Pasco Post

September 2026 Family and Community Newsletter

Featured Story

Download Today - Get Connected - Pasco ONE

Pasco ONE is here! One App. Every Connection.

Pasco ONE gives you everything you need to stay connected, including ONE Wallet for managing your student's meal account, school news, myStudent grades, attendance, schedules, transportation information, and so much more...

Pasco ONE gives you everything you need to stay connected, including ONE Wallet for managing your student's meal account, school news, myStudent grades, attendance, schedules, transportation information, and so much more. Download the app today, then simply open it and sign in with your Parent Portal account. Don't have a Parent Portal account? Create one today at: https://pasco.focusschoolsoftware.com/focus/parents/

Download today at:

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Attend and Achieve

Attend and Achieve - September 2026

Did You Know? Students who attend school on time every day are more likely to achieve higher grades, build stronger friendships, and find success. Learn more!

Community Connections

CTAE Future Firefighters

The Fivay High School Fire Science Academy recently received a generous donation of 25 fire helmets from Pasco County…

The Fivay High School Fire Science Academy recently received a generous donation of 25 fire helmets from Pasco County Fire Rescue, providing students with valuable equipment as they prepare for careers in the fire service.

During their visit to the academy, Fire Chief Guynn and Division Chief Martinez toured the facility and met with senior students, offering encouragement, sharing professional insights, and discussing opportunities within the fire service profession. Their engagement gave students a firsthand look at the dedication and leadership required to succeed in this critical field.

Pasco County Fire Rescue continues to be an exceptional industry partner, demonstrating a strong commitment to workforce development and helping prepare the next generation of local firefighters. Through support like this, our students gain meaningful experiences and resources that strengthen their career readiness.

We are grateful for Pasco County Fire Rescue's ongoing partnership and investment in student success.

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CTAE Business Management & Administration

This summer, six students from Angeline Academy of Innovation completed paid internships with Achieva Credit Union,…

This summer, six students from Angeline Academy of Innovation completed paid internships with Achieva Credit Union, gaining valuable workplace experience in the financial services industry. Students worked in branches throughout Pasco County by assisting members, processing transactions and developing professional communication and customer service skills. The partnership exemplifies the impact of Career and Technical Education by providing students with direct exposure to potential career pathways.

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CTAE Cluster News

The Ironworkers Bootcamp, sponsored by CareerSource Pasco Hernando in partnership with Ironworkers Local 397, provided…

The Ironworkers Bootcamp, sponsored by CareerSource Pasco Hernando in partnership with Ironworkers Local 397, provided students with a valuable two-week immersive training experience in the skilled trades. During the bootcamp, participants developed foundational welding skills through hands-on instruction and real-world practice led by experienced industry professionals. Students had the opportunity to earn industry certifications and network with experts in the field.

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Family Information and Support

Instructional Materials Adoption

Pasco County Schools is conducting an instructional materials adoption for M/J Health 6 and HOPE Core in the 2026-2027…

Pasco County Schools is conducting an instructional materials adoption for M/J Health 6 and HOPE Core in the 2026-2027 school year for implementation in the 2027-2028 school year. We would like to invite parents to be part of the Narrowing Team which serves to review and narrow the materials submitted by publishers during the vendor call of the adoption process. To submit your interest for an opportunity to serve on the narrowing team, please complete this form. There is a 5-night commitment for this work. The dates and times of narrowing team meetings are available on the instructional materials adoption website. The deadline to submit your interest is September 17th, 2026. For additional information, please contact instructionalmaterials@pasco.k12.us.  

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Track Graduation Progress Anytime with Pasco ONE and myStudent

Students in grades 9–12 and their parents can now access a Graduation Requirements report through both the Pasco…

Students in grades 9–12 and their parents can now access a Graduation Requirements report through both the Pasco ONE app and myStudent.

The report provides an at-a-glance view of a student's progress toward graduation, including credits earned, remaining graduation requirements, courses currently in progress, GPA, assessment requirements, and cohort year.

Where to find it:

Students can access Graduation Requirements directly from their main menu. Parents can find the report by selecting their student and navigating to More Info → Graduation Requirements. The report is available through both myStudent and the Pasco ONE app.

Having this information readily available gives students and families another helpful way to stay informed about graduation progress and understand what requirements remain as students work toward earning their diploma.

Students and parents should contact their school counselor with questions about individual graduation requirements or academic planning.

 

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Winter Sports Are Coming Soon!

