Out2News Education
Indian River State College Announces 45th Performing Arts Season: "Season of Sensation"
Fort Pierce - Indian River State College is thrilled to announce its 45th Performing Arts Season, themed "Season of Sensation." The 2024-2025 season will feature a diverse lineup of shows including dramas, comedies, musicals, and dance performances at the McAlpin Fine Arts Center. There will also be an additional summer show and three special events!
The main season includes six shows. Performances are scheduled on Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m.
"The River Bride" by Marisela Treviño Orta (October 3-6, 2024) - Three days before a wedding, a handsome and mysterious man is fished from the Amazon River and nothing will ever be the same again. Set once upon a time in a small Brazilian fishing village, The River Bride is a tale of true love, regret and two sisters who struggle to be true to each other and their hearts. [PG]
"Jekyll & Hyde in Concert" (October 31-November 3, 2024) - A haunting tale of the scientist and the madman, both trapped in the same body – and the two women in love with him. The musical will be performed “in concert” with orchestra on stage and singers in full costume holding music books. Audience members are encouraged to dress in Halloween costumes and celebrate with us in this concert-style, gothic-themed production. Songs include “This Is the Moment” and “In His Eyes.” [PG-13]
"Dancing in December" (December 5-8, 2024) - Following the success of our “Let’s Dance” mainstage production, this celebration of dance features student-choreographed dances of various genres along with works from both our Ballet Vero Beach fellows and a sample of Ballet Vero Beach’s Nutcracker on the River performed by their professional company members. [G]
"A Chorus Line" (February 20-23, 2025) – Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of this “singular sensation!” This Pulitzer Prize winning masterpiece allows the audience an insider view into what it takes to get cast as a professional dancer in a Broadway show. The show features countless hit numbers like “What I Did for Love,” “One” and “Dance: Ten, Looks: Three.” [PG-13]
"Murder on the Orient Express" (March 27-30, 2025) - Take a ride with us back in time on Europe’s most fabulous luxury train as famous Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot attempts to solve one of the most highly regarded and sensational Agatha Christie mysteries of all time: Murder on the Orient Express. [PG]
"Hope & Gravity" by Michael Hollinger (April 24-27, 2025) - Before and after a deadly elevator crash in a major city, nine unsuspecting lives intersect in surprisingly amusing ways. Both hilarious and profound, this dark comedy traces the threads that connect us all as we strive to make a living, make a home and make peace in the modern world. [PG-13]
Season subscriptions are available for $100, covering all six main shows. A new Flex Package allows patrons to choose any three shows for $50. Individual tickets are $20, with discounts available for seniors, veterans, and students.
Special events include the following. Pricing varies per event:
"Tis the Season" holiday event (December 7, 2024) - Our 2nd Annual Indian River State College Performing Arts ‘Tis the Season holiday event kicks off at 1:00 p.m. with a sparkling reception sponsored by the Indian River State College Alumni Association, then twirls in to Indian River State College’s Performing Arts’ Dancing in December at 2:00 p.m. featuring an appearance by Ballet Vero Beach in select pieces. Then join us at 4:00 p.m. at the Hallstrom Planetarium for Ornaments in the Sky to spin your way into the winter holiday season. (*Indian River Alumni Association VIP start time is 12:00 p.m.) Saturday Season Subscribers, please contact the Box Office for “Tis the Season” pricing.
Indian River State College Jazz Ensemble Concert (April 1, 2025) - Join Dr. Southall and the Indian River State College Jazz Ensemble for a FREE concert on April 1st – we’re not foolin’! It’s a special, one night only event, full of cool tunes and hot tones. Don’t let this lively musical evening pass you by.
An additional summer show, Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale," will be performed June 12-14, 2025, as part of the annual ShakesPierce production.
Mark your calendars for important ticket sales dates: Current subscribers can renew their subscriptions now. New subscriptions will be available for purchase beginning August 27th. If you prefer to buy individual tickets, single ticket sales will open to the general public on September 3rd.
