An Equal Opportunity School District

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2 Marion County Public Schools Leading the State in Raising Student Performance 512 SE Third Street Ocala, FL FRS (voice) (TTY) SAVE-A-FRIEND HOTLINE FRIEND An Equal Opportunity School District

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4 A Reference Guide to Marion County Public Schools Our school system is dedicated to leading the state in raising student performance. This guide offers a look at the district as an effort to communicate and continue developing our relationships with parents, students, business partners and our community (As of May 2008) Students... 42,271 Schools Employees... 6,287 5th largest Florida district in geographic area (approx. 1,657 square miles) 2008 Operating Budget - $677,130,623. High School Graduation Rate (2007): Marion County % Florida % Dropout Rate (2007): Marion County...3.3% Florida...3.3% 2008 graduates received four-year scholarships to many higher education institutions and post-secondary training opportunities. The value of these scholarships was over $15.7 million. This publication provided as a public service by the Public Relations Office of Marion County Public Schools, PO Box 670, Ocala, FL, FAX [email protected] Information contained in this guide was accurate as of July Marion County Public Schools is an equal opportunity school district and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin, marital status, age or disability in its employment practices and in its access and admission to educational programs, services and activities. Special thanks to the Ocala Star-Banner for their photographic assistance. 1 MCPS 2008 Schools Guide Table of Contents Superintendent of Schools...2 Marion County School Board...2 Registering for School...3 Immunization Requirements...3 Bus Transportation...4 Food Service...4 Teacher Recruitment...5 Special Services and Programs School Locator Map Business Partner Program...14 Public Education Foundation...15 School Listings/Principals District Achievement and Awards School Accountability...21 Academic Accountability School Profiles

5 Superintendent of Schools After an initial gubernatorial appointment in 2003, Superintendent James Jim Yancey was elected by registered voters to a four-year term ( ). Mr. Yancey previously served as deputy superintendent and is a former principal of Belleview and Dunnellon High Schools. He started as a teacher in Marion County Public Schools and has been part of the district for the past 36 years. Mr. Yancey earned both his Bachelor of Science and Masters in Administration and Supervision degrees from the University of Florida. As executive officer of the Marion County School Board, the superintendent assists the Board in performing each of its duties, providing guidance and making recommendations as required. James M. Yancey Marion County School Board Diana Greene, Ph.D. Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction Wally Wagoner Deputy Superintendent of Operations The Marion County School Board consists of five non-partisan members elected by registered voters. Each member represents one of five districts and is elected to four-year terms on a staggered basis. The Board meets twice a month on the second and fourth Tuesdays at 6PM. Meetings are held at the School Board Meeting Room, 512 SE 3rd St., Ocala, and are broadcast live on more than a dozen cable television systems in Marion County and over-the-air on Channel 7. Board meetings and workshops are open to the public and advertised in advance. The Honorable Judith Zanetti District The Honorable Steven B. Hering District The Honorable Bobby L. James District The Honorable Sue M. Mosley District The Honorable Ronald B. Crawford District

6 Registering for School School registration is available at all Marion County Public Schools. Call the local school for details. Requirements are: Pre-Kindergarten: Must be four years old on or before Sept. 1 Kindergarten: Must be five years old on or before Sept. 1 First Grade: Must be six years old on or before Sept. 1 and have successfully completed kindergarten with transferable academic credit. Florida law requires all children ages 6 (by Feb. 1) to 16 attend school. Students found to be truant, and their parents, may be prosecuted for failing to attend school. Immunization Requirements Florida law requires all students have a certification of immunization on file at their school. Students not meeting this requirement will be excluded from school until the proper documents are provided. For more information, contact the Marion County Health Department at , your doctor, or Marion County Public Schools Health Education at For school assignment, call the Student Assignment Office at To register your child for school, you will need these required items: Proof of birth date Proof of residency Florida certification of immunization Proof of physical examination within one year of enrollment Social Security Card (requested) 3

7 Bus Transportation Food Service More than 7,000,000 meals were served in Marion County Public Schools last school year. Breakfast... $1.00 Lunch Elementary Schools... $1.60 Middle/High schools... $1.75 Milk Juice Buses on the road daily, 35% with seatbelts 12,135 Bus stops 1,293 Daily bus routes 44,444 Roundtrip bus miles daily 8 million miles annually 32 trips to the moon and back Nearly 26,000 student riders (61% of students) 5,600 gallons of diesel fuel used daily over 1 million gallons annually $15,429 cost of average day s fuel for buses Bus transportation is provided at no cost to all students who live more than two miles from their assigned school. Courtesy busing is no longer provided for students living within a school s two-mile zone. Transportation is provided for children who are physically handicapped or students enrolled in exceptional student programs regardless of the distance from home to school. Call your local school for bus information. Transportation Department Free/reduced price meals are available to students who qualify. Approximately 58 percent of our students qualify for this program. Call the Food Service office for more information at

8 Teacher Recruitment To ensure Marion County Public Schools employ the best and the brightest teachers, the district Employment Services Department conducts a well-organized program for recruitment. The Marion County Education Job Fair, college recruitment fairs, personal visits, and campus career events attract well-qualified teachers to Marion County Public Schools. In addition, our own employees receive scholarship opportunities through the Public Education Foundation of Marion County and the Department of Education to pursue teaching careers in Marion County. For employment information, contact Employment Services at , or call the Vacancy Hotline at You may also visit our web site, for job listings. Pupil/Teacher Ratio ( ) K : : : : :25 (core classes) Projected Students ( ) Elementary Schools... 19,891 Middle Schools... 9,619 High Schools... 11,931 Charter Schools Special Centers... 1,156 Home Schooled... 2,100 Instructional Staff (May 2008) Male...22% Bachelor s Degree...65% Master s Degree...31% Specialist Degrees...2% Female...78% Master s plus...1% Doctorate...1% Student Demographics (March 2008) Male...52% Caucasian % Black % Hispanic % Female...48% Multi-Cultural % Asian % Native American % Total Budget (All Funds) $677,130,623 General Fund...53% Capital Projects...36% Debt Service...3% Per Pupil Expenditure... $8,296 Food Service...3% Federal...3% Internal Service...2% 5

9 Special Services & Programs Florida. Its mission is to enrich the educational and cultural environment of the State of Florida and the Southeastern United States as an integral educational and cultural component of Central Florida Community College. For more information contact Judy Worley, liaison officer for arts programs with Marion County Public Schools, at , or her at AICE Program Offered to students at Belleview and North Marion High schools, the AICE diploma program (Advanced International Certificate of Education) is administered and assessed by the University of Cambridge. AICE courses equate to those offered at the university freshman level and are for high school juniors and seniors. Applications are required with minimum criteria established. Contact Belleview High ( ) or North Marion High ( ) for more information. Appleton Museum The Appleton Museum of Art is a teaching museum dedicated to providing the highest quality of educational and artistic programs for North Central Career Preparation Model and Career Development Plan Career Development Plan and the Career Model were developed to help students prepare for the transition from school to the work world. Career planning links education, careers and lifelong learning. The Career Development Plan ensures all students are prepared to enter the workforce, enroll in post-secondary technical training, and/or pursue a professional program of study when they graduate from high school. The Plan provides for career development from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The Career Preparation Model was developed to outline how careers would be integrated in all grades, beginning in kindergarten. The Model includes three pathways: Professional Prep, Tech Prep, and Work Prep. Each high school has a Career Lab where students may take the PESCO Career Assessment and CHOICES to assess their skills, likes, dislikes and aptitude for many things. The assessment gives students a printout of occupations and careers they have the aptitude to achieve. During ninth grade, students begin their Career Planner Portfolio and four-year high school plan. Marion County Public Schools has these and many other resources to help students determine a career pathway. Planning is the key to career success. For further information, visit the Career Website at or contact Joan Stark, Career Model Facilitator, at or at [email protected]. 6

10 Central Florida Community College (CFCC) Marion County Public Schools has agreements with Central Florida Community College (CFCC) to provide several types of college credits to high school students. A dual-enrollment program is available as well as college credit for completing Tech Prep programs. Career Academics also offer high school credit for college courses based on specific careers. Individual high schools can provide information on these options. Community Technical and Adult Education Center (CTAE) This program provides academic opportunities through a wide variety of outstanding programs while serving as a primary provider of continuing education for business and industry. Courses include basic literacy, GED preparation and high school completion, and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Technical course offerings include health occupations, cosmetology, construction trades, and business. An array of recreation and leisure courses are offered as well. As many as 6,700 students ages 16 and up attend CTAE. For more information, contact the center at or log on to Engineering and Manufacturing Institute of Technology (EMIT) The Engineering and Manufacturing Institute of Technology at Forest High School combines honors-level high school academics with three or four years of computer-assisted drafting in a state-of-the-art facility. Open to high school students countywide, EMIT s unique curriculum is immersed in high-tech approaches, preparing students for careers in drafting and design, engineering, architecture or manufacturing processes. Problem-solving skills and mixed grade-level teaming provide leadership opportunities. Students can begin the program in either the ninth or tenth grade. Enrollment is limited by space, and prospective applicants should contact Forest High School at to receive a packet. Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Marion County has approximately 8,300 exceptional students enrolled in our public schools. An exceptional student is one who has special learning needs due to a disability or students who are gifted. The special assistance they receive in school is called Exceptional Student Education (ESE) or Special Education. Our goal is to provide every exceptional student with a free appropriate public education (FAPE), help the student progress in school, access general curriculum, and prepare for life after school. All schools have ESE programs of differing degrees. Hillcrest School provides exceptional student services to its entire student body. Call for more information on ESE services. 7

11 Extended Day Care To accommodate working parents and encourage interpersonal student development, the district offers before- and after-school programs at all elementary school sites. Middle school programs are available at limited sites. Contact the individual middle school for information on program availability. General hours of operation are 6:30AM - 6PM. Contact individual schools for exact times as they may vary. Students may register at each school site through the Extended Day Site Manager. A variety of activities are conducted at each site including arts and crafts, indoor and outdoor play time, group projects, and quiet time to read and work on homework. Fees are charged for this program and are designated as a flat rate fee, meaning a fixed fee per-week is charged for services regardless of usage or number of days in the week. Fees are paid weekly in advance. For more information, contact the Extended Day Business Office at Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program This program establishes a lottery-funded scholarship rewarding high school graduates. Students who merit recognition of high academic achievements and meet eligibility criteria may then enroll in an eligible Florida public or private-post secondary educational institution within three years of high school graduation. This is the umbrella program for all state-funded scholarships including the Florida Academic Scholars, The Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars, and The Florida Merit Scholars Awards. For information, contact any high school guidance counselor. Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks expands to include middle school students this year, making it the district s only grades 4-8 school. Located in the heart of Marion Oaks in Southwest Marion County, this community school also requires a mandatory dress code for its students based on school colors. The $37 million school was the first built with a half-cent sales tax approved by voters back in International Baccalaureate Marion County s only International Baccalaureate program conducts classes at Vanguard High School. A rigorous pre-university course of study, this program offers accelerated classes to meet the needs of the highly motivated secondary school student. Eighth graders apply for acceptance in their freshman year and can earn college credit hours while enrolled in high school. In addition to academic classes, IB students must also complete an independent research project and document 150 community service hours. The IB Program was created over 30 years ago as a common university entrance credential serving a consortium of nations. Marion County s IB Program is one of just 56 in all of Florida. To find out more about the International Baccalaureate program, call or visit their website at IB programs are also under development at Lake Weir High and Oakcrest Elementary and are expected to open within the next few years. Liberty Middle School Liberty Middle School is the district s newest school opening this school year. Built with local sales tax dollars, this $36 million school replaces the former West Port Middle. Situated on Southwest 95th Street in Marion County, the school features three two-story buildings surrounding an interior courtyard. Liberty Middle is located beside the district s newest elementary school, Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary. 8

