This school year, every PCSD student, at every school, will continue to receive free breakfast and lunch each day they are on campus.
No cost to families. Just nutritious meals to fuel success in the classroom! 📚
#ProudtobePCSD
about 2 months ago, Putnam County School District
No Cell from Bell to Bell – Let’s Keep Learning First
To help keep our classrooms focused and in compliance with new state law, we’re updating our expectations for student cell phone use this school year:
✅ Grades K–8: Students must keep personal electronic devices off and stored for the entire school day, from the first bell to dismissal. ✅ Grades 9–12: Students must keep devices off and put away during instructional time. Devices may be used before and after school, during lunch, and between classes.
Headphones, AirPods, and earbuds may not be worn during the school day unless approved by the principal or bus driver. For safety, only one earbud may be used if permitted.
🚨 REMINDER: PCSD Bus Round-Up is this week! If your child will ride the bus this school year, don’t miss this chance to:
✅ Meet your child’s driver ✅ Confirm pick-up/drop-off times ✅ Ask questions and get route info
🚌 9AM–12PM each day: 📍 Monday, July 21 – Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School (School Bus Road entrance) 📍 Tuesday, July 22 – Crescent City Jr.-Sr. High School 📍 Wednesday, July 23 – Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School
PCSD families:
At 3:30PM today, we were notified that the US Department of Education will be releasing the Title IV, Part B funds for the 21st CCLC After-School Programs! We are grateful for this news and will move forward with plans for our current 21st CCLC programs.
We appreciate those who provided feedback with the survey as it shows how many of our families depend on this program. We will continue to explore options for sites who do not have a 21st CCLC program. Thank you!
🎙 The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Preserving the Past: The Bartram Trail and Putnam County’s Role in Outdoor Education
In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with Sam Carr and Dean Campbell to discuss how Putnam County has taken the lead in preserving and promoting the legacy of William Bartram through the development of the Bartram Trail.
The Bartram Trail offers students and community members a unique way to connect with Florida history through immersive, outdoor learning experiences. With QR-coded markers, a dedicated website, and over 30 locations inspired by Bartram’s original writings, the trail is both a history lesson and a living classroom. Through the support of local leaders this initiative exemplifies how PCSD and Putnam County bring history to life and encourages education beyond the classroom.
Be sure to tune in weekly as we highlight the programs and partnerships shaping student success in Putnam County.
#ProudtobePCSD
2 months ago, Putnam County School District
Mark Your Calendar!
The Palatka Police Department and their community partners invite everyone to join them for National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Palatka Riverfront!
This family-friendly event is a great opportunity to meet local first responders, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the end of summer as students get ready to head back to school.
We’re happy to share this event with our families and encourage everyone to come out and be part of the fun!
2 months ago, Putnam County School District
✨ SAVE THE DATE! ✨
We’re excited to invite students, families, and staff to the PCSD College & Career Fair!
Thursday, September 18, 2025 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School Commons
Discover college options, explore career pathways, and connect with local businesses, colleges, and training programs — all in one place!
Don’t miss this opportunity to help our students shape their future.
As we get ready to welcome students back on August 11th for the 2025–2026 school year, we encourage all families to prioritize student health and safety now.
Please ensure your child’s required vaccinations and physical examinations are up to date before the first day of school. Vaccinations can be completed through your child’s healthcare provider or the Putnam County Health Department. If your student will need prescription medication or treatments during school hours, please provide a current, signed physician order. Over-the-counter medications require a signed parent consent form. For detailed health requirements and resources, visit our district Health Services page: https://www.putnamschools.org/page/health-services
Thank you for helping us keep our students healthy, safe, and ready to learn!
2 months ago, Putnam County School District
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/OZML3clMW4U
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
🎙 The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Investing in Students: The VyStar Training Program
In this week’s episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency welcomes Omega Milton (Senior School Program Manager at VyStar Credit Union), Andrew Moss (CTE Business Instructor at Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School), and Davin Dallas (student intern manager and VyStar teller at the Palatka branch) to explore the power of public-private partnership in education.
The VyStar Training Program offers students real-world banking experience through school-based and official VyStar branches, paid internships, and comprehensive financial education. Students learn to manage accounts, budget, apply for loans, and save for college, while also developing professional skills like interview preparation and career planning. At Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School, the program is part of the Academy of Business, which provides structured summer training and on-the-job training (OJT) hours during the school year. Qualified students can even work at a VyStar branch after school—turning classroom lessons into career-building opportunities. More than just financial literacy, the VyStar initiative equips students with confidence, real-world skills, and a pathway to post-graduation success—whether they pursue college or jump straight into the workforce—while fostering a lifelong culture of financial responsibility and community impact.
