Thank You for a Great Year!
Chamber members and friends, As we wrap up our fiscal year this week, I want to take a moment to look back and look forward. We’ve had a tremendous year and the future of our chamber is strong. We have a great financial framework to help with any bumps and our influence continues to grow throughout the region and Florida. Let’s start with three key accomplishments that happened in the past 12 months. I could start by looking chronologically, but one of the biggest accomplishments our
Five Years Of Summer Bridge Program Jumpstarts Over 1,000 College Careers
In 2020, in the wake of the pandemic, many students put off their college plans when faced with an uncertain future. In response, Seminole State College of Florida created the Summer Bridge program to help ease some of the student’s anxieties and get them started in their college career. The program used financial aid and institutional funds to make sure the students had no out-of-pocket costs to take two courses during the Summer B Session. Now, five years after its creation, the Summer Bridge program
Welcome Your New Chamber Leaders
On June 12, the Seminole County Chamber held its annual meeting, celebrating our chamber's recognition as one of the top chambers of commerce in America. Being a certified five-star chamber showcases how this chamber is superior in all aspects of a chamber, from finance and facilities to membership growth and government affairs. A key reason our chamber received this accreditation is because of our leadership, our board and council chairs. Without the support and strength of these individuals, we
Seminole County Public School’s Red Apple Dining Partners with Summer BreakSpot to Provide Free Summer Meals for Children
Beginning June 2, 2025, Seminole County Public Schools’s Red Apple Dining has once again partnered with Summer BreakSpot to provide free, nutritionally balanced meals to children and teens during summer break. All children, 18 years old or younger, are welcome to join us at any Summer BreakSpot location to enjoy a free meal. Children can receive breakfast and/or lunch. There is no application necessary. Information including menus, ingredients, locations, dates, and service times are available on our
Parents, 2025 Graduates Can Take College Courses With No Out-Of-Pocket Costs
Seminole State College of Florida is offering the Summer Bridge program this summer, a unique program designed in partnership with Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) for 2025 high school graduates. Through the program, students will take two courses over the Summer Term B session, which runs June 25 – Aug. 6, and the College will use available financial aid and/or institutional funds to cover tuition, fees and books so students will have no out-of-pocket costs. The deadline to apply for the program is
SCPS “Find Your Fit” Controlled Open Enrollment Now Open Through May 15
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS), the A-rated, academically high-performing, #1-ranked public school district in Florida by Niche, is now accepting applications for its Controlled Open Enrollment period through the “Find Your Fit” campaign. This is a limited-time opportunity for families to enroll their children in one of Florida’s most highly coveted school systems. Controlled Open Enrollment allows families from any county in Florida to apply for a seat in select SCPS schools with available
SCAC Names Bauer as New Executive Director
The Seminole Cultural Arts Council (SCAC) is proud to announce Dr. Deborah Bauer as the organization’s new Executive Director, effective January 2025. Dr. Bauer succeeds Donna Bundy, who retired in October 2024 after twelve years of dedicated service to SCAC. Dr. Bauer, a distinguished historian with a focus on Florida history, brings an impressive array of expertise and community involvement to the role. She currently serves as a part-time faculty member at Valencia College in Orlando, where she shares
Seminole County Public Schools Educators Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award
Jason Litt of Keeth Elementary School, Vernard Moore of Millennium Middle School, and Jennifer Petitt of Hamilton Elementary School have been nominated for National Life Group’s 2024-25 LifeChanger of the Year award. Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and
2025 Teacher Hiring Event
SCPS is hosting a Teacher Hiring Event on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Lake Brantley High from 9am to 12pm. If you have a bachelor’s degree and a passion for working with students, we have a pathway for you to join our incredible team. Discover why SCPS is the #1 Public School District in Florida! Register today for this career opportunity where you can change lives. https://app.careerfairplus.com/scps_fl We can’t wait to meet you.
Investing In Futures: The Role Of Grants In Advancing Higher Ed Programs
Grants play a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding higher education initiatives, particularly in top career programs that prepare students for today’s most in-demand fields. These vital funds enable Seminole State College of Florida to develop innovative curricula, invest in cutting-edge technology, and provide essential resources that enrich the learning experience. Beyond enhancing program quality, grants also make higher education more accessible, offering scholarships and financial aid that
Seminole County Public Schools Announces Teacher of the Year and Employee of the Year
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce its 2026 Teacher of the Year and 2025 District Employee of the Year winners. These outstanding individuals exemplify excellence, commitment, and passion for serving SCPS students, families, and our community. Bailey Hocker, an ESE teacher at Endeavor School, has been named the 2026 SCPS Teacher of the Year. Ms. Hocker possesses a unique talent for creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that serve as a foundation for her instruction.
