Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Samuel Isidro-Cabrera. His Brick and Block Masonry instructor, Olivia Bruening, shared why Samuel is an outstanding student: "Samuel has been chosen for this spotlight because of his exceptional dedication and leadership skills. His inspiring team leadership has truly impressed me, showcasing his strong work ethic and creative vision. I believe his dedication to his studies is an inspiration to others, and I am proud to recognize his achievements so far." Samuel chose RIVEROAK "to get a better education of masonry and how it's used and the tools that are used. I want to know how humans can possibly build houses from bricks and blocks." Upon graduation, Samuel's career plans include getting a job as a mason and building homes, and one day, he wants to start his own business. We know great things are in store for Samuel's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
Ms. Vonnie White, Masonry part-time instructor, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. RIVEROAK is proud to have another one of our homegrown students returning as a first-year instructor. Vonnie shared why she became an instructor: "I was so excited because I would finally have a chance to use all of the knowledge that Mr. Bass had taught me in the three years I took his class. I was also excited to be able to watch kids grow and learn how to hone their skills in the masonry profession. I hope to continue working as a masonry instructor and keep watching kids find the beauty of this life skill." Having been a student here, Vonnie enthusiastically wants to tell all potential students about the many amazing opportunities RTC has to offer within its walls. She shared, "If it wasn't for RIVEROAK, I wouldn't have found masonry or welding, which are two of my absolute favorite industries. If it wasn't for my instructors back in high school, I probably wouldn't be the woman I am today because they never let me give up or not believe in myself, just as I will never allow my students to give up on their dreams in this industry." Vonnie also shared about her passion for masonry: "I am passionate about my profession because there is always a job opportunity and there are opportunities to grow and to continue to learn new lessons." If you are considering this industry, Vonnie shared the following advice: "Just because people tell you that you can't do something doesn't make that true. You can always succeed in life no matter what is thrown your way, so don't let the fact that masonry may seem hard deter you from trying your best at it." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
RIVEROAK would like to recognize Nathaniel Stoudemire for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Nathaniel's Adult Basic Education instructor, Mrs. Cynthia Frye, shared, "Nathaniel Stoudemire is a shining example of perseverance and commitment in the Adult Education Program. With a perfect attendance record and an unwavering dedication to his studies, Nate has consistently demonstrated his maturity and strong work ethic. As his instructor, I've witnessed firsthand Nate's boundless potential, and I'm confident he will achieve his educational goals in no time. Nate's responsible actions and momentum position him for a future of great success, no matter the path he chooses." When asked why he chose RIVEROAK, Nate shared, "I feel that RIVEROAK has so much to offer and would be a great way to acquire knowledge. It is also better for me to work, as it has a smaller classroom size." Nate said he chose the Adult Education Program because he was moving around frequently, so this was a faster way to catch up. Upon graduation, Nathaniel plans to attend classes to pursue a career in the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning/refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. We are so proud of you, Nate! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
The Suwannee county School District will resume all regular operations tomorrow Friday October the 11th.
Thank you.
