Sepulveda

04/23/2025

Denise is a school social worker for our district.

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COE and Magnet School Acceptances Going out May 6

04/21/2025

PCPS expects to send out Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) acceptances on Tuesday, May 6.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for April 2025

04/17/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Focused on Excellence: Lorraine Robinson

04/15/2025

Lorraine is a driver in our Area 7 region.

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PCPS Seeking Feedback on Stronger Connections Grant

04/14/2025

This grant provides us with vital funding to establish and support safer and healthier learning environments for our students and community.

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Polk County School Board Interviewing Attorney Candidates

04/11/2025

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New School Bus Mobile App Now Available to All PCPS Families

PCPS Bus Delays Page No Longer Available After April 15

04/10/2025

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Camp Early Bird Online Registartion will open on Wednesday, April 16 at 8:00 am

Camp Early Bird Registration Begins April 16

04/09/2025

Camp Early Bird will be held from June 4-26. This free program is being hosted at specific elementary schools in Polk County.

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Focused on Excellence: Alejandra Reyes Landron

04/07/2025

Alejandra is a school psychologist for our district.

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School Choice Application Responses Due By April 7

04/01/2025

This is a reminder for PCPS families who have pending school choice offers for magnet/choice schools, career academies, and IB/Cambridge for the 2025-26 school year.

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People working on concrete viewing the new Alta Vista Location Scenic Terrace

PCPS Considering Relocation for Alta Vista Elementary

04/01/2025

Alta Vista’s current campus is aging and must undergo a complete modernization. Unfortunately, the school is landlocked, and there isn’t enough space for students and staff to stay on campus while construction takes place. After a lot of discussion, PCPS has proposed permanently relocating Alta Vista to the Scenic Terrace site, located nearby in Haines City.

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Celebrating Student Progress at the PCPS About-Face Awards

03/28/2025

We believe in the power of self-improvement!

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Focused on Excellence: Cleveland Court Elementary

Focused on Excellence: Sarah Lindgren

03/26/2025

Sarah is the school nutrition manager at Cleveland Court.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for March 2025

03/25/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. today (Tuesday, March 25), followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Jennifer Wilkinson Named Florida Art Educator of the Year

03/24/2025

Jennifer Wilkinson from Lakeland Highlands Middle has been named a Florida Art Educator of the Year

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Focused on Excellence: Jaime Hayden

03/12/2025

Jaime is a school counselor for Polk Virtual.

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Controlled Open Enrollment Begins April 7

03/11/2025

PCPS will begin accepting COE applications on Monday, April 7. Applications must be submitted online through Parent Portal. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 2.

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PCPS Celebrates Expansion at Bella Citta

03/10/2025

Bella Citta originally opened in 2021 as an elementary school, but the campus has gradually expanded to serve middle school students in the rapidly growing Davenport area.

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PCPS Serves Up Beach Volleyball Project

03/06/2025

PCPS started a new project this year to add beach volleyball courts to our high schools.

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Focused on Excellence: Bonnie Gaynair

03/05/2025

Bonnie is a social worker with the PCPS Teen Parent Program. And it’s perfect timing, since this is School Social Work Week!

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PCPS School Choice Acceptances Going Out March 25

03/04/2025

PCPS will send out acceptance notices for magnet/choice schools, career academies, and IB/Cambridge for the 2025-26 school year on Tuesday, March 25.

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PCPS Announces CTE Students and Teachers of the Year

02/28/2025

At this week’s Polk County School Board meeting, we announced our CTE Students and Teachers of the Year. This is a new initiative recognizing honorees from PCPS Career Academies nominated by their peers and administrators.

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Focused on Excellence: Tom Gamache

02/24/2025

Tom is a behavior interventionist at Loughman Oaks.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for February 2025

02/21/2025

The Polk County School Board will have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Focused on Excellence: Jenna Ebbole

02/19/2025

Jenna is an instructional coach at Lincoln Avenue.