Seminole County Public Schools Introduces “Roots to Research” Agricultural Biotechnology Program
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is excited to announce the launch of an innovative new program of emphasis at Oviedo High School, “Roots to Research,” designed to prepare students for careers at the forefront of agricultural and industrial biotechnology. This cutting-edge program offers two distinct tracks—Industrial Biotechnology and Agricultural Biotechnology—empowering students to pursue their passions while tackling global challenges such as food security, sustainability, and manufacturing
Seminole County Public Schools Awarded $2.7 Million Grant to Launch Fire Academy
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is the recipient of a $2.7 million grant to create the “Bear Brigade Fire Academy” at Winter Springs High School. This grant represents the largest single-program grant in SCPS history and will establish a cutting-edge program designed to prepare students for careers in fire and emergency services. “This program is a game-changer for our students and community,” said Superintendent Serita Beamon. The Bear Brigade Fire Academy will offer unparalleled opportunities for
Seminole State College and Seminole County Public Schools launch new Teacher Apprenticeship Program
Seminole State College of Florida and Seminole County Public Schools are launching a new state-approved hands-on teacher apprenticeship program. Seminole County Public Schools is the number one public school district in Florida based on Niche reports. The new program prioritizes classroom experience over university-based learning and is part of the State of Florida’s effort to strengthen the state’s teacher pipeline by creating a no-cost apprenticeship pathway to the teaching profession. It will help more
Seminole County Public Schools Celebrates 2023-2024 Graduation Rate
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce a graduation rate of 91.8% for the 2023-2024 school year, representing an increase over last year, and 2.1% above the state average. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our educators, students, and families, whose unwavering commitment to excellence continues to propel our district forward. “We are incredibly proud of our students and deeply grateful for the educators and staff who work tirelessly to support their
Seminole County Public Schools Announces Finalists for District Teacher of the Year
Sanford, FL: Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce the three exceptional educators selected as finalists for the district’s prestigious 2026 Teacher of the Year award. These dedicated individuals have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in education, inspiring their students, colleagues, and communities. The finalists for the 2026 Teacher of the Year are: • Elementary School Finalist: Bailey Hocker, Endeavor Elementary School Ms. Hocker is celebrated for her
Seminole County Celebrates Strong Voter Support for Penny Sales Tax Renewal
Seminole County is thrilled to announce the successful renewal of the Penny Sales Tax with over 73% voter approval, demonstrating strong community support for continued infrastructure investment. The passage of the Penny Sales Tax renewal empowers Seminole County, its seven cities, and Seminole County Public Schools to move forward with critical projects that ensure the safety, connectivity, and sustainability of our community. Since its inception in 1991, the Penny Sales Tax has transformed Seminole
Seminole County Public Schools Receives Magnet School Grant to Reimagine South Seminole Academy
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) has been named the recipient of a $5.8 million grant through the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP). We are thrilled to share that this grant will be utilized to reimagine and enhance the magnet program at South Seminole Academy, transforming it into an innovative Career Exploration Academy. This grant represents one of the largest magnet school awards to a single school that SCPS has ever received, underscoring the district’s commitment to providing students with
Seminole County Public Schools Named Number One Public School District in Florida by Niche
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce that it has been ranked as the Number One Public School District in the State of Florida by Niche, a leading provider of comprehensive school rankings and data. This prestigious recognition highlights the district’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, innovative programs, and fostering student success. The 2025 Niche rankings are based on a rigorous analysis of key performance indicators including academic performance, graduation rates,
School Scheduling/Closure Information - Seminole County Public Schools
Update #1: Hurricane Milton 10/7/24 at 11:45 am Due to the anticipated impact of Hurricane Milton in our area, all schools will follow a regular early dismissal schedule on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, and all afterschool activities, events, facility rentals, and childcare services including KidZone & Beyond and 21st Century Learning programs will be canceled. All SCPS schools will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, October 9-10th. We will make a determination about whether we can have school on Friday
NEWS CONFERENCE: Seminole County Shelter Openings
Seminole County, FL (October 8, 2024) — The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management is preparing to open shelters on Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. A list of general population, pet-friendly, and special needs shelters will be shared on PrepareSeminole.org after today's 2 p.m. news conference. Shelters should be used as a last resort alternative to evacuation or sheltering with friends or family. Cots are not provided at General Population Shelters. Special needs shelters are open to those who need
Hurricane Milton Afternoon Updates: Tuesday, October 8
Seminole County, FL (October 8, 2024) — Seminole County officials announced the following updates for Hurricane Milton this afternoon, Tuesday, October 8, 2024. For the latest information, visit PrepareSeminole.org or register for alerts by texting 'Storm2024' to 888-777. Watch the full update on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/YjuRX-tyebc?si=Qr_IUH7QqYnu_qEa SHELTERS: Eight shelters are opening at 8 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, October 9 – this includes special needs, pet friendly, and general
