Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Kylie Matthews! Her Automotive Collision Technician instructor, Charles Dickinson, shared why she is an outstanding student: “Kylie has been in my class now for 2 years. She has excelled in every task I give her. Kylie has kept an A in this class since day one of my class. She shows up on time, she does everything asked (not always happy about some), no matter what it is. This is her last year with us, and I will miss her. She is graduating from Suwannee High School and RIVEROAK Technical College at the same time. That is an accomplishment in itself. She has been a helping hand in my class, helping others get through their own struggles. She is, most of the time, willing to help anyone that is having a problem with their project. She will be going to state SkillsUSA for the 2nd time under me, and went to nationals in Atlanta last year. We are expecting another national SkillsUSA placement this year also.” When asked why she selected RIVEROAK for her postsecondary education, Kylie shared, "I selected RIVEROAK because I had previous knowledge of the class I wanted to take because my dad took the same class in high school, and it allows me to get a free education while in high school without taking time away after graduation so I can pursue my dream career as soon as possible." Concerning her decision to pursue the Automotive Collision Technician program, Kylie shared, "I chose my current program because it allowed me to gain my certificates I need while still in high school so I can pursue my career directly after graduation." Upon graduation from RIVEROAK, she plans to begin working in a shop as an automotive refinishing prepper, then move her way up to an automotive painter. We know great things are in store for Kylie's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
SAVE THE DATE! The RIVEROAK Technical College graduation ceremony will be held on May 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., at the Suwannee High School auditorium. We look forward to recognizing our 2025 graduates!
#Graduation #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Mrs. Jessica Cabrera, Administrative Assistant, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. Having served for fourteen years in the field of education, Jessica shared, "RIVEROAK has given me the opportunity to grow as a professional. RIVEROAK is not just another technical college, but it is more like a big family, in which we are all working together and growing together.” To future and current students, Jessica shared the following advice: “Keep moving forward and fulfill your goals. Get your career and even if it’s hard, do not quit. Trust the process, and you will succeed.” To individuals considering RIVEROAK for their postsecondary education, Jessica shared, “We have a group of fine teachers and supporting staff, fully dedicated to what they love to do. So, if you come here, you will get the same feeling. You will not regret it. We will take care of you professionally and to an extent, personally.” #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
RIVEROAK is currently accepting applications for the Surgical Technology program. Click here to apply: https://rtc.suwannee.k12.fl.us/o/rtc/page/application-info. Application deadline is July 3, 2025. #SurgicalTech #surgery #surgicaltechnician #surgery #healtrhcare #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Congratulations to Savannah White for being selected as this week's CTE Student Spotlight! Her Certified Nursing Assistant instructor, Ms. Lori Peters, RN, shared, "Savannah is a great student and is doing exceptionally well with the CNA skills taught this year. She has practiced to ensure that she masters these skills and is looking forward to her clinical rotation. She is a leader in her class and assists other students to ensure they understand the materials.” When asked why she chose the CNA program, Savannah shared, "I chose this course first to become a CNA and to gain experience needed to further my career in the medical field. My ultimate goal is to become a Registered Nurse and specialize in labor and delivery. I’m a Christian, and as a believer, I feel the need to use my able body and skills to help mothers during labor. This is a time when mothers are emotionally, physically, and mentally vulnerable and need a strong presence to keep a level head and birth their bundle of joy without complications. In my opinion, God gave women a unique gift to create life, which has always fascinated me. I hope one day to be able to comfort and care for mothers during this significant and grand time in their lives.” Savannah shared about her accomplishments in the program so far: “Day 1 of my Senior CNA course, I was very nervous about patient care and having the confidence to care for another life. This was very nerve racking for me. As time progressed, I quickly realized that I needed to have confidence in myself to reassure those that I am there to help. Being in classes with supportive peers and great teachers, I went from barely being able to speak to the mannequin, to performing entire care plans on my peers and on the mannequins with ease and precision. I am very excited to put my knowledge and skills to the test in the real world setting and be of help to those who really need me.” Upon graduation, Savannah will be attending Mars Hill University in North Carolina to further her career goals. We are so proud of you, Savannah! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Do you need to learn or improve your English speaking, listening, reading, or writing skills? RIVEROAK offers morning, afternoon, and evening ESL classes on campus, as well as evening ESL classes at Branford High School. Call us at (386) 647-4200 for additional information.