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March 14 Changed to Early Dismissal Day

02/14/2025

Just a quick update on our school calendar: Friday, March 14, is being converted to an early dismissal day

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Focused on Excellence: Blanca Ardila Mora

02/12/2025

Blanca is a school social worker, and she received nearly 10 nominations for this honor!

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Cora Rankins, a teacher from Socrum Elementary

Musick Roofing Awards New Roofs to Five PCPS Educators

02/11/2025

A Polk County business is truly raising the roof for our educators this year.

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Staff standing in front of the New Agriculture Facility

Lake Region High Cuts Ribbon on New Agriculture Facility

02/10/2025

The facility gives LRHS an additional 2,145 square feet of space for ag studies. It’s located close to the school’s exterior ag area, which cuts down on travel time for students who participate in hands-on lessons in farming and livestock.

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Focused on Excellence: Susan Cannon

02/05/2025

Susan is a reading coach at FMMSH.

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PCPS “Rising Star” Teachers Announced for 2024-25

01/27/2025

Twenty new PCPS teachers have made this year’s list of “Rising Stars” by Delta Kappa Gamma.

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Focused on Excellence: Hilary Wright

01/27/2025

And our next Focused on Excellence winner is … Hilary Wright from Citrus Ridge: A Civics Academy!

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Winners Announced for 24th Annual MLK Essay Challenge

01/24/2025

Congratulations to the winners of Polk County’s 24rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Challenge!

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New Guidance Issued for PCPS Volunteers

01/24/2025

Polk County Public Schools has received new guidance about state-mandated volunteer background screening requirements going into effect this year.

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Early Childhood Applications Open Jan. 27

01/23/2025

Applications for PCPS Early Childhood programs will go live on Monday, Jan. 27.

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Focused on Excellence: Jane Stauffer

01/22/2025

Jane is the principal’s secretary at Philip O’Brien.

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Focused on Excellence: Leah Shireman

01/17/2025

Happy Friday, let’s get Focused on Excellence!

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PCPS Closed for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

01/17/2025

This is just a reminder that all PCPS schools and offices will be closed this Monday, Jan. 20

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PCPS Hiring Bus Drivers

01/15/2025

Come drive for PCPS this year! Our next bus driver training starts in early February.

Read More about PCPS Hiring Bus Drivers

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Focused on Excellence: Elizabeth Munoz

01/14/2025

Focused on Excellence resumes for 2025, and the next winner is ... Elizabeth Munoz from Eastside Elementary!

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New School Bus Mobile App Now Available to All PCPS Families!

01/13/2025

Polk County Public Schools is using new technology to improve how we track our school buses, as well as monitor student ridership.

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PCPS School Choice Application Window Opens Jan. 13

01/10/2025

Polk County Public Schools will accept school choice applications for the upcoming 2025-26 school year beginning Monday, Jan. 13.

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Polk County School Board Meeting Schedule for January 2025

01/10/2025

The board will also have a work session at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 28, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 5 p.m.

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Important Changes to MYPCPSHEALTH--Employee Health Care Plan

12/20/2024

There are some important changes coming to MYPCPSHEALTH

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Abigail Dowdy, a junior at Central Florida Aerospace Academy

Aerospace Academy Student Featured on PBS’ Women in Aviation

12/19/2024

Abigail Dowdy, a junior at Central Florida Aerospace Academy

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PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2025

12/19/2024

Congratulations to PCPS’ Sunshine State Scholars for 2025: Gabriel Bourque from George Jenkins High, Owen Harrell from Fort Meade Middle-Senior High, and Jacob White from Auburndale High.

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Focused on Excellence: Ashley Menetre

12/17/2024

Ashley is the principal at Lena Vista.

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PCPS Celebrates Annual Kiddie Christmas Event

12/17/2024

PCPS Celebrates Annual Kiddie Christmas Event

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Library Opt-Out System Reopens Jan. 6-17

12/16/2024

Polk County Public Schools will open our library opt-out system from Jan. 6-17, 2025 for the spring semester.

