Pace Center for Girls ‘Believing in Girls Empowerment Breakfast 2024’

Today, I had the privilege of attending the Pace Center for Girls ‘Believing in Girls Empowerment Breakfast 2024’. Hosted by the Citrus County Community Charitable Foundation, Inc. (CCCCF) and supported by numerous generous sponsors, this event was a celebration of empowerment and resilience.

Angela Kennedy, the Executive Director of Citrus Pace, set the tone for a day filled with inspiring stories and powerful messages. Crystal Barton, the Executive Director of CCCCF, also shared her enthusiasm for supporting the girls served by Pace Center for Girls Citrus.

One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by Tiarra Alexander, the Pace Social Services Manager, who spoke about the profound impact of Pace on the lives of young girls in our community. Through holistic social, academic, and career-building services, Pace Center for Girls Citrus empowers girls in need, giving them the tools they need to succeed.

However, the most powerful moments of the morning came from the Pace girls themselves. Lizzey, a current Pace Girl, bravely shared her personal journey during ‘Lizzey’s Story’. She spoke about the challenges she has faced and how Pace Center has equipped her with the personal resilience to overcome these obstacles. Lizzey’s story was not just one of struggle but also of triumph, as she proudly announced her graduation plans and her dream of becoming an occupational therapist. Her determination and courage are a testament to the impact of Pace on young lives.

Another moving message came from Taylor Paris, a Pace Girl alumni from the Class of 2021, who shared her perspective on being a part of the Pace family. Her message, ‘Once a Pace Girl, Always a Pace Girl’, highlighted the enduring support and sisterhood that Pace Center fosters among its alumni. It was a reminder that the empowerment and mentorship provided by Pace extend far beyond graduation.

The event also featured insights from Citrus Pace Board Members Wendy Cash and Tito Rubio, who spoke passionately about ‘Believing in Pace Girls’ and the importance of continuing to support and empower young women in our community.

Established in 2018, Pace Center for Girls Citrus has been a beacon of hope for girls in Citrus County, offering not just education and counseling but also advocacy and a safe space to grow and thrive. Their mission to empower girls and young women is rooted in the belief that every girl deserves a chance to find her voice, reach her full potential, and live a life of responsibility, dignity, serenity, and grace.

The ‘Believing in Girls Empowerment Breakfast 2024’ was a powerful testament to the transformative work of Pace Center for Girls Citrus. It highlighted the strength, resilience, and determination of the girls it serves and underscored the ongoing need to support programs that empower and uplift young women in our communities.

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CHS AP Capstone Research Presentations/Oral Defense: A Showcase of Academic Excellence

This week’s annual Citrus High School (CHS) AP Capstone Research Presentations and Oral Defense serve as a platform for students to showcase their scholarly prowess and delve into the depths of their unique research endeavors. Once again, I had the privilege of being on the observing panel at this year’s event, joining Dr. Scott Hebert, Assistant Superintendent, Education Director Renee Johnson, Supervisor of Instructional Materials Al Balk, and AP teacher Mr. Bass, along with other esteemed educators and leaders.

The event, overseen by AP teacher Mr. Bass, adheres to rigorous standards set by the College Board. Each student, having already submitted a comprehensive 5000+ word academic paper, takes the stage for a 13–17-minute presentation followed by a structured oral defense session lasting 17-22 minutes. This format not only reflects the academic rigor expected at the collegiate level but also prepares students for future scholarly pursuits.

One of the defining features of the CHS AP Capstone Research Presentations is the involvement of a panel comprising 3 to 5 individuals. This panel, carefully selected to represent a diverse range of expertise, plays a pivotal role in evaluating the students’ work and posing insightful questions that delve deeper into the nuances of their research. Dr. Hebert, who also serves as an adjunct professor at Florida Southern College (FSC), shared with the students that at FSC, he is an education dissertation chair, a role crucial in the final step of doctoral students receiving their PhD. He explained to the students how their presentations closely mirrored the process he oversees with doctoral candidates at FSC as they defend their theses.