12 Magnet Schools and Programs Students may attend one of several magnet school programs designed to meet their specific learning needs. These include: Dr. N.H. Jones Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology (elementary). Madison Street Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, emphasizing academic excellence, fine arts and technology (elementary). Reddick-Collier Elementary s Cambridge Program, focusing research, writing, and application of knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems. Middle school students may apply to Howard Middle School to experience learning through technologies and the arts. High school students may choose from: Forest High s EMIT program (described earlier) North Marion High s AICE program (described earlier) Vanguard High s IB program (described earlier) West Port High, offering Marion County s only visual and performing arts magnet program for high school ages Marion Technical Institute (MTI) Marion Technical Institute offers students 16 years and older the opportunity to learn technical skills and academic knowledge through hands-on experience. MTI provides learning opportunities in eight specialized academies including: Automotive Technology, Business, Construction Technology, Culinary Arts, Industrial Engineering Technology, Information Technology, Power Industrial/Electrical, and Dual Enrollment. MTI also offers Computer-Aided Drafting and Design, Cosmetology, and Small Gas Engine Technology programs. MTI is designed specifically for students interested in finding immediate employment upon graduation and/or continuing post-secondary education in a specific field of work. For more information, call or log on to Model Classrooms Marion County pioneered this concept of grouping same-grade students at same academic levels in the same classroom. Students scoring at low levels on the FCAT (Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test) spend time in classrooms with lower ratios and higher one-on-one teacher-to-student contact. Repeating a grade level offers these students the chance to not only catch up academically, it builds self-esteem and confidence to succeed at future levels. Students in model classrooms spend large blocks of time on the same task, which means uninterrupted time, longer learning, and higher achievement. Contact any of these schools directly for more information. 9

13 ROTC Junior ROTC programs are based at all high schools. The Reserve Officers Training Corps offers students training for military careers and beyond. Air Force programs are available at Belleview, Dunnellon, Forest, and North Marion High Schools. The Navy offers an ROTC program at Vanguard High, while the Army offers its program at West Port and Lake Weir High Schools. For more information on these programs, contact the schools directly. Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center The Silver River Museum is located within the beautiful 5,000-acre Silver River State Park with several nature trails where students and visitors explore diverse and threatened ecosystems. All fourth and seventh graders in Marion County Public Schools participate in a one-day field trip to the Museum. The curriculum is a hands-on experience providing students an appreciation for Florida s rich natural and cultural heritage. Specifically designed activities target the Sunshine State Standards and help students excel on the FCAT. These activities are used during the field trip and included in a teacher s guide, used to prepare students before their trip and to reinforce concepts after their visit. For more information, call or log on to Television Media Productions Part of the Technology and Information Systems (TIS) Department, Television Media Productions (TMP) operates a nationally-recognized model for instructional television. The department regularly records worldwide educational programming via satellite and distributes it to all 48 schools, providing a great resource for teachers and students alike. Through 12 microwave channels managed by the district, all classrooms receive instructional programming. In addition, the district rebroadcasts, with permission, the following: The National Geographic Channel, The Discovery Channel, The Learning Channel, The History Channel, PBS, The Weather Channel, CNN, C-Span, and the Annenberg/CPB Channel for use in our classrooms. The district also programs and operates the Marion Education Channel, a 24-hour educational channel, on more than a dozen local cable systems and over-the-air on Channel 7, reaching more than 100,000 homes in Marion County. For more information, call or [email protected]. 10

14 Volunteers Last year, volunteers logged over 130,000 hours in Marion County Public Schools. All schools have School Volunteer programs. Volunteer support is needed in all areas of our school system and there are many ways to serve: classroom, health screening, assist with school plays, field trips, science and social studies fairs, fund raising projects, clerical work, lunchroom, media center, physical education programs, musical programs, and many other areas. Our senior adults bring a wealth of experiences to our students and are a valuable resource, especially through our Veterans in the Classroom project. Contact Suzanne McGuire, homeless liaison/volunteer coordinator, at or [email protected] for more details. West Port High Med-Tech Academy West Port High has teamed with Munroe Regional Medical Center to offer an exemplary Health Science Education Program. Emphasizing a strong academic program with a practical side, along with field trips and mentoring programs, business and industry representatives assist with the development of future well-trained health care providers. Contact West Port High at for more information. West Port Visual and Performing Arts Program A state-of-the-art facility closely describes the art department at West Port High School. With a large room for 2-D and 3-D art, West Port also has a mat and frame room, a printmaking room, and a dark room for photography. The facility matches the curriculum of Commercial Art, Printmaking, Drawing and Painting, Sculpture and Pottery. The school also offers a performing and visual arts magnet program, thanks in part to a theatre with lighting and sound equipment. This department is Marion County s premier site for high school students interested in the performing and visual arts. Courses in drama, theatre history, acting, and technical theatre are offered. Opportunities abound for students to engage in extra-curricular performances designed to enhance the classroom experience. As a magnet program, students countywide can apply through a required audition. Contact West Port High at for more information. 11

15 School Locator Map

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17 Business Partner Program The partnerships between local businesses and Marion County Public Schools are one of the more rewarding examples of private sector involvement with our schools. For more information, contact the Public Education Foundation of Marion County at or log onto SCHOOL... BUSINESS PARTNER Anthony Elementary... Fabian Dinkins Construction / Unity Baptist Church Belleview Elementary...open Belleview High...open Belleview Middle... Teachers Sharing Answers, Inc. Belleview-Santos Elementary...open College Park Elementary... CFCC & United Mortgages & Assoc. Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary... Market of Marion Dunnellon Elementary...open Dunnellon High School...open Dunnellon Middle... Tillman & Associates Engineering East Marion Elementary...Grandview Rental / Florida Credit Union Eighth Street Elementary...SunTrust Bank of North Central FL Emerald Shores Elementary... TECO Peoples Gas Evergreen Elementary...Triple Crown Homes Fessenden Elementary... AIG Retirement Forest High...Bank of America / Progress Energy / Engineered Building Systems, Inc. Fort King Middle...GTE Federal Credit Union Fort McCoy School...BB&T Greenway Elementary...Signature Brands, LLC Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary...Pulte Homes Harbour View Elementary...The Villages Regional Health System Hillcrest School... Ocala Star-Banner Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks...open Howard Middle...Cox Communications SCHOOL... BUSINESS PARTNER Lake Weir High...Lockheed-Martin Lake Weir Middle... Closet Maid Liberty Middle...open Madison Street Academy...Regions Bank Maplewood Elementary...Fluid Routing Solutions, Inc. Marion Technical Institute...CLM Workforce Connection / Economic Development Council North Marion High... MASCO BCG-Merillat / System Components Corp. North Marion Middle... Seminole Stores Oakcrest Elementary... McDonald s Restaurant Ocala Springs Elementary...open Osceola Middle... Wachovia Bank Reddick-Collier Elementary...open Romeo Elementary...Brick City Title Insurance Co. Saddlewood Elementary...Sam s Club Shady Hill Elementary... Barfield & Associates South Ocala Elementary... Cullison-Wright Construction Corp. Sparr Elementary...Sparr Building & Farm Supply Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary...open Sunrise Elementary...Wal-Mart Supercenter Vanguard High (IB Program)... India Assoc. Cultural & Education Center Ward-Highlands Elementary...Bank of America West Port High...Munroe Regional Medical Center Wyomina Park Elementary...Signature Brands, LLC 14

18 Cornerstone Programs Grants for Great Ideas, providing funds to teachers and principals supporting teaching innovations. Teacher To Be Scholarships, designed to help non-instructional district employees obtain their degree to become teachers. In 1987, the Public Education Foundation of Marion County was established to increase involvement in Marion County Public Schools, to channel funds from the private sector into programs enhancing public education, to encourage imaginative and creative approaches to teaching, and to recognize and reward excellence in education. The foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization providing support for programs where tax dollars cannot be used or where budgets fall short. The Foundation strives to encourage and recognize educational excellence in Marion County. Since the beginning, thousands of committed individuals, businesses and organizations have contributed time and money to support the Foundation s work, enabling it to disburse more than $1 million in grants, awards and scholarships to our public schools. The business community donates additional in-kind materials and supplies. Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program, developed in 1991, honors excellence through the selection of each school s Teacher of the Year and through the community nomination process. Each year, five outstanding teachers become members of the Golden Apple Academy, a growing association of exceptional educators; one of these five is named Marion County s Teacher of the Year. Take Stock in Children, helping deserving low-income children with this challenge: if they agree to keep up their grades, work hard, and play by the rules, their community will provide a scholarship to college, a mentor to help them stay on track, and hope for the future. For information on any of these programs, or on the Foundation itself, contact the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, Inc. at or log on to 15

19 School Listings /Principals School, Principal & Address Main# Fax# School, Principal & Address Main# Fax# Anthony Elementary Cassandra Boston 9501 NE Jacksonville Rd., Anthony, FL Belleview Elementary Brenda Conner 5556 SE Hwy 484, Belleview, FL Belleview High Jim Wohrley SE 36th Ave., Belleview, FL Belleview Middle Lisa Krysalka SE 36th Ave., Belleview, FL Belleview-Santos Elementary Troy Sanford 9600 South US Hwy 441, Belleview, FL College Park Elementary Patricia Stout 1330 SW 33rd Ave., Ocala, FL Community Technical and Adult Ed. Debbie Jenkins 1014 SW 7th Rd., Ocala, FL Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary Don Raymond 1900 SW 5th St., Ocala, FL Dunnellon Elementary Patricia Hornsby SW 180th Ave. Rd., Dunnellon, FL Dunnellon High Michelle Lewis SW 180th Ave. Rd., Dunnellon, FL Dunnellon Middle Jane Ashman Chestnut St., Dunnellon, FL East Marion Elementary Mike Hearn NE 14th St. Rd., Silver Springs, FL Eighth Street Elementary Penny McKee 513 SE 8th St., Ocala, FL Emerald Shores Elementary Jaycee Oliver 404 Emerald Rd., Ocala, FL Evergreen Elementary Rusty Corley 4000 NE West Anthony Rd., Ocala, FL Fessenden Elementary Anna DeWese 4200 NW 89th Pl., Ocala, FL Forest High Chester Gregory 5000 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala, FL Fort King Middle Wayne Livingston 545 NE 17th Ave., Ocala, FL Fort McCoy, K-8 Rob Hensel NE County Road 315, Fort McCoy, FL Francis Marion Military Academy Brandon Hicks 2091 NE 35th St., Suite 12, Ocala, FL Greenway Elementary Erin Quainton 207 Midway Rd., Ocala, FL Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary Leanna Dixon 4397 SW 95th St., Ocala, FL Harbour View Elementary Marlene Bjork 8445 SE 147th Pl., Summerfield, FL Hillcrest School Lori Manresa 3143 SE 17th St., Ocala, FL