The McAlpin Performing Arts Center and Indian River State College Box Office are located at 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL, 34981. Box Office hours are one hour prior to showtime and Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Indian River State College Box Office at 772-462-4750 or visit https://irsc.edu/student-life/arts-and-culture.html.
Oak Hammock K8 Students Practice Solfège
Article by: Barbara Ricks
Students in Ms. Swies’s 4th-grade music class practiced Solfège, a singing exercise that especially uses the sol-fa syllables. They learned how to match pitches by echo singing and later adding hand symbols while singing sol, la, and mi pitches. The students were enthusiastic and extremely engaged in this activity. Student engagement is essential to an effective learning experience.
VGESS Back To School Luau
Article by: Donia Saadah
The PBIS team at Village Green Environmental Studies School hosted their annual Back To School Luau for students who displayed Manatee P.R.I.D.E. this month. Students who participated showed politeness, responsibility, integrity, and effort and we couldn’t be more proud of our little World Changers! Thank you to Kona Ice for your continued support, the kids loved it!
SLWCHS Junior and Seniors Prepare for the Year Ahead
Article by:Susan Mannion
Last week we held our Junior and Senior class meetings! We reviewed Centennial’s expectations for graduation, attendance, and discipline. Representatives from Herff Jones were also present to provide information on class rings and all things graduation! Some students walked away with a free class ring or free cap and gown!
#cen10challengeaccepted
Fort Pierce Central’s Fall Club Rush
Article by: Katherine Avra
Fort Pierce Central’s Fall Club Rush was a student involvement Extravaganza! This year’s annual meet & greet was held on Friday, August 30th. During both lunches, Cobra Nation’s courtyard was flooded with students being welcomed and introduced to over 30 student organizations, clubs, teams, and unique interest groups.
Club Rush is where new Cobras become part of the Cobra family and returning Cobras sample new groups to join. Fort Pierce Central has something for everyone. From athletics, health sciences, dance, military service, faith-based groups, fashion, gaming, outdoors, and academic-focused clubs, to special interest, competitions, social clubs, debate, philanthropic, and community service organizations. Fort Pierce Central promotes holistic education through robust school experiences where learning happens on and off campus and throughout our communities.
Our student groups reflect the diversity and vibrancy of our students, their interests, and their future plans. Each student is different, every Cobra the same. FPC is a place where students get involved, become invested, and find a meaningful place among their peers in a positive growth-centered school environment.
VGESS Green Out Spirit Night
Article by: Donia Saadah
VGESS Green Out School Spirit Night with the St. Lucie Mets was a huge success! Thank you to Clover Park and the St. Lucie Mets for hosting our fundraiser. Students came out in their shades of green to enjoy the game and were able to run the bases afterwards. Dean Christopher did a fantastic job throwing out the first pitch of the evening! Thank you to everyone who came out to support VGESS, we appreciate the support!
SLWK8 STEAM Students Build Communication Through Legos
Shark STEAM students used Lego bricks to build better communication. Students were grouped to be writers who made a small Lego build, and then wrote directions for the builders to follow. After evaluating that method of communication, they could then speak directions, but with no gestures or touching the bricks. This was deemed much better than writing and following directions! Finally, all students could build together. Everyone could talk, touch, gesture, and speak to build a figure together. Students learned how valuable clarifying questions and feedback are to understanding each other as well as having fun building bricks!
FPC Takes Learning to New Levels
Article by: Katherine Avra
Mr. Marshalleck’s Chemistry class conducted practical and visual experiments to determine the presence of salt in beakers containing water. Conducting hands-on scientific research through classroom activities enhances student comprehension of course content in engaging and productive learning environments.
City of Fort Pierce Commission Seeks Applications for Youth Advisory Committee Members
Fort Pierce – The Fort Pierce City Commission is seeking new members to join the Fort Pierce Youth Council (YOCO). YOCO is a City Commission-appointed committee that provides valuable advice and recommendations on youth-related issues, policies, and strategies to the City Commission.
YOCO plays a vital role in ensuring that the voices of Fort Pierce's youth are heard in matters that directly affect them. The committee meets on the third Thursday of each month at 4 p.m.