As we prepare for an exciting upcoming Winter Sports Season, we encourage all interested student athletes to begin…

As we prepare for an exciting upcoming Winter Sports Season, we encourage all interested student athletes to begin getting ready for tryouts. We are proud to offer the following Winter athletic opportunities:

Middle School Sports Quarter 2

  • Boys Soccer
  • Girls Basketball

High School Sports

  • Boys Basketball
  • Boys Soccer
  • Boys Wrestling
  • Competitive Cheerleading
  • Girls Basketball
  • Girls Soccer
  • Girls Weightlifting
  • Girls Wrestling

To ensure your student is eligible to participate in tryouts, all required athletic paperwork must be completed and approved through Athletic Clearance in Home Campus. We encourage families to complete these requirements as soon as possible to avoid any delays when tryouts begin. If you have questions about athletic eligibility, required paperwork, or participation requirements, please visit the Pasco County Athletics Website https://www.pasco.k12.fl.us/athletics/ for information and resources.

We look forward to a successful upcoming winter season and can't wait to see our student athletes compete, grow, and represent their schools in athletic competition. 

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26-27 Beanstack Reading Challenge

We are excited to launch the district’s 26-27 Beanstack Reading Challenge:  Level Up Your Reading Game! One…

We are excited to launch the district’s 26-27 Beanstack Reading Challenge:  Level Up Your Reading Game! One District, One Goal. Please see the flyer for additional information.  We encourage all students to participate!

Let’s read 20 million minutes this school year!  

Beanstack directions:

  • STEP 1: Click on the Beanstack app on myPascoConnect dashboard.
  • STEP 2: Click “Log Reading” button, choose a date on the calendar.
  • STEP 3: Enter book title or click barcode scanner icon.
  • STEP 4: Enter minutes read or start timer.

Then click “Log Reading”!

Reading just 20 minutes each day will help us achieve our goal!

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World Class Opportunities

Coming soon! 2026 Pasco Pathways Expo!  Find Your Path in Pasco. Your School. Your Future.

Families are invited to explore the many educational opportunities available to Pasco County students at the 2026 Pasco…

Families are invited to explore the many educational opportunities available to Pasco County students at the 2026 Pasco Pathways Expo. This interactive event will showcase schools, programs, career pathways, academies, and choice options designed to help students discover their interests, talents, and future goals. More details coming soon.

November 9th, 5 - 8 pm at Gulf High School, 

November 10th, 5 - 8 pm at Cypress Creek High School. 

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Become a Volunteer With Pasco County Schools!

Volunteers Make a Difference! Our volunteers are an invaluable part of the Pasco County Schools community. From…

Volunteers Make a Difference!

Our volunteers are an invaluable part of the Pasco County Schools community. From supporting students and teachers in the classroom to assisting with school events and activities, volunteers help create positive learning experiences and strengthen our school communities. Your time, talents, and dedication make a lasting impact on the success of our students.

We are excited to announce that our new Volunteer Application is officially open!

If you would like to become a volunteer, please complete the application using this link.

Please note: A background screening is required for all volunteers.

Thank you for your interest in supporting Pasco County Schools. We look forward to partnering with you to make a difference in the lives of our students!

 

New Student Peer Volunteer Forms Available September 1!
 
We are excited to launch the Parent/Guardian Permission for Student Peer Volunteer Participation Form in myStudent beginning September 1, 2026!
 
Parents/guardians of students in grades 6-12 who are interested in participating as student peer volunteers must complete the permission form through the Parent Portal. Once logged in, the form can be found under Form Summary and will be listed as an Optional Form for eligible students in grades 6-12.
 
In addition, students must complete the Student Peer Volunteer Application available on our website.
 
Thank you for partnering with us to support meaningful volunteer opportunities that help our students grow as leaders and make a positive impact in our schools and community!
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Explore The Teacher Pathway Options!

Teach Pasco Paid Pathway Are you interested in becoming a teacher and need to obtain, or complete, a bachelor’s in…

Teach Pasco Paid Pathway

Are you interested in becoming a teacher and need to obtain, or complete, a bachelor’s in education? Pasco County School’s Teach Pasco Paid Pathway, formerly SRP To Teacher, may be an option for you!

As a member of the Teach Pasco Paid Pathway, you would be eligible to receive tuition reimbursement for a maximum of 18 credit hours a fiscal year. You may also be eligible to receive reimbursement for books, if listed as required in the syllabus. Another benefit of this program is that as a non-instructional Pasco employee, you will be eligible to continue receiving your pay while completing your internship hours with Pasco County.

To be eligible for the Teach Pasco Paid Pathway, you would need to be working on a bachelor’s in education and have been employed with Pasco County Schools in a non-instructional role for one consecutive year.

Review the full list of program requirements and guidelines at the link below!

