act update issue 87

ACT Grants and Funding Continues To Grow

T he following is a summary of grant and

funding monies applied for and received

over the past 11 years from the Adult, Career and

Technical Education Department, including areas

such as MTI, Take Stock, Transitions, Tech Prep,

SLCs, Secondary CTE, Manatee Stars, and others.

Grant monies are essential to enhancing quality

education and moving the District forward in its

quest to provide excellent education and opportuni-

ties to all of our students.

Grants and dollar value Totals

Number of grants applied for: Number of grants approved: Number of grants pending approval: Dollars applied for: Dollars approved: Dollars pending approval:

392 301

0 $88,523,295 $66,532,964

$0

Manatee County Nine-Time SkillsUSA National Champs!

F or the ninth straight year, Manatee Technical Institute students won more medals than any other school in the nation

at the 48th Annual SkillsUSA Championships in Kansas City. To put it in perspective, there are about 15,000 school

districts and 4,000 tech centers, colleges and universities in the U.S.; some have one or two national champions from career and technical

student organization competitions. MTI had 56 national champions in SkillsUSA alone, bringing home 33 gold, 13 silver and 10 bronze

student medals.

(Continued on page 10)

Manatee County Two-Time HOSA National Champs!

F or the second year in a row, the Manatee Technical

Institute postsecondary chapter of the Health Occupa-

tions Students of America (HOSA) won the most postsecondary

contests in the nation.


Manatee County Six-Time TSA National Champs!

F or the sixth year in a row, Manatee County Technology Student Association (TSA) competitors ranked first in the

nation at the National TSA Conference. Over 120 Manatee County students competed to win top honors at the 2012

conference held in July in Nashville, TN. With the national theme “The Road to Success,” Manatee students ruled the road…


SETV Captures National “Threepeat”

I t is often said that good things come in threes.

Under the leadership of instructor Mike Sanders,

the television production program of Southeast High School

agrees. In June, the Broadcast News Team captured SETV’s third

consecutive national championship at the SkillsUSA national

conference in Kansas City.


T hree Bayshore High School Technology

Student Association (TSA) students, guided by

Advisors Martha Proulx and David Sheppard, received the VEX

Robotics Tournament Champion Award of Excellence this

summer at the national TSA competition in Nashville.


Vex Excellence National Champs

National Championship Issue

Issue 87 Fall 2012

1st

Adult, Career and Technical Education

T he 11th Annual Career and Technical Student Organi-

zation (CTSO) Leadership Rally rocked the school on a

crisp Saturday morning when almost 650 participants convened at

Braden River High School to further their leadership skills and

knowledge.

The success of this event would not have been possible

without the support and the desire of our students to come to

school on a Saturday and learn something new. This event is get-

ting bigger and bigger, and this year we welcomed three Sarasota

schools to be a part of the event.

The Manatee County Food Bank was this year’s recipient of

the annual food drive with over 2,800 lbs of canned food cata-

pulting us past last year’s total of 2,600 pounds. The largest con-

tribution came from FFA which nudged out last year’s winner,

TSA, to push them into second place. FBLA came in a close third

and the other six CTSOs had good showings. We appreciate the

generosity of our students who supported our community in

need.

A big thank you from ACT goes out to everyone who

helped with the event. A special recognition goes to Mike Buckley

and his FFA students (event); Wyatt Fulghum (master of ceremo-

nies); SEHS JROTC (presentation of colors); Mike Sanders and

his TV crew (video); Cindy Rees and her FBLA students

(registration); Randy Funderburke (photos); David Arnold, Garry

Colpitts and their SkillsUSA students (baking); Bryce Register

(spirit stick); Terry Braza (paperwork); Theresa Devine (event);

Jennifer Gilray (location host); Florida FFA State Offices (middle

school speakers); and last but not least, our keynote and high

school speaker Kelly Barnes.

A recipient of the American FFA Degree, the highest degree

bestowed by the National FFA Organization, Kelly has traveled

all over the United States and spoken to more than a million peo-

ple with one main message: make each day a story other people

want to hear. Kelly is one of the most sought after youth speakers

in the nation because audiences come alive with laughter,

thought, and most importantly, the realization of the power of the

thoughts and actions that make successful leaders.

The Spirit Stick contest always excites the crowd at the

CTSO Leadership Rally. This year’s contest was particularly close,

but congratulations go out to Lincoln Middle School and Lake-

wood Ranch High School.

275 high school students, 275 middle school students, 75

advisors, and 20 guests attended this energetic event. You can

view more photos online at http://actphotos.manateeschools.net.

To our knowledge, Manatee County is the only school dis-

trict in the nation to bring students together from all of the nine

student organizations for a leadership event of this magnitude.

Don’t miss next year’s rally as it is worth your time and efforts!

11th Annual CTSO Leadership Rally...Wow!

http://actphotos.manateeschools.net

School District of Manatee County

BusinessWoman of the Year—Dr. Cantrell

M ary Cantrell, Ph.D., was named Tampa Bay Business

Journal’s 2012 BusinessWoman of the Year in Educa-

tion. She was one of only a dozen women who received awards in

their industry categories and for special accomplishments. The

award winners and 51 finalists were recognized during an August

event in Tampa.

Cantrell has been the director of MTI since 1996. She has

been an educational leader in Florida for over 30 years. Among

her many successes is leading MTI’s national recognition for

excellence in technical training and academic education. Previous

awards Cantrell has won include the Florida Association of

Career and Technical Education Carl Proehl Award in 2002 for

outstanding contribution and achievement to vocational educa-

tion and the AAUW of Bradenton Edu-

cational Leader Award in 2000.

Cantrell’s contributions to the commu-

nity include serving as United Way of

Manatee, Division Chair for Campaign,

from 2000 to 2011, on the Manasota

ARC Board of Directors from 2000 to

2005, and on the Kiwanis of Bradenton,

Board of Directors, from 2005 to 2007.

Proskurina Wins International Competition

M arina Proskurina, digital design instructor at Manatee

Technical Institute, has had three of her creative

images accepted into the 2012 International Photographic Com-

petition hosted by the Professional Photographers of America.

Artists may submit only four works for consideration. All three of

her works were merited for the general collection, and one

received the distinct honor of inclusion in the loan collection.

Proskurina’s images will be on display at ImagingUSA this

January.

MTI is proud to have Proskurina as one of its newest

faculty members. Proskurina comes to MTI from Daytona State

College, where she taught as an

adjunct faculty member for 13

years.

Digital design is a new program

offering at MTI. Proskurina wel-

comes new students to her class.

The program prepare s adu lt

students for employment as graphic

or media designers. To apply for acceptance into the program or

for more information, contact MTI career counselor Maria Terri

Parrish at [email protected] or 751-7900, ext. 2018.

Meluch Elected SkillsUSA Region 6 Coordinator

M TI’s Michelle Meluch has been named the new

Region 6 Coordinator for Florida SkillsUSA, with a

two-year term beginning September 1, 2012. In her newly elected

position, she will provide leadership for student members and

their advisors in the ten-county region, which includes Charlotte,

Collier, Lee, Manatee and Sarasota counties.

Meluch will hold a seat on the state board, run the regional

contest, plan leadership activities, work to bolster regional partici-

pation in SkillsUSA, and keep schools informed.

The regional coordinator position is entirely volunteer.

While in the position, Meluch will retain

her full-time employment with MTI as

the school’s SkillsUSA Coordinator, a

position she has held since 2001. She

started her career at MTI in 1994 as a

drafting instructor and was one of the

first instructors on campus to have

students participate in SkillsUSA.

Michelle Meluch

Burwell Awarded TSA Advisor of the Year

T his summer in Nashville, Southeast High School’s

Technology Student Association (TSA) advisor Bob

Burwell received Florida's High School TSA Advisor of the Year

Award. TSA selected Burwell for his achievements in promoting

TSA, the number of officer candidates

sponsored during his teaching career, his

facilitation skills, and chapter projects

and accomplishments. Congratulations!