To qualify for membership, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a resident of the City of Fort Pierce.
Be in grades 9 through 12 (or will be when school starts in August of the current year).
Attend a high school within the City of Fort Pierce or attend Fort Pierce Westwood Academy.
The City Commission encourages all eligible students to apply and be a part of this important initiative. The deadline to submit applications is September Friday 6, 2024.
To apply, please visit the City’s website. Completed applications may also be returned to the Office of the City Clerk at 100 N US Highway 1, Fort Pierce, FL 34950.
For additional information, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at 772.467.3065.
A Red-Carpet Welcome at Southern Oaks
Article by: Andrea Strachan
Students at Southern Oaks Middle School returned to school for the 2024-2025 school year with much fanfare. Students received a red carpet welcome making them the superstars and celebrities of the day. Teachers and staff lined the red carpet to contribute applause, cheers, and plenty of fanfare. Students smiled as they received high-fives, fist bumps, and hugs. Some students stopped for photos and others for interviews. Whether they arrived by car or bus, there was a red carpet awaiting them. There was one running from the parent drop-off zone and one from the bus drop-off loop. Students could immediately step right onto the red carpet that went on and on throughout the campus pathways. Teachers and staff added even more pomp as they were all dressed in this year’s theme shirt, “Capture the Spirit of the Hawk and Soar.” This is the second year that Principal Henry Sanabria rolled out the red carpet for the first day of classes. He commented that it was, “an awesome first day of school.” “Today was a true success!” further added Sanabria. Students are now looking forward to a red-carpet welcome each year.
Pre-Service Week at Southport Middle School
Article by: Kelly Avilla
Teachers had a fun time engaged in a learning activity on empathy where they worked in pairs on a paper plate activity. This activity demonstrated that you do not always need to know the full picture in order to have empathy. “Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another.” – Alfred Adler.
VGESS Rolls Out the Green Carpet
Article by: Donia Saadah
VGESS Faculty and Staff are thrilled to kick off another amazing year! Village Green’s incredible World Changers strutted down the green carpet, greeted by the cheerful cheers of teachers and staff celebrating their return! We are ready to make this year unforgettable, packed with learning, fun, and adventure. Here’s to new beginnings and a fantastic journey ahead!
Fairlawn Fourth Graders Tackle Math
Article by: Heather Ricksecker
Fourth-grade students in Mrs. Ascani’s math class participated in a stand-up, hand-up, pair-up activity to discuss place value relationships among different numbers. Students found partners and had to explain their reasoning behind the relationships they identified between numbers.
Welcoming New Cadets
Article by: Nalan Viava
On Friday August 9th, 2024, the Port St. Lucie High School Jaguar Battalion aided the incoming freshmen at open house. This was the school’s first event, the following cadets; MAJ Rebecca Guison as right guard, Cadet MAJ Sariely Yanez as state flag, Cadet CPT Alex Franchi as American Flag, and MAJ Gabriela Gomez as Left Guard, were all honored to present the colors. The cadets of JROTC introduced many incoming students and enrolled many new cadets into the program. Twenty-four new eager cadets were assigned that day. Cadets working at this event felt encouraged to reach out to young, motivated students who want to better themselves and their community. The students already enrolled in the program were thrilled to collaborate with first-year students.
23 School Districts to Adopt Space Florida Academy Program to Propel Students into High-Demand Aerospace Careers
Exporation Park — August 1, 2024—Today at a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing, Space Florida, the state’s aerospace finance and development authority, announced partnerships with 23 school districts across Florida to begin implementation of the Space Florida Academy Program within those districts. The program aims to connect students with high-demand credentials and skills necessary to work in the aerospace industry; credentials that may not have been traditionally associated with the aerospace industry.
