Sarasota County Schools

The May edition of In Touch Community Newsletter is here. As we wrap up the school year, now is the time to start planning for what’s next. Registration for the 2026–2027 school year is open, and this issue walks you through everything you need to know.


You’ll also find Mental Health Awareness Month resources, highlights from our featured schools, important updates on school start times, and stories that showcase the strength of our students and community.

Click here 👉 https://bit.ly/InTouchMay2026

The countdown is on for the North Port High School Class of 2026. 🎓 From the field to the classroom and everywhere in between, you’ve made a lasting impact on your campus and across Sarasota County Schools. As these final weeks come to a close, take time to celebrate how far you’ve come and get ready for what’s ahead. The next chapter is yours. Go Bobcats! 🤍🐾

https://youtube.com/shorts/bdrzPoAYeE0

Suncoast Polytechnical High School's Class of 2026 is nearing the finish line. 🎓 Seniors took time to reflect on the skills they’ve built, the experiences that shaped them, and what their time at SPHS meant to them. From the classroom to hands-on, real-world applications, they are leaving prepared, confident, and ready for what’s next. We are excited to see all that you will accomplish in the next chapter. Go Renegades! 🧡

https://youtube.com/shorts/Ajwvp23Vnhc

❗❗ Big updates are coming to student transportation for the 2026–2027 school year. 🚌


In the latest episode of the SCS In Tune Podcast, we break down what families need to know, including a new transportation registration process built into school enrollment, updated bus routes and stop assignments, and the launch of the My Ride K-12 app for real time bus tracking and communication.


You’ll also hear important timelines, tips for a smooth start to the school year, and how families can help ensure accurate routing and service.

Listen here 👉 https://youtu.be/K1XJJj3Od1s

Please be advised that the SCS Information Technology department will be performing necessary maintenance on network servers today, Friday, April 24th, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Each year, we celebrate the volunteers and business partners who make a difference in our schools. In classrooms across our whole district, their time, talent, and heart support student success in meaningful ways. Thank you to the more than 11,000 volunteers who help us live out our mission of educating every student, every day.

https://youtube.com/shorts/2e8rApLYKiM

Please be advised that the SCS Information Technology department will be performing necessary maintenance on network servers today, Friday, April 17th, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

This year marks America’s 250th anniversary, and students across Sarasota County Schools brought history to life through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. From performances and friendly competitions to classroom projects and discussions, students explored the past in meaningful and exciting ways.

By connecting history to their own lives, students gained a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of our nation’s story. This celebration went beyond looking back. It encouraged students to think critically, ask questions, and recognize the role they play in shaping the future.

https://youtu.be/DxoYOeNNV9w

Registration for the 2026–2027 school year is now open. 📚

Sarasota County Schools encourages all families to begin the registration process for current, new, and returning students. Whether your child is entering kindergarten, transferring into the district, or returning to an SCS school, registration is completed through the Focus Parent Portal.

After submitting your online forms and required documents, please contact your child’s school to finalize enrollment.

Get started today and learn more at www.sarasotacountyschools.net/register.

If you have questions or issues with registration through the SCS Focus Parent Portal, please contact your child’s school.

In Sarasota County Schools, students are taking action against vaping through a dedicated Anti-Vaping Task Force. With peer-led conversations and support systems like Teens Anonymous, they’re working to educate and break the cycle of addiction.

https://youtu.be/Nx_O_UzG_5U

We are proud to kick off America 250 Week as we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

This week, our schools will take part in meaningful, cross-curricular experiences that highlight American history, civic responsibility, literacy, and school spirit. From classroom learning to campus events, students across all grade levels will have opportunities to engage, reflect, and celebrate.

Watch as our very own students lead the way, sharing the Pledge of Allegiance and setting the tone for a week filled with pride and purpose.

https://youtu.be/E1hRL7G-xvg

High school students and families, mark your calendar for THIS Thursday (3/26).

The Education Foundation of Sarasota County, Inc. is hosting an evening designed to help you explore future careers and take the next step after graduation.

Meet local employers, learn about careers in the trades, and gain practical tips to strengthen your job search.

What to expect:
• Connect with local employers
• Explore high demand trade careers
• Get help polishing your resume
• Free professional headshots, food, and giveaways

Event Details:
Thursday, March 26, 2026
5:30–7:30 PM (Check-in begins at 5:00 PM)
Riverview High School - Sarasota, Florida

Agenda Highlights:
• Lightning talks with trade professionals
• Breakout sessions on resumes, job searching, networking, and FAFSA support
• Career Fair with job and internship opportunities

Register here: https://edfoundationsrq.org/event/future-ready-career-night-2

Come ready to connect, learn, and take the next step toward your future.

Join Sarasota County Schools for the 2026 ESE Agency Fair & YANA Event on Thursday, April 9, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Venice Community Center. Families will have the opportunity to meet local agencies, explore resources and services available to students, and connect with organizations that support student success.

Enjoy food trucks, prizes, and helpful information about community supports that make a difference for families across Sarasota County. We hope to see you there! 🎉

📍 Venice Community Center
326 Nokomis Ave S., Venice
🕔 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

This month’s In Touch highlights our districtwide commitment to Literacy for All, celebrates our 2026 School-Related Employee of the Year, showcases student innovation at the STEM Fair, and features outstanding schools and programs across Sarasota County. See how we are engaging, empowering, and elevating every student.

👉 https://bit.ly/March2026InTouch

CONGRATULATIONS to our School Related Employee of the Year, Mr. Russell Dennison. 🎉

Mr. Dennison has proudly served as a bus driver in Sarasota County Schools’ Transportation Department for the past eight years, safely transporting students and making a difference every day. 🚌

Thank you to Sarasota Ford and Tandem Construction for serving as Lead Sponsors of this special event, which included a two year lease on a Ford Bronco Sport, a cash prize, and more. We are also grateful to the many sponsors who help make it possible to celebrate all of our SREOY nominees.

What school your child attends today shapes where they will be tomorrow. 2025-2026 Florida Department of Education data shows that students enrolled in Sarasota County’s district managed schools perform at or above grade level compared to students from charter, home education, and private schools. A strong academic start matters. Say YES to SCS.

https://youtu.be/EdqknYqbVEo

Exciting things are happening in SCS! 🍎✨ Our district is expanding K-8 opportunities to give students a strong academic foundation, smoother transitions between grade levels, and enriched learning experiences that grow with them. These new and expanding K-8 schools are designed to support long term success through engaging instruction, strong relationships, and a focus on the whole child.

Watch the video to learn more about our new K-8 schools and how families can explore these options through School Choice and upcoming 2026-2027 school year registration. Say yes to SCS!

https://youtu.be/t7IcZ7En_x4

The February 2026 edition of the SCS In Touch Community Newsletter is here. Learn more about School Choice, new and expanding K-8 schools, featured schools of the month, VPK School Preference, legislative updates, and district highlights.

Explore the full issue at https://bit.ly/InTouchFebruary2026.

Free tax preparation is available to eligible individuals and families through United Way of South Sarasota County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program from February 3 through April 15. Appointments are required and services are provided by IRS certified volunteers. 💰📄


Learn more and schedule an appointment at www.uwssc.org/vita.