20 School, Principal & Address Main# Fax# School, Principal & Address Main# Fax# Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks Juan Cordova 365 Marion Oaks Dr., Ocala, FL Howard Middle Kathy Collins 1108 NW Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Ocala, FL Lake Weir High Cynthia Saunders SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala, FL Lake Weir Middle Mike Kelly SE Sunset Harbor Rd., Summerfield, FL Liberty Middle School Gregg Dudley 4773 SW 95th St., Ocala, FL Madison Street Academy of Visual and Performing Arts Philip Leppert 401 NW Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Ocala, FL Maplewood Elementary Gary Smallridge 4751 SE 24th St., Ocala, FL Marion Charter School Gina Evers, Director 39 Cedar Rd., Ocala, FL Marion Technical Institute (MTI) Mark Vianello 1614 SE Ft. King St., Ocala, FL McIntosh Area Schools (MAS) Rochelle Victor th St., P. O. Box 769, McIntosh, FL North Marion High Kathy Quelland 151 W County Road 329, Citra, FL North Marion Middle Jerome Brown 2085 W County Road 329, Citra, FL Oakcrest Elementary Jeannine Mills 1112 NE 28th St., Ocala, FL Ocala Springs Elementary Dave DeNaro 5757 NE 40th Ave. Rd., Ocala, FL Osceola Middle John McCollum 526 SE Tuscawilla Ave., Ocala, FL Reddick-Collier Elementary Vernon Chisholm 4595 W County Road 316, Reddick, FL Romeo Elementary Kathy Hultman SW 36th St., Dunnellon, FL Saddlewood Elementary Cheryl Laffey 3700 SW 43 Ct., Ocala, FL Shady Hill Elementary Carol Ely 5959 S. Magnolia Ave., Ocala, FL South Ocala Elementary Pam Miller 2831 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala, FL Sparr Elementary Woody Clymer 2525 E County Road 329, P. O. Box 539, Sparr, FL Stanton-Weirsdale Don Zaharias SE 134th Terr., Weirsdale, FL Sunrise Elementary Isaac Burgess 375 Marion Oaks Crs., Ocala, FL Vanguard High Rick Lankford 7 NW 28th St., Ocala, FL Ward-Highlands Beth Cordova 537 SE 36th Ave., Ocala, FL West Port High Jayne Ellspermann 3733 SW 80th Ave., Ocala, FL Wyomina Park Elementary Mike Graff 511 NE 12th Ave., Ocala, FL

21 District Achievements and Awards Seventy-seven percent of schools in Marion County receive A or B grades from Florida s Department of Education. Three high schools Belleview, Forest, and Vanguard earn A grades, the most high schools ever in a single year and the first A high school grade since Superintendent Jim Yancey and the West Port High School reading team are named Florida Literacy Leaders of the Year by the DOE s Just Read, Florida! Program. The awards are handed out in front of 5,000 people attending the organization s annual conference in Orlando. Marion County Public Schools is named the institutional Communicator of the Year by the Ocala Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association. This is the second year in a row the district is recognized for its communication efforts. Over 3,000 teachers gather in Ocala to hear nationally-known education reformist Dr. Bill Daggett. The Public Education Foundation sponsors the event sparking discussion on making public education relevant to today s world and professions. Jen Greco, a special-needs teacher at Hillcrest School, is named Marion County s 2008 Teacher of the Year. It s a first for the school. Other Golden Apple winners include John Betts (MTI), Lana Boulware (Saddlewood), Nicole Lambert (Reddick-Collier), and Mary Zorich (Osceola). Rookie Teacher of the Year honors went to Melissa Lindeman (Belleview High). The district enjoyed its highest student enrollment ever on Tuesday, October 16, 2007, with 43,123 students in class for the Day 40 count. Buddy Oswald and Bill Talbert received Social Studies Teacher of the Year honors for high school and middle school, respectively. Oswald teaches economics, American government, and English at MTI. Talbert teaches social studies to seventh graders at Howard Middle. The honors come from the Marion County Social Studies Council. Peggy Brookins, a math teacher at Forest High, is the Teacher of the Year for the Florida Education Association. Brookins has spent her entire 29-year teaching career at Forest and is widely known for her role in establishing the school s EMIT program. Four Class of 08 members receive Congressional appointments to military academies: Diana Bennett (U.S. Air Force Academy), Christopher Denaro (U.S. Naval Academy), Daniel Guerra (U.S. Naval Academy), and Michael Phipps (U.S. Merchant Marine Academy). Bobby L. James, a retired principal and educator for 35 years in Marion County Public Schools, is appointed to the Marion County School Board by Governor Charlie Crist. James filled the position vacated by Kurt Kelly, who was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in mid The Public Relations Office captures two Sunshine Medallion Awards from SUNSPRA, the Sunshine State School Public Relations Association. As well, the district receives two Awards of Merit and six Honorable Mentions for its public relations efforts from NSPRA, the National School Public Relations Association. 18

22 Four students receive district recognition for their outstanding school attendance: Nicole Peebles (no absences in 13 years); Diana Williams (no absences in 12 years); Roxanne White (no absences in 10 years); and Everett Nelson (no absences in high school). Six students are named National Merit Finalists: Sarah Brady, Danielle Cohen-Shohet, Justin Dersch, Melinda Fang, Asmuel Kim, and Grace Wang. Cohen-Shohet attends Forest, the others are IB students at Vanguard High. Renfei Tu, an IB student at Vanguard High, becomes Marion County s first student to reach the final round of the Sunshine State Scholar competition. Two schools Lake Weir High and Oakcrest Elementary begin the process to become International Baccalaureate schools, a lengthy process with tons of detail and training required. Once approved, they ll join Vanguard High as the only IB schools in the district. Members of the Marion County School Board earn Master Board status once again. The arduous process involves board members and the superintendent training together for a combined 107 hours on topics like consensus building, managing change, team self-evaluation, ethical management, conflict resolution, listening, and team learning. West Port s Karin Gunn is named one of just two teachers nationwide receiving a full scholarship to the Creative Education Institute at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. As part of her prize, she gets to choose a student to attend MIAD s Pre-College MAJORS program on full scholarship Aaron Pagniano. Forty-three students attended a summertime RoboCamp thanks to the generosity of local contractors at ACA Construction Group. The students studied gadgets, electronics, robots and science as part of the robotics and synergy theme. Kaylin Ricks, a student at Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, designs a healthy winning lunch menu that goes district-wide. Her menu includes Hawaiian pizza, grilled chicken wraps, sweet potato fries, and fresh apple slices. Vanguard High ranks #1 in the nation for its sports video by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the same organization responsible for the Emmy awards. Freddie s Story creators Zach Peed, Tyler Smith, and Tori Petry invest lots of time in the project under the guise of first-year TV production teacher Marc Rice. The video also captures the top spot in the five-state Suncoast region. MTI students receive a $10,000 grant from Lowe s through the SkillsUSA program. The funds pay for culinary demonstrations in the community and redesign of The Bistro, the school s culinary arts restaurant. Sixteen local students make quite the showing at the U.S. Junior Open Chess Championship, competing in the Under 16 category. The team captured third place in the nation and walked away with a four-foot trophy for their finish. For the third year in a row, a Lake Weir Middle student designs the state-winning poster for SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions). The district reaches the $3 million mark in energy savings in just two years. The energy management program saves taxpayer dollars on utility bills for electricity, water and natural gas. The district also starts a four-day work week during the summer (10 hours per day) and mandatory computer shutdowns to save on additional utility costs. Dunnellon High honors its former principals with a Wall of Honor. Former and current principals shared memories of their leadership days and presented their own photos as part of the permanent display in the school s front office. Camp Kiwanis celebrates 60 years of lifetime memories. Founded in 1948, the summer camp offers outdoor experiences to hundreds of local youngsters, with scholarships for many of those unable to pay. As in years past, school district employees serve as staff members while high school students serve as camp counselors. The 7th annual Marion County Student Media Festival attracts 215 entries from 18 schools, with more than 1,300 students involved in producing the videos. Best of Show awards go to Dr. N.H. Jones, Horizon Academy, Dunnellon Middle, and Belleview High. First-place winners advanced to the state level, with Marion County videos capturing 13 of 32 first-place titles, the most of any school district in Florida. 19

23 In their first-ever battle, Horizon Academy students capture the top spot in the Sunshine Book Bowl. Romeo Elementary students capture the runner-up title in the annual competition testing literacy and comprehension skills. For the eighth year in a row, the Finance Department of MCPS receives the Award of Excellence from the Government Finance Officers Association. Vanguard High s automotive program earns national certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), joining MTI and North Marion High as the only ASE-certified high schools in Marion County. MTI is named a Model High School by the International Center for Leadership in Education, a prestigious honor bestowed on just 25 high schools nationwide. Horizon Academy opens its doors in the heart of Marion Oaks. The $37 million school the first built with sales tax dollars approved by voters in 2004 hosts fourth and fifth graders with plans to open middle school grades in The 58th annual Ocala/Marion County Christmas Parade airs live on the Marion Education Channel, showcasing thousands of students involved in the nighttime event, which draws over 60,000 spectators along East Silver Springs Boulevard. State Attorney General Bill McCollum visits West Port Middle to warn students about Internet predators. The presentation captures student attention with humor, frank conversation, and resources to report online dangers. Following a seatbelt study by Marion County s Community Traffic Safety Team, students at West Port High receive top honors in the annual Battle of the Belts competition. A higher percentage of students left the school wearing seat belts than any other high school in Marion County. By the book, by the numbers! This mantra of the MATHCounts Team from Osceola Middle helps them capture the district title and eighth place (out of 44 schools) in the state. Team member Michael Fang finishes second in the state, advancing to summertime competition in Denver as part of Florida s championship team. Automotive technology students at MTI receive a Ford Tropica, an electric car, from Ford of Ocala. Students will study the technology in their pursuit of alternative sources of energy. The district s Computers-4-Kids program hands over more computers to needy families, bringing the total of such systems given away to 450 at 18 elementary schools since it started in The first-ever Magnet Expo showcases what magnet schools and programs offer to Marion County students. Ten schools take part in what will become an annual event. The Dictionary Project continues for a fourth year. Ausley Construction, ACA Construction, and Cullison-Wright Construction Corporation partner and provide free dictionaries to 3,400 third graders enrolled in Marion County Public Schools. It s often the first book these students call their own. 20 Rachel s Challenge kicks off at Belleview and Howard Middle schools, encouraging students to start a chain reaction of kindness by encouraging others to show compassion and kind words instead of insults and cruel intentions. Rachel Scott was the first student killed in the Columbine High School massacre. Ruth Dexheimer, an art teacher at Madison Street Academy, becomes the 2007 Outstanding Elementary Art Educator according to the Florida Art Education Association. Leadership students at MTI join forces and raise almost $1,000 from the community to help a local police officer in his bout with cancer. Three district employees Jon Chaffin, Aaron Hickman, and Jose Lucenilla earn national attention for their Field of Excellence efforts at Booster Stadium. The award comes from a national maker of athletic field striping and marking equipment. The Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center is named a Top 20 educational spot in the nation according to Reserve America, the largest provider of campsite reservations in the country. The national organization considered over 3,000 potential locations for its annual ratings.