¿Necesita aprender o mejorar sus habilidades para hablar, escuchar, leer o escribir en inglés? RIVEROAK ofrece clases de ESL por la mañana, tarde, y noche en el campus y por la noche en Branford High School. Llámenos al (386) 647-4200 para obtener información adicional.
#WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #GrowYourFutureWithUs #growwithus #GetThereFL #yourway #YourWayFL #floridatechcolleges #Fltechcolleges #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd #ESL #ELL #ESOL #English #language
Mrs. Lori Peters is this week’s Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Now in her first year as an Allied Health teacher, Lori shared, " I have been a Registered Nurse for over 30 years and bring a vast array of hands-on, practical experience to the Allied Health Academy at SHS. I have been told that I am a great support person and mentor. I am passionate about my profession and feel that to do anything worthwhile, I just have to do the very best that I know how. I have always treated each and every one of my patients the same way I would want my mother or grandmother to be treated. I have never had a negative review from any of my patients or their families. It takes so little to offer a kind word, a touch for a grieving family, or assistance to a co-worker that may feel like they are drowning today. Nursing is a wonderful career; it’s hard work, but oh, so worth the rewards.” Lori shared about her passion for nursing: “I am passionate about my profession and feel that to do anything worthwhile, I just have to do the very best that I know how. I have always treated each and every one of my patients the same way I would want my mother or grandmother to be treated. I have never had a negative review from any of my patients or their families. It takes so little to offer a kind word, a touch for a grieving family, or assistance to a co-worker that may feel like they are drowning today. Nursing is a wonderful career; it’s hard work, but oh, so worth the rewards.” For students considering the nursing field, Lori shared, “Nursing is a demanding career. It is often a thankless job because the people that need our care cannot care for themselves. Being sick is hard mentally, physically, and emotionally. We see people at their absolute worst and when they get better and go home, that is when we see the fruits from all our labors. The smiles, thanks, and gratitude from patients and families alike when we send a loved one home with their family is priceless! Healthcare is a wonderful profession that affords many opportunities for advancement, growth on a personal and professional level, as well as flexibility. I look forward to working with students again next year and seeing the light of mastery in their eyes sparkle when they ‘get it’ and to watch their confidence grow. I just love what I am doing now!” #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #alliedhealth #healthcare #nursing
RIVEROAK is now accepting applications for our Practical Nursing program. Click here to apply: https://rtc.suwannee.k12.fl.us/o/rtc/page/application-info. Application deadline is May 9, 2025. #practicalnursing #nursing #nurse #healtrhcare #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Melyssa Schwantes! Her Adult Education instructor, Cynthia Frye, shared why she is an outstanding student: "Melyssa is a bright and enthusiastic student on an inspiring journey toward her high school diploma. Since embarking on this path in August 2024, Melyssa has quickly distinguished herself not only through her academic achievements, but also through her infectious positivity and genuine kindness. Always ready with a smile and a supportive word, she has a remarkable ability to uplift those around her, particularly new students who benefit from her warmth and encouragement." When asked why she selected RIVEROAK for her postsecondary education, Melyssa shared, "RIVEROAK was local to me, and I have family who graduated and thrived here!" Concerning her decision to pursue the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program, Melyssa shared, "I chose the Nursing program because I loved caring for people, specifically children. I've always been drawn to pediatrics." Upon graduation from RIVEROAK, she plans to obtain her RN license and then become a pediatrician or child life specialist. Mrs. Frye shared, "With her shining personality and unwavering compassion, Melyssa is destined to become an excellent pediatric nurse, ready to provide care and support to children in need. Keep an eye on this rising star as she continues to chase her dreams and inspire everyone around her!" We know great things are in store for Melyssa's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
