TAMPA, Fla — Schools across the area head back to school today. Hear from some area school superintendents as prepared for the challenges.
Pinellas County School District is now getting an “A” grade. ABC Action News anchor Paul LaGrone sat down with Superintendent Kevin Hendrick ahead of the new school year. The discussion focused on the district's new cellphone policy and the referendum that’s on the ballot.
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This year, the Hernando County School District has a new Superintendent, Ray Pinder. He's worked for the district for 32 years and graduated from Hernando High School. They discuss what it is like for him to be back where he grew up, the biggest challenges in the district, new programs, and advice for both parents and students as we start a new school year.
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Polk County is home to one of the fastest-growing school districts in Florida. ABC Action News anchor Paul LaGrone spoke with Superintendent Fred Heid one-on-one ahead of the first day of school. They discuss the county's growth, teacher vacancies, politics in the classroom, student safety, and more.
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Dr. Jason Wysong is entering his second year as superintendent of Manatee County. ABC Action News anchor Lauren St. Germain recently met with Dr. Wysong one-on-one to help parents prepare for the new school year. St. Germain and Dr. Wysong discussed challenges and changes underway in the district including a new tool in all high schools he says will increase safety.
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ABC Action News reporter Erik Waxler talked to Pasco County Superintendent Kurt Browning about the upcoming school year and reflected on his 11 years with the district.
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ABC Action News reporter Larissa Scott talked to Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Van Ayres. He talked about the new cell phone policy and school boundary changes.
Watch full live interview
DeSoto County School District Superintendent Bobby Bennett Could not do an on-camera interview with ABC Action News, but did provide answers to questions in an email.
What are big changes for the upcoming school year?
BENNETT: Current planning staging for a new high school, that our students and community deserve. Implementation of a structured literacy approach with new books for phonics program to enhance all students reading skills and stamina. Enhancements to our STEM curriculum to include computer science and agriculture, preparing students for a tech-driven future. Introduction of new resources and materials for our Fine Arts Programs throughout the district. Additions to our current CTE pathway programs - Cosmetology and Animal Sciences Commitment to seeing all students and families at building based open houses to begin the 24-25 school
year.
What would you like parents to know to get their kids prepared?
BENNETT: Continue to encourage your student(s) to engage in learning throughout the summer along with creating time for reading opportunities. Utilize the books that were sent home with students for rising Gr. 3-8 in addition to having school based conversations at home.
What are the biggest challenges in your county right now?
BENNETT: Time...We are currently implementing a new district strategic plan. We are committed to making systemic changes to ensure equity for all students, families, and staff through consistent action steps.
Best advice for the first day of school?
BENNETT: Set goals for yourself. It is the daily habits that we hold onto and value that will determine our individual success in life. The little things matter! Encourage students to set personal goals for the school year and schedule accountability check-ins throughout the year.
Pasco County mom says dangerous walk to school is putting student lives at risk
"It’s a danger to a life, a student’s life," Cathy Dawson told the ABC Action News I-Team. "You’re not providing a safe walking path, and for me, I’m not okay with that for anybody’s child.”