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Changes Required for PCPS Volunteers

12/12/2024

Due to recent statutory changes adopted by the Florida Legislature, Polk County Public Schools will no longer accept new volunteer or renewal applications effective Dec. 20, 2024.

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Focused on Excellence: Angela Love

12/11/2024

Angela is the principal’s secretary at Fort Meade.

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Two IB Bartow Seniors Receive QuestBridge Scholarships

12/05/2024

Two seniors from IB Bartow have been awarded scholarships through the prestigious QuestBridge program.

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Focused on Excellence: Stephanie Huber

12/05/2024

Stephanie is an assistant principal at Southwest Middle, and she also happens to the PCPS Assistant Principal of the Year for 2024-25!

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Focused on Excellence: Brad Hiers

12/03/2024

Congratulations to our next Focused on Excellence winner: Brad Hiers from George Jenkins High!

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PCPS Announces Presidential Scholars for 2025

11/20/2024

Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our honorees for the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

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Focused on Excellence: Maude Frazier

11/19/2024

And the next Focused on Excellence winner is … Maude Frazier from Socrum Elementary!

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Focused on Excellence: Shannon Brown

11/13/2024

And the next Focused on Excellence winner is … Shannon Brown from Davenport Elementary!

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Teacher of the Year and SRE of The Year 2023-2024

Announcing the 2024-25 Teacher and SRE of the Year

11/08/2024

Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!

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Graduate wearing blue robe laughing at the confetti

Class of 2025 Graduation Dates Announced

11/05/2024

The graduation schedule is now available for the Polk County Public Schools Class of 2025.

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Focused on Excellence: Margaret Birge

11/01/2024

Focused on Excellence is back for 2024-25! And our first winner is … Margaret Birge from Bartow High!

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PCPS Cuts Ribbon on McLaughlin Academy Gymnasium

10/31/2024

We gathered at McLaughlin Academy of Excellence today to formally cut the ribbon on the school’s new gymnasium.

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PCPS Announces 2024-25 Principals of the Year

10/23/2024

Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our district’s principals of the year!

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Hurricane Milton Shelter Sites and Information

10/10/2024

In response to Hurricane Milton, Polk County Public Schools has been directed by county emergency officials to activate certain schools to serve as storm shelters for those evacuating their homes. IMPORTANT: NOT ALL PCPS SCHOOL SITES WILL BE SERVING AS STORM SHELTERS. ONLY THE SCHOOLS LISTED ARE BEING ACTIVATED. DO NOT PROCEED TO A SCHOOL UNTIL YOU CHECK THE LIST AND CONFIRM IT WILL OPEN AND OPERATE AS A SHELTER SITE.

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Storm Update: PCPS Schools/Offices Closed Tuesday through Friday

10/08/2024

Please be advised that all PCPS schools and offices will remain closed through Friday, Oct. 11, in response to this storm. If you need to seek shelter, visit polkschoolsfl.com/shelters for locations and more shelter information.

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PCPS Announces District 6 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

10/01/2024

PCPS has recognized finalists from all seven districts, and the overall winners will be announced at the Inspire Awards presented by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union. The Inspire Awards will be held on Nov. 8 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. The Polk Education Foundation and PCPS’ Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships collaborate to present this annual event.

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PCPS Hosting College Application Sessions in October

09/30/2024

PCPS is hosting FREE workshops across Polk County next month to help students and families with the Common Application.

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Teach of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year for District 3

PCPS Announces District 3 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/23/2024

ongratulations to our next group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!

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Think Before You Post! Threats Carry Serious Consequences.

Superintendent's Safety Message

09/18/2024

Dear Parents and Guardians, I am writing to emphasize our district's unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students and staff.

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Five PCPS Students Announced as National Merit Semifinalists for 2024-25

09/11/2024

Five students from Polk County Public Schools are among this year’s semifinalists for National Merit Scholarships.