Be sure to tune in weekly as we highlight the programs and partnerships shaping student success in Putnam County.
#ProudtobePCSD
All PCSD offices will be closed on Thursday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. We wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday as we celebrate the freedom and values that unite us as a nation! #ProudtobePCSD
3 months ago, Putnam County School District
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/76u2aYFdXpA
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
🎙 The Pulse: PCSD Podcast – Supporting Survivors: The Lee Conlee House
In this week’s episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency speaks with Danielle Brown about the life-changing work of the Lee Conlee House. Danielle shares how the center provides free and confidential services designed to help survivors build new beginnings
Leaving an abusive relationship is often the hardest and most dangerous step a survivor can take. The Lee Conlee House is there to offer the strength, safety, and guidance they need to rebuild their lives. If you or someone you know needs help:
Domestic Violence Text Hotline: (386) 546-9260
24-Hour Help Line: (386) 325-3141 (TTY accessible)
Administrative Office: (386) 325-4447
Florida Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 500-1119
Be sure to tune in weekly as we spotlight the people, organizations, and programs making a difference in Putnam County.
#ProudtobePCSD
3 months ago, Putnam County School District
🎧 Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=em6hfRlAUT0
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this week’s episode of The Pulse, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with Jim Payne, a retired U.S. Air Force Flight Engineer and current Aerospace instructor at Interlachen Jr.-Sr. High School, to explore the growing success of PCSD’s Aerospace Program.
Joining the conversation are students John Sanders and Annabelle Geddes, who share their experiences and insights as active participants in the program. From gaining hands-on flight experience to building teamwork and career readiness, they describe how aerospace education is preparing them for takeoff—both academically and professionally.
This initiative is part of the broader Space Florida Academy Program, a collaborative effort with Space Florida, the Florida Department of Education, the Department of Commerce, REACH Office, and CareerSource Florida, aimed at equipping students with high-demand skills in aviation, manufacturing, cybersecurity, logistics, and more.
Interested in joining the Aerospace Program? Speak to your school’s guidance counselor to learn more!
Be sure to tune in weekly as we highlight the programs and people shaping education in Putnam County.
#ProudtobePCSD
3 months ago, Putnam County School District
PCSD Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers recently spent two impactful days growing their craft during a professional development workshop led by Becky Peppler of STAGR First Education Center.
Held June 23–24, the Developing Clarity workshop guided educators through the Clari
3 months ago, Amanda Burney
🎧 Watch now: https://youtu.be/BiEVzT23uHE
🎧 Listen here: www.putnamschools.org/page/the-pulse
In this week’s episode, Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency sits down with three recently graduated students from Q.I. Roberts Jr.-Sr. High School—Taylor Hayden, Rashean Jones, and Lucas Bergan—to shine a spotlight on the powerful impact of theater and drama in education.
These talented students share how drama not only gave them a voice but helped them build confidence, take risks, overcome fears, and grow into stronger communicators and collaborators. Theater, they explain, is more than performance—it's preparation for life.
From academic benefits like improved memorization, writing, and analysis, to personal growth in leadership, adaptability, and teamwork, this episode celebrates the value of the arts and how they shape well-rounded, resilient students.
Hear firsthand how the Q.I. Roberts Theater Group became a space for creativity, connection, and personal transformation—offering a healthy outlet and a foundation for future success.
Be sure to tune in weekly as we continue to highlight the people and programs shaping education in Putnam County.
#ProudtobePCSD
3 months ago, Putnam County School District
All Putnam County School District schools and offices will be closed Thursday (June 19) in observance of Juneteenth, a day honoring freedom and equality.
We will resume normal operations on Monday, June 23.
#ProudtobePCSD
3 months ago, Putnam County School District
At today's School Board Meeting, we witnessed a powerful moment of gratitude as Chuck McGuire, a dedicated educator at CCJSHS, honored two colleagues who saved his life.
On March 14th, after experiencing a sudden medical emergency, Chuck was cared for by Mrs. Susannah Bender and Mr. Tim Adams. Their quick thinking and calm response ensured he received the medical attention he needed—likely saving his life.
Tonight, Chuck’s children helped present certificates of appreciation to Mr. Adams and Mrs. Bender, a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on each other’s lives.
Please help us thank these everyday heroes!
#ProudtobePCSD
S.T.E.M. SUMMER CAMP – SPOTS LIMITED!
Calling all future scientists, engineers, and creators! The 3rd Annual PH STEM Summer Camp is back for students in grades K–12 — packed with hands-on STEM activities and a field trip to the Cade Museum!
Melrose Public Library
July 25–26, 2025
25 participants max!
Register now: https://bit.ly/PHSTEM2025
Learn more: www.PHStemCamp.com