24 School Accountability (FCAT School Grades) SCHOOL Anthony Elementary A A A A Belleview Elementary B B A B Belleview High A B B D Belleview Middle A B A C Belleview-Santos Elementary A B B B College Park Elementary B B B C Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary A A A A Dunnellon Elementary C A B A Dunnellon High C C B D Dunnellon Middle C B A B East Marion Elementary A A C B Eighth Street Elementary A A A B Emerald Shores Elementary C A A A Evergreen Elementary C A C C Fessenden Elementary C D B C Forest High A C B D Fort McCoy B C A C Ft King Middle A A A B Greenway Elementary B A A A Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary B A N N Harbour View Elementary A A A A Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks N/A Howard Middle A A A B Lake Weir High B C C D Lake Weir Middle B B A C Madison Street Elementary A A A A Maplewood Elementary A A A B North Marion High B D D D North Marion Middle B C B C SCHOOL Oakcrest Elementary A C C C Ocala Springs Elementary A A A A Osceola Middle A A A A Reddick-Collier Elementary C B B C Romeo Elementary A A A A Saddlewood Elementary A A A C Shady Hill Elementary A A A B South Ocala Elementary A A A B Sparr Elementary C B B C Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary B A A A Sunrise Elementary N/A A A C Vanguard High A B B D Ward-Highlands Elementary A A A A West Port High C C C C West Port Middle B A A B Wyomina Park Elementary A A B A CHARTER SCHOOLS Marion Charter C C C C McIntosh Area School N/A MARION COUNTY PERFORMANCE TRENDS Performance Grade A Performance Grade B Performance Grade C Performance Grade D Performance Grade F The web site for school grades and accountability data is 21

25 Academic Accountability Florida s public schools use a variety of methods to evaluate student achievement. Among these are standardized tests offered to all students using the same administrative guidelines. These scores provide consistent and useful information to address educational needs of students; however, they must be used in conjunction with other evaluation techniques to provide an accurate profile of student achievement. Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) 2008 Marion County public schools improved proficiency levels in 15 of 19 district scores on the 2008 FCAT. Students in grades 3 through 11 participate in the FCAT annually. The table at right provides the percentage of students in the district scoring 3 and above (3.5 and above for Writing+) on the Reading, Mathematics, Writing+ and Science FCAT tests for 2008 and prior years. Students scoring at Achievement Levels 3, 4 and 5 in Reading or Mathematics are considered on grade level, proficient or advanced. Students that score 3.5 and above on the FCAT Writing+ essay have scored at or above a minimally acceptable level. The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test is based on Florida s curriculum frameworks, the Sunshine State Standards. DISTRICT PERCENT SCORING THREE AND ABOVE Grade Reading Mathematics Level Writing+ (3.5 and above) Essay Science NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 11 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA FCAT COMPARISONS SUNSHINE STATE STANDARDS Grade Level Math Reading Writing Science Marion State Marion State Marion State Marion State NA NA NA NA

26 FCAT Tests Go Public Florida s Department of Education makes FCAT tests from previous years available to the public. The 2007 reading and mathematics tests for fifth and sixth grades and the science test for eighth grade are actual tests taken by students and no longer in use. In addition to the tests, the DOE releases test answer keys, a fact sheet explaining uses for the test, a document explaining how to score the released tests, and Frequently Asked Questions. Released tests are identical to those taken by students, except for questions to be used on future exams. Parents and teachers can use the released tests as additional resources to increase students comfort level and familiarity with Florida s accountability measures. The released tests can also be used to illustrate the length of an actual exam and the variety of the questions, in addition to providing a test-like experience prior to actually taking a real test. Test questions are written according to specific guidelines developed by Florida educators and are designed to assess how well students are meeting or exceeding the Sunshine State Standards. Questions are reviewed and revised by teachers, curriculum experts and school and district administrators to ensure they are appropriate for the grade level tested. Each year, more than 500 classroom teachers, special education teachers, English language learning instructors, administrators, curriculum specialists, policy leaders, college and university experts, school board members, and parents take part in the question review process. The Department began releasing full-length FCAT tests in 2005, starting with grades four, eight and ten reading and mathematics tests. The released FCAT tests, as well as supporting documents, can be found at *Please note: As measures of developed verbal and mathematical abilities important for success in college, test scores are useful in making decisions about individual students and assessing their academic preparation. Using these scores in aggregate form as a measure to rank or rate teachers, educational institutions, districts, or states is invalid because it does not include all students. Excerpted from Guidelines on the Uses of College Board Test Scores and Related Data, College Entrance Examination Board, Stanford 10 Achievement Tests All students in grades one and two participate. Test scores are reported as a mean scale score. In 2008, Marion County schools outperformed the national mean scale score in both categories tested at both grade levels. GRADE Reading Math Marion County Nation College Entrance Exams* The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) and the ACT (American College Test) are optional college entrance exams for college-bound students. Offered throughout the year, these tests measure critical reading, writing and math reasoning skills or abilities related to college performance. SAT scores range from with separate verbal and math scores. ACT scores range from 1 to 36 in English, math, reading and science reasoning, along with a composite score. SAT (2007 Scores) ACT (2007 Scores) GRADE Reading Math Marion County Nation Critical Reading Math Writing Marion County Florida Nation Composite Score Marion County Florida Nation

27 Anthony Elementary School Every Child Will Succeed Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Cassandra Boston Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Red and White Mascot...Thoroughbred Business Partner... Fabian-Dinkins Construction Community Partner... Unity Baptist Church Anthony Elementary is a small, rural school with an average class size of 22 students. Our small student body allows our staff members to get to know each child as a special part of our school community. To help each child become a successful citizen of the future, our staff offers several programs enabling us to offer our students as many resources as possible as they begin their educational journey. These programs include Character Education, Hands Up-Not Out (HUNO), Extended Day, Little Red Shed Volunteer Program, Accelerated Reader, before and after-school tutorial programs, and Principal s Writing Club. Science Fair, Safety Patrols, DARE, Good News Club PTO, SAC, Parent Involvement Committee Belleview Elementary School Grades... K 5 Principal...Brenda Conner Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Blue and Silver Mascot...Bronco Belleview Elemetntary provides a caring, safe, secure learning environment. All students, staff, parents and community are encouraged to be one of the BEST. Accelerated Reader, Honor Roll, Character Student of the Week, Perfect Attendance, W.O.W. Monthly Recognition, Bronco Celebration Days, and EXCEL. Belltones Chorus, Drum Club, Good News Club, Morning Video News Team, Roping Broncos (Jump Rope Team), Safety Patrol PTO, SAC Belleview Elementary provides a quality learning environment where students learn and become responsible, self-sufficient citizens who will be willing and able to become contributing members of our democratic society. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 24

28 Belleview-Santos Elementary School Leading the state in raising student performance Building Responsible Citizens. Grades... K 5 Principal... Troy Sanford Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Red and White Mascot...Yearling Belleview-Santos Elementary has a rich history dating back to The school was built as a high school and through the years has transitioned to a junior high school, an upper elementary school, and presently as a K-5 elementary school. Our school has a welcoming environment. The teachers and staff are highly qualified and well trained to meet the needs of each of the students. Parent-teacher communication is very important. Our priority is to have each child achieving at grade level or better and able to enter the next grade level prepared for each academic challenge. School-wide Title I Program, Accelerated Reader, Success Maker, FAST Math, Read Naturally, DARE, Exceptional Student Education, ESE Inclusion program, computer labs, parent resource center, volunteers, LIFESKILLS, and Reading First Grant. PTO, SAC, Volunteers College Park Elementary School To create a learning community where everyone is empowered to recognize individual potential and achieve high expectations. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Patricia Stout Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Red, White and Blue Mascot... Husky Business Partner... Central Florida Community College, United Mortgage and Associates, LTD College Park Elementary has received Florida s Little Red Schoolhouse Award for our extensive family literacy program. Monthly Families Building Better Readers Family Nights are very popular with parents. Our school has two 30-station Success Maker computer labs for reading, math and science enrichment and remediation. Each 1st through 5th grade classroom at College Park is also equipped with a five-station computer mini-lab. Other special programs include Terrific Kids (2nd grade), Citizens of the Month, Honor Roll Recognition, Altrusa Read In, Red Ribbon Activities, DARE, Husky Patrols (Safety Patrols), Junior Achievement, and Accelerated Reader. Academic Tutoring Opportunities, Archery Club PTO, SAC, Parent Resource Center, Families Building Better Readers Family Nights. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 25

29 Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary School Dr. N.H. Jones is built on a foundation of innovative mathematics, science and technology instruction providing the keys to succeed in a rapidly changing world. This is combined with life skills and social development to produce the leaders of tomorrow. Grades... K 5 Principal... Don Raymond Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Blue and Gold Mascot...Panther Business Partner...Market of Marion Dedicated as a magnet school in 1995, the school uses technology to enhance understanding of an expanded curriculum focusing on science and mathematical concepts. Student ability to solve problems and think critically will be applied to real world problems. Each classroom has six student computers and access to one of three mobile computer labs. We consistently rank among the highest scoring schools in the state and were named a National Blue Ribbon School in As a magnet school, Dr. N.H. Jones accepts students from the entire county. Enrollment is by application, available at the school. Our students proudly wear school uniforms. Self-contained program for highly gifted students, regular gifted program, Hands-On Science Lab, Discovery Science, Mathematics & Technology, KidBiz3000, Mountain Math, Accelerated Math, Star Math, Accelerated Reader, Success Maker, Speech, media production, Animation studio, Student-run radio and television studio. Students consistently win international media production awards as well as numerous local and state awards. Dunnellon Elementary School Our school community is committed to providing a safe, stimulating and challenging learning environment meeting the needs of ALL students. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Patricia Hornsby Teachers Enrollment Mascot... Tiger Cub Speech, Physically Impaired, Varying Exceptionalities, Occupational and Physical Therapy, Gifted, Pre-K, Title 1, ESOL, Behavioral Disordered, DARE, Black Stallion Literacy Program, Career Day, Altrusa Read In, FCAT Camp, Veteran s Day Assembly, Primary and Intermediate Computer Labs, Accelerated Reader Program, Success Maker Lab, TV Production, Cub Cove and Technology Classrooms. Safety Patrol, Book Bowl, Variety Show, Holiday programs and concerts, United Way Activities, Jump Rope for Heart, 4H, American Legion Spelling Bee, PTO Safe Trick or Treating, Club Day, Character Education Awards. PTO, SAC, School Volunteer Program ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS PTO, Community School Watch Organization, SAC, Classroom and School Volunteers 26