In collaboration with industry leaders, the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Commerce, the REACH Office (Reimagining Education and Career Help), and CareerSource Florida, the Space Florida Academy Program will focus on reframing aerospace job characterization by focusing on the following target areas to meet current and future industry demand:
Aviation/Aerospace
Advanced Manufacturing
Construction
Cybersecurity/IT
Logistics
Semiconductors
“The Space Florida Academy Program offers a new trajectory for students to explore careers in aerospace by breaking down legacy perceptions of what an aerospace career requires,” said Rob Long, president and CEO, Space Florida. “By bringing industry together with education, the program helps highlight these opportunities and ascertains what is truly needed now, and in the future, to meet workforce demands.”
“The Space Florida Academy Program represents a pivotal step in ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in the aerospace industry,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Space Florida Board Chair. “By collaborating with industry leaders and educational institutions, we are creating a pathway for Florida’s students to pursue high-demand careers and secure our state’s position as a global leader in aerospace innovation.”
Nearly every high school in Florida offers some level of credential and certificate programs identified as desirable by the aerospace industry. Rebranding these courses as part of the Space Florida Academy Program further highlights a pathway to potential well-paid employment with a high school diploma. View a current list of aerospace industry demand credentials and skills HERE.
“St. Lucie County is well known for its prominence in marine manufacturing but we’ve also been building our aerospace and aviation footprint at the Treasure Coast International Airport and with the opening of companies like Accel International, manufacturer of high-performance conductors for the aerospace market,” said Peter Tesch, president of the Economic Development Council of St. Lucie County. “We couldn’t be more pleased with St. Lucie Public Schools new partnership with Space Florida as our community and our young people literally reach for the stars.”
St. Lucie Public Schools Superintendent added, “Being selected to participate in the Space Academy Program broadens the career opportunities for our students by ensuring they have the industry standard credentials needed to fulfill highly skilled, high-demand jobs in the local space industry.”
The following counties participated in the MoU signing ceremony: Baker, Brevard, Charlotte, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Hamilton, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Martin, Marion, Miami-Dade, Nassau, Osceola, Orange, Palm Beach, PK Yonge, Putnam, St. Lucie, Santa Rosa, and Suwannee.
For more information about the Space Florida Academy Program, please visit www.spaceflorida.gov/workforce-initiatives.
Media Contact
Alayna Curry, APR
acurry@spaceflorida.gov
(407) 408-1766
Clark Advanced Learning Center to Host 20th Anniversary Celebration of Success
Stuart – Current and past students, employees, and supporters are invited to the Clark Advanced Learning Center’s 20th Anniversary Celebration of Success! Kick off the new school year and celebrate Clark’s 20 years of achievement, providing families with a choice for high-quality education in a small school setting. Stroll down memory lane as you explore the building. Reconnect with fellow graduates and staff members. Peruse and purchase nostalgic yearbooks. The Celebration honors everyone who contributed to Clark’s success, as the school continues to equip and empower students for success. Light refreshments will be served! To RSVP, visit: https://bit.ly/CelebrateClark20 or call (772) 419-5759.
Date: Sunday, August 11, 2024
Time: 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Clark Advanced Learning Center, 2400 SE Salerno Road, Stuart, FL 34997
Cost: Free
RSVP: Visit https://bit.ly/CelebrateClark20 or call (772) 419-5759
For more information, call (772) 419-5759.
Operated by Indian River State College, Clark Advanced Learning Center serves Grades 9- 12. Clark Advanced Learning Center is recognized as a High-Performing Charter School and a School of Excellence by the Florida Department of Education. Located at the Chastain Campus of Indian River State College in Stuart, Clark operates in partnership with the Martin County School District.
Indian River State College Cyber Program Earns CAE Redesignation at NICE Conference
In Photo: Associate Professor and Computer Information Technology Department Chair Chad Calvert, PhD, Received the CAE Redesignation Certificate at the NICE Conference & Expo
Fort Pierce - Indian River State College has received its redesignation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) at the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Conference and Expo in Dallas, Texas, held June 3-5, 2024. This redesignation reaffirms the College’s commitment to excellence in cybersecurity education and its ongoing efforts to produce highly skilled professionals in the field.
"We are so pleased to receive the CAE redesignation, recognizing our continued dedication to providing top-tier cybersecurity education," states Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. "This achievement reflects the hard work of our faculty, staff, and industry partners in maintaining and enhancing our cybersecurity program to meet the evolving needs of the field."