Teach Pasco Paid Pathway

 

Military Veteran Certification:

The Florida Department of Education's Military Veterans Certification Pathway allows eligible veterans to pursue a teaching career through a five-year temporary certificate, helping schools benefit from the leadership, discipline, and real-world experience veterans bring to the classroom. For more information about eligibility requirements and the application process, visit the FLDOE Military Veterans Certification Pathway website: Military Veterans Certification Pathway

 

Professional Guest Teacher:

Do you already have a bachelor’s degree and just need to obtain a teaching certificate? No problem, there is a pathway for you!

Pasco County Schools has a Professional Guest Teacher (PGT) position. If you hold at least a bachelor's level degree, you would be eligible for the PGT role while you work toward your certification. As a PGT, you would be non-benefit earning and would receive $160 a day. Once you receive your certification, you will then be eligible to convert to the full teacher pay and benefits.

If this is something you are interested in, apply today! Teaching jobs, educator jobs, school jobs | SchoolSpring

Questions? Reach out to the Recruitment Team at work@pasco.k12.fl.us

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Learn About Exciting Positions In Exceptional Student Education (ESE)!

Exciting Exceptional Student Education Opportunities with Pasco County! Pasco County Schools has many exciting…

Exciting Exceptional Student Education Opportunities with Pasco County!

Pasco County Schools has many exciting opportunities for you to join our world-class team. Some of these exciting opportunities include Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Teachers or Instructional Assistants positions.

Why ESE:

  • Rewarding position, where every day you make an impact in the lives of children and families. 
  • ESE Teachers in our self-contained units (IND/ASD/EBD) receive an additional $2,000 retention bonus on top of the base salary.
  • ESE Instructional Assistants receive an additional $.40 an hour.
  • Training opportunities for ESE Teachers.
  • Great opportunity to get started with Pasco County Schools.

Position Requirements:

ESE Teacher:

  • Bachelor's Degree
  • FLDOE Teaching Certification or are willing to obtain the required certification.

ESE Instructional Assistant:

  • Associate degree
  • 60 credit hours, or
  • A passing score on the ParaPro Assessment

Apply Today:  Teaching jobs, educator jobs, school jobs | SchoolSpring

Questions? Reach out to the Recruitment Team at work@pasco.k12.fl.us

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Connect With Us At Our Upcoming Events!

Your Future Starts Here: Join us at our upcoming events Join the Recruitment Team on Friday, September 11th, 2026, from…

Your Future Starts Here: Join us at our upcoming events

Join the Recruitment Team on Friday, September 11th, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the District Office for an opportunity to connect directly with our recruitment team. Learn more about open positions across our schools and discover how you can become part of our community.

Recruitment Office Hours

Friday, September 11th, 2026

8pm-12pm

District Office- Building 4: 20430 Gator Ln. Land O’ Lakes, FL 34638

 

Pasco County is also hosting a Transportation Job Fair on Tuesday, September 15th from 4pm-6pm. This event will be held at the District Office Building 2.

Transportation Job Fair

Tuesday, September 15th

4pm-6pm

District Office- Building 2: 7227 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Land O’ Lakes, FL 34638

Pre-Register: https://ryu.pasco.k12.fl.us/hreq-mform/view.php?id=277762

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Check Out This Months Employee Testimonial Video!

Check out our Employee Testimonial video and discover why Pasco County School District is not just where we work —…

Check out our Employee Testimonial video and discover why Pasco County School District is not just where we work — it’s where we belong!

Meet Lisa Laney, an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Teacher at Thomas E. Weightman Middle School. In this episode of Work Pasco Voices, Lisa shares her journey into Exceptional Student Education and what inspired her to pursue a career supporting students with autism.

Lisa also discusses the importance of teamwork in ESE, highlighting how collaboration, shared expertise, and a strong support system help educators meet the unique needs of their students. From working alongside fellow teachers and support staff to celebrating student growth, she shares what helps her succeed and why she loves what she does.

Every day, our amazing bus drivers and transportation team roll in with patience, kindness, and a whole lot of heart. They keep our students safe, our routes running smoothly, and our community connected one mile (and one smile!) at a time.

Now it’s your turn to spread love! Help us shine a spotlight on these everyday heroes by sharing a message of appreciation. Let’s lift them up and celebrate the people who keep our district moving forward.

Share your message here: https://ryu.pasco.k12.fl.us/hreq-mform/view.php?id=226932

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Interested in attending a U.S. Service Academy?

Students interested in serving their country while pursuing an exceptional college education and developing lifelong…

Students interested in serving their country while pursuing an exceptional college education and developing lifelong leadership skills are encouraged to explore the U.S. Service Academies! Congressman Gus Bilirakis is accepting applications from outstanding students in Florida’s 12th Congressional District seeking a congressional nomination to one of our nation’s premier service academies.