In honor of CTE Month, we are highlighting RIVEROAK's Surgical Technology Program, which prepares individuals for employment as Surgical Technologists and encourages each student to become highly productive citizens with strong work ethics and positive values. Each graduate will be an advocate for their patients and an asset to the surgical community. Our current students have been working hard to hone their skills in preparation for clinical rotations. Mrs. Mary Vickers, our Surgical Tech instructor, shared, "The skills they learn and master in the classroom are necessary for their clinical performance at the various facilities that they attend. " We look forward to seeing all of the great things the RTC Surgical Technology Program continues to achieve in 2025! #CTEMonth #CTE #surgical #surgicaltechnology #surgtech #surgery #medical #clinicals #career #technical #education #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Congratulations to Buddy Coleman, this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight! Buddy has been an educator for 23 years, and he is currently teaching Agriculture at Suwannee High School. Buddy shared why he became an educator: "I chose a career as an agriculture teacher because the program meant a lot to me as a student. I attribute what I learned in agricultural classes to making me who I am today." Concerning his passion for Agriculture, Buddy shared, "Agriculture is a declining art, so it is vital that we teach the next generation these skills so they can continue to feed themselves and the world.” To potential students considering the agricultural industry, he shared the following advice: "It’s not an easy career to get into, but it’s beneficial, and you will make a difference in the world." Congratulations, Buddy! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #finance #CTEMonth #agriculture
RIVEROAK would like to recognize Yarema Alonso for being selected as this week's CTE Student Spotlight! Her Finance Academy instructor, Ms. Barrinesha Washington, shared, "Yarema started in the Finance Academy her sophomore year in my Accounting 1 class where she earned her Entrepreneur and Small Business Certification. Yarema has been volunteering at the Suwannee High Bulldog bank and has recently been hired as a
student intern for First Federal Bank. She is hardworking and dedicated to anything she does.” When asked why she chose the Finance Academy program, Yarema shared, "I chose this program because it's a great way to learn more about banking and financial internships. It offers hands-on experience and insights from people already working in the industry, which is really helpful.” Concerning her passion for finance, Yarema shared, “While in this program, I picked up practical skills that will make me better prepared for future jobs. I also got the opportunity to meet other students and professionals, which could lead to valuable connections and internship opportunities. Overall, this program has been amazing to attain more knowledge on banking and being a teller, even though I am only a volunteer I believe I have learned a lot and I am excited to see what the future holds for me.” Upon graduation, Yarema plans to finish her Associate in Arts degree with North Florida College and then major in Criminology, with a goal of becoming a Criminal Defense Attorney. We are so proud of you, Yarema! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Mrs. Taylor Cole is this week’s Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Now in her second year as an Agriculture teacher, Taylor shared, "I became an Agriculture educator to provide experiences to students and educate them on real-world skills like I had the opportunity to do when in school. I am very thankful for the opportunities my Agriculture teacher provided for me, and I hope to be able to do the same for my students through the years. I chose CTE because no matter what your life path is, the skills and information you learn can be applied in anything and everything. Everyone should know where their food comes from, how to publicly speak, how to work with others, and so much more!” Taylor shared how her passion comes from her family: “I fell in love with agriculture at a very early age. My mom and both older brothers were in Agricultural classes when they were young, so it only made sense I would follow in their footsteps. When I started showing animals at 8 years old, I knew I wanted to have a career in agriculture. It wasn’t until I was in middle school, I found my love for education and decided I would one day become an Agriculture teacher. I love to see the lightbulb go off for students in class when they grasp a new concept or when a student finds their place in FFA with showing, a contest, or even in a leadership role. Agriculture is such a key part of how the world turns. How could I not be passionate about it?” For students considering the Agricultural field, Taylor shared, “The biggest piece of advice for students who want to become an Agriculture teacher is to remember to embrace your agriculture experience while it is going on. I feel that nowadays, we try to rush through life and miss out on so much because of that. You want to be able to share your experience with your future students, so make yours really count. Another piece of advice is network! Make friends, shake hands, and help out others where you can. They will be a huge lifeline when you become a teacher. Agriculture is like a big family, and if your circle is diverse and full when you start, then your first couple of years will soar smoothly!” Congratulations, Taylor! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #agriculture