30 East Marion Elementary School We believe each individual should be provided the opportunity to be successful through cooperation and the shared responsibility of students, educators and community. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Mike Hearn Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Red and White Mascot... Bobcat Business Partner... Grandview Rental & Equipment Sales, Florida Credit Union East Marion Elementary is nestled in the picturesque Ocala National Forest. Challenging our students to be prepared for the 21st century is a top priority. Being a full-service Title I school, we allocate funds to a variety of educational activities. We are proud of our parental involvement and community support through an active Volunteer Program. East Marion is representative of what is best in education today. Our faculty and staff are encouraged to keep current with educational research and new education methods applied to the needs of our students. Believe, Achieve, and Succeed. Fourth and fifth grade Off Campus Satellite Science centers, Project Child, Passport, Acaletics, After School Tutoring, Challenge Class for Gifted, ESE, Great Leaps, Rewards, Parent Resource Center, Lab, Success Maker and Orchard Labs, Drug Awareness Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), Math Superstars, Accelerated Reader Program. PTO, Parent Resource Center, SAC, PassPort 27 Eighth Street Elementary School Striving to lead the state in raising student performance. Grades... K 5 Principal...Penny McKee Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Red and White Mascot... Eagles Business Partner...SunTrust Bank Our students, parents and staff are extremely proud of our school and the level of excellence we ve achieved. The dedication of our staff and involvement of our parents and community are the major factors for this success. Many indicators of quality are currently in place in our school. We welcome the opportunity to share our spirit of success with you. During the school year, Eighth Street Elementary underwent a historical preservation made possible through state grant monies. Special programs include: WESH Closed Circuit Morning Show, After-School Tutoring, Success Maker Computer Lab, On-line Access to Media Center Resources, Character Education Program, Accelerated Reader, Eagle Authors, Administrative Mentors, The Backpack Club, and many more. Troubadours (singing group), Safety Patrols, Book Bowl Teams, Athletic Teams, Summer Enrichment Classes ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

31 Emerald Shores Elementary School Grades... K 5 Principal...Jaycee R. Oliver Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Green and White Mascot...Panther Business Partner...TECO Peoples Gas Emerald Shores is located in Southeast Marion County. The denselypopulated area serves a large number of students. Opened in 1989, this modern school provides an excellent learning environment for students. Terrific Kids, Gem Program for Student Recognition, Cafeteria Recognition Program, Before School Tutoring, Art Club, Chorus, K-Kids. Art Club, P.E. Teams and Chorus Club. PTO, SAC Creating Learners for Life. Evergreen Elementary School Where Every Child Will Succeed! Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Russell B. Corley Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Green, Khaki and White Mascot... Eagle Business Partner...Triple Crown Homes Evergreen Elementary has a student population of over 70% students on free and reduced meals. We have made strong academic and behavioral improvements. We place a HIGH emphasis on positive rewards for students. For example, we give away daily prizes for good behavior and two bicycles every nine weeks. Technology Patrol (help with computers), Physically Impaired, Eagle Vision (daily TV broadcast). Scouts, Brownies, Chorus, School Safety Patrol, Good News Club, Running Club, SES Tutoring, Title I Tutoring, Program for First and Second Grade Students in our Extended Day Program. PTO, SAC, Classroom Volunteers ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 28

32 Fessenden Elementary School Leading Marion County Schools in Raising Student Performance. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Anna DeWese Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Maroon and White Mascot... Tiger Business Partner...AIG/Retirement Housed in a beautiful coquina rock building, Fessenden Elementary School has a rich history. A school has existed at the current location since 1868, when Fessenden was founded as a private academy for African-American students. Fessenden currently serves a large, rural area in Northwest Marion County. Our staff creates a positive educational environment where every child can academically excel and develop positive skills to become productive and responsible citizens. Fessenden is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and Sites. Pre-K, Acaletics, Hi-Five, Continuous Improvement Model, Accelerated Reader, Waterford Early Learning, Success Maker, Wow I m A Writer, Voyager, Rewards, My Sidewalks, Early Reading Intervention Kit, Learning Communities, Great Leaps, Earobics, My Reading Coach, FAST Math, & DARE. Tutoring, Safety Patrols, and a variety of after-school activities. Greenway Elementary School To provide ALL students with the tools to enrich, enhance and ensure a lifelong love of learning. Grades... K 5 Principal... Erin K. Quainton Teachers Enrollment... 1,015 School Colors... Hunter Green, Navy Blue and Tan Mascot... Rangers Business Partner...Signature Brands Greenway serves a culturally-diverse student body and is committed to providing an effective instructional program allowing for optimum academic and social progress for each student. Greenway provides many opportunities to celebrate high achievement and improvement. After-school tutoring is offered for remediation and enrichment. Each grade level hosts a curriculum night. Grade-level curriculum is explained, taught and modeled for parents. Student success is celebrated on a regular basis. Each nine weeks an awards ceremony is given for each grade. Awards are given for high achievement or academic improvement. Our PTO hosts a monthly night showcasing grade-level performances and recognizing our Students of the Month. PTO, SAC, Volunteer Program, Parent Nights ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS PTO, SAC, Classroom Volunteer Program 29

33 Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary School To provide an educationally rich environment where each individual is valued, respected and encouraged to reach his/her full potential as a productive citizen. Grades... K 5 Principal...Leanna Dixon Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Red, White and Blue Mascot... Bears Business Partner... Pulte Homes The school is named after Marion County s only Medal of Honor recipient, Hammett L. Bowen Jr., and opened in Extended Day, Title I Program, Health Services and Mentoring Programs, Character Education program. Parent Liaison funded by Title I to work with parents and run Parent Literacy Center. Harbour View Elementary School Challenging our students to reach their potential and enhance their lives through high academic standards for a better tomorrow. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Marlene Bjork Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Blue and Gray Mascot... Dolphins Business Partner... The Villages Regional Health System Our average class size is approximately 22 students. In our continuous effort to provide the best for our students, we strive to offer a wide variety of programs including: Accelerated Reader, Chorus, Physical Fitness, Computer Labs, and Library Activities. We also provide a wide variety of technology for our students and teachers. Harbour View has two Pre-Kindergarten Handicapped classes. We offer ESE classes for SLD and EH students. We also have Speech and Gifted programs. Students needing remediation have the opportunity for tutoring before and after school, based on need. Students seeking enrichment can try out for our Media Production Team, DRUM Corp, or Chorus. In addition, we have a private vendor who offers baton lessons after school for a fee. We also have an active Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troup. We have a very active volunteer program and an outstanding PTO program. We have many opportunities for parents to become a part of our school. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 30

34 Madison Street Academy Elementary School We strive to provide a quality learning environment ensuring student success through the integration of the Arts and Academics. Grades... K 5 Principal... Philip Leppert Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Royal Blue and Yellow Mascot...Scholar / Owl Business Partner... Regions Bank Madison Street Academy is a magnet school providing an enhanced fine arts program including two- and three-dimensional art, chorus, strings and dance. Spanish is also provided for all students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Enrollment is by application and perspective students are selected using academic criteria. Spanish, Technology, Video Production, Performing Groups (e.g. Strings, Chorus, Keyboarding, Dance, Jugglers, Sidewalk Artists), Character Education, and Gifted. Extended Day, Scouts, Baton, Video Technology, Juggling, ENCORE (combination Music and Dance), Tap and Jazz Dance, After-School Clubs (e.g. Track, Poster, Drama, Science, Legos, Digital Publishing Clubs). Maplewood Elementary School Side by Side for Success. Grades... K 5 Principal... Gary Smallridge Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Blue and Silver Mascot... Mustang Business Partner... Fluid Routing Solutions, Inc. Our student population includes K-5 basic education, Pre-K Handicapped, Physically Impaired, Trainable Mentally Handicapped, Profoundly Mentally Handicapped, Educable Mentally Handicapped, Autistic, Specific Learning Disabled, Severely Language Impaired, and Varying Exceptionalities Programs. Accelerated Reader, DARE, Very Special Arts, Our Own Games, Departmentalization, Inclusion, Speech, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Gifted. Safety Patrols, Chorus, and Hand Chime Choir. PTO, SAC, Volunteer Programs ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS PTO, SAC 31

35 Oakcrest Elementary School If You Can Believe It, Our Eagles Can Achieve It! Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Jeannine Mills Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Royal Blue and White Mascot... Eagle Business Partner...McDonald s Restaurant Oakcrest is an A graded Title I At Risk School with approximately 76% of our students on free and reduced lunch. The average class size at Oakcrest is 1:18 in kindergarten through third grade and 1:22 in fourth and fifth grades. Our school has close to a 52% mobility rate, however, our overall population has stabilized and we are experiencing added enrollment. Title I funds purchase professional development in reading, math and writing, technology equipment, student materials and parent-involvement activities. We re also a Reading First School. Oakcrest has just finished a major renovation including a new cafeteria and a 16-classroom wing addition. The rest of the campus was renovated and updated with technology. Ocala Springs Elementary School Helping Marion County Schools lead the state in raising student performance Grades... K 5 Principal...Dave DeNaro Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Teal and Silver Mascot...Florida Panther Ocala Springs Elementary School uses an integrated curriculum approach whenever possible. We develop an intrinsic curiosity for learning in each child. Our school has a special emphasis on reading development and technology instruction which come together through Accelerated Reader, a program enthusiastically embraced by our students. Parent involvement is important to educational success, and we encourage parent participation through special events and as volunteers. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Positive Behavior Support, Success Maker Labs (2), Oakcrest Science Center, Junior Achievement Program, Acaletics for Math, Third Grade Model Classroom, Learning Community Classrooms in 2nd-5th Grades, Accelerated Reader, My Reading Coach, Kaleidoscope, Wow I m A Writer!, VPK Pre-Kindergarten, Inclusion Model, FAST Math, Waterford. School Patrols, PE Teams, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Chorus, Science Sleuths, Art Club. Accelerated Reader, Fire Prevention, Choir Chimes, Recorders, Student Chorus, Safety Patrols, DARE, Positive Action, Project CHILD, Parent Volunteer Orientation, Great Leaps Reading, Able Learner, Success Maker Remediation Lab, Title I Parent Resource Room. Spelling Bee, Career Day, Field Trips, Red Ribbon Day, Santa s Christmas Cottage, United Way Day, Book Character Day, Sunshine Book Competition, Beach Day (K-1st), Mothers Tea (1st), Fall Festival, DAR Contest, Walk-A-Thon. PTO, SAC, Volunteers 32 PTO, SAC, Volunteer Programs and Business Partners/Sponsors