The CAE-CD program, jointly sponsored by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), aims to reduce vulnerability in our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense. Indian River State College's redesignation underscores its ongoing role in developing the next generation of cybersecurity experts and advancing the field through research and innovation.
Since its initial designation in 2018, Indian River State College has continued to expand and refine its cybersecurity offerings. The College's Cyber Center of Excellence remains a cornerstone of its program, providing students with hands-on experience and fostering partnerships with industry leaders.
"This redesignation validates our program's quality and opens up new opportunities for our graduates in government agencies, national laboratories, and leading cybersecurity firms," stated James Howse, dean of business and computer science at the College’s Brown Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Indian River State College, known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovative use of technology in education, serves more than 22,000 students annually across its campuses in Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties.
The College offers a comprehensive range of programs, including those in cybersecurity, leading to bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas.
For more information about Indian River State College and its cybersecurity programs, visit https://irsc.edu/. To learn more about the Indian River State College Cyber Center of Excellence, visit the Indian River State College Cyber Center of Excellence website.
Kathleen Walter | Public Relations Manager/Public Information Officer
Ph: 772-462-7265 | 3209 Virginia Ave. Fort Pierce, FL 34981-5596
Indian River State College Hosts Successful Plant Tissue Culture Workshop
In Photo: Indian River State College Biological Sciences Students Learn from AgroSource Lecturer at Inaugural Plant Tissue Culture Workshop
Fort Pierce - Indian River State College successfully hosted its inaugural Plant Tissue Culture Workshop in June in collaboration with AgroSource, Inc. This innovative program highlighted the strength of Indian River State College’s Biological Sciences offerings and brought cutting-edge biotechnology training to students, bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practices.
Indian River State College’s Biological Sciences program, part of the college's comprehensive STEM education offerings, provides students with a strong foundation in life sciences. The program encompasses a wide range of disciplines including molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, and biotechnology, preparing students for diverse careers in research, healthcare, and industry.
Dr. Tom D'Elia, Indian River State College professor of biological sciences, worked alongside AgroSource Senior Scientists Dr. Laura Fleites and Dr. Joseph Krystel to deliver a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience. The workshop introduced students from the College’s Molecular Biology Program to advanced tissue culture techniques, providing them with valuable skills sought after in the biotechnology industry.
“This workshop is a testament to the quality and relevance of Indian River State College’s Biological Sciences program,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “We are grateful to AgroSource for their partnership. Working together, we are providing students with access to cutting-edge training necessary for future careers in biological sciences, while preparing the students for hands-on learning opportunities in the fast-growing, biotechnology sector.”
"This workshop exemplifies Indian River State College’s commitment to providing our students with real-world, industry-relevant experiences," said Dr. Anthony Dribben, dean of science at Indian River State College. "By partnering with industry leaders like AgroSource, we ensure our students are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the biotechnology sector."
The two-day workshop covered the following aspects of tissue culture:
Benefits and limitations of using plant cells to produce biomolecules
Aseptic technique and considerations for working in biosafety cabinets
Methods for sterilization of equipment and tools
Students received hands-on training with both mock and active plant tissue cultures, culminating in successful transfers of plant cell lines expressing proteins. The small class size allowed for personalized instruction, resulting in all participants demonstrating mastery of the techniques with no contamination in their transfers.
"The enthusiasm and quick mastery of complex techniques by our students was impressive," noted Dr. D'Elia. "This workshop has undoubtedly enhanced their skillset and boosted their confidence in pursuing careers in biotechnology. It is a perfect example of how our biological sciences program combines theoretical knowledge with practical, industry-relevant skills."
Indian River State College extends its gratitude to AgroSource for their expertise and collaboration, as well as to Martin "Butch" Almberg and the William and Helen Thomas STEM Center staff for their technical support. The college's modern facilities proved ideal for hosting this specialized workshop.