This year, Bob has joined forces with

Manatee Technical Institute’s new 3-D

Animation Technology program.

Bob Burwell

Farmworker Team’s Gold Award of Excellence

T he Farmworker Education and Services Program at

Manatee Technical Institute was awarded a Gold

Certificate of Excellence from the Florida Department of Educa-

tion (FL-DOE) for exceeding their goals for 2011–12. They

achieved 142% new participants, 170% entered employment, and

333% completed training service. Program coordinator Esperanza

Gamboa and her team received the award from representatives of

the FL-DOE, Gloria Spradley-Brown and Mario Zuniga.

There are about 87,000 Hispanics in Manatee County and

40,000 in Sarasota County, many of whom work in the fields as

laborers or in packing houses. Their average salary is $7,000 to

MTI Director Mary Cantrell

Marina Proskurina’s “Wings of Galaxy”

earned high honors at the 2012 Interna-

tional Photographic Competition.


$12,000 a year. In the farmworker student population at MTI, 20

percent are single parents with children younger than 18, 65

percent have reading skills lower than the ninth-grade level, and

72 percent have math skills lower than the ninth-grade level. Of

these, 74 percent are unemployed. The Farmworker program is

an essential tool to equip this population for job placement.

In related news, Mary Cantrell, Ph.D., has received the

Champion of Farmworkers Award from the Mexican-American

Council, Inc. (MAC) Board of Directors and the Florida Depart-

ment of Education Farmworker Jobs and Education Program.

She was acknowledged for her support and commitment towards

improving the lives of migrant farmworkers in Florida, for her

“tireless and unwavering commitment to improve the lives of

migrant farmworkers through education, jobs and advocacy.”

Dr. Cantrell’s commitment to farmworker education and

employment spans more than a decade. Through her leadership,

MTI hires more Farmworker Education Program trained farm-

workers per year than any other employer in the region. Since

1998, MTI has provided on-the-job training and work experience

to more than 260 farmworker clients and has hired 30 farm-

workers who have completed the on-the-job training and/or

work experience on campus. The Awards Recognition program

was held recently at the Florida Farmworker Jobs and Education

Program’s Annual Conference in Tampa.

12th Annual Back-to-School ACT Update

T he ACT Department held our 12th annual Back-to-

School ACT Update meeting in August at the Profes-

sional Support Center. Adult, Career and Technical Education

teachers and staff from elementary, middle and high schools

networked with peers, met the new members of the ACT Depart-

ment, and discussed new legislative changes and state require-

ments that have affected the various program areas. Afterward,

attendees met within their curricular areas to strategize on ideas to

move the programs forward.

Teachers Embrace Hillsborough’s Race to the Top

I n 2011–12, our district became an active partner with

Hillsborough County Public Schools in an effort to help

develop assessment items for hard-to-measure career and techni-

cal education disciplines through their Race to the Top 100

million dollar grant. Ultimately, test items will be written and

submitted for approval by the Department of Education (DOE)

to be available to any CTE district partner teacher as they assess

their students.

Agriscience Foundations, Culinary Arts 1–4, and Early

Childhood Education 1–4 are the identified disciplines in which

our teachers will contribute assessment items. Last year, CTE

teachers in the partnership developed 1,112 item specifications

approved by the DOE. This year teachers stepped up to the plate

to become a part of this item-writing initiative. Nancy Acton,

MHS; Deb Barry, BRHS; Elaine Bowling, LRHS; Julie Tillett,

PHS; and Vanessa Giammanco, BRHS signed up to receive train-

ing and write test items in their respective content areas.

The first face-to-face meeting took place September 12–14,

2012 in Orlando. Participants learned the basics of good item

writing, construction of items using Webb’s Depth of Knowledge

(DOK) levels, examining good item writing rules, putting the item

rules into practice, complexity verses difficulty in item writing,

calibrating rubrics, discovering bias and sensitivity in item writing,

and practice of item writing and reviewing. Stefano Biancardi,

EDTV was on hand to tape the workshop for the project.

CTE Teachers Institute Microsoft IT Academy

T he Microsoft IT Academy (ITA)

Program provides a complete IT

education solution that bridges the

world of education with the world of

work. The program is designed to help drive employability, digital

literacy, technical and STEM-focused training, and certification.

This summer, the Adult, Career and Technical Education

Department was awarded six $50,000 grants through Microsoft to

become part of this exciting new program. ITA is being imple-

mented by Nicole Gulsby, Braden River Middle; John LaBelle,

Buffalo Creek Middle; Rochelle Banach, Haile Middle; Nathaniel

Bostic, Harllee Middle; Teresa Cook, Lincoln Middle; and Bill

Pendola, Central High School.

Buffalo Creek business education teacher John LaBelle has

ACT teachers

collaborate on

writing CTE

assessment

items.

Farmworker Education and Services Program Coordinator Esperanza Gamboa

(holding award) with her team and with representatives of the FL-DOE.

The ACT Department’s back-to-school ACT Update meeting.


taken the lead in providing district teachers with In-service train-

ing on the nuts and bolts of the program. A hands-on workshop

was held September 11th to demonstrate to teachers how to set

up student accounts and the many benefits of the software.

During the first semester, the program focuses on digital

literacy, internet safety, introduction to PowerPoint, and

advanced PowerPoint skills. Students at Buffalo Creek will com-

plete two to four projects. All projects will revolve around

research topics related to business and careers.

The program hasn’t been without its fair share of hiccups,

but by working and communicating together, this group of CTE

teachers plan to move forward in the implementation of this pro-

gram enabling their students to become competitive in a global

workforce.

MTI Construction Progresses

A fter a decade of sustained efforts and aspirations,

construction continues on the new $44 million,

210,000 square-foot Manatee Technical Institute campus being

built on State Road 70, just east of Caruso Road. Construction on

MTI’s new main campus began in June 2011, and the completion

date is scheduled for December 2012. The new campus is

expected to open to students in January 2013.

Bryon Stedman Earns Premier Pro Certification

B ryon Stedman TV Production teacher at Lakewood

Ranch High School recently earned his Adobe Certi-

fied Associate (ACA) Certification. He is currently transitioning

his program to use the Adobe CS5 application after having used

Final Cut Pro for the past 12 years at the Ranch. Mr. Stedman's

certification for the Adobe Certified Associate in Visual Commu-

nications is for the Premiere Pro non-linear editing program.

Several of his students have passed the exam since, and the goal is

to make the ACA Certification in

Premiere a priority for TV produc-

tion students.

Bobbi Colson Earns Photoshop Certification

L akewood Ranch High School business technology

teacher Bobbi Colson recently passed the Adobe

Photoshop CS5 exam to achieve the industry certification in this

premier photo editing tool. Photoshop is used by a wide range of

commercial professionals, including photographers, graphic

designers, and web designers. Bobbi’s new certification adds to

her roster of accom-

plishments including

Dreamweaver and

Flash industry certifi-

cations.

Bobbi Colson and her

Adobe certification

Digital Dan Does it Again: CS6 Certifications

B raden River High School business technology teacher

“Digital Dan” Crumpler recently passed the Dream-

weaver and Photoshop CS6 exams to achieve these new industry

certifications. Adobe Dreamweaver CS6 is the newest version of

the industry-leading web design and HTML editor software.

Photoshop is the industry standard in photo editing software. To

date, Dan has earned

c e r t i f i c a t i o n s i n

Dreamweaver CS3,

CS4, and now CS6,

plus Photoshop CS3

and CS6.

Dan Crumpler and his

latest Adobe certification

ECE Students: National CDA Certifications

U nder the direction of instructor Elaine Bowling, ten

Lakewood Ranch High School Early Childhood

Education (ECE) students capped off the last school year with an

amazing accomplishment. They earned national industry certifica-

tions as Child Development Associates (CDA), ranking them

among the first 300 high school students in the country to do so. (Continued on page 12)

Making progress on the new MTI building on Caruso Road and SR 70.

