March 2015 Students of the Month

12th Grade ~ Bailey Ackerland

Bailey was nominated by Mrs. McNellis.
When asked why Bailey was nominated, Mrs. McNellis said:
“I have known Bailey since the beginning of her freshman year, four years ago, and I have the privilege of having her in class again this school year. As a freshman, Bailey quickly earned my respect and admiration as she tackled and successfully conquered honors-level United States History, which is normally offered at the junior level. Currently, Bailey is a motivated student in AP Psychology. She is a hard-worker who willingly goes above and beyond what is asked of her as she strives for excellence. Do not let her quiet demeanor fool you. Bailey always takes a leadership role during group discussions and activities. She is neither afraid to speak her mind nor to defend her position on an issue, which she does in a polite and approachable manner. Bailey is always respectful to others, even those who may have differing opinions. She is a peer mentor for the Psychology II students, as well. The future is challenging for all of us, and Bailey's is quickly approaching. I believe her to be a strong, capable, determined young lady who is ready and eager to meet life's hurdles head on. My confidence in Bailey has never swayed, and it never will.”

11th Grade ~ Anastasia Antipov

Anastasia was nominated by Mr. Disz.
When asked why Anastasia was nominated, Mr. Disz said:
“I am proud to select Anastasia Antipov as the March student of the month. Anastasia is an impressive student who seeks out extra help because she cares about the quality of her work and the depth of her knowledge as opposed to merely her grade. She is someone who never takes shortcuts or looks for the easy way out. Her efforts are noticed by her peers which makes her a role model and a shining example of the best that SPHS has to offer.”

10th Grade ~ Cid Durden

Cid was nominated by Mr. Wormington.
When asked why Cid was nominated, Mr. Wormington said:
“I am pleased to recommend Cid Durden as Student of the Month. Cid is a model student at Suncoast Polytechnical High School.
I have known Cid this past year while he has taken Suncoast Polytechical High School's signature program: 'Animation, Game and Simulation Design' and 'Art 2D 2.' Cid approaches all challenges and endeavors with a positive attitude and a smile. He is an outstanding student in all respects. Cid has proven that through hard work, follow though, and teamwork, he can accomplish great things.
I look forward to following Cid's future progress as he finishes his course work at Suncoast Polytechical High School and later in college. Cid will leave a legacy with all those with whom he interacts. As such, I enthusiastically nominate Cid Durden as the Sophomore Student of the Month.”

9th Grade ~ Grace Hutchinson

Grace was nominated by the 9th Grade Team.
When asked why Grace was nominated, Ms. Argentina said:
“Grace Hutchinson was a unanimous choice for student of the month. All of her teachers had good things to say about her. Grace's favorite subjects are Math and English. She is also a remarkable athlete. She played soccer in middle school and may try out for the Sarasota High School team next year. She is always an enthusiastic participant in HOPE class, as well as her other classes. She's a team player, a positive and upbeat student who is always striving to do better. She has also been a wonderful, dedicated addition to the yearbook staff; diligently working on her assignments and Mrs. Fulgieri's “go-to” person! Grace's father teaches at Macintosh Middle and her mom provides child care. She has an older brother who lives in Massachusetts with his wife and two children. Grace is a valuable member of the SPHS community and we are lucky to have her here.”

ACT/SAT Workshops at Selby Library

Selby Public Library is hosting ACT/SAT Workshops. See your SPHS Guidance Office for flyers.

Conducted by The Princeton Review
Parents are encouraged to attend with their teens to learn how to improve scores. Call 861-1130 to register or register online at www.sclibs.net

Space is limited

Saturday, April 18, 2015 @ 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

ACT Practice Test  

Saturday, April 25, 2015 @ 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

SAT Practice Test  

Saturday, May 16, 2015 @ 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

ACT Strategies Workshop  

Thursday, May 28, 2015 @ 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

SAT Strategies Workshop

Greetings Previous and Future Blood Donors!

Our fourth and last  Blood drive of the year is set for next Tuesday, March 31st from 8:00a.m. - 2:00 p.m.  The Donor Buses will be located behind building 3 - right next to those beautiful brand new Green Houses and overlooking the pond.