Lake Mary High School Teacher Placed Under Arrest
On Thursday, October 3, 2024, Seminole County Public Schools was notified of an allegation of misconduct involving Richard Colon, a teacher and Assistant Coach at Lake Mary High School. He was immediately placed on administrative leave and this incident was reported to the Department of Family and Children Services and Law Enforcement per our operating procedures. We have been informed that Mr. Colon has been placed under arrest this afternoon. Any allegations of misconduct by our staff will be
Thank YOU for Your Generosity at Our First State of Our Schools Event
In July, we held our first-ever State of Our Schools event. This partnership with Seminole County Public Schools and the Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools was tremendously successful with a packed room of community leaders. Part of the partnership was for our chamber and its members to give back to the school district. A portion of its proceeds were donated to the Foundation, along with a school supply drive. As you can see, you came through with hundreds of backpacks, markers,
SCPS Students To Receive Breakfast At No Charge At Select Locations in 2024/25 School Year
(SANFORD, Fl) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS), in partnership with the School Breakfast Program, will provide breakfast at no charge to all students for the 2024-2025 school year at the following locations: Altamonte Elementary Midway Elementary English Estates Elementary Milwee Middle Goldsboro Elementary Pine Crest Elementary Hamilton Elementary Spring Lake Elementary Idyllwilde Elementary Wicklow Elementary Lake Orienta Elementary
Seminole County Public Schools Hosts Ribbon Cutting on Newly Renovated Academy of Health Careers
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) was thrilled to officially cut the ribbon for the newly renovated Health Academy at Seminole High School, marking the completion of the first phase of an extensive, nearly $3 million renovation project. The much-anticipated improvements were made possible thanks to a legislative appropriation championed by Senator Jason Brodeur, Representative David Smith, and former Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, as well as grants and donations by generous health care partners and
Seminole County Public Schools Health Services Team Unveils Innovative Training Center and Simulation Lab
Sanford, FL: Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is excited to announce the grand opening of its Health Training Center and Simulation Lab, designed to equip school nurses and clinic assistants with advanced tools and education. This facility represents a significant step forward in ensuring the highest standards of health care for our students. The new Training Center and Simulation Lab are located at the SCPS Early Learning Center, and offer a unique and immersive learning environment, providing
Community Invited to Participate in School Supply Drive to Benefit Students in Seminole County Public Schools
Sanford, FL – As the new school year approaches, The Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools will be hosting a Supply Drive to support their Tools 4 Seminole Schools (T4SS) program. The drive will begin Monday during Tax-Free Weeks, providing an excellent opportunity for community members to donate essential school supplies and classroom materials. Community members are encouraged to participate by donating new supplies such as pens, pencils, crayons, scissors, glue, and more. The drive will run
Seminole County Public Schools Unveils the Student Success Express
Sanford, FL: Today, Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) held a ribbon cutting for the newest addition to their fleet of service vehicles geared for student achievement. Dubbed the “Student Success Express,” this mobile registration and family resource vehicle is designed to bring essential services directly to the communities we serve. This innovative initiative will enhance our efforts to provide convenient access to educational resources, support services, and employment opportunities within SCPS. The
Seminole County Public Schools Remains A-rated District for 2023-2024
(Sanford, FL) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is pleased to announce that it has once again earned an “A”-rating as a district for the 2023-2024 school year as reported in the July 24, 2024, Florida Department of Education School Grades release. In addition, SCPS is ranked #1 when compared to Central Florida Districts, second when compared to the 14 largest districts in Florida, and 12th out of all Florida’s 67 Districts. SCPS continues to be an academically high-performing district and we are very
Collective Bargaining Tentative Agreement Reached Joint Statement Between SECA and NIPSCO
In the spirit of cooperation, the School Board of Seminole County and the Seminole Educational Clerical Association, Inc. and Non-Instructional Personnel of Seminole County Board of Public Instruction Association, Inc. are pleased to announce that the parties have tentatively agreed to contract language and compensation. Recurring salary increase for the 2024-2025 school year as follows: 3% increase per stepA one-time bonus for all returning employees of $500.00 to be paid on August 16th (excluding
Collective Bargaining Tentative Agreement Reached Between The School Board Of Seminole County And The Seminole Education Association, Inc.
In the spirit of cooperation, the School Board of Seminole County and the Seminole Education Association, Inc. are pleased to announce that the parties have tentatively agreed to contract language and compensation. Recurring salary increase for the 2024-2025 school year as follows: Highly Effective - $2,149.80Effective - $1,253.43Grandfather - $1,679.40Beginning teacher salary increased to $50,000.00.A one-time bonus for all returning teachers of $500.00 to be paid on August 16th (excluding probationary
It's Time to Be Educated - Tickets on Sale Now for Seminole County State of Our Schools
As you know from being a part of the Seminole County community, the quality of our schools is a tremendous driver for economic development. When companies look to expand, move or open, one of the key things that is reviewed is the quality of the schools. And when people are hired throughout the region, they choose to live in Seminole County because of our schools. For the first time, Seminole County Chamber and Seminole County Public Schools are partnering to bring you the State of Our