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District 5 Venecia Arias-Gowdy, Teacher of the Year finalist and Alexia Gardner, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist

PCPS Announces District 5 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/10/2024

District 5 Venecia Arias-Gowdy, Teacher of the Year finalist and Alexia Gardner, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist

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Mia Holden, Teacher of the Year finalist, ESE inclusion teacher, Brigham Academy and Ervie Louis, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, paraeducator, Jewett School of the Arts

PCPS Announces District 4 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/09/2024

District 4 Finalist Mia Holden, Teacher of the Year finalist, ESE inclusion teacher, Brigham Academy and Ervie Louis, School-Related Employee of the Year finalist, paraeducator, Jewett School of the Arts

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PCPS Announces District 2 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/04/2024

Congratulations to our next group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!

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PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

08/29/2024

Congratulations to our next group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.

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PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for 2024-25 Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

08/27/2024

Awards season is here! Congratulations to our first group of finalists for the 2024-25 Polk County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.

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IB Bartow Celebrates 94% Diploma Pass Rate

08/21/2024

IB Bartow's Class of 2024 achieved a 94% pass rate for their IB diplomas, which was up from 85% the year before. That's a big deal!

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Disney Goofy taking a picture with a teacher at Crystal Lake Elementary

Disney Makes Surprise Visit to Crystal Lake Elementary

08/16/2024

Disney icons Goofy and Pluto recently visited the school and handed out tickets to Walt Disney World!

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Focused on Excellence: Alfred Williams

08/09/2024

Alfred is the daytime custodian at Lewis Anna Woodbury, and has worked there for 30 years! He's considered an "all-around hero" for the way he assists staff and keeps the school in good condition.

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Focused on Excellence: Raquel “Rocky” Sanchez

08/08/2024

Rocky is a preventive recording specialist with our Maintenance Services department, in the Winter Haven 5 service center.

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Side of Bella Citta with covered area and new expansion

Bella Citta Debuts New Middle School Facilities

08/07/2024

Bella Citta opened as an elementary school in 2021-22, and the school has been expanding to a K-8 to accommodate the rapidly growing Davenport community.

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Focused on Excellence: Melissa Northup

08/07/2024

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Focused on Excellence: Julie Noel

08/06/2024

Julie was a literacy curriculum specialist for our Teaching and Learning department, and she just retired earlier this summer.

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Focused on Excellence Edwin Melendez Mercado

08/05/2024

Focused on Excellence Edwin Melendez Mercado

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Focused on Excellence: Mandy Matha

08/02/2024

Mandy is the lead nighttime custodian at Caldwell Elementary. She helps keep the campus looking good, but says there are other aspects to her job that are just as important.

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Focused on Excellence: Vickie Griffis

08/01/2024

Vickie is a budget analyst with our Learning Support division. She's also known for her work to secure resources and assistance for high school seniors who are experiencing homeless.

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Focused on Excellence: Regina Dixon

07/31/2024

Regina is the lead daytime custodian at PCPS’ Jim Miles Professional Development Center.

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Focused on Excellence Winner Antwon Carter poses for photo.

Focused on Excellence: Antwon Carter

07/30/2024

Congratulations to our next winner: Antwon Carter from George Jenkins High!

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Photo of graduates looking up as confetti falls down

PCPS Hosts Summer Commencement

07/30/2024

The event recognizes seniors from across the district who have worked hard during the summer to fulfill missing requirements for graduation.

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Welcome to 3DE Lake Region High School with an image of Lake Region High School

PCPS Expanding 3DE Program to Lake Region High

07/29/2024

The program, created by Junior Achievement, connects schools and business partners to provide students with real-world knowledge and experiences. Students get to participate in business case studies and develop solutions for use in various industries.

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Focused on Excellence: Virginia Stiefel

07/18/2024

Virginia is a kindergarten teacher at Chain of Lakes.

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Focused on Excellence: Brianna Turner

07/18/2024

Brianna teaches second grade at Stephens Academy.

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Focused on Excellence: Sherry Scott

07/17/2024

Sherry is the culinary arts teacher at George Jenkins High, serving there for about 10 years.