Bryon Stedman with

his latest industry

certification.


Board Recognizes Academy Achievements

C areer academies prepare students for college and

careers while helping them make informed decisions

on career paths and the education it will take to achieve their

dreams. Most importantly, all of our academies are Career and

Professional Education (CAPE) Academies offering students the

ability to earn adult industry certifications.

For successful career academies, dedicated teams of teachers

and administrators must be willing to go the extra mile. Together

they achieve the cohort scheduling and planning time to discuss

the needs of individual students. They create integrated lessons

which help students see the relationship between career paths

and the academics needed to attain that path.

Recently, eight academies were recognized at the school

board meeting for accomplishments in attaining either Endorsed,

Certified, or National Model status when reviewed by the

National Career Academy Coalition (NCAC) last April and May.

Southeast High School. The Center for Leadership

Academy (CLA) is the latest of the Southeast academies. They

were reviewed for the first time and attained the Endorsed status.

Team members have already used the review results and recom-

mendations and are working on adding additional pathways and

the opportunity for additional industry certifications. Represent-

ing the academy at the board meeting were Wendell Butler,

Assistant Principal; Keenan Wooten, College and Career Advisor;

and Steven Craig, lead teacher for the academy.

Lakewood Ranch High School. All three academies

attained the Certified status. Rob Moates, co-lead of the Business

& Technology Academy, was present for the recognition. The

other two academies were Health & Public Service and The Arts.

All three academies have shown remarkable gains since their first

review five years ago.

Braden River High School. We are extremely proud of

the four academy teams, each having attained the highest level of

achievement as a national “Model” academy. The four academies

are being honored at the NCAC Conference in November in

Nashville, where they have been invited to present on their

accomplishments. Representing the academy were Monica

DeLesline, Assistant Principal; Eric Sanders, College & Career

Advisor; Mary Thompson, co-lead Business & International Stud-

ies; Gil Burlew, co-lead Engineering, Design & Leadership;

Melanie Jurgovan, co-lead Engineering, Design & Leadership;

Jennifer McNally, co-lead Science Technology & Health; Bill

Ferrell, co-lead Arts & Communication Technology; and Jillian

Bieber, co-lead Arts & Communication Technology.

New! Middle School Career Academies

F or the first time, the ACT Department is pleased to

introduce two new middle school career academies: the

Haile Middle School Career and Technical Academy (CAT) and

the Harllee Middle School Communications Technology and

Leadership Academy (CTLA).

Staff from both schools worked hard this past year meeting

with their feeder high schools to learn what it would take for a

seamless transition for eighth grade students. They also met with

feeder elementary schools to more fully understand the curricu-

lum being offered at that level. The planning team worked hard

modifying curriculum and submitting their plans for school board

approval in the form of the Student Progression Plan.

In Haile’s CAT Academy, technology teachers Pamela Platt

and Justin Erickson, along with Principal Janet Kerley, have

developed two unique strands of study. These strands function

within the CAT Academy and include the Engineering Academy,

led by Erickson, and the Multimedia Academy, led by Platt. Suc-

cessful completers of the Engineering pathway will earn a high

school credit as well as an industry certification as a Certified

SolidWorks Associate (CSWA). Successful completers in the

Multimedia pathway will also earn a high school credit as well as

industry certifications in one or all four of these Adobe creative

products: Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver, and Premier Pro.

Harllee’s innovative Communication Technology and Lead-

ership Academy is led by technology education teacher Nathaniel

Bostic and Principal James Hird. Here, students will examine the

effects of technology on their lives while exploring careers,

earning high school credit, and earning a skill-building industry

certification in Adobe Photoshop.

Middle school students design a project using SolidWorks; the middle

school academies’ logos are also displayed here.

Representatives from many of the District’s career academies were

recognized at a recent board meeting.


Take Stock Reaches New Heights

S ince 1995, Take Stock in Children (TSIC) has been

providing scholarships, mentors, and hope to deserv-

ing Manatee County students. This not-for-profit program

matches children from low income families with mentors, who

help hold the students accountable and coach them toward

academic success. Through a local partnership of schools, busi-

nesses, agencies, and individuals, students as young as sixth grade

may participate. Once selected, students, along with their parent

or guardian, sign an agreement to remain drug-free, crime-free,

maintain good grades and behavior, and meet with a mentor on a

weekly basis, on the school campus, during the school day. If

students fulfill their agreement, they receive a full college scholar-

ship upon high school graduation.

Because of limited funds, about 20% of applicants are

accepted into the program. In 2012, 35 new students entered the

TSIC program as scholars.

“This is such a great opportunity for students to make the

most of their career and educational dreams,” said TSIC Execu-

tive Director Diana Dill. “It’s a unique opportunity to have a

relationship with a caring mentor. I’ve seen students achieve

wonderful college and business careers, and now, Take Stock is

reaching new heights. We have former scholars who are now

college graduates, entering pharmacy schools and getting their

Master’s degrees. The sky’s the limit for our students.”

With 35 new scholars, 250 students and mentors currently

being served, and over 300 in college, TSIC is always recruiting

new mentors. In the next few months, another new set of schol-

ars will come on board with the program, and Diana anticipates

the need for 25 more mentors.

TSIC relies on community and business funding for

support. The Florida Prepaid College Foundation matches funds

raised, so every dollar raised delivers double the impact and serves

more local students.

Save the Dates

T ake Stock in Children announces these special event dates in

the upcoming year. Mark your calendars!

Strides for Education 5K Walk/Run

December 8, 2012 @ 8:30 a.m.

New College Campus

Sponsored by Suncoast Schools Foundation

Lori Mirandilla, Chairperson

Bethany Lynch, Race Coordinator

6th Annual Leadership Prayer Breakfast

February 7, 2013

Bradenton Auditorium

Take Stock 10K / 5K

March 3, 2013 @ 7:30 a.m.

Lakewood Ranch Main Street

Sponsored by Suncoast Schools Foundation

Lori Mirandilla, Chairperson

Bethany Lynch, Race Coordinator

Note: New Contact Information

T he Take Stock in Children office has moved to the Profes-

sional Support Center. The new contact information is:

Take Stock in Children

Manatee County School District

2501 63rd Avenue East

Bradenton, FL 34203

(941) 751-6550 (941) 751-7376 Fax

Diana Dill, Executive Director—Ext. #2172

Jane Young, Student Mentor Advocate—Ext. #2120

Kelly Suba, Technical Support—Ext. #2063

Bethany Lynch, Race Coordinator—Ext. #2074

Susan Knowles, Student Mentor Advocate—(941)714-7300

ext. #2073 (Susan’s office remains at Manatee High School)

The newest Take Stock

in Children scholars

display their awards

with Executive Director

Diana Dill, top of stairs.

To volunteer as a mentor, sponsor an upcoming fundraising event, or to make a donation,

Contact Diana Dill, Take Stock in Children at (941) 751-6550 ext. #2172.


Broadcast News Programming is a three-minute newscast

performed by teams of four. When they arrive at the contest,

their first task is to create a script in two hours. The team is given

15 news wire stories that include video. They must select the

stories to use and edit the script down to exactly three minutes.

The second part of the event is performance. The team is given

20 minutes in the studio. They may use the time in any way that

they choose, but they must record one performance before the

time limit runs out. If they don’t, they are disqualified. The team

consists of two desk personalities, a floor director, and a director/

technical director.

What is truly amazing is that all three national champion-

ships were brought home to Bradenton by teams with no repeat

members. Each year, the members are new to the national confer-

ence. This year’s gold medal team consisted of desk talents

Mackenzie Yaryura and Ingrid Onoriode, floor director Mark

Hurst, and director Aruba Fatmi. They were all juniors last year

and are back to compete this year. They all hope to not only bring

back a fourth consecutive national championship for Southeast,

but to be the first team ever to win a back-to-

back. Good things just might come in fours

for the SETV team.