36 Reddick-Collier Elementary School Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Vernon Chisholm Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Silver and Maroon Mascot... Mustang Reddick-Collier Elementary is located in a small, rural community in Northwestern Marion County. Our students come from families who are largely minority and socio-economically deprived. Eighty-seven percent of our students participate in the Free and Reduced Lunch program. Because of these reasons, our students have limited experiences outside their own neighborhoods, and they depend on our school for their academic and social needs. In addition to regular classroom instruction, we provide remedial and afterschool tutorial programs and learning communities for low-performing students using research-based resources. We re entering our second year of the Cambridge International Primary Program, a magnet-school program attracting students throughout Marion County. Parent involvement enhances and facilitates our goal of raising student achievement. We believe all our students are capable of achieving at high levels. Cambridge International Program. PTO, SAC To create a safe and academically challenging environment promoting high expectations by accelerating students to reach the highest state standards. 33 Romeo Elementary School To provide a safe and supportive learning environment encouraging students to develop the academic skills and attitudes necessary to become productive, contributing citizens. Grades... K 5 Principal...Kathy Hultman Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Electric Blue, White and Gold Mascot... Pioneers Business Partner... Brick City Title Insurance Romeo Elementary School was built in 1991 and serves a rural area approximately seven miles north of Dunnellon. Our school success depends on a highly energized and talented staff, committed parents, and dedicated community volunteers. Our strong academic program of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies is enhanced by state-of-the-art technology. Additionally, students attend weekly opportunities with specialists for instruction, exploration and enjoyment of music, art, physical education, media and computer. The entire school community works together to maintain a pioneering spirit and frontier attitude encouraging successful learning. At Romeo Elementary School, we are Pioneers in name and in our actions. Accelerated Reader, Waterford Early Reading Program, Success Maker Program for Reading and Math, Smile Lab, Safety Patrols, WPKN - Pioneer Kids TV Network, Terrific Kids Program, BUG Program, ESOL, Character Education Program, Mommy & Me, and Green Day. Safety Patrols, After Hours Tutoring. PTO, SAC, 100 Grandparents, Parent Center ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

37 Saddlewood Elementary School To develop lifelong learners through a comprehensive program nurturing social, emotional and academic growth of students and fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for individual differences. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Cheryl Laffey Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Hunter Green and Khaki Mascot...Stallions Business Partner...Sam s Club Saddlewood draws from a large attendance area including rural, suburban and city populations. The diverse cultural, ethnic and economic textures enhance the school s mission of developing responsible young members of society. Reading is a strong focus on our campus and we use our Accelerated Reading Program to motivate and reward students. With two fully-equipped computer labs featuring 24 student stations in each, our students in grades 3-5 visit the lab daily for 40 minutes per session working on FAST Math, which helps with mastery of math facts, and Success Maker, which individually progresses students through the mastery of reading and math skills. Accelerated Reader, STAR Assessment, Acaletics Math (3-5), FCAT Explorer, After School Tutoring, Student Video Production, Safety Patrols, Success Maker Lab, FAST Math Lab, Title I Reading, Math Coach. PTO, SAC, Parent Resource Literacy Center, Community Outreach, Volunteer Program Shady Hill Elementary School Opening Doors to the Future. Grades... K 5 Principal... Carol Ely Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Maroon and Gray Mascot... Colts Business Partner...Barfield & Associates Shady Hill is nestled in a rural area just outside Ocala city limits. Shady Hill has a 34% minority population, reflecting our residential community. Our school family instills pride and enthusiasm in our students, parents and staff. Our students are eager to learn, well-behaved and fun to teach. This profile shows the good parenting our students experience at home and the sound educational techniques implemented at school. Shady Hill Elementary received an A this past year for our outstanding FCAT scores. Parent Lending Library, Altrusa Read-In, Sunshine Readers, Winner s Circle, Reading Incentive Program, DARE, Family Reading, Math and Writing Nights, Reading Counts Program, Acaletics Math, FAST Math. Colt Songsters, Safety Patrols, Extended Day Program, After School Tutoring (by SES Providers), Sports Program. PTA, SAC, Parent Volunteers ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 34

38 South Ocala Elementary School South Ocala is a school community jointed in a journey for all to achieve their personal best. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Pamela J. Miller Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Black and Yellow Mascot... Yellow Jacket Business Partner...Cullison-Wright Construction Corp. South Ocala s academic environment fosters learning in its diverse population. The school staff is dedicated to nurturing growth in all children and designs curriculum and motivational programs to this end. South Ocala enjoys a dedicated staff, supportive and involved parents, and a generous business community. Our students are immersed in a safe environment where they acquire a strong academic foundation. The knowledge they gain at South Ocala gives them the tools to succeed in life. ABC, Good Kids Program, Accelerated Reader K-5, Academic & Enrichment Summer Mini-Camps, Core Essentials Character Development Program, DARE 5th Grade, Reading Success Program, Acaletics-Mathematics Program, FAST Math, Success Maker and Orchard Computer Programs. Academic Clubs, After School Activities, Choir Chimes Group, Extended Day, Frosty Festival, Safety Patrols, Singing Yellow Jackets, Video Production/TV Lab, Webmasters. PTO, SAC, Volunteer Program Sparr Elementary School Sparr Elementary will provide every student with learning opportunities to grow academically, emotionally, physically and socially. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Woody Clymer Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Garnet and Gold Mascot...Stallion Business Partner... Sparr Building and Farm Supply We are a Title I school located in a scenic countryside area surrounded by beautiful farms, plant nurseries, and homes. Our students are diverse and come from the Sparr and Citra communities. Several assessments are administered to third through fifth grade students during the year to determine whether they have mastered the expected skills. Pre- Kindergarten through 2nd grade students are also assessed to determine their readiness for school and progress in core subject areas. Student performance data are utilized to determine which students need extra support, remediation or enrichment. Intervention strategies/programs are implemented during the school day and afterschool to provide the type of support necessary to meet the students needs. Our goal is to make sure no child is left behind. Sparr Elementary also hosts a variety of fun-filled events such as the faculty/staff student basketball game, annual school carnival, chorus programs, challenge club (for accelerated learners), science lab for hands-on learning, scholastic book fairs, karaoke talent show, birthday book club, and special recognition events. PTO, SAC, Classroom Volunteers, Career Day Presenters, Parent Workshops Families Building Better Readers, Grade Level Activities ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 35

39 Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Don Zaharias Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Blue and Gold Mascot...Tornado Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School is located in the southeast section of Marion County. Student enrollment is of mixed ethnicity: 78% Caucasian, 10% African-American, 9% Hispanic,.5% American Indian, and 2.5% Multi-National. Students are making progress in all academic areas. Varied Exceptionalities, SLD, EH, EMH, Gifted, Speech, ESOL, Headstart, Pre-K, Volunteer Program. Soccer Team, Track and Field, Chorus, Art Club, Kiwanis Terrific Kid Club, Safety Patrol, After School Tutoring Program, Mentoring Program. SAC WE ARE UNITED... in challenging students to reach their fullest potential in a safe, positive, caring environment conducive to teaching and learning. Sunrise Elementary School We are determined to challenge students to become all they can be. To accomplish this, we work as a team (students, parents, staff, faculty and community) providing a comprehensive and exciting educational program within an ideal place for children to learn. Grades... K 3 Principal... Isaac Burgess IV Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Red and Yellow Mascot... Explorer Business Partner...Wal-Mart Supercenter at SR 200 Sunrise Elementary School is located in Marion Oaks in Southwest Marion County. Constructed in 1990, this prototype elementary school houses K-3 students. Our academic focus provides a well-rounded education for all our students with a positive and multicultural flair. We emphasize modern technology as a teaching tool, and the importance of parental support in developing the whole child. Active volunteers complement our teachers and paraprofessionals. Visits to Sunrise by parents of prospective students are welcomed and encouraged. Core Essentials Character Education, Curriculum Fair, Career Day, Accelerated Reader, Club Day, Student Council, One Hundred Grandparents Reading Program, Book-It Reading Program, Video Production, Computer Curriculum Corporation Lab, and Orchard Lab. Performing Chorus, Safety Patrols, Physical Education Meets, Before and After School Remedial Program. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 36 PTO, SAC, Volunteer Program.

40 Ward-Highlands Elementary School An A+ School where ALL children can learn! Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal...Beth Cordova Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Yellow and Blue Mascot...Hornet Business Partner... Bank of America We attribute our success to dedicated teachers and parents who make our school a child-oriented learning environment. We focus academically each day to ensure ALL children learn. Each classroom is equipped with at least two networked computers, Internet access, and a telephone. Children in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 5th attend a daily class of art, music, or physical education. Ward Highlands Elementary School has been an A+ school for nine consecutive years, since school grading started in Florida. Pre-Kindergarten Handicapped, Physically Impaired, Mentally Handicapped, Emotionally Handicapped, Gifted, Tutoring, and After School Activities. Safety Patrols, DARE, Junior Achievement, Career Day, Athletic Teams, Parent Information Nights, Recorder Band, and Book Bowl. PTO, SAC, Volunteer Opportunities and Lunch Opportunities with Children Wyomina Park Elementary School To help all learners be the best they can be and enhance the opportunities for parental and community involvement within our school. Grades...Pre-K 5 Principal... Mike Graff Teachers Enrollment School Colors... Red Mascot...Indian Business Partner...Signature Brands Wyomina Park Elementary is committed to improving student achievement, emphasizing reading, writing, math and science. Proficiency in these areas is essential to develop successful students. Therefore, we utilize all necessary resources to help our children achieve their goals. Pre-K Physically Impaired, Speech, DARE, Exceptional Student Education, Parent Resource Room, Title I, CCC Computer Lab, Accelerated Reader, Reading First School. Safety Patrol, Community Service Activities. PTA, SAC, Volunteers ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 37

41 Belleview Middle School Belleview Middle School, working together as partners with the total community, will prepare students for the future. A professional, compassionate staff will provide a challenging, diversified curriculum to meet the individual needs of each student. Our goal is to provide a safe environment where students are expected to develop the integrity, social and life skills necessary to become productive citizens. Grades Principal... Lisa Krysalka Teachers Enrollment... 1,235 School Colors... Navy Blue and White Mascot...Panther Business Partner...Teachers Sharing Answers, Inc. MIDDLE SCHOOLS Located on County Road 467 near Belleview, our beautiful 40-acre campus consists of nine brick and mortar buildings and five portables. BMS opened its doors to students in August 1993 and serves south central Marion County, including Belleview and Summerfield. BMS is committed to working together with parents and students to provide a well-disciplined, positive learning environment. Gifted, Honors Algebra 1 in 8th grade, Advanced Math in 6th & 7th grade, Band, Health Occupations, Business Education, Agriculture, Family & Consumer Science, Television Production, and most ESE Programs with an emphasis on serving ESE students with Inclusion whenever possible. Math Counts, Student Council, Friends of Rachel, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Band, Flag Team, Future Farmers of America, Drama Club, Intramural Sports, Tutoring, Book Club. 38 PTO, SAC, Band Boosters and Volunteer Opportunities