The last blood drive held on campus in January was a huge success.  Due to that success the Sarasota Community Blood Bank has decided to send us two buses.  So, we really do not want to disappoint them!  Blood is greatly needed right now, and there is always a shortage of donors.  Please consider donating, ask your friends and family to stop by as well.  Each donor gets a free T-Shirt and the peace of mind that you made a difference.  It is safe and easy to donate and only takes 30-45 minutes.

There will be a sign up table in the cafeteria on Monday during lunch, and there is also a sign up in the Media Center.  Of course, walk ins are welcome - and you do not need to sign up ahead of time to donate.

Find a buddy, and donate together!  Encourage your students to donate and they will often become lifelong donors!
They must be 17 years old and pick up a parent permission slip on Monday.

We need your help - all blood donated stays in Sarasota - for our community!  Thank you for your support!


Sue Forrest, BSMT(ASCP)
Medical Laboratory Instructor
Suncoast Technical College (formerly SCTI)
4748 Beneva Road
Sarasota, Fl 34233
941-924-1365 x62095/62094

Congratulations 2014/15 STC District PALS Volunteer Nominees!

On Thursday, March 19 at the annual volunteer recognition event, the following were recognized as STC’s District PALS Nominees for their exemplary volunteer support and service.

Business Partner -  Achieva Credit Union – Laura Dethloff, Heidi Marx and Cristina Cocomazzi.

Adult Volunteer – Diane Hein for her service to ESOL.


Senior Volunteer – Jane Traub for her service to the STC Newtown Center.

Thanks outstanding volunteers – one and all!

ACT Prep Class at USF - Sarasota

February 2015 Students of the Month

12th Grade ~ Clarissa Choi

Clarissa was nominated by Dr. Burns.
When asked why Clarissa was nominated, Dr. Burns said:
“Clarissa has that kind of mind that always seeks answers.  Her discipline is legendary.  She attacks a problem with gusto and does not leave it until she is satisfied with her solution.  In addition she is generous and charming, always attentive and has a charming, if reclusive sense of humor.  But when she finds something amusing, her delight seemingly knows no bounds. In addition to superb scholarship she is a brilliantly talented artist whose paintings are delicate and generous.”

11th Grade ~ Valentina Dunder

Valentina was nominated by Mr. Finger.
When asked why Valentina was nominated, Mr. Finger said:
“Valentina Dunder is the junior class student of the month for February. Valentina is an excellent example of the SPHS cornerstones of being an active participant and acting responsibly. Valentina has established an impressive track record of completing assignments on time and using her class time to the fullest. She is always respectful in class with her attention and interaction with other students. She is the only student that has completed every honors physics assignment on time, even the few times she has been absent. She is a model student for success at SPHS and deserves to be recognized as student of the month.”

10th Grade ~ Anna Youmans

Anna was nominated by Ms. Lowery.
When asked why Anna was nominated, Ms. Lowery said:
“My nomination for 10th grade “Student of the Month” is Anna Youmans.  Anna is a true pleasure to have in class.  She respects all students and staff continually.  Many times, she has helped other struggling students succeed in many core areas.  Her natural ability is beyond question, and we are seeing it with our Academic Olympic matches.  She has taken an active role on this team, and has become a “leader” to many. This year has presented some struggles to Anna.  She has handled them all with great class and grace.  Her professional and mature nature has led her to handle these tough situations in an admirable way.  She is a pleasure.”

9th Grade ~ Kyle Guay

Kyle was nominated by the 9th Grade Team.
When asked why Kyle was nominated, Ms. Argentina said:
“If we had to come up with a model for a poster that depicted an ideal student, Kyle Guay would be ideal! The 9th grade team is very proud to announce that Kyle is February's student of the month. In his own subtle way, Kyle demonstrates the four cornerstones of SPHS. His respect for teachers and students shows in the classroom; not just because he is always polite and attentive, but also because of his humble eagerness to share what he knows. His insight is appreciated in discussions and his enthusiasm for learning is notable and valued. Kyle shows integrity by being himself and working hard to maintain his grades. Thank you Kyle!”