Given the positive response from participants, Indian River State College is exploring opportunities to offer similar workshops in the future, further strengthening its position as a leader in science education on the Treasure Coast and enhancing the practical components of its biological sciences program.
For more information about Indian River State College’s Biological Sciences Program, Molecular Biology courses, or future workshops, click here or call (772) 462-4772.
Kathleen Walter | Public Relations Manager/Public Information Officer
Ph: 772-462-7265 | 3209 Virginia Ave. Fort Pierce, FL 34981-5596
Martin County School District Announces Full Funding for Student School Supplies
Stuart – The Martin County School District is pleased to announce a significant initiative aimed at supporting students and their families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. Under the direction of Superintendent Michael Maine, the District's Finance Division has allocated over $300,000 in funds to cover the costs of school supplies for all students at each traditional, comprehensive campus within the district.
This initiative is designed to ensure that every student has access to the necessary supplies to succeed from the very first day of school, while also alleviating the financial burden on families. The funding allocations are as follows:
$20,000 for each elementary school
$10,000 for each middle school
$5,000 for each high school
"We are committed to supporting our students and their families," said Superintendent Maine. "By providing these essential supplies, we are removing barriers to learning and ensuring that every student is ready to start the school year on the right foot."
Note: This funding may not include purchases for backpacks, lab needs for secondary students, special calculators, etc., that parents may still need to explore. The Martin County School District encourages families to take advantage of the upcoming tax-free holiday beginning July 29.
Clark Advanced Learning Center Expands to Include 9th Grade
Stuart - Clark Advanced Learning Center, a public charter high school operated by Indian River State College and located at its Chastain Campus in Stuart, announces a significant expansion of its program to include 9th grade.
Starting in the 2024 - 2025 academic year, Clark will welcome 9th graders, expanding its current program that serves sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The addition of 9th grade will increase access to Clark's innovative program, which includes dual enrollment opportunities at Indian River State College, allowing students to earn tuition-free college credits. This expansion provides more students with access to Clark's program and creates a seamless four-year high school experience aligned with college and career readiness.
"We are excited to build on our tradition of excellence by welcoming 9th graders to Clark,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College President. “This expansion allows us to provide our innovative, college-preparatory education to students earlier in their high school careers. We are grateful to the Martin County School District for their sponsorship and remain committed to maintaining our high standards, while opening doors for even more young learners in our community."
"The addition of 9th grade to Clark Advanced Learning Center is another opportunity for parental choice in education in Martin County,” said Dr. Leslie Judd, Clark Advanced Learning Center Principal. “We are thrilled to extend our unique blend of rigorous academics and college and career preparation to 9th grade students.”
Clark Advanced Learning Center continues to demonstrate academic excellence, maintaining its A rating and solidifying its position as a top-performing institution. This achievement places Clark at the forefront of Treasure Coast high schools and secures its spot among the Top 25 Florida high schools. US News & World Reports ranked Clark among the top 500 charter schools in the nation for the 2023 – 2024 school year.
The 2024 – 2025 academic year begins August 12th. Applications are currently being accepted, and space is limited. Interested families can learn more and apply at www.clarkadvancedlearningcenter.org.
Indian River State College Recognizes Angelina Burbank as Spring 2024 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight
In Photo: Angelina Burbank
Indian River State College is proud to announce Angelina Burbank as the Spring 2024 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight. Burbank, a member of the Florida Army National Guard, exemplifies dedication to both her military service and academic pursuits.
Burbank has served in the Florida Army National Guard for three years. As a Human Resource Specialist, she has developed valuable leadership skills that have translated well into her academic and extracurricular activities at Indian River State College.
“The knowledge I gained in the National Guard empowers me to address, advise, and personally take care of fellow soldiers, ensuring their human resource needs are met,” she said. “My journey in the National Guard has not only enabled me to learn and grow professionally and personally but it also has given me the confidence to embrace my identity as a Hispanic woman of Panamanian and Bolivian decent and to continue to be an inspiration to others.”
