July 2026 Family and Community Newsletter

Pasco County Schools is proud to announce that the Florida Department of Education has officially awarded the district an A-rating, marking a historic milestone and reflecting unprecedented academic growth across the district.

This year’s school grades demonstrate significant progress for students and schools throughout Pasco County, including the remarkable achievement of reducing the district’s number of schools under state Bureau of School Improvement (BSI) oversight from eight to zero.

Schools identified under BSI oversight are schools requiring targeted state support due to academic performance indicators. While Pasco County Schools will not remain under state BSI oversight next year, the district will continue its Opportunity Schools work to provide additional support and resources to its most fragile schools.

In addition to earning an “A” rated district designation, Pasco County Schools received several other notable milestones:

• For the first time since 2004, every Pasco County Schools earned a grade of C or higher.
• Thirty-one Pasco County Schools improved by at least one letter grade.
• Eighteen Pasco County Schools earned a new A-rating this year.
• The following schools improved by two letter grades:
  • Chester W. Taylor Elementary School 
  • Gulfside Elementary School
  • Gulf Middle School
  • New River Elementary School
• The following schools improved from a D-rating to an A-rating:
  • New River Elementary School
  • Gulf Middle School
  • Gulfside Elementary School
• Additionally, Chester W. Taylor Elementary moved from an F to a C-rating.

“This achievement reflects the incredible dedication of our teachers, support staff, administrators, students, and families,” said Dr. John Legg, Superintendent of Pasco County Schools. “An ‘A’ district rating and the elimination of all schools under state BSI oversight are the result of strong systems, support, and commitment that exist throughout our schools. While we are proud of this accomplishment, we also remain committed to continuing to invest in opportunities and support systems that help every child succeed.”

For media inquiries, contact Public Information Officer Jessica Meek at pio@pasco.k12.fl.us

The CTAE Innovation Station is igniting curiosity and expanding awareness of Pasco County Schools’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs!

Through a dynamic STEM/STEAM lens, this mobile learning experience brings engaging, hands-on activities directly to elementary schools and community events across the district, helping students make early connections between classroom learning and future career opportunities. Each visit is thoughtfully aligned to CTE pathways and elementary standards, giving students a fun and meaningful introduction to the possibilities ahead. 

During the 2025-26 school year, the bus connected with eleven schools and several community events, reaching the hearts and minds of over 5,000 students and families! 

The 2026–2027 school year brings new experiences with The Innovation Station, highlighting our health and veterinary science programs and offering students an exciting glimpse into careers that support the well-being of people and animals. By sparking interest early, the Innovation Station helps build a strong foundation for future exploration and success in Pasco’s CTE programs.

Monster Jam is coming back to Tampa in August, and we have a special offer for tickets. Purchase your tickets here for exclusive pricing: https://www.gofevo.com/group/PascoTicketOffer. Plus, $2 from every ticket purchased goes back to Pasco County Schools and programs supported by the Pasco Education Foundation.

Students who earn industry certifications through their CTAE courses can receive FREE college or technical college credit hours. The College Cost Savings document, created in accordance with Section 1003.02(1)(j), F.S., lists certifications that can be transferred to college credits, helping to reduce future college tuition costs. The document includes the name of the associate degree program each certification can be applied to, the number of college credits the student can earn, and the cost savings for each certification. 

Pasco County CTE students have the opportunity to participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) at their schools. CTSOs—such as FBLA, FFA, HOSA, and SkillsUSA—are student-led groups that enhance classroom learning by incorporating real-world applications, leadership development, and personal growth. Through participation, students can build valuable skills, connect with peers and industry professionals, and explore potential career paths. If your student is enrolled in a CTE course, ask their teacher how to get involved. You can also visit the Career, Technical and Adult Education (CTAE) webpage to learn more about current CTSO opportunities in Pasco County Schools.

The Pasco County Schools Athletics webpage has been updated to reflect important new information based on recent legislation. Families can access the updated site directly at https://www.pasco.k12.fl.us/athletics/. If you have a student-athlete, or a student interested in participating in athletics, we encourage you to visit the website and review the new updates. The site has been redesigned with families and students in mind, making it easier to navigate and understand key requirements and information.

We also want to remind families about the upcoming ECG screening requirement, which will go into effect on July 1, 2026. There are three upcoming ECG screening opportunities available in the month of July to help meet this requirement. For details on dates, locations, and how to register, please visit the ECG page on the athletics website.

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 Elyse Centonze, Speech-Language Pathologist at Odessa Elementary School. In this episode of Work Pasco Voices, Elyse shares her "why" and what makes a career in speech-language pathology so rewarding. From helping students strengthen communication skills to building confidence both inside and outside the classroom, Elyse highlights the meaningful impact SLPs make every day.

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

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 officially launches on July 1, 2026!

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!

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

Your Future Starts Here: Connect with us to discuss opportunities for the 2026-2027 school year!

Pasco County Schools will be hosting a Coffee & Careers event at the District Office on July 14th from 9am-12pm. Join us for this event and connect with school and district leaders to learn about career opportunities across the district.

Coffee & Careers:

Tuesday, July 14^th, 2026

9AM-12PM

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=270235

Pasco County Schools has exciting opportunities available in our Exceptional Student Education (ESE) programs!

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.
• Training opportunities for ESE Teachers.
• Great opportunity to get started with Pasco County Schools.

Apply Today:  https://pasco.schoolspring.com/

Summer in Florida means sunshine, beach days, pool parties, and outdoor adventures. While the season offers plenty of opportunities for family fun, it also brings unique safety risks. By staying aware and taking a few simple precautions, families can enjoy everything Florida has to offer while keeping loved ones safe.

Beat the Heat

Florida’s summer temperatures and humidity can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for children, older adults, and those spending long periods outdoors. Stay hydrated, take breaks in air-conditioned spaces, wear lightweight clothing, and schedule outdoor activities during cooler morning or evening hours.

Signs of Heat-Related Illness

• Excessive sweating
• Dizziness or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps
• Confusion or fainting

If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, provide water, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Never Leave Children in Cars

A parked vehicle can become dangerously hot within minutes. Even with windows cracked, interior temperatures can rise rapidly, creating life-threatening conditions for children.

Safety Tips

• Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, even for a minute.
• Always check the back seat before locking your car.
• Place a purse, phone, or work bag in the back seat as a reminder.
• Keep vehicles locked when parked to prevent children from climbing inside.
• Call 911 immediately if you see a child alone in a hot vehicle.

Lightning Safety

Florida is often called the lightning capital of the United States, and thunderstorms can develop quickly during summer afternoons.

Remember: When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors

• Move immediately into a substantial building or enclosed vehicle.
• Stay indoors until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
• Avoid swimming, boating, and open fields during storms.
• Stay away from plumbing, corded electronics, windows, and doors while indoors

Drowning Prevention

Whether at the beach, pool, lake, or water park, drowning can happen quickly and quietly. Constant supervision is the most effective way to protect children around water.

Water Safety Tips

• Designate a responsible adult as the water watcher.
• Keep children within arm’s reach in and around water.
• Enroll children in age-appropriate swimming lessons.
• Use properly fitted life jackets when boating or participating in water sports.
• Install and maintain barriers, fences, and self-latching gates around home pools.
• Learn CPR so you can respond quickly in an emergency.

Enjoy a Safe Florida Summer

Summer memories should be filled with fun, not emergencies. Staying hydrated, never leaving children in vehicles, seeking shelter during thunderstorms, and practicing water safety can help protect your family throughout Florida’s hottest months.