42 Dunnellon Middle School Dunnellon Middle School strives to provide a quality-learning environment ensuring student success. Grades Principal... Jane Ashman Teachers Enrollment... 1,104 School Colors...Red and White Mascot... Tiger Business Partner...Tillman & Associates Engineering Dunnellon Middle School is located in Dunnellon at the southwest end of Marion County. The Withlacoochee River is within walking distance of our campus and provides a unique environmental site. Our 20-acre campus has a rich history and proud heritage having served as an elementary, middle and high school since Honors English, Algebra I, Advanced Math for 6th and 7th grades, Health Occupations, Orientation to Marketing, Agriculture, Art, Band, Chorus, Intro to Technology. Builder s Club, FFA, Art, Yearbook Staff, Intramural Basketball, Student Council, National Junior Honor Society, Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced Band. Fort King Middle School Fort King Middle School fosters a safe learning environment providing opportunities for all students to learn enthusiastically and perform academically and creatively at their maximum potential to succeed. Grades Principal... Wayne Livingston Teachers Enrollment... 1,053 School Colors...Red and White Mascot... Falcon Business Partner... GTE Federal Credit Union Fort King Middle School is an A grade school located in Northeast Ocala. This past school year we created two teaching teams per grade level to better serve our students and parents. Gifted, Advanced Math, Reading Program 6-8, ESOL, SED, SLI, EMH, EH. Band, Academic Team, FFA, Art Club, Student Council, Newspaper, Math Counts, Yearbook, Debate Team, Drama Club, Writing Club, Basketball, Track and Field. SAC, Band Boosters MIDDLE SCHOOLS SAC 39

43 Howard Middle School The Howard Middle School staff facilitates maximum academic achievement, promotes trust and compassion, and challenges students to gain and apply knowledge in the pursuit of lifelong learning. Grades Principal...Kathryn V. Collins Teachers Enrollment... 1,050 School Colors...Blue and Gold Mascot...Mighty Bulls Business Partner... Cox Communications Howard Middle is located on 34 acres on the corner of U.S. 27 and Martin Luther King, Jr., Avenue in Ocala. First opened in 1955 as Howard High School, the school was designated a middle school in Howard students participate in a comprehensive educational program including core academics, Spanish, art and music, physical education, and career technology classes. A wide array of Exceptional Student Education classes, English for Speakers of Other Languages, and an Advanced Academics Integrated Technologies (AAIT) magnet program complement the middle school educational experience. Lake Weir Middle School Our mission is to provide quality learning opportunities promoting personal responsibility and inspiring children s thirst for knowledge. We are a school where a supportive community of teachers, parents and staff tailor the educational experience to meet individual needs, resulting in successful well-rounded individuals. Grades Principal... Mike Kelly Teachers Enrollment... 1,380 School Colors...Royal Blue and Gold Mascot... Eagles Business Partner...Closet Maid Lake Weir Middle School is located in Southeast Marion County near scenic Lake Weir. The Florida Department of Education has designated Lake Weir Middle School a B school for the last two years. Lake Weir Middle School uses the team concept in sixth grade to ensure students experience a small group setting. MIDDLE SCHOOLS Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Self-Contained, Resource, Gifted, and Speech; English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL); Intensive Reading and Intensive Math; Junior Achievement; Bulls Don t Bully; After School Tutoring in Reading, Writing, Math. Volleyball, Cross Country, Basketball, Track and Field, AGAPE Service Club, Studio 2B (Girl Scouts), Youth Achievers (YMCA), National Junior Honor Society, Math Counts Team, Academic A Team, Science Club, Art Club, Peer Mediators, TV Production Team, Marching Band. SAC, Parent Resource Committee (PRC) 40 Yearbook Staff, Media Assistants Program, Business and Technology. Math Counts, Drill Team, Flag Team, Project Science Club, F.F.A., Builder s Club, Intramural Sports, and Marching Band, which is recognized as one of the best in the county. SAC, Band Boosters, Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA), and Volunteer Opportunities

44 Liberty Middle School Grades Principal...Gregg Dudley Teachers Enrollment... 1,255 School Colors...Navy and Silver Mascot...Lion We are the newest middle school in Marion County, opening in August Our $36 million facility includes three two-story classroom buildings, media center, cafetorium, gymnasium and administrative suite, all surrounding an interior courtyard. Formerly, we were West Port Middle School. The Academic Honors Academy offers any student the opportunity to stretch and achieve with the support of dedicated teachers. Honors and gifted education courses are available to provide additional challenges for motivated students. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and Exceptional Student Education (ESE) programs are offered and work well with all curriculum areas. Students can extend themselves beyond the academic in a variety of course offerings Physical Education, Spanish, Television Production, Yearbook, Business Systems Technologies, Art, Band, Chorus, Career Exploration, and Health Occupations are just some of the offerings. Students and faculty members participate in an annual school-wide reading project supporting literacy initiatives, character development, and our anti-bullying efforts. Students interested in Yearbook, Art, Chess, and service organizations have the availability of positive after-school activities. There is also an after-school tutoring program providing students with enrichment opportunities. Extended day is offered for students before school each day. SAC Leading the district in raising student performance. North Marion Middle School We are devoted to achieving mutual respect as we take pride in working together to ensure all students reach their maximum potential. Grades Principal... Jerome Brown Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Garnet and Gold Mascot... Colt Business Partner...Seminole Stores North Marion Middle School is located in a rural setting, gathering students from area farms and eight smaller surrounding communities. Of our 789 students, more than 99% rely on bus transportation. Meeting the needs of our diverse student population is the main goal of the staff and community. Our Cambridge Checkpoint Program prepares students to enter the nearby AICE magnet program in high school. Cambridge Checkpoint Program, Gifted Education, Inclusion Program, Read 180, SOAP (Successful Outreach Academic Program), Take Stock in Children, Socialization Group, Anti-Bullying Program, Yearbook Staff, Art, Band, Applied Technology, Business Education, Health Occupations, Agriculture. FFA, Intramural Basketball, Volleyball and Track. SAC, Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA), Volunteer Opportunities MIDDLE SCHOOLS 41

45 Osceola Middle School We strive to make Osceola Middle School a safe and supportive environment where dedicated professionals, in partnership with parents and community, afford students the opportunity to develop their interests and reach their fullest potential to succeed and a desire for life-long learning. Grades Principal...John McCollum Teachers Enrollment... 1,191 School Colors... Blue and White Mascot...Chief Business Partner...Wachovia Bank Osceola Middle School is located in historic downtown Ocala. The school began serving students in 1925 as Ocala High School. Through the years buildings were added to meet the needs of growing Ocala. The school maintains a rich history of academic excellence. Dedicated teachers work with students and parents to meet the educational needs preparing students for the future. Innovation is encouraged and students are served in a safe, well-disciplined environment. Gifted Education, BRAVO (Building Responsibility and Valuing Organization), ENCORE (Enrichment for Math and Language Arts), Advanced Curriculum in Selected Courses, Band, Applied Technology, Business Education, Health Occupations, Agriculture, Yearbook, Television Production, Read 180, Model Reading Program, Remediation Lab, Internet Lab, Exceptional Student Education (Inclusion). Student Council, Math Counts, Science Club, Chess Club, Spanish Club, FFA, FHA, After- School Sports Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Pathfinders, Multimedia Club, Drama Club, Gospel Choir, Art Club, Dance Team, Cheerleading Club, Step Club, Academic Team, Knowledge Master Open Team, Academic Saturday School, Before- and After-School Tutoring, National Junior Honor Society. PTO, SAC, Volunteers 42

46 Belleview High School To provide a safe, secure and healthy learning environment supporting the development of each student s academic skills, self-esteem, sense of integrity and social responsibility necessary to become a successful adult in this information age. Grades Principal...Jim Wohrley Teachers Enrollment... 1,619 School Colors... Blue, Silver and White Mascot... Diamondback Rattlers Belleview High was built in 1995 at a cost of $16 million. It is located on 85 acres adjacent to Belleview Middle School in southeastern Marion County. Integrated projects are stressed by the academic and vocational instructors. The curriculum includes academics for Performing Arts, Health Occupations, AICE Academy (Advanced International Certificate of Education), Finance, Work Prep, Culinary Arts, the Works Academy and the Academy of CFCC. Dual Enrollment with State Colleges, Advanced Placement, JrROTC (Air Force), AICE Program Academies, Block Schedules-Alternating Days. Athletics, Performing Arts, Academic Clubs, Service Clubs. SAC and Booster Clubs Dunnellon High School An academically focused school can achieve great things. Grades Principal...Michelle Lewis Teachers Enrollment... 1,488 School Colors... Red and Black Mascot... Tiger Our school was recently recognized as one of the top 50 schools in the state of Florida. This recognition comes as a result of the huge learning gains made by our students on the FCAT. Our goal is to help each child reach his/her goals. We believe every child has a gift, and we must work together with parents, students and the community to maximize the academic achievement of all students. Our focus is three-fold: develop positive relationships among staff, students, and all school stakeholders; clearly define expectations of excellence; and foster a spirit of service. Dual enrollment courses, Advanced Placement and honors level courses, an inclusive education for all students with disabilities, a state-recognized Bi-lingual Student Teacher Aide program, Air Force JrROTC, Applied Technology, an active after-school tutoring program with evening bus transportation, a Comprehensive College Reach Out Program, learn and serve opportunities through Rainbow Springs State Park, virtual learning opportunities on campus. DHS offers 35 students clubs and 21 athletic teams. SAC, Booster Clubs for Sports and Band, Partners in Education HIGH SCHOOLS 43

47 Forest High School The Forest High School Community prepares students to be responsible citizens of the 21st century work force. Grades Principal...Chester Gregory Teachers Enrollment... 2,285 School Colors... Green, Gold and White Mascot... Wildcat Business Partner...Bank of America, Progress Energy, Engineered Building Systems, Inc. Reflecting the past with architectural details and a tradition of excellence while celebrating the present with modern facilities and contemporary curriculum, Forest High School strives to meet the needs of our school community. FHS provides a technologyrich environment across a comprehensive blend of academic and technical courses. Forest consistently produces a high number of National Merit scholars, Bright Future Scholarship recipients and a high percentage of students advancing to college. Extensive Advanced Placement Courses, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Engineering & Manufacturing Institute of Technology (EMIT), Health Occupations, Information Technology, Marketing, Teacher Assisting, Television Production, Air Force JrROTC. Student Government, Academic Clubs (12), Career and Technical Student Organizations (8), Service Clubs (6), Special Interest Clubs (6), Music Clubs (3), Cheerleaders, Lady Cat Dancers, Instrumental & Marching Band, Performing Chorus, Boys & Girls Athletics. SAC, Academic Boosters, Athletic Boosters, Band Boosters, Air Force JrROTC Support Flight 44 Lake Weir High School Lake Weir High School provides a safe and secure learning environment based on a relevant, disciplined, and comprehensive education program. The staff creates a climate in which each student feels nurtured but challenged. The combined strength of the whole staff, administration, and student body encourages the potential of the individual student. With supportive community partners, we meet the diverse needs of our students. We strive for excellence while accepting the challenges of the future. Grades Principal... Cynthia Saunders Teachers Enrollment... 1,800 School Colors... Purple and Gold Mascot... Hurricane Business Partner...Lockheed-Martin Corporation Lake Weir High School is one of 20 Florida Millennium Schools. Every classroom has Internet access, and 40 feature interactive intelligent technology. We have three complete computer labs. Lake Weir High school is a member of the National High Schools That Work Network and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Lake Weir High School offers the small learning community concept and six academies: MTAC (Multimedia Technology and Communications), Advanced Placement providing accelerated courses for possible college credit, Applied Science, Fine Arts, Industrial Arts, and Army Junior ROTC. Other award-winning programs include our Superior rated marching band and drill team. LWHS offers many academic and service clubs, with a commitment to community. We also offer a wide variety of sporting opportunities for both male and female athletes. SAC, Sunshine Parent Committee, and Booster Clubs for Sports HIGH SCHOOLS