Burbank graduated from Fort Pierce Central High School in 2021, where she participated in JROTC and held leadership roles. She went to basic combat training at Fort Jackson in 2021 and advanced individual training in 2022. In basic combat training, she was named an Honor Graduate. In advanced individual training, she was awarded the Commandant’s List Top 3 out of her graduating class. She is her family’s first female and third generation soldier.
Angelina is currently pursuing an Associate in Science degree in the Pre-Dental Hygiene Health Science Track. She just completed the program’s prerequisites, maintaining an impressive 3.8 cumulative GPA.
“My passion towards becoming a dental hygienist has come from wanting to help people in health care but more specifically in the dental field, because it satisfies me to see how much happier and confident patients are after they receive a brighter smile,” Burbank said.
Her academic excellence is matched by her extensive involvement in campus organizations. She is an active member of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and the Health and Self Club. She is president of the Student Veterans of America (SVA), having previously held the positions of secretary and vice president. Burbank served as vice president of service and co-president of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Nu Iota chapter.
“It felt good to know that I would be part of PTK, a group that is very dedicated to school, and that I could also participate in their fellowship and service,” she said.
Burbank's commitment to community service is evident through her participation in numerous events, such as fundraiser car washes, the American Red Cross Holiday for Heroes, and the Out of Darkness Treasure Coast - American Foundation Suicide Prevention Walk. She also contributed to the Night to Shine event, among many others.
Reflecting on her Indian River State College experience, Burbank shared, "One of the most memorable experiences at Indian River State College was going on the Universal Studios trip and helping out at the 2024 NJCAA Swimming Championships hosted at Indian River State College." She credits her military background for instilling the leadership qualities that have allowed her to mentor fellow students and create opportunities for community engagement.
When asked if she would recommend Indian River State College to other veterans, Burbank enthusiastically affirmed, "Yes! I absolutely would recommend Indian River State College to any veterans, whether they are retired or still in service." She praised the support provided by veteran advisors, particularly during her active duty orders, and commended the school's Accounts Receivable/Finance teams for their understanding of military education benefits.
Burbank also highlighted the flexibility and support of Indian River State College professors in accommodating her military duties. "The professors I have had during my time at Indian River State College have always been super understanding of my military duties and were able to work with me if I had to miss a period of time to fulfill my duties," she explained.
Angelina embodies the spirit of service and academic excellence that Indian River State College strives to foster in all its students.
Indian River State College is honored to recognize Angelina Burbank as the Spring 2024 Military and Veterans Services (MVS) Student Spotlight, celebrating her achievements and contributions to both the college and the broader community.
Indian River State College Earns 10-Year Reaffirmation of Accreditation by SACSCOC
Fort Pierce – Indian River State College has earned a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (“SACSCOC”), an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education. The College was reaffirmed with no further action or reporting required.
SACSCOC’s reaffirmation of accreditation is a mark of Indian River State College’s institutional quality and integrity. It signals to students, parents and the public that the College meets established standards and is dedicated to providing a quality educational experience.
“We are proud of Indian River State College’s reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “It validates the wonderful work of faculty, staff, and leadership in upholding the highest standards of academic success and affirms our commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience.”
Reaffirmation is a rigorous process that requires the institution to demonstrate compliance with 73 standards covering all aspects of the institution’s operation – governance, policies and procedures, faculty, staff, administration, curriculum, student services, and finance. The institution is evaluated by an off-site, peer review committee, and on-site review committee, and final review by the SACSCOC Board of Trustees. To gain or maintain an accreditation, institutions must comply with SACSCOC policies, procedures, and standards.
“Kudos to all of the faculty and staff at Indian River State College on the reaffirmation of your accreditation,” said Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, SACSCOC president. “It is obvious that all of you work tirelessly every day to provide a high-quality education to the students, and this accomplishment validates those efforts!”
SACSCOC is the regional commission responsible for accrediting degree-granting institutions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and some institutions in Latin America, according to its website. The organization’s mission is to assure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions. Institutional accreditors provide consumer protection by providing the public with an assurance of the quality of the institution and, subsequently, degree earned.