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Focused on Excellence: Katelin Padden

07/16/2024

Katelin teaches fifth grade at Socrum Elementary

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Focused on Excellence: Lauren Nettles

07/15/2024

Lauren teaches first grade at Highlands Grove.

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Focused on Excellence: Julia Hedman

07/11/2024

This is the third group of winners for 2023-24. Julia is an ESE teacher with our Hospital Homebound program, which serves students dealing with extended medical conditions.

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Focused on Excellence: Carmen Gobble

07/10/2024

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Tips for New PCPS Families Enrolling for 2024-25

07/09/2024

Tips for New PCPS Families Enrolling for 2024-25

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Hurricane Message for PCPS Families and Staff

07/08/2024

Polk County Public Schools is prepared to serve should storms arise and threaten our community, or neighboring counties.

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Crane lifting the first wall for the new Elbert Elementary

Construction Update on Elbert Elementary’s Modernization

07/01/2024

Construction Update on Elbert Elementary’s Modernization

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PCPS Celebrates Young Poets at 48th Annual Awards Ceremony

06/26/2024

PCPS Celebrates Young Poets at 48th Annual Awards Ceremony

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Focused on Excellence: Jennie Cyran

06/26/2024

Focused on Excellence: Jennie Cyran

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Focused on Excellence: Kimberly Crandall

06/20/2024

And the next Focused on Excellence winner is … Kimberly Crandall from Bartow Middle!

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Ann Tankson Standing in front of the Ann Tankson Media Center Sign

Sleepy Hill Middle Honors Ann Tankson

06/19/2024

Today we gathered at Sleepy Hill Middle to celebrate a very special lady: Ann Tankson.

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Caitlin is an English language arts teacher at Mulberry High.

Focused on Excellence: Caitlin Craft

06/17/2024

Caitlin is an English language arts teacher at Mulberry High.

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PCPS Seeking Nominations for District Advisory Council for 24-25

06/13/2024

This is an opportunity to get involved in your local school system, and support our critical mission to provide a high-quality education to all students, preparing them for successful lives beyond the classroom.

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Five IB Bartow Students Receive National Merit Scholarships

06/05/2024

Five students from International Baccalaureate Bartow have been announced as National Merit Scholarship winners.

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PCPS Sending Out Magnet School Acceptances June 11

06/05/2024

PCPS will conduct another drawing for magnet school applications, and send out acceptances on Tuesday, June 11.

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Children waiting to get on the Books Bridge Bus

PCPS Books Bridge Bus Debuts New Look

06/04/2024

Today the bus visited Oasis Academy, where we unveiled a colorful new design created by students from Harrison School for the Arts.

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Pink background with Summer Breakspot in white letters

Summer BreakSpot Provides Free Meals to Polk Children

06/03/2024

Even though school is out, children in Polk County can receive free meals through the statewide Summer BreakSpot program.

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Controlled Open Enrollment Reopens June 3

05/29/2024

PCPS is taking more applications for Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the upcoming 2024-25 school year. The application window will reopen from Monday, June 3 through Monday, Aug. 5.

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Change in Backpack Policy for Remainder of Current School Year

05/23/2024

Again, this change in backpack policy is only for the remainder of this current school year. The last day of school for students is Thursday, May 30.

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PCPS Bus Driver Shirley Walling Celebrates 50 Years of Service

05/17/2024

Shirley was honored yesterday during the Youth and Adult Leadership graduation ceremony hosted by the Northeast Polk Chamber of Commerce.

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Mulberry High Student Surprised With $40,000 Scholarship

05/16/2024

Mulberry High Student Surprised With $40,000 Scholarship

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Lake Region High JROTC Seniors Have Record Scholarship Total

05/09/2024

This year, the Marine Corps JROTC seniors have racked up an astounding $6.4 million in full-ride scholarships. That includes military scholarships worth up to $200,000 each, and a host of additional offers from universities across the nation.

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Focused on Excellence: Theron Tucker

05/09/2024

It’s time for our next Focused on Excellence winner: PCPS social worker Theron Tucker!