U.S. Military Academy – West Point
U.S. Naval Academy
U.S. Air Force Academy
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Application Opens: May 1, 2026
Application Deadline: October 2, 2026

The nomination process is competitive, so students are encouraged to start early, stay organized, and aim high! Link: https://bilirakis.house.gov/services/service-academy-nominations 

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U.S. Senate Youth Program (USSYP)

USSYP is open to rising juniors and seniors who are interested in a career in public service and who are currently…

USSYP is open to rising juniors and seniors who are interested in a career in public service and who are currently serving in an elected or appointed leadership position(s) at their school and/or in their community. For application components, including qualifications and other program information, please visit https://www.fldoe.org/civicliteracy/ussyp.stml. All applications must be received no later than 11:45 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

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Service Academy Day

We’re excited to invite high school students and families interested in learning more about the United States…

We’re excited to invite high school students and families interested in learning more about the United States Service Academies to join us for Service Academy Day on September 12, 2026!

This event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with representatives from each Service Academy and local ROTC programs, ask questions, and explore the many paths available to students. Those interested in seeking a Congressional Nomination will also have the opportunity to learn more about the application process and important deadlines.

Event Details

Saturday, September 12, 2026
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

USF CW Bill Young JMLC Building
12303 USF Genshaft Drive
Tampa, FL 33620

What to Expect

  • Meet representatives from the U.S. Service Academies.
  • Learn about the congressional nomination process.
  • Ask questions about admissions and eligibility.
  • Connect with Rep. Lee's staff.

Participating Service Academies

  • U.S. Military Academy
  • U.S. Naval Academy
  • U.S. Air Force Academy
  • U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
  • U.S. Coast Guard Academy

More Information

View Service Academy Day submission details

You can also view a flyer image of this event.

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Congressional App Challenge

Congressional App Challenge Middle and high school students in Florida's 15th Congressional District are invited to…

Congressional App Challenge

Middle and high school students in Florida's 15th Congressional District are invited to participate in the Congressional App Challenge.

Build. Solve. Inspire.

Create an original app for any platform.

Who Can Participate?

The competition is open to middle and high school students in Florida's 15th Congressional District.

Recognition

Top apps will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building.

Submission Deadline

Applications must be submitted by October 26, 2026.

Learn More and Register

Learn More and Register

Questions?

Contact the office of Congresswoman Laurel Lee at 813-393-5077.


Official Congressional App Challenge Flyer

The original promotional flyer is provided below for reference. All essential information from the flyer is also available as accessible text on this page.

Congressional App Challenge promotional flyer. All essential event details are provided as text on this page.
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Important Safety Tips

The Importance of Traffic Safety in School Zones: A Guide for Parents

As children head back to school, ensuring their safety on the roads becomes a top priority. School zones are bustling…

As children head back to school, ensuring their safety on the roads becomes a top priority. School zones are bustling areas during drop-off and pick-up times, and even a moment of distraction can lead to serious consequences. Traffic safety in these zones is not just a legal responsibility—it’s a moral one. Parents play a crucial role in creating a safe environment for all students.

Why School Zone Safety Matters

School zones are designed to protect children, who may not always be aware of traffic dangers. Reduced speed limits, crossing guards, and signage are all in place to minimize risks. However, these measures only work when drivers follow the rules. Unsafe driving in school zones can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.

Safe Driving Tips for Parents in School Zones

Here are some essential tips for parents to follow when driving near schools:

  1. Slow Down
    Always adhere to posted speed limits in school zones. Slower speeds give drivers more time to react and reduce the severity of accidents.
  2. Stay Alert
    Avoid distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Children can be unpredictable, and full attention is necessary.
  3. Obey Crossing Guards
    Crossing guards are there to protect children. Always follow their signals and instructions.
  4. Yield to Pedestrians
    Stop for children and adults at crosswalks. Never block a crosswalk when waiting to turn or at a stoplight.
  5. Avoid Double Parking
    Double parking can block visibility for other drivers and pedestrians. Use designated drop-off zones whenever possible.
  6. Use Car Seats and Seat Belts Properly
    Ensure children are buckled up correctly before moving the vehicle.
  7. Be Patient
    School zones can be congested. Allow extra time for drop-off and pick-up to avoid rushing.
  8. Watch for Buses
    Never pass a school bus when its stop sign is extended. Children may be crossing the street unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

By driving safely and responsibly in school zones, parents help create a secure environment for all children. It’s a simple yet powerful way to show care and consideration for the community. Let’s make school zones safe—one careful drive at a time.

 

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Pasco County Schools: We exist to provide a World Class Education.

Important Links