SETV Captures National “Threepeat”

(Continued from front page)

National champs in SkillsUSA Broadcast News. L–R: Mackenzie Yaryura,

Mark Hurst, Ingrid Onoriode, Aruba Fatmi, and coach Mike Sanders

...and brought home 10 firsts, 12

seconds, 12 th ird -p lace event

trophies, and 84 top-ten event finishes! Manatee

County students enjoyed more top-ten finishes than

any other school district—not only in the nation, but the

combined total of all school districts from any other state.

Braden River High School ranked first in the nation

among high schools, with advisors Gil Burlew, John Frank, and

Betti Hargen leading students to a total of 15 top-ten event

wins—the most of any high school in the nation. Students won

first place for Chapter Team Written, Construction Renovation,

and Photographic Technology; second place for Manufacturing

Prototype and Prepared Presentation; and third place in Trans-

portation Modeling, Career Comparisons, Engineering Design,

and Webmaster.

Southeast High’s TSA led by advisors Bob Burwell and

Irene Nikitopoulus finished the competition ranked fourth in the

nation among high schools, with a total of 12 top-ten wins. The

students won first place in Manufacturing Prototype; second

place in Animatronics and Fashion Design; and third place in

Essays on Technology. Advisor Bob Burwell received Florida's

TSA Advisor of the Year Award (see Page 3).

Other competing high schools included Lakewood Ranch

High School, guided by advisor Greg McGrew, Manatee High

School, guided by advisor Joe Orr, and Bayshore High School,

guided by Advisors Martha Proulx and David Sheppard. Proulx

and Sheppard’s students received the VEX Robotics Tournament

Champion Award of Excellence which recognizes the best overall

robot at the competition.

Competitors at the middle school level were just as intense.

Nolan Middle School, under the leadership of advisors Justin

and Theresa Devine, was ranked nationally as the number one

middle school TSA chapter in the nation! The dedicated and

talented students earned a total of 21 top-ten event wins which

included trophies in Chapter Team Written, Flight, Dragster,

Global Manufacturing, Inventions and Innovations, Technical

Design, Prepared Speech, and Leadership Strategies.

Haile Middle School ranked second in the nation with a

total of 12 top-ten event wins. Under the direction of advisors

Justin Erickson and Pamela Platt, Haile students won first place

in VEX Robotics and Prepared Speech, and took trophies home

in Problem Solving, Global Manufacturing, and Community

Service Video.

Johnson Middle School, with advisors Hollis Bostic and

Six-Time TSA National Champs!



Suzanne Jarrell was ranked seventh in the nation with 11 top-ten

event wins. Students won first and second place in Dragster

Design.

Sugg Middle School, with advisor Kyle Holbrook took a

total of 6 top-ten event wins including a trophy in Construction

Challenge.

Congratulations to all of the students, advisors, and proud

parents of these hardworking competitors. Your accomplish-

ments have helped put Manatee County and our District’s

engineering education programs on the national map. Well done!

This award recognizes the best overall competition robot in

the nation. Outstanding!

According to the VEX website, “The VEX Robotics Design

System offers students an exciting platform for learning about

areas rich with career opportunities spanning science, technology,

engineering and math (STEM). These are just a few of the many

fields students can explore by creating with VEX Robotics tech-

nology. Beyond science and engineering principles, a VEX

Robotics project encourages teamwork, leadership and problem

solving among groups.”

Haile Middle School Engineering Experts

H aile Middle School engineering technology teacher

Justin Erickson and eight incredible whiz-kid students

garnered national attention when the students attempted a diffi-

cult industry certification exam—and passed!

In May 2012, eight Haile students—Patrick Atkins, Devin

Deitz, Derek Depew, Benjamin Godshall, Jackson Newby,

Zachary Scharoun, Tyler Strong and Nicholas Wendrick—passed

a three-hour industry certification test for SolidWorks, a 3-D

engineering and design tool used worldwide. The test is normally

taken by college and advanced high school students, and officials

at SolidWorks said it was the first time middle school students

had taken the certification exam for SolidWorks, let alone passed.

Haile Technology Instructor Justin Erickson entered his

students in the certification exam after he saw how skilled the

students were in designing, building, and fine-tuning the aerody-

namics of their projects, competition-ready, seven-inch CO2

dragsters.

"It's a big thing for this middle school to have gone so far,"

said Marie Planchard, SolidWorks Director of Education Markets.

"It's fantastic." According to the company website, more than

1,878,300 product designers and engineers worldwide, represent-

ing 165,900 organizations, use SolidWorks to bring their designs

to life.

Doug Wagner, Director of the Adult, Career and Technical

Education (ACT) Department, told local reporters covering the

story about the more than 1,000 jobs posted on Monster.com by

companies looking for workers skilled in SolidWorks. "These are

high-demand, high-paying careers across the country," he said.

“That’s why we pledge our resources and best efforts toward

equipping our students—so they can enjoy career success after

high school.”

Representatives from Octex, a local manufacturing

company specializing in precision injection molded components,

along with members of the Sarasota/Manatee Area Manufactur-

ers Association (SAMA), recognized the students with an award

ceremony and a V.I.P. behind-the-scenes plant tour.

LRHS at the FIRST Robotics Competition

Q uintin Jones, Lakewood Ranch High School drafting

and engineering instructor, took a team of engineering

students to compete in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC)

in Orlando. FIRST stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of

VEX Experts National Champs


Haile Middle students were recognized for their achievements at the Octex

Corporation. Peter Straw, Executive Director of SAMA (back row, left),

Angela Lindsey, Assistant Principal of Haile Middle (back center), and Tim

Twitty, Vice President of SAMA (back, far right) are pictured with the stu-

dents. Search Monster.com for SolidWorks jobs to view over 1,000 results.

Vex Excellence National Champions

(at right) shown here with their BHS

TSA teammates (above).

Lakewood Ranch High

School’s “Toxic Sushi”

robotics team at the

FIRST Robotics

Competition in Orlando.


Science and Technology, an organization that “designs accessible,

innovative programs to build knowledge and life skills, while

motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, tech-

nology and engineering.” Florida FIRST Robotics Competition

started in 1999 with 28 teams at the Kennedy Space Center

Visitors Center. As the event grew, it moved to the University Of

Central Florida Arena. Today over 60 teams from the U.S.,

Canada, and other guest nations participate.

Robotics Presentation at the Elementary Level

A t the request of Prine Elementary principal Dr. Guy

Grimes, LRHS drafting and engineering instructor

Quintin Jones put on a day-long robotics demonstration at Prine

Elementary School. “The day was a blast and the students were

so amped up about robotics,” said Quintin. “Fifth graders will be

asking their middle school teachers for a chance at VEX after that

presentation. It was a great success and a lot of fun showing off

our creativity and hard work.”

...To MTI’s 56 medals, the school to win the

second most number of medals (17) was Diman

Regional Vocational Technical in Fall River, MA

and the school with the third most medals (16)

was Utah Valley University in Orem, UT.

“M TI a im s to pro duce

graduates who are able to earn

national industry-recognized

credentials,” said MTI Direc-

tor Mary Cantrell. “When they

win against other schools,

including ones from other

states, it’s a good indication

that MTI is doing a lot right.”

MHS Students Attend SkillsUSA Nationals

Nancy Acton, Family and Consumer Science teacher at Manatee

High school, accompanied Chef Suzette Marquette’s students to the

SkillsUSA Nationals in Kansas City this summer.

W hat an adventure it was to travel to Kansas City,

Missouri for the 48th National Leadership and Skills

Conference. Ten Manatee High students had this amazing oppor-

tunity. None of the group had ever been to nationals, so it was all

a new experience.

SkillsUSA TECHSPO, a trade show, was held throughout

the conference. Students visited various booths from top indus-

tries, educational intuitions, associations and other organizations.

There was orientation for each competition where educational,

social, and business connections were made. Opening ceremony

had a wonderful motivational speaker, Chef Jeff Henderson.

Nerves were prevalent, but competitors remained proud

knowing they were part of the 3% who made it there. One

evening the students were given the choice of going to an amuse-

ment park or a Rays/Royals baseball game. Many workshops

were available to build leadership skills or create a better chapter.

Everyone participated in at least two sessions.

Chris Heinrich participated in the alumni-sponsored

Champions 5K Run. Sydney Van Alystne placed 12th out of 46

contestants in Job Interview. The Health Knowledge Bowl and

Quiz Bowl teams performed well. No one medaled, but the time

spent at the conference has motivated them to improve and try

again next year!

Nine-Time SkillsUSA National Champs!


The MHS National SkillsUSA contingent.

Robotics demo at Prine Elementary School.

Scenes from the SkillsUSA National Championships including opening

ceremony ribbon cutting and the competition areas.

SkillsUSA Criminal Justice gold medalist Rhonda Madden with MTI-East

Criminal Justice Academy Director Mike Rushing.


Two-Time HOSA National Champs!


...At the 2012 HOSA National Leadership Conference in

Orlando, 11 MTI contestants brought home gold, silver, and

bronze medals.

MTI tied with University of Texas at Dallas for most medals

won at the national competition. An additional 15 MTI students

placed in the top ten in the nation.

In addition, seven students from Manatee High and one

from Southeast High attended the National Leadership Confer-

ence. Congratulations to Southeast High’s Mackenzie Yaryura

who won a silver medal in Medical Photography and to Jessica

Ramirez who worked with Kim Bland and won a gold medal in

Dental Assisting!

The top three medalists or teams at the state competition

earlier in the year earned the right to represent the state of Florida

at the 35th Annual National Leadership Conference, which was

held in June. Over 7,000 students and advisors from 48 states

attended this conference.

The students who placed first in Florida in the Public

Service Announcement (PSA) contest placed fifth in the nation. It

was the first time in the history of its chapter that MTI entered

the event. Their PSA on the topic “Clean Out Your Medicine

Cabinet” is scheduled to air on METV and EDV-TV.

New Look & Logo: Future Health Professionals!

A new look for the Health Occupations Students of

America (HOSA) organization was launched at

HOSA’s 2012 National leadership Conference. The new look

represents a modern style while branding a fresh face and convey-

ing HOSA’s connections to science, technology, and the health

professions. HOSA – Future Health Professionals empowers

student and reminds healthcare providers that HOSA members

leave the organization ready to join the workforce and/or pursue

further education.

Largest Blood Drive Turnout for 9/11

M anatee Technical Institute students took positive

action on 9/11 with a blood drive. Lawrence Allen, a

U.S. military veteran and marine service technology student at

MTI was among 70 students and staff who gave blood, the largest

turnout ever for an MTI blood drive. Florida Blood Services was

able to collect 63 units of blood, which has the potential to

impact 189 lives. One unit of blood can save three lives. MTI

Marine Service Technology instructor Kelly Ewing has been lead-

ing his students to run the blood drives as a SkillsUSA project

several times a year for the past 10 years. The next blood drive is

set for November 12 and 13.

From top: MTI’s HOSA 2012 National Leadership Conference winners.

Manatee High School HOSA Advisor Laura Sollenberger (left) with her

students at the National Leadership Conference.

The updated HOSA logo, representing a fresh face for this career and

technical student organization.

Veteran Lawrence Allen donates blood on 9-11.

Florida Blood Services

is a great partner of

the ACT Department.


...Although the CDA certification has appeared on the

Industry Certification Funding List for some years now, the

previous requirements associated with earning this credential

made it impossible for high school ECE students to achieve.

First, the age requirement of 18 would knock out almost all high

school seniors enrolled within the program. The student also had

to hold a high school diploma, which our students would not yet

have earned as seniors. In addition to these two major stumbling

blocks, the student must have successfully completed the Depart-

ment of Children and Families (DCF) Preschool Appropriate

Practices Module, completed five hours of literacy training,

completed 45 additional hours of instruction AND completed

480 hours of direct work with children under the age of 5 for a

total of 600 hours of work. During the 600 hours, the students

had to compile a professional resource file as well as be observed

at least once by a DCF observer while demonstrating competency

in the eight CDA areas.

Realizing the difficulties associated with high school

students obtaining this industry certification, Ms. Pam Parmenter,

Early Learning Coalition Program Manager; Nancy Acton, MHS

ECE teacher; and Ms. Litton, ACT Department, traveled to Talla-

hassee to state their case. Their voices were heard, and after two

years, the necessary revisions have been made to the certification

requirements to accommodate high school students and allow

them to achieve this certification.

“I am proud of these students,” said Elaine. “They deserve

to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.”

The certification became available for the first time to high

school students last spring. To qualify, the students clocked 480

hours of working with children under age 5, received 120 hours

of training, successfully passed oral and written exams, and

compiled a collection of resources. Their instructor also

completed a formal assessment observation for each student.

Before earning the certification, students participated in the

ECE program for four years, studied childcare and development,

prepared lesson plans, assisted as teacher aides at local elementary

schools, and ran the Mini Mustangs preschool, the on-campus

school for three-year-olds.

Earning this certification opens doors of employment for

students. In the past, students received certifications that were

not recognized nationally, so they were not permitted to teach in

a classroom. Now, certification recipients can teach full-time at

preschools, allowing them to earn a salary while pursuing an

education degree at the university level.

FCCLA State Officers Visit Lakewood Ranch

T he Florida Association of Family Career and

Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)

choose Lakewood Ranch for their annual summer

council meeting. This conference is held each

summer and includes 13 state officers from across Florida, district

advisors, and state directors. Lakewood Ranch High School

student Micaela Figueroa is the State President of Florida FCCLA

this year and was delighted to bring the officers to her hometown.

Other state officers from Lakewood Ranch High include Briana

Nelson-Canty and Miranda Lim.

While in town, officers began making plans for the year

ahead including attending the national conference in Orlando,

July 8-12, a fall leadership workshop, National Cluster meeting in

Reno, winter council, and finishing the year in Orlando at our

state conference in March. Officers also introduced the new state

project, K.I.D.S. donations.

During their visit, the students and advisors had some fun

too. They stayed at Holiday Inn Lakewood, ate at Pinchers Crab

Shack, First Watch, and Monty’s, and enjoyed cooking together at

t h e V i k i n g

Culinary Cen-

ter on Lake-

w o o d M a i n

Street.

FCCLA state

officers enjoy

Lakewood Ranch.

Baker-to-Be?

T he Manatee Technical

Inst i tute Bak ing &

Pastry Arts program is scouting

students for the January 2013

term. Spread the word and visit

the campus to enroll.

Check out the MTI Culinary page on Facebook

for amazing photos. www.facebook.com/MTIculinary.

ECE Students Earn National CDA Certifications

(Continued from page 5)

LRHS ECE students who have earned national CDA certifications.


BRHS Grad’s Prestigious American FFA Degree

A griscience teacher and FFA advisor Debbie

Barry announces the first ever American FFA

Degree recipient from Braden River High School—

Brandon Adams. Brandon is a 2011 BRHS gradu-

ate. He received numerous awards and scholarships while a

student at BRHS, including the 2011 Golden Herald Award in the

vocational area. Brandon will receive his award at the National

FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana this October. FFA

members who qualify for the American FFA Degree have:

Received a Greenhand FFA Degree, Chapter FFA Degree

and State FFA Degree.

Been FFA members for at least three years.

Completed at least three years (540 hours) of high school

agriculture classes, or two years of high school agriculture

classes and one year of college agriculture classes (360

hours.)

Graduated from high school one year prior to the National

FFA Convention at which their degree will be awarded.

Maintained detailed SAE records, which demonstrate

outstanding planning, managerial and financial skills.