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IB Bartow’s Nicholas Kieffer Wins National Merit Scholarship

05/08/2024

Kieffer was one of 2,500 winners announced today by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), out of a pool of more than 15,000 finalists nationwide.

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PCPS Celebrates Hardworking Grads at Hearth Luncheon

05/08/2024

Yesterday we gathered with more than 60 seniors from the Class of 2024. Each has grown up experiencing some degree of homelessness, and Hearth provides assistance to those students and their families.

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6 Project Search Graduates wearing gray graduation gowns

Celebrating the Graduates of Project SEARCH

05/07/2024

The program serves adult PCPS students with disabilities, allowing them to gain work experience and develop valuable skills in a variety of industries.

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Focused on Excellence: Albert Smith

05/03/2024

It's a Focused on Excellence Friday! Please join us in congratulating Albert Smith from Ridge Technical College.

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PCPS Student Devices Available for Summer

04/30/2024

Students can take their PCPS-issued devices home this summer with family permission.

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Focused on Excellence: Adam Roberts

04/30/2024

It's time for Focused on Excellence, and the next winner is ... Adam Roberts from Lewis Anna Woodbury Elementary!

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PCPS Announces Volunteers of the Year

04/29/2024

These dedicated men and women provide invaluable service to our schools. By giving their time, they help our students and staff reach their full potential. Simply put, we could not do what we do without volunteers.

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Controlled Open Enrollment, Magnet School Acceptances Going out May 6

04/25/2024

COE allows families to apply for any PCPS school (excluding magnet schools) that still has seats available for 2024-25.

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Focused on Excellence: Nina Owens

04/25/2024

Nina is a routing specialist for our Transportation department. Colleagues say she is always willing to go the extra mile (pun intended) to ensure that students have transportation arranged for field trips, sporting events and everything in between — even on short notice.

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Mental Health Support Survey for PCPS Parents

04/24/2024

We are interested in your opinions regarding school-based mental health supports, even if your child has never used them. Your input on this topic is very important.

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Focused on Excellence: Jinnell Lane

04/19/2024

Jinnell is the dean at Alta Vista. She has been praised for the way she assists teachers and handles student discipline issues with fairness. Colleagues say she has a positive impact on her school.

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Focused on Excellence: Danielle Hippeli

04/17/2024

Once again, employees were asked to nominate their colleagues from various departments for a chance to receive some great prizes and be recognized on our communication channels. This is the second group of winners for 2023-24.

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Team Polk Repeats as Academic Challenge Champions

04/15/2024

Team Polk, comprised of public and private high school students, finished first in Division One, which includes the state’s largest school districts and is generally regarded as the event’s toughest division.

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PCPS Teams Smoke the Competition at Sonny’s BBQ Event

04/15/2024

Students from Bartow, Fort Meade and Frostproof high schools traveled to Wekiva High last weekend for the inaugural Jr. Pitmaster Competition hosted by Sonny's BBQ.

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Focused on Excellence: Kamyra Farnell

04/12/2024

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Madhu Thomas Named STEM Teacher of the Year

04/10/2024

Thomas has worked at HCHS since 2011, where she teaches AP and IB chemistry. Administrators say she has been an outstanding educator, mentor and role model.

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PCPS Kindergarten Enrollment and Camps Available for 2024-25

04/09/2024

Do you have an incoming kindergartner joining PCPS for the 2024-25 school year? Here’s some information to help you out

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Focused on Excellence: Thomas Cummins

04/04/2024

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PCPS Offers Camp Early Bird for Incoming Kindergartners

04/01/2024

This free program is being offered at locations throughout Polk County. Camp Early Bird provides fun learning activities for incoming kindergarten students to help set them up for success in school.

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Focused on Excellence: Christy Carrillo

03/26/2024

And the next Focused on Excellence winner is … Christy Carrillo from Fort Meade Middle-Senior High!

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Controlled Open Enrollment Begins April 1

03/25/2024

Polk County Public Schools is moving forward with Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) for the 2024-25 school year.