The presentations cover a wide array of topics, reflecting the diverse interests and intellectual curiosity of CHS students. From scientific inquiries to social analyses, each presentation is a testament to the students’ dedication, critical thinking skills, and ability to conduct meaningful research. Moreover, the oral defense segment allows students to articulate their findings, defend their methodologies, and engage in scholarly discourse—a crucial skill set for future academic and professional endeavors.

It is important to note that the CHS AP Capstone Research Presentations and Oral Defense are not merely academic exercises; they serve as a significant component in determining whether students earn college credit for their coursework. The meticulous preparation, in-depth research, and polished presentation skills showcased during this event underscore the academic excellence fostered at CHS.

The CHS AP Capstone Research Presentations and Oral Defense, along with other similar types of events in other programs in our schools and classes, are a testament to the dedication, intellect, and scholarly achievements of Citrus County’s top students. This event not only highlights their academic prowess but also prepares them for the rigors of higher education and professional success.

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Empowering High School Students Through Real-World Investing: The Nature Coast Investment Practicum

… with an initial investment of $25,000 to a substantial $250,000 today

This year’s annual Nature Coast Investment Practicum (NCIP) event for Citrus High School students was a testament to the power of hands-on learning in finance. NCIP stands as a beacon of success in the realm of public-private partnerships, offering high school students a unique opportunity to gain real-world investing experience right from their classrooms. At the heart of this initiative is the Manatee Investment Fund (MIF), which has seen remarkable growth from its humble beginnings six years ago with an initial investment of $25,000 to a substantial $250,000 today.

The core of NCIP’s success lies in its approach. Students enrolled in the high school accounting class are tasked with managing actual investment portfolios, providing them with invaluable insights into the dynamics of financial markets. While the students operate within predefined parameters for stock transactions, they are challenged to make strategic decisions by continuously evaluating and reevaluating their investment choices throughout the academic year. This process is closely supervised by local financial planners who not only guide the students but also impart sound investment practices and accounting principles, ensuring a holistic learning experience.

One of NCIP’s primary goals is to provide a multifaceted learning experience for Citrus County High School students. Beyond investment management principles, the program fosters growth in areas such as general economic theories, accounting principles, public speaking, teamwork, and analytical writing through the preparation of analyst reports. Moreover, the program’s success directly benefits the students through scholarships funded by the profits generated from their investments. This year alone, nearly $12,000 in scholarships were awarded to six deserving students from the current class.

The scholarships, a tangible outcome of the students’ astute portfolio management, adhere to clear criteria. Applicants must be active participants in the NCIP program, demonstrating academic excellence, class engagement, regular attendance, and a strong desire for financial education. These scholarships not only reward students for their hard work but also serve as an incentive for future participants, creating a cycle of continuous learning and achievement.

The success of NCIP would not be possible without the steadfast support of various stakeholders. The administration of Citrus High School, along with district support from Citrus County Schools and the Citrus County Educational Foundation, has played a pivotal role in nurturing this program. The guidance and expertise provided by the Advisory Board and generous donors have further fueled its growth and impact. A special acknowledgment goes to Scott Lee, Financial Advisor for Edward Jones, who co-instructs NCIP and has been instrumental in shaping the students’ financial acumen. Mr. Lee’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in establishing and promoting this program, leaving a lasting legacy of financial literacy and empowerment among Citrus High School students.

The Nature Coast Investment Practicum stands as a shining example of how innovative educational initiatives can transform students’ lives. This program is currently at Citrus High School, but efforts are being made to expand it to all our high schools. By providing hands-on experience, fostering critical thinking, and promoting financial responsibility, NCIP equips the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the financial world confidently. As NCIP continues to expand its reach and impact, it remains a beacon of opportunity and empowerment for high school students across Citrus County.

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