E a r n e d a n d p r o d u c t i v e l y

invested at least $7,500, or have

earned and productively invested

at least $1,500 and worked 2,250

hours beyond scheduled school

hours through their SAEs.

A record of outstanding leader-

ship skills.

A record of participating in

community service activities.

Maintained a “C” grade average

or better.

Announcing Florida’s Finest FFA Chapters

F lorida FFA was pleased to announce the selection of

“Florida’s Finest” FFA Chapters, including three from

Manatee County: Braden River High School, Palmetto High

School, and Southeast High School. The selection of these chap-

ters was based upon the completion of the National Chapter

Award program application. These chapters have excelled in the

areas of student, chapter and community development and have

worked hard to fulfill the mission of the FFA. One member and

one advisor from each of these chapters were recognized on the

main stage during the 84th Florida FFA Convention in June. In

addition, each of these chapters will represent Florida at the

national level in the National Chapter Award Program.

Summer Leadership and Updated Land Lab

News from Lakewood Ranch FFA, submitted by student Megan Hildreth,

LRHS FFA Reporter

T o kick off our summer vacation, the 2012–2013 officer

team attended the Florida FFA State Convention to

represent our chapter for four days in Orlando. During our trip

we listened to many motivational speakers and attended work-

shops about leadership skills. We seated four delegates to vote on

official business in our state and to elect Florida’s new state

officer team. Also, last year’s chapter president Lacy Kersey was

awarded her State FFA Degree. With the knowledge and skills

we’ve learned, we know we can lead our chapter out of the dark-

ness of selfishness and into the glorious sunlight of brotherhood

and cooperation.

While getting closer to the school year we planned a bowl-

ing night to bring our chapter back together for some fun and to

inform our members of the new cool events we have planned for

the new school year. Our first big event, the Lakewood Ranch

FFA Alumni Prospect Show, was held September 8th at the

Manatee County fairgrounds where people traveled from all over

Florida to compete with their beef cattle. Our own member

Jessica Embach won Grand Champion with her heifer.

We are also very proud to say our Agriscience Land Lab has

been updated with a green house, shade house, row crops,

equipment storage, and animal wash racks. We will be holding an

open house for the

public to view the

updated Land Lab in

November.

It’s a Boy!

J ulie Tillett, PHS agriscience teacher and FFA advisor,

reports that recently out in the pasture, one of the

chapter heifers blessed them

with another bull calf. The

new calf weighed in at 45

pounds. Congratulations!

The new bull calf born at PHS.

BRHS graduate Brandon Adams introduced himself to a crowd of over 3,000

FFA members at the 84th State FFA Convention, as a candidate for the

coveted American FFA Degree.

LRHS FFA member

Jessica Embach and

her Grand Champion

heifer.


Leadership Ladies

K imberley Lough, Lincoln Middle agriscience teacher

and FFA advisor, says, “All the way to Daytona and

back, excitement is the only word I can use to describe the enthu-

siasm of two budding leaders and Lincoln Middle FFA Officers

Nicole Lewis and Hannah Whitaker. On their way to the 2012 FL

FFA Chapter Presidents’ Conference, they exemplify ‘out of this

world leadership!’ – this year’s conference theme. Their notepads

are out, pencils scrambling to jot down their ideas and brain-

storms. Nothing but PURE DELIGHT and a contagious

energy.”

The students took part in the recent conference which led

students through four modules: 1) perception; 2) self confidence

and acceptance; 3) devotion,

growth and service; and 4)

passion, goals and delegating.

Leadership is one of the three

fo un da t io n a l l e gs o f t h e

National FFA organization and

part of the EdVantage model

for engaged, student learning.

Things are Hopping at BCMS FFA

U nder the leadership of Greg Egan, Buffalo Creek

Middle School (BCMS) FFA advisor and agriscience

teacher, the chapter has expanded their animal projects this year.

Greg shares, “Recently we had a guest speaker come in to talk

about rabbits, and before we knew it we had 24 students wanting

to raise rabbits at the school. These are all purebred rabbits and

will all be shown at the fair in January. We are also taking part in

the meat pen rabbit show which is new this year. We have over

200 students in agris-

cience/FFA this year

and look forward to

sharing lots of news

and updates.”

Lincoln FFA Outdoor Adventures

S ix Lincoln Middle School FFA members led by advisor

Kimberley Lough gathered with other FFA members

from all across Florida at the FFA Leadership Training Center

(LTC) in Haines City for the Florida Outdoor Adventures confer-

ence (FOA). Here, among giant oaks, cypress dripping with

Spanish moss, and a large quiet lake, eager middle and high FFA

members come to canoe, fish, and explore careers in Florida’s

outdoors.

The LTC provides a venue for many leadership, career and

church retreats throughout the year. But the week before the new

2012–13 school year was reserved for FOA. Representing Lincoln

were Elizabeth Atkinson, Nathan Heidenreich, Cameron

Hutchinson, Brandi Teachey, Brian Teachey and Kris Townsley.

These adventurous FFA members explored their futures in the

career fields of wildlife management, fresh water ecology, and

environmental studies. They met hands-on with staff from the FL

Department of Agriculture and Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Other FOA sessions taught skills in GPS navigation, arms safety,

and physical mobility and coordination. Challenge courses stimu-

lated collaborative problem solving and critical thinking, while

encouraging self confidence and communication. Small group

sessions focused on helping these FFA members think creatively

and become goal-setters.

For more great photos and even a canoe racing video

of Lincoln FFA’s Florida Outdoor Adventures, visit

t h e L i n c o l n F F A F a c e b o o k p a g e a t

www.facebook.com/LincolnMiddleFFA. Give the page a

“LIKE” and check out the FOA photo album.

Summer Slam Serves Community

R ight before the new school year began, Lincoln Middle

School (LMS) FFA and Palmetto High School (PHS)

FFA students and advisors worked together helping members of

the Palmetto community prepare for school by participating in

Summer Slam 2012. This community event, co-sponsored by

Manatee County, took place on the LMS campus.

“This was a great way to kick off our year by working with

Lincoln Middle School, sharing the love for education and

Agriculture,” said Julie Tillett, PHS FFA Advisor.

Sweetbay Supermarkets and other community vendors took

part in helping younger children prepare for an exciting year of

learning. The FFA students along with the Young Marines service

organization supported the event.

FFA members handed out stickers and over 200 snow

cones. Attendees tried to identify the animals on the stickers and

guess what type of meat came from that animal.

“It was great to

see so many in shar-

ing the interest in

an imals that FFA

members have,” said

Tim Lewis, Lincoln

M i d d l e S c h o o l

Alumni President.

Nicole Lewis and Hannah Whitaker

FFA members explore a

Fish and Wildlife Commis-

sion helicopter at Florida

Outdoor Adventures. (L–R)

Officer Mike with the

Florida Fish and Wildlife

Commission with Lincoln

FFA students.

Raising rabbits at Buffalo

Creek Middle

PHS and LMS FFA students reached out to

community children at Summer Slam 2012.


Nolan FFA: Leadership, Fundraising, and Fun

N olan Middle School FFA students were busy before

school even started this year, visiting various busi-

nesses that support the chapter throughout the year. In teams of

three, FFA officers set out to visit Publix, Mariposa Nursery,

Tractor Supply, King Nursery and several other agricultural busi-

nesses. Students were assigned tasks at each of these businesses.

Some stops included delivering thank you notes and helping

employees with their day-to-day duties. At Publix Supermarkets,

students identified different types of produce while spelling out

FFA. “We use this day to allow our officer team to get to know

each other and learn about different personalities and leadership

styles,” said FFA advisor Stefani Heidenthal, “as well as thank

businesses which support us throughout the year.”

The Nolan Chapter also began the year with its first “Nolan

Under the Stars” Fashion Show and Fundraiser. Many students

fashioned the latest fall trends offered at Tractor Supply, while

others served over 130 guests a delicious BBQ dinner with a

setting under the beautiful summer sky.