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Winter Haven High Debuts New Stadium Upgrades

03/25/2024

The project — made possible by a partnership with the City of Winter Haven — included resurfacing the track, as well as removing the old football field and installing new artificial turf. The effort cost more than $1.8 million.

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Illustration of student receiving a vaccination from a doctor while parent comforts her

Free Immunization Events Available for Polk County Children

03/22/2024

If you would like your child to receive immunization, please come to one of several clinics being held throughout Polk County. The complete schedule can be found below.

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Mom and Son at the 2024 About Face Awards

PCPS Students Recognized for Improvement at About-Face Awards

03/22/2024

It can take a lot of work to turn your life around, and we think that’s worth celebrating.

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Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans Banner "These days are long, but the years are short. Start saving today!

Open enrollment for Florida Prepaid College Plans is available until April 30

03/22/2024

Open enrollment for Florida Prepaid College Plans is available until April 30.

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Focused on Excellence: Sharon Buttorff

03/20/2024

Sharon is the manager here at the district office cafeteria.

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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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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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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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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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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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PCPS Wants to Hear from You! Family Engagement Survey Open Through March 6

02/23/2024

Family Engagement Survey

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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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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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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

02/16/2024

Alex is the principal at Lewis Anna Woodbury.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Students Excel at PCPS Elementary Science Showcase

02/01/2024

Welcome to Polk Regional Science and Engineering Fair

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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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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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PCPS Celebrates Garner Academy Modernization

01/22/2024

Garner Academy has a brand-new look this year

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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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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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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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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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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 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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Instructional Materials Available for Public Review Until Jan. 30

01/09/2024

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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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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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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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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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Students entering the Kiddie Christmas Event

PCPS Hosts Kiddie Christmas Event for Garner Academy Students

12/13/2023

Today was PCPS’ annual Kiddie Christmas event.

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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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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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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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Lena Vista Elementary Dedicates Pavilion to Longtime PE Coach

11/14/2023

James Murphy III won’t be forgotten at Lena Vista Elementary

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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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Come Meet the Team; PCPS Learning Support Division Hosting Five Town Hall Forums

11/14/2023

Come Meet the Team; PCPS Learning Support Division Hosting Five Town Hall Forums

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Polk County Public Schools Announces 2024 Teacher and SRE of the Year

11/09/2023

Polk County Public Schools Announces 2024 Teacher and SRE of the Year

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Bartow High Band Director Named to Legion of Honor

10/30/2023

Bartow High Band Director Jon Eckman Named to Legion of Honor

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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

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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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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PCPS Celebrates Scenic Terrace Project

10/11/2023

We hosted an event this morning to commemorate the Scenic Terrace project.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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Bartow High’s Lexi Sanchez and Westwood Middle to Receive Polk County Farm Bureau Awards

09/21/2023

It’s National Teach Ag Day, so how about some awesome ag news from our schools!

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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New Haines City School Ready for 2023-2024, Will Serve as Elbert Elementary's Temporary Home

08/08/2023

Here's a look at another new PCPS school opening this year!

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Celebrating Our Grads at Summer Commencement 2023

08/01/2023

Let’s have a final round of applause for the Class of 2023!

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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Young Poets Celebrated at 47th Annual Awards Ceremony

06/12/2023

We owe a few words of praise to our outstanding young poets.

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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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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

Special Sunday Graduation at Lakeland High

05/23/2023

It was not a typical graduation for Lakeland High.

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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 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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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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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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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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Lakeland High’s Cullen Wyatt Wins National Merit Scholarship

05/10/2023

Lakeland High’s Cullen Wyatt has won a National Merit Scholarship.

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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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PCPS Holds Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Central Florida Aerospace Academy in Winter Haven

05/03/2023

Today we gathered in Winter Haven to commemorate an expansion of the Central Florida Aerospace Academy (CFAA).

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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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Team Polk Finishes First at Commissioner’s Academic Challenge

04/24/2023

It’s official: Polk County has the smartest students in Florida!