Congratulations to Lesly Cortes for being selected as this week's CTE Alumni Spotlight! Her Finance Academy instructor, Barrinesha Washington, shared, "Lesly was a phenomenal student of mine that graduated in 2023. She was a student intern for First Federal, which allowed her to work in the Bulldog Bank during school hours. This opportunity led her into advancing from a bank teller at First Federal to a student intern in the BSA Compliance department. I am proud of her and her accomplishments.” Lesly shared about the career opportunities that opened for her upon graduation: "After graduating, I was offered the opportunity to advance my career at First Federal Bank, where I had previously served as a student teller during my time in high school which I was able to do through the Finance Academy. Transitioning into a new role within the BSA Compliance department, I found myself immersed in a critical area that focuses on the detection and prevention of money laundering activities—a crucial concern in today’s financial system. This position allowed me to relate the theoretical concepts that I am currently learning in my Criminal Justice studies to practical applications. The hands-on experience I have gained has been invaluable, as I navigate the complexities of anti-money laundering regulations and the systems in place to safeguard financial institutions." Lesley shared how these experiences are helping her reach her career goals: "This has been a crucial steppingstone for me as I continue my academic journey toward earning a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. It not only improves my comprehension of the finance industry and the criminal justice world but also sheds light on the range of career options that can partake." We are so proud of you, Lesly! #CTEWeek #CTEAlumni #finance #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd #alumni #graduate
Reminder: The Suwannee County School District will be closed on Monday, February 17th, in observance of President’s Day.
Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, February 18th.
Enjoy the long weekend, and we’ll see everyone back on Tuesday! 🇺🇸
📢 Schedule Update: March 24th Now an Instructional Day 📢
Please note that Monday, March 24th, originally scheduled as a Professional Development day, will now be an instructional day to make up for the school closure on January 22nd.
📌 Normal school operations will take place on Monday, March 24th.
Thank you for your understanding and flexibility.
RIVEROAK would like to recognize Barrinesha Washington as this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Barrinesha has been an educator for 4 years, and she is currently serving at Suwannee High School as the Finance Academy Instructor. Barrinesha shared why she became an educator: "I became a teacher at Suwannee High School because it was an open opportunity to not only teach, but to make a positive impact in the lives of the youth in the community." Concerning the rewarding impact of teaching these young people, Barrinesha shared, "It is rewarding to brighten a young person’s day by a simple question of 'How are you doing today?' before starting my lesson. I also find it important for students to know some finance skills of business and life, such as writing checks, budgeting, and the basics of accounting.” To potential students considering the financial industry, she shared the following advice: "The Finance Academy gives the opportunity for students to become certified in Entrepreneurship and Small Business. This is great for those who are interested in becoming an entrepreneur or wanting to work in business one day. You get to see the world of banking through exploring real-life bank operations. It is a life-enhancing experience!" Congratulations, Barrinesha! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #finance #CTEMonth
TODAY is the day! RIVEROAK's Career Fair & Program Showcase begins in just ONE HOUR! Join the excitement from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. We look forward to seeing you! #CareerFair2025 #careerfair #careeropportunities #career #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd #CTEMonth
TOMORROW is the day! Over 70 businesses and agencies will be represented at RIVEROAK's Career Fair & Program Showcase on February 13, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. #CareerFair2025 #careerfair #careeropportunities #career #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd #CTEMonth
Suwannee Middle School offers several Career and Technical Education programs, which allow students to discover career opportunities at a young age. We are excited to see how these students excel as they transition to high school!
#CTEMonth #CTE #career #technical #education #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd #SMS #SuwanneeMiddle #Suwannee