SEHS FBLA Set School Record,

Competed at Nationals

T his past spring, Southeast High School's Future Busi-

ness Leaders of America (FBLA) students, led by

advisor and business technology teacher Cindy Rees, set a school

record for the number of students who placed at states. Cindy

gave a huge thank you to administration, Brandy Braver, Lee Ann

Hoffman, Mike Sanders, and Cathy Strate for working with these

students. Three students were eligible to compete at the FBLA

Nationals in San Antonio, Texas, in June.

Freshman Isabella Fernandez placed first in the state in

Accounting 1. Conner Stevens gave two outstanding interviews to

place second in the Job Interview event. Erik Lundberg placed

third in Sports Management. Darwin Vasquez and Vicente

Sanchez created a terrific public service announcement about

texting and driving to place fourth in the state in Digital Video.

Matthew Davis gave two speeches to place fifth in the state in

Impromptu Speaking.

The students placing in the top three spots, along with the

District 18 President, Ingrid Onoriode, attended the FBLA Na-

tional Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas, June 29–

July 3. The students competed in the same categories. All four

attended workshops on resolving misunderstandings and con-

flicts, choosing the right college, time management, and learning

how to effectively make network connections.

Haile FBLA

I n late spring, Haile Middle School FBLA students

attended the 2012 State Leadership Conference. Students

listened to a motivational keynote speaker and attended a variety

of business workshops. “Our students really enjoyed the confer-

ence,” said advisor Rochelle Banach. Introducing students to

career and technical student organizations at the middle school

level sets the stage for building leadership skills and competing

successfully as they head into high school.

Rochelle Banach sent in these fun photos about her

students’ experience at the FBLA state conference in the spring.

Create!

H aile business students along with teacher Rochelle

Banach attended a "Create" Workshop located inside

Nolan students thanked businesses including Mariposa Nursery

and Publix, and put on a fashion show and BBQ at Tractor Supply.

Above: FBLA winners (L-R), Erik Lundberg,

Conner Stevens, and Isabella Fernandez.

Right: First place winner Isabella.

Haile Middle

School FBLA

students get

serious ...

...and have fun at the State

Leadership Conference.


the Apple Store at International Plaza. Students were greeted by

cheering and clapping Apple employees. Then they were paired

up in groups and created a presentation about where they would

like to travel or what they would like to be when they grow up.

Their projects were burned on a CD to take home and each stu-

dent received an Apple Workshop Certificate and Apple T-shirt.

Tillett’s National Recognition in Microsoft Office

P almetto High’s Bill Tillett earned a spot as one of five

national semi-finalists in the 2012 Worldwide Compe-

tition on Microsoft Office presented by Certiport, Inc. The

competition is a global test of students’ skills on Microsoft Office

Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Tillett earned the spot as one of

the five semi-finalists in the United States by scoring exceptionally

high on a qualifying exam taken on Microsoft Office Specialist

Word 2007. While students are given an hour to complete the

exam, Tillett achieved a perfect score in a period of just five

minutes.

The 2012 competition attracted more than 285,000 unique

candidates from 53 countries. One hundred thirteen finalists

participated in the final round of the competition. Manatee

County is proud of how far Bill Tillett progressed with his Micro-

soft expertise. These are lifelong skills that will remain with him.

Crumpler to Present at Conference

“D igital Dan” Crumpler, business technology instruc-

tor at Braden River High School, has been selected

to teach a Dreamweaver CS6 workshop at an upcoming joint

conference for FBTEA*, FTEEA*, and FAME* in November.

Designed for teachers and administrators in technology, business,

and marketing, the three organizations have come together to

provide a one-stop shop for the latest improvements and

techniques in their fields. One of the key reasons for attending

the conference will be to keep up with the ever-changing new

standards from the state DOE and to adapt curriculum to meet

new state and national standards. With the push to adapt national

curriculum, it is critical for teachers to know firsthand what new

things will be expected of them.

Dan’s Dreamweaver workshop identifies new features in

CS6 and how to adapt to the new standards for design programs.

The two-hour session will give the participants hands-on experi-

ence with the new software and how it can be used for what he

calls the “Monday morning special.” This has always been a

feature of Dan’s presentations, identifying and practicing one

solid tool that teachers can show off to classes the Monday

morning they return to school after a conference. “I have learned

over the past 39 years of teaching that such tools are usually a

springboard for other ideas to follow,” said Dan. “There will be a

special website set up for the conference where we encourage

other teachers to share tools they have used to benefit everyone.”

*FBTEA: Florida Business Technology Education Association; FTEEA: Florida

Technology and Engineering Educators Association; FAME: Florida Associa-

tion for Media in Education

Student Web Designers Learn and Earn

B raden River High School web design students are

building commercial websites for local organizations

including Raynor Refrigeration, Palmetto Mowers, Palmetto

Presbyterian Church, Memory Lane Ice Cream, and the Florida

Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) Alumni Chapter

for Manatee/Sarasota. These are projects designed by Web 2 and

Web 3 students, involving approximately 40 students. The

companies contacted the instructor and students through family

members and through repeat clients from the previous year.

Key student designers are Kristen Weems and Haley Wolfe

who are highly motivated to create exciting new web sites for

their family business in engine repair and commercial refrigera-

tion. They have started their projects at the beginning of the

school year and hope to have the new sites launched in Septem-

ber. The new sites will have a complete collection of photos,

video, and an abundance of options for mobile and social

network users.

The exciting thing about

these projects is that they will

be 100% home grown with the

students doing all the camera

work, interviews, design, and

site maintenance.

Haile business

students learned

to create while

having techno-fun

at the Apple store

in Tampa.


Drafting Students 9-11 Memorial Design to be

Built

M TI drafting instructor Ralph Vincent’s students

designed a 9-11 memorial that is slated for construc-

tion in Patriots Park along US 41 in Venice. At the centerpiece of

the design is a 14-foot steel beam from the World Trade Center.

The students designed and drafted the memorial as a community

service project in 2011. Salt of the Earth USA held the ground-

breaking in July and hopes that construction will be completed by

Patriots’ Day this year. Vincent has been teaching drafting at MTI

since 2006. He encourages his students to be actively engaged in

the community.

MTI Remembers 9-11

M anatee Technical Institute honored the American

spirit and remembered the victims of 9-11 at both the

Main Campus and the East Campus. The Lakewood Ranch

(LWR) community activity took place at the MTI East Campus.

Master of ceremonies, East Manatee Fire Rescue Training Safety

Officer Tim Hyden, and guest speaker Garrett Lindgran, survivor

and Vice President of the Retired Fire Fighters from 9-11, shared

a meaningful message with MTI students, LWR neighbors, and

community leaders.

At the MTI Main Campus, the SkillsUSA student-run

remembrance was held at two different times to accommodate

audience size. The guest speaker was J. B. Gaskins, vice president

of Florida Blood Services. Students Brad Cooper and Cheyenne

Whitaker were the masters of ceremonies. The Main Campus

remembrance was followed by a blood drive, also spearheaded by

the SkillsUSA members.

Modeling Excellence to Visitors

M TI’s reputation is far-reaching. Four staff members

from Washington Holmes Technical Center located

in the panhandle recently requested to tour MTI. They asked

specifically to see the Adult Education Program, Administrative

Office Assistant Program, and Web Design Program. The visitors

teach in these programs and wanted to observe the good things

MTI is doing.

Also in September, Michael McCoy, DeSoto County

Schools coordinator for the Adult Career Pathways program,

requested to visit the MTI Career Pathways and Adult Ed

program.

Cosmetology Open for Business

T he MTI Cosmetology

Department operates a

full service salon open to the

public for a variety of affordable

hair, nails, and skincare services.

Visit the website for hours and

detailed information at:

www.manateetechnicalinstitute.org/

salonservices.

First Responders Challenge

O n Saturday, November 10 at the MTI East Campus,

come see law enforcement, fire, and EMT profession-

als compete in physical competitions at this family-friendly event.