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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.

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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.

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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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A Look at Our Newest School: South Pointe Elementary

04/11/2023

Our newest elementary school is taking shape!

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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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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.

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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

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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.

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Pinewood Elementary Students Work Together on Painting Honoring the Florida Scrub-Jay

02/22/2023

Check out this super scrub-jay painted by a team of artists at Pinewood Elementary!

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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 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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Bartow High Construction Academy Students Finish First in National Competition

02/03/2023

An ACE always wins big in Vegas.

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“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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Spessard Holland Elementary Names Media Center for Longtime Principal Melody Butler

01/25/2023

A familiar face returned to Spessard Holland Elementary last week.

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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.

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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.

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PCPS Announces Sunshine State Scholars for 2023

01/18/2023

We are pleased to announce our Sunshine State Scholars for 2023!

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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.

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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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FLDOE Releases Graduation Rates; Polk Schools Experience Decline

01/13/2023

FLDOE Releases Graduation Rates - Polk Schools Experience Decline

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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.

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Students Surprised With Gifts at Annual Kiddie Christmas Event

12/14/2022

They say it’s better to give than receive, and we certainly agree.

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Polk County Public Schools Announces 2023 Teacher and School Employee of the Year

12/07/2022

Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!

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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.

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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.

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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 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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Crystal Lake Elementary Reaches Important Milestone, Becomes UCF-Certified Community Partnership School

11/07/2022

Crystal Lake Elementary is celebrating a major milestone after becoming a UCF-Certified Community Partnership School.

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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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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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PBIS Project Recognizes 42 PCPS Schools With Awards

10/19/2022

Our schools piled up the PBIS awards in 2021-22!

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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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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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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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Mulberry High Graduate and PCSO Deputy Blane Lane Dies in the Line of Duty

10/04/2022

Our hearts are broken today after hearing that Mulberry High graduate Blane Lane has died.

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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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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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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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PCPS Announces District 7 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/16/2022

PCPS is proud to announce our District 7 finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the year.

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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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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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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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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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PCPS Announces District 1 Finalists for Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year

09/09/2022

Polk County Public Schools is kicking off another year of recognizing our county’s top teachers and employees.

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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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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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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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Mulberry High Kicks Off Football Season With $250,000 Grant and Visit From Tampa Bay Buccaneers

08/17/2022

Mulberry High Kicks Off Football Season With $250,000 Grant and Visit From Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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

06/17/2022

We are proud to celebrate Juneteenth (June 19)

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Four More National Merit Scholarship Winners Announced from IB Bartow

06/01/2022

Polk County Public Schools has four more National Merit Scholarship winners for 2022.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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

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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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

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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2022 Commissioner's Academic Challenge Team Polk

Polk Team Takes Third Place at Commissioner’s Academic Challenge

04/07/2022

Polk County students were among the top finishers in a statewide battle of the brains.

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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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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 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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Modernization Project Begins at Garner Elementary

03/10/2022

The future of Fred G. Garner Elementary starts … now!

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“Like Winning the Super Bowl”: Lake Gibson High Student Shocks the Livestock World

03/09/2022

Some massive, honkin’ news from Lake Gibson High:

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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

Polk County Public Schools Announces 2022 Teacher and School Employee of the Year

01/20/2022

Polk County Public Schools is proud to announce our Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year!

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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“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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Before they even step foot into high school, students from Dundee Ridge Middle Academy will know how to give a proper handshake, work a room and hold their own in an interview.

Running “The Gauntlet” and Learning Life Skills at Dundee Ridge Middle

10/27/2021

Dundee Ridge Middle "The Gauntlet"

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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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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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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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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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Instant Acceptance: George Jenkins High Partners With Colleges for Onsite Admissions Events

10/06/2021

George Jenkins High and Polk State College have a good thing going.

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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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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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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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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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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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Haines City High Celebrates School’s History and Student-Athletes With New Record Board

09/22/2021

There’s no longer any debate when it comes to the best track and cross country athletes in Haines City High history.

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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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