"Indian River State College is very proud of its efforts to improve the lives of our students and to enhance our community," said Dr. Angela Browning, vice president of research and institutional effectiveness. "Faculty, staff and administrators spent two years documenting compliance with the SACSCOC standards and appreciate the organization's validation through reaffirmation."
As a leader in education and innovation, Indian River State College transforms lives by offering high-quality, affordable and accessible education through traditional and remote delivery. Indian River State College is working diligently to fulfill the mission of the Florida State College System, providing access to high-quality, affordable academic and career educational programs that maximize student learning and success, develop a globally competitive workforce and respond to diverse state and community needs.
Indian River State College was granted accreditation by SACSCOC on January 1, 1965. Its next SACSCOC reaffirmation is anticipated 2034.
Kathleen Walter | Public Relations Manager/Public Information Officer
Ph: 772-462-7265 | 3209 Virginia Ave. Fort Pierce, FL 34981-5596
IRSC.edu | LinkedIn.com/school/irsctheriver | Facebook/irsctheriver | Twitter.com/irsctheriver
Martin County School Board Announces Superintendent Michael Maine's Outstanding Performance Evaluation
Stuart – The Martin County School Board has completed its first annual performance evaluation of Superintendent Michael Maine, highlighting his exemplary leadership and significant achievements throughout the 2023-2024 school year.
The comprehensive evaluation recognized Superintendent Maine's exceptional contributions across six key performance domains:
School Board Support
Program Development and Implementation
Financial Transparency and Sustainability
Human Resources and Personnel Management
Community, State, and Public Relations
Professional Skills and Abilities
Each domain included four-seven specific performance indicators. Board members graded Superintendent Maine using the following ratings:
1. Does Not Meet Expectations
2. Meets Expectations
3. Exceeds Expectations
The collective range average ratings for Superintendent Maine's performance are as follows:
School Board Support: 2.85/3
Program Delivery: 2.82/3
Financial Sustainability: 2.79/3
Human Resources Management and District Staff: 2.5/3
Community, State, and Public Relations: 2.82/3
• Professional Skills and Abilities: 2.9/3
During the June 18 Board Meeting, Superintendent Maine provided the Board with five additional areas of focus for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year:
1. Continuous School Improvement and Student Achievement
2. Innovative Approaches to Systemwide Advancement
3. Proactive Process Improvement
4. Reduction of Out-of-School Suspensions and Disproportionality
5. Increased Visibility of the Superintendent in the Community and Schools
"It has been the honor of a lifetime to have the opportunity to serve the children, families and staff of the Martin County School District," Superintendent Maine shared. "We set a bold goal of becoming Florida's top-performing school system last school year, and I have every confidence we will achieve that milestone in the very near future. I appreciate the dedication to excellence exhibited by our faculty and staff, and the commitment to the success of our schools that I share with our governance team and supportive community. I look forward to the upcoming school year with pride and anticipation about the new visions, pathways and possibilities that are waiting to be explored."
Martin County School District 2024 - 2025 School Calendar
St. Lucie County School District 2024 - 2025 School Calendar
IRSC Foundation 2024-2025 Scholarship Application Period is Now Open
Fort Pierce - The scholarship application period for the 2024–2025 school year is now open for new and returning students seeking financial assistance provided through the Indian River State College Foundation. Last year, the Foundation awarded more than $3 million in scholarships to many deserving IRSC students.
With hundreds of unique scholarships available, every IRSC student and potential student should take the time to investigate what sources of support may be available through the IRSC Foundation. Scholarships are awarded based on career interests, academic achievement, organizational affiliation, county of residence, financial need, and other criteria.
The scholarship application will be accessible through MyPioneer Portal and RiverMail through November 30, 2024. Earliest submissions will be given priority as evaluated against scholarship criteria; therefore, students are encouraged to apply early.
New students will have to apply to IRSC and activate an IRSC email account by visiting irsc.edu/admissions/index.html. Then, visit irsc.student.awardedsoftware.com, sign in with the IRSC email and password and complete and submit a scholarship profile.
For more information on scholarships, contact the IRSC Financial Aid Office at 772-462-7450.