48 MTI Ma r i o n Technical Institute Grades Principal... Mark Vianello Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Blue and Gold Business Partner... Economic Development Council (EDC), CLM Workforce Connection Marion Technical Institute, or MTI, offers students 16 years of age and older by December the opportunity to learn technical skills and academic knowledge through hands-on-experience. MTI provides learning opportunities in seven specialized academies. MTI is designed specifically for students interested in finding immediate employment upon graduation, continuing post-secondary education in a specific field of work, and/or earning nationally recognized certifications. Specialized academies include: Automotive Technology, Building Construction, Business and Finance, Culinary Arts/Bakery, Industrial Engineering Technology, Information Technology and Power Industry. SAC Creating quality employees for meaningful careers. North Marion High School To prepare students in an atmosphere of encouragement, enthusiasm and excellence for further education, future employment and effective citizenship. Grades Principal...Kathy Quelland Teachers Enrollment... 1,525 School Colors...Garnet and Gold Mascot... Colt Business Partner...Merillat Corporation, System Components Corporation North Marion High School is dedicated to providing quality-learning opportunities. A safe and positive learning environment is provided where students work independently and collaboratively using effective instructional strategies. Emphasis is placed on challenging students to achieve at a higher level. AICE Program (Advanced International Certificate of Education) challenging the highest-achieving student. AICE is an international pre-university curriculum and examination system emphasizing the value of broad and balanced study for academically-able students. Its strengths lie in the flexibility and structure of the curriculum encouraging in-depth, working knowledge of each subject, and essay-based examinations as the assessment of that knowledge. AICE courses are equivalent to those offered at the university freshmen level or beyond. Routes to the AICE Diploma are extremely flexible and offer students the opportunity to tailor their studies to their individual interests, abilities, and future plans within an international curriculum framework. Students can take individual AICE courses/examinations and earn college credit, without ever intending to earn the AICE diploma. Athletics, Band, Cheerleading, Community Service, Dance Team, Spanish, French, Anchor, FBLA, FCA, FFA, FPSA, SKILLS USA (Auto, TV Production and Drafting), BETA, HOSA, Japanese Pop Culture, Air Force ROTC, National Honor Society, Step Club, Student Government Association. SAC, Athletic Program Boosters, Band Boosters, FFA Alumni, Sports Association HIGH SCHOOLS 45

49 Vanguard High School Vanguard High School will be a safe, caring center for excellence that meets student and community needs through innovative academic and extracurricular programs, committed parental involvement, and exposure to opportunities for success. Grades Principal...Rick Lankford Teachers Enrollment... 1,650 School Colors... Red, White and Blue Mascot...Knight Business Partner... IB Program India Cultural Association We offer a carefully blended variety of academic and vocational courses preparing students for postsecondary education and the world of work. We re fully accredited and a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Vanguard offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate program, advanced placement studies for college credit, dual enrollment courses (with CFCC), and an honors level curriculum testing the brightest minds. Award-winning and nationally-recognized programs in television production, photography, electronics, drafting and art complement our challenging academic and vocational environment. We ve received national recognition for our Academic Team, and several students are chosen annually to compete at the International Science Fair. We recently completed a total-campus renovation including two new classroom wings, a new cafeteria/auditorium, and the renovation of three existing buildings, including an exterior face-lift to match the new construction. The renovation also includes state-of-the-art technology. International Baccalaureate Program, Criminal Justice, Drafting, Florida Academic Scholars, Florida Gold Seal, Health Occupations Students of America, Naval Junior ROTC, TV Production. With 13 interscholastic teams and 27 clubs based on service, academics and special interests, opportunities abound meeting the interests of all students. SAC, Booster Organizations for Sports and Band 46 West Port High School Leading the district in raising student performance. Grades Principal...Jayne Ellspermann Teachers Enrollment... 1,741 School Colors...Teal, Black and Silver Mascot...Wolf Pack Business Partner... Munroe Regional Medical Center West Port High School sits on a 75-acre campus and is home to the district s only high-school visual and performing arts magnet program. Marion County Center for the Arts A district-wide magnet program, students may audition to become a part of this program. Course work includes drama, musical theatre, stagecraft, dance, chorus, band, digital animation, photography, 2-D and 3-D art, orchestra, string instruments, keyboarding, electronic music, and guitar. Dual Enrollment Academy In partnership with CFCC, our students are able to enroll in college classes offered at West Port High School taught by adjunct professors who are also members of our instructional staff. These students can graduate from high school with a two-year college degree. Advanced Placement Curriculum Students may also enroll in a variety of Advance Placement courses taught by staff members trained by the College Board. Medical Arts Academy Business partner Munroe Regional Medical Center sponsors a unique opportunity for students in a Health Occupations program including instruction at MRMC as well as scholarship opportunities for students interested in pursuing medical studies at CFCC. Students can also choose from career-building courses in Criminal Justice, Agriculture, Business, Teacher Preparation, Engineering/Drafting, Television Production, and Army JrROTC. Football, Baseball, Soft Ball, Soccer, Cross Country, Swimming, Basketball, Track, Golf, Tennis, Wrestling, Volleyball, Bowling, Weightlifting, Cheerleading, Dance Team, Step Club, Band, Flag, Chorus, Drama, FFA, HOSA, FBLA, Science, Academic Teams, and Numerous Service Clubs. SAC, Volunteers, Booster Clubs HIGH SCHOOLS

50 Fort McCoy School Hillcrest School Our staff works together promoting a safe and caring environment conducive to learning where students enjoy coming to school. Our students develop character and confidence to achieve their full potential through varied instruction. And with the support of families, community members, and local businesses, students develop lifelong learning skills to become responsible and contributing members of society. Grades... K 8 Principal...Robert A. Hensel Teachers Enrollment... 1,123 School Colors...Blue and Burgundy Mascot... Cougar Business Partner... BB&T Fort McCoy School is located in the northeast corner of Marion County, approximately 20 miles from Ocala. It serves an attendance area of approximately 482 square miles. The majority of our students are transported by bus. Approximately 8% is minority, 65% receive free or reduced meals, and the student mobility rate is 40%. Approximately 32% of the professional staff has advanced degrees. All students can learn. The education of a student is a collaborative effort between the home and school. All students should be challenged to their highest level. Student learning needs should be the primary focus of all decisions impacting the work of the school. Students learn in different ways and should be provided with a variety of instructional approaches to support their learning. Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social and intellectual needs. A student s self-esteem is enhanced by positive relationships and mutual respect among and between students and staff. Curriculum and instructional practices incorporate a variety of learning activities to accommodate differences in learning styles. PTO, SAC 47 Providing quality training for special needs children. Grades (ESE) Principal... Lori Manresa Teachers Enrollment School Colors...Green and White Mascot...Dragon Business Partner...Ocala Star-Banner Hillcrest is a separate day school for handicapped students living in Marion County. The school serves students with a variety of disabilities provided those students require special day-school programming. Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program for mentally handicapped, Autistic and selected other student disabilities. Therapeutic horseback riding and swimming instruction are provided. The special Mobility and Orientation Via Education (M.O.V.E.) program is also available, along with specialized equipment. Technology supports our efforts with student communication via assistive devices. Community-based instruction and community-based vocational training enhance our students independence. A variety of school activities include Performing Arts Club, Special Olympics, Bowling, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Fishing Tournament, Golfing Tournament, School Dance, Fall Festival and Pep Rallies. SAC, PTO, Parent Support Group, and Volunteer Program COMBINATION SCHOOLS

51 Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks CTAE c o m m u n i t y t ec h n i c a l and adult education We are determined to challenge students to become all they can be. To accomplish this, we work as a team (students, parents, staff, faculty and community) providing a comprehensive and exciting educational program within an ideal place for children to learn. Community Technical and Adult Education strives to provide all citizens in our community with a lifelong learning environment positively impacting their abilities to function successfully in a changing society. Grades Principal... Juan Cordova Teachers Enrollment... 1,107 School Colors...Black and Gold Mascot...Hawk Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks is located in Marion Oaks in Southwest Marion County. Constructed in 2007, Horizon Academy is the first school built with the half-cent sales tax approved by voters in Horizon houses students in three academic buildings in 60 homeroom classes. Good is not enough when better is possible best demonstrates our academic focus. We focus on students, not subjects, with each student empowered to acquire the knowledge, skills, compassion, and integrity needed to contribute and succeed as self-directed, life-long learners in a competitive global community. Emphasis is placed on effective teaching, enhanced by modern technology. The importance of parental support in the development of the whole child is stressed. As a community school, we welcome and encourage parents to visit our campus. WOW Character Education Program, Curriculum Fair, Career Day, Accelerated Reader, Club Day, Student Council, Book-It Reading Program, Graphic Design, Video Production, Vocational Courses including Health Occupations, Business Applications and Agriculture and Advanced Courses. Performing Chorus and Band, Intramurals, Physical Education Meets, Before- and After-School Remedial Program. PTO, SAC, Active School Volunteer Program 48 Grades...Adults Principal... Debbie Jenkins Teachers Enrollment... 13,000 Established in 1974, Community Technical and Adult Education gives the opportunity for people to improve themselves and their chances of earning a living through continued education. Learning is a life-long process: CTAE offers a variety of educational services for students of any age and at any stage of their lives. Community Technical and Adult Education is committed to offering courses customized to training for business and industry to keep you competitive in a global marketplace. We are the sole provider of the General Education Diploma (GED) and the adult High School Diploma in Marion County. Course offerings also include a variety of programs for basic, workplace and family literacy. With classes in arts, cooking, crafts, dance, health, fitness, fire rescue, real estate, languages, investments, business, computers, recreation and safety, there is something for you! Whether seeking an opportunity to further your career or enlighten your life, CTAE provides quality services, programs, training and instruction meeting both your and your employer s needs. Community Technical and Adult Education provides the resources and knowledge to enhance your life, a life in which knowledge is a powerful thing. COMBINATION SCHOOLS

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