Family and children are welcome to see exhibitions and demon-

strations such as Bayflight, canine and arson dog units, and the

National Guard. All proceeds will help defer the costs of sending

Rendering of 9-11 memorial designed by Ralph Vincent’s drafting students at

MTI. The memorial will be built in Patriots Park in Venice this year.

Scenes from the 9-11 Remembrances


students to HOSA and SkillsUSA competitions. To see a promo-

tional video about the event, visit http://bit.ly/Px5Xk2. The

event runs between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and is sponsored by

the MTI Alumni Association.

The event will be preceeded by the MTI Law Enforcement

Academy’s 5K run.

MTI Offers New Programs

M anatee Technical Institute expanded its

o ffer ings th is fa l l with brand new

programs in Digital Design, Digital Printing Technology, Opto-

metric Assisting, and Orthopedic Technician. The new career

preparation programs reflect MTI’s response to industry demand.

Digital Design and Digital Printing are open to high school

students ages 16 and older and are being offered at the Main

Campus, and Optometric Technician and Orthopedic Technician

require a high school diploma or GED and are being offered at

the East Campus. Digital Design prepares students for employ-

ment as graphic or media designers, and Digital Printing prepares

students for employment as Digital Publishing Assistants and

Desktop Publishing Specialists.

Other new programs coming soon include 3-D Animation

and Technology, Digital Video Production, Television Produc-

tion, Baking & Pastry Arts, and Automotive Collision Repair and

Refinishing. Contact MTI for more information about these and

other new programs coming soon.

MTI Training Saves a Life

L ake Erie College of Osteopathic

Medicine (LECOM) student

Brandi Manning reacted quickly

when a 4-year-old girl was discov-

ered face down in her apartment

swimming pool. Brandi performed

CPR, administering chest compres-

sions on the child. After about four

minutes, the child responded.

Brandi credits the Basic Cardiac Life

Support class she took at Manatee Technical Institute as a

first-year LECOM student.

MTI Matters on YouTube

M TI Matters is a series of METV video segments

showcasing what’s new and exciting at Manatee Tech-

nical Institute. Check out past programs by visiting the METV

YouTube channel, or by searching for “MTI Matters” on

YouTube. www.youtube.com/ManateeEducationalTV

Culinary to Participate in Chowdown for Charity

T he fourth annual Chowdown for Charity event raises

funds to benefit Manatee County culinary programs.

This delicious event includes a desert competition between

culinary programs of different schools, and the MTI, SEHS, and

MHS Culinary teams will be there in full force. Ten area restau-

rants will offer samplings, while chefs compete against each other.

Proceeds will benefit the culinary programs, and a portion will

support the food bank. The event is sponsored by the Manatee

Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.

Left: MTI Director Dr. Mary

Cantrell discusses the new

building on one of the MTI

Matters videos.

MTI Matters can be

found by visiting the

METV YouTube

channel.

Brandi Manning

Chowdown for Charity

raises funds for local

culinary programs

including MTI, SEHS,

and MHS.

http://www.youtube.com/ManateeEducationalTV


CHECK THIS OUT! A high school graduate who...

...is an Engineering Technology Program Completer may start State College of Florida (SCF) with 21 credit hours (that is 7 classes!) saving a whole semester of time and about $2000 in tuition costs! Or who...

...is a Building Construction Technology Com-pleter may start MTI almost halfway through their Building Construction program—at OCP B—saving time and tuition costs for 450 hours of school. Or, that same student may opt to go straight to community college where they could receive 7 credit hours (2 classes) toward an AAS Degree in Construction Management Technology—saving time and over $700 dollars in tuition costs. Or who… ...has earned the Microsoft Specialist certifi-cation can apply at least 3 credit hours in one of 10 AAS/AS Degree Programs at SCF! And if that student… ...adds the Florida Bright Futures Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award, then that student could be OVER 100% funded for his or her entire postsecondary education! Eligibility requirements:

www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org/SSFAD/bf/acadrequire.htm Questions? Call:

Carol Lewis, Coordinator Career Pathways (941) 708-8770 x2194 [email protected]

Career Pathways The pathway to education and savings! www.CareerPathways.me

Prohibition of Discrimination. Any person who believes he/she has been discriminated against or has been harassed by an employee, student, or other third party who is subject

to control of the Manatee County School Board is encouraged to use the appropriate grievance procedures set forth in policy. Complaints should be forwarded to Rebecca Wells,

Equity Coordinator; P.O. Box 9069, Bradenton, FL 34206; 941-708-8540 ext. 3035.

C areer Pathways provides career and technical education (CTE) students with a seamless transition from career and

technical high school programs to area technical center CTE programs1 and/or community college programs2 and beyond. 1 Postsecondary Adult Vocational (PSAV) educational certificate programs 2 AA/AAS degree programs

Did you know?

Last year we had 655 high school seniors who graduated as a CTE Career Pathways “program completer.” These students earned a potential savings of $604,119 real dollars in tuition toward postsecondary educational programs—that’s in addi-tion to the time saved by not having to repeat coursework!!

Students now have even more articulated credit options through the Tampa Bay Area Career Pathways Consortium. Six counties (Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Sarasota) have formed an agreement making the transi-tion from high school to technical schools and community colleges even smoother. Through this agreement, articulated credit is offered throughout this area for virtually every CTE program.

There are Statewide Articulation Agreements for 44 PSAV to AAS/AS Degree Programs, and OVER 100 Industry Certifi-cations that offer articulated credit hours toward AAS/AS Degree Programs. Keep the list on file and check often for updates:

CTE Statewide Articulation Agreements: www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/artic_frame.asp

and

Industry Certification Descriptions: www.fldoe.org/workforce/programs/IndustryCert/

Talk to your students.

Make sure they’re on the right

Career Pathway!

http://www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org/SSFAD/bf/acadrequire.htm

http://www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org/SSFAD/bf/acadrequire.htm

http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/artic_frame.asp

http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/programs/IndustryCert/

CTSO and Student-Centered Events

T he ACT Department is here to support you in any way we can to help you achieve a successful chapter. Attending

conferences with students is one of the most exciting and demanding aspects of being a CTSO advisor, while providing

student-centered educational opportunities that last a lifetime.

School District of Manatee County 215 Manatee Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205 (941) 708-8770 x2227 fax (941) 708-8686

www.ManateeACT.com

Adult, Career and Technical Education is the branch of academics that links the world of education to the world of work. The ACT UPDATE delivers the department’s latest news, events, and “shining stars”—accolades of achievement in career and technical education. Got news, events, or comments to include in the next ACT UPDATE? Send your articles to:

Doug Wagner, Director ACT [email protected]

or Trish Litton, Secondary Vocational Specialist

[email protected]

CECF/BPA www.cecf.org or www.bpa.org March 17–20, 2013, State Leadership Conference, Orlando

DECA www.deca.org November 8–10, Innovations and Entrepreneurship Conference, Chicago

FBLA/PBL www.floridafbla-pbl.com November 9–11, Fall Leadership Conference, Melbourne

FCCLA www.flfccla.org March 2–5, 2013, State Leadership Conference, Orlando

FFA www.flaffa.org October 24–27 National FFA Convention, Indianapolis

FPSA www.fpsainc.org November 10, First Responders Challenge, MTI East

HOSA www.flhosa.org November 16–18, Leadership Development Conference, High Springs

SkillsUSA www.skillsusafl.org October 25, State Leadership Training Workshop, Haines City. November 9, Regional Leadership Training Workshop, Sarasota

TSA www.floridatsa.com October 17–20, Leadership Training Conference, Orlando. February 16, 2013, District Event, Manatee High School

FBA www.futurebuildersofamerica.org Spring, 2013

Watch for all of the publications keeping you informed

about what’s happening around the District in the Adult,

Career & Technical Education Department.

Around the District

Tech Times Career Pathways Take Stock Times Transition Times ACT Update Spotlight on Success. ManateeACT.com

act update issue 87

Documents