RIVEROAK would like to recognize Wendy Lashley as this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Lashley is in her first year of teaching and serves as the Culinary Arts instructor at Suwannee High School. Lashley says, ““I am passionate about cooking, and I want my students to be passionate about the field of culinary arts as well.” Her love for cooking began when she was a child. She shared, "Being from the south, food is the center of all things. I remember cooking with my mom while needing to stand on a chair. Those are memories I will cherish forever." For potential future students, Lashley gives the following advice: "While this can be a fun class, it also requires studying to learn about safety and having an awareness of the industry." Congratulations, Wendy! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear
Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Cooper Lee. His Electrical instructor, Jeremy Ulmer, shared why Cooper is an outstanding student: "Cooper is a quick study and gets the concepts he is presented with in my course. He will be an asset to the electrical field in whichever direction he pursues." When asked why he chose RIVEROAK, Cooper shared, "I want to pursue my education in the electrical field." As a dual enrollment student, Cooper is taking the first step toward growing his career as an electrician. Upon graduation, he plans to attend Santa Fe College to complete his Journeyman's license. We know great things are in store for Cooper's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Ms. Jenny Benson, who teaches Practical Nursing. Jenny shared the path that led her to become a nursing instructor; "After 20 years of nursing experience, primarily in the field of oncology research, an opportunity to teach in a classroom setting at RTC opened, and I believed it would be a great opportunity to teach a group of students seeking a career in the health field. As a research nurse coordinator, I spent much time training nurses in the research specialty on how to interpret studies and how to follow specific protocols when caring for patients. I have been able to incorporate those skills in the classroom setting to prepare the LPN students to become exceptional nurses." Jenny's passion for education stems from her compassion as a nurse: "I am passionate about the nursing career because it allows me to care for others in a way that I would like to be cared for. Giving care to a person when they are at a difficult stage in their lives brings hope to that individual. It also gives me a rewarding feeling to know I was a part of a healing process in a person's life." For potential students considering the field of nursing, Jenny shared the following advice: "When you have a calling in life, do all you can to pursue your dreams. Do not let anyone or anything get in your way. Put forth all your efforts and passion to achieve your goals with love, care, compassion, and a zeal to help those in need. The most difficult things to endure are often the ones that bring the most joy in our lives and help build strong character." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
RIVEROAK would like to recognize Hayden Williams for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Hayden's instructor, Mrs. Mary Vickers, shared, "Hayden shows great determination in studying, and it shows in her grades. She picks up quick on skills during lab time as well." When asked why she chose RIVEROAK, Hayden shared, "I heard amazing things about RIVEROAK from former students. I was told it was a great college to attend to receive an amazing education and still be able to balance a work and home life." Hayden chose the surgical technology program because she wants to help people and also get to see surgical procedures up close. In the future, Hayden hopes to obtain a job with UF/Shands in either the pediatric, cardiology, or neurology field. We are so proud of you, Hayden! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
RIVEROAK would like to congratulate Tiffany Smith for being this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Smith is in her third year of teaching and serves as the agriculture teacher at Suwannee Middle School. Smith shared, “I chose to become an agriculture/CTE instructor to spark the same passion for agriculture that I have. I love that I get to educate the younger generations on topics, such as, where their food comes from and the different species and breeds of livestock. The relationships CTE instructors form are different than most other subject areas!” Smith's passion for agriculture is fueled by a quote from M.S. Swaminathan: “If agriculture goes wrong, nothing else will have a chance to go right." For students considering the field of agriculture, Smith shared this advice: "The agriculture industry and medical industries will always be around! People always need to be fed, clothed, and have shelter, as well as medication whenever they fall ill. Agriculture has a very wide variety of career paths. You don’t always have to be working on a farm to be considered a part of agriculture." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear
21st Century and Reading Program will be closing early on Wednesday, September 25th.
We will be closing at 4:00 p.m.
Superintendent Ted Roush has announced that as of the date and time of this notice, the
Suwannee County School District, working closely with local emergency management,
consultation with the Florida Department of Emergency Management, and the National
Weather Service, has made the decision to close school operations for Thursday,
September 26, through Friday, September 27. There will be no before or after-school
activities, including athletic events or practices, during this period of closure.
The Suwannee County School District will resume regular operations on Monday, September 30, for the already scheduled Professional Development Day, weather and utility conditions permitting. Students will return as scheduled on Tuesday, October 1.
Any changes to this plan of action will be communicated by 5:00 P.M. on Sunday afternoon, September 29, through the District's website, social media, local, and regional television and radio broadcasts.
Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Julian Smith. Julian is enrolled in RIVEROAK's Brick & Block Masonry program. His instructor, Ms. Olivia Bruening, shared, "Julian consistently demonstrates positive qualities, such as leadership, creativity, and perseverance. His dedication to masonry is inspiring, and he serves as a great role model for his peers." When asked for his reason in selecting RIVEROAK, Julian shared, "The reason why I chose RIVEROAK is because I'm a very hands-on person, and I felt like this would be the place that would further my future with the masonry program." He enrolled in the masonry program because he said the world will always need masons, and because he likes working with his hands. Once he graduates, Julian plans to begin working and hopefully start his own business. We know great things are in store for Julian's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
Mrs. Mary Vickers, Surgical Technology instructor, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. Reflecting on her first two years as an instructor, Vickers shared, “I stepped out of the operating room and into a new environment that is teaching. I went from being an alumni of RIVEROAK to being an instructor, and I am blessed to be here." She is passionate about her field because she shared, "Surgery takes a certain kind of individual. You are the right hand of the surgeon and get to do incredible things." Within her program, she is responsible for educating students on sterility and how to assist during surgical procedures. Vickers encourages potential students wanting to enter this career field with the following advice: "Being a Surgical Tech is a rewarding career, and there will always be a need for them." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
RIVEROAK Technical College is celebrating Constitution Day!
Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution by thirty-nine brave men on September 17, 1787, recognizing all who are born in the U.S. or by naturalization, have become citizens (constitutionday.com).
#WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
RIVEROAK would like to recognize Angelina White for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Angelina chose RIVEROAK because of the variety of classes and the many opportunities offered to students so they can excel and achieve their goals. Angelina's instructor, Mrs. Janie Maxwell, shared, "Angelina has worked hard and excelled in both her practical and her theory work. Her attendance is excellent, and she is always willing to take services." When asked about her program choice, Cosmetology, Angelina shared, "I couldn't think of anything or any other career I would rather be doing. I love the people, the services, and the ability to help others in such a creative way." Once she graduates, Angelina plans to work in a local salon and hopefully be in her own salon one day. We are so proud of you, Angelina! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
SAVE THE DATE!
Join the excitement and plan to attend RIVEROAK's Career Fair & Program Showcase, scheduled for February 13, 2025!
#WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd
Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Ms. Olivia Bruening, who teaches Brick and Block Masonry.  Olivia shared "I became an instructor because I have a deep-rooted passion for sharing my knowledge and helping others succeed in the field.  I find great joy in watching my students grow and achieve their goals.  The opportunity to inspire and guide minds is incredibly rewarding as an instructor."
Olivia's leadership and influence have continued beyond her student years. As a graduate of two RIVEROAK industrial programs, she has served on a panel for the Florida Department of Education, providing insights on the importance of supporting non-traditional learners.  Under her guidance, the Brick and Block Masonry program has flourished, and she is actively planning a "Women in Industry" initiative to encourage and support potential students, particularly women, in exploring careers in the masonry field. Olivia's journey from a shining student to a dedicated instructor exemplifies the philosophy of "growing our own," and her ongoing contributions continue to make a lasting impact on the community and the industry.
#GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
RIVEROAK will be celebrating National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week September 16-20, 2024!
Did you know more than 43 million adults in the United States cannot read, write, or do basic math above a third-grade level? (proliteracy.org)
#GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #FLAdultEd #GetThereFL #adultandfamilyliteracyweek #proliteracy #AEFLweek2024 #FLAdultEd #YourWay #YourWayFL #YourWayFLAdultEd #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #preparingaskilledworkforce
May we never forget.
Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, James Westberry. James is enrolled in RIVEROAK's Electricity program. His instructor, Mr. Jeremy Ulmer, shared "James is a reliable student that will be a benefit to any electrical-related industry that he decides to pursue. He has the work ethic required to succeed in this field."
James chose RIVEROAK because it is local and the great opportunities it supplies to students. James has always wanted to be an electrician and his career goals are to join a local industry and work in telecommunications. We can't wait to see what the future holds for James!
#GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures
