97% Graduation Rate. 100% Proud. 🎓

Congratulations to the Clay County District Schools Class of 2025! This incredible 97% graduation rate is a testament to the dedication of our students, our educators, and YOU—the community that cheers them on every step of the way.

Give this post a ❤️ to show how proud you are of our students and their amazing achievement!

A huge shoutout to our schools: 🌟 Clay Virtual Academy: 100% 🌟 Oakleaf High School: 99.3% 🌟 Fleming Island High School: 98% 🌟 Ridgeview High School: 97% 🌟 Clay High School: 97% 🌟 Middleburg High School: 96% 🌟 Orange Park High School: 94% 🌟 Keystone Heights Jr/Sr High: 91.2%

#ClayCountySchools #OneClay #GraduationSuccess #Classof2025 #ClayProud
about 13 hours ago, Clay County District Schools
97% Graduation Rate
RISE Scholar of the Week Spotlight - Spirit
about 16 hours ago, Ridgeview High School
RISE Scholar Spotlight
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas. #PanthersRISE
about 19 hours ago, Ridgeview High School
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Last Wednesday, our faculty came together for a meaningful PLC led by Ms. Metz and Ms. Randall from the District Office, focused on strengthening instruction through intentional grouping and directed discourse. Teachers explored practical, flexible strategies for forming purposeful groups based on learning goals and student needs, sparking rich discussion around how thoughtful grouping can elevate classroom conversations, ensure every student has a voice, and support deeper, more rigorous learning across content areas.
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise a fantastic production ahead. Stay tuned as the magic unfolds! #PanthersRISE
about 22 hours ago, Ridgeview High School
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Rehearsals are officially underway for our theatre’s production of Guys and Dolls! 🎭 We are incredibly excited to see this show come to life and could not be more grateful for the talented, dedicated team working behind the scenes and on stage. The energy, creativity, and passion already on display promise an amazing production ahead—stay tuned as the magic unfolds!
Reminder: RHS International Programs Showcase Night is TOMORROW! 

Families of rising 9th graders, please join us tomorrow night, January 13, to learn more about RHS International Programs, including Cambridge AICE and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme.

Doors open: 5:30 PM (Cambridge AICE and IB students and teachers will be on hand to showcase the programs) 
Presentation begins: 6:00 PM
Location: Ridgeview High School Cafeteria

This is a great opportunity to explore the rigor, opportunities, and support available through our international programs and to ask questions as you plan for high school. We hope to see you there!
1 day ago, Ridgeview High School
Reminder: RHS International Programs Showcase Night is TOMORROW! 🌍📚 Families of rising 9th graders — join us tomorrow night, January 13, to learn more about RHS International Programs, including Cambridge AICE and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. 🕠 Doors open: 5:30 PM 🕕 Presentation begins: 6:00 PM 📍 Location: Ridgeview High School Cafeteria This is a great opportunity to explore the rigor, opportunities, and supports available through our international programs and to ask questions as you plan for high school. We hope to see you there!
RISE Scholar of the Week Spotlight - Excellence
1 day ago, Ridgeview High School
RISE Scholar
Last week, Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school, a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision. #PanthersRISE
2 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Ms. Wilson’s theatre students kicked off the new year by grounding themselves and setting meaningful intentions. This practice supports self-expression and character development in theatre while also strengthening essential life skills such as reflection, confidence, and personal growth. Students created both group and individual intentions, including writing a letter to their future selves to be opened on the last day of school—a powerful way to begin the year with purpose and vision.
Congratulations to our HOSA students who dedicated countless hours preparing for their competitive events! Their hard work and commitment truly paid off, and we are proud to recognize the following students who placed in the top three and will advance to the state competition:

Kie Vassel & Kaden Mercado – 2nd Place, CPR/First Aid
Riya Patel – 3rd Place, Prepared Speaking

Way to represent Ridgeview with excellence; we can’t wait to cheer you on at states! #PanthersRISE
2 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Riya Patel – 3rd Place, Prepared Speaking
Riya Patel – 3rd Place, Prepared Speaking
Congratulations to this week's RISE Staff of the Week! These two exemplify what it means to be a Ridgeview Panther. #PanthersRISE

Ms. Weaver, RHS Multi-Grade Teacher
Deputy Toblin, School Resource Officer
4 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Congratulations to this week's RISE Staff of the Week! These two exemplify what it means to be a Ridgeview Panther. #PanthersRISE
Congratulations to this week's RISE Scholars of the Week. A teacher or staff member nominated these Panthers for going above and beyond in demonstrating one or more of our RISE qualities—Responsibility, Integrity, Spirit, and Excellence. These core values define what it means to be part of the Ridgeview family. #PanthersRISE

Franco Gonzalez
Breanna Dube
Lillian Knight
Adrian Cusmano
4 days ago, Ridgeview High School
RISE Scholar
RISE Scholar
RISE Scholar
RISE Scholar
📝 Check those grades!

Clay County families, second-quarter report cards have been officially posted. You can now view your student’s grades and progress through the Synergy ParentVUE portal.

How to access: 🔑 Log in to ParentVUE (app or web). 👤 Select your student. 📄 Click the "Report Card" tab.

#OneClay #ReportCards
5 days ago, Clay County District Schools
Reminder
In honor of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Ms. Cannarella's students surprised our School Resource Officer, Deputy Toblin, with a heartfelt poster they created to express their thanks for the important role Deputy Toblin plays in keeping our campus safe and supported each day.

Thank you, Deputy Toblin, for all you do for our Ridgeview family, and thank you to Ms. Cannarella’s students for sharing such a genuine and thoughtful message. #PanthersRISE #CCSOFL
5 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Today, Ms. Cannarella’s students reminded us that appreciation and kindness go a long way. In honor of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, they surprised our School Resource Officer, Deputy Toblin, with a heartfelt poster they created to say thank you. This meaningful gesture reflects not only creativity, but also respect, gratitude, and an understanding of the important role Deputy Toblin plays in keeping our campus safe and supported each day. Moments like this show the power of connection and the impact our students can have when they lead with empathy. Thank you, Deputy Toblin, for all you do for our Ridgeview family—and thank you to Ms. Cannarella’s students for sharing such a genuine and thoughtful message.
Ms. Johnson’s Health Science students explored vital signs through hands-on, real-world practice, learning how to accurately measure pulse, respiration, and temperature. By working collaboratively and applying clinical skills, students built confidence, attention to detail, and a deeper understanding of how vital signs support patient care and medical decision-making—an excellent example of authentic learning in action at Ridgeview. #PanthersRISE
5 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Ms. Johnson’s Health Science students explored vital signs through hands-on, real-world practice, learning how to accurately measure pulse, respiration, and temperature. By working collaboratively and applying clinical skills, students built confidence, attention to detail, and a deeper understanding of how vital signs support patient care and medical decision-making—an excellent example of authentic learning in action at Ridgeview.
Ms. Johnson’s Health Science students explored vital signs through hands-on, real-world practice, learning how to accurately measure pulse, respiration, and temperature. By working collaboratively and applying clinical skills, students built confidence, attention to detail, and a deeper understanding of how vital signs support patient care and medical decision-making—an excellent example of authentic learning in action at Ridgeview.
Ms. Johnson’s Health Science students explored vital signs through hands-on, real-world practice, learning how to accurately measure pulse, respiration, and temperature. By working collaboratively and applying clinical skills, students built confidence, attention to detail, and a deeper understanding of how vital signs support patient care and medical decision-making—an excellent example of authentic learning in action at Ridgeview.
Ms. Johnson’s Health Science students explored vital signs through hands-on, real-world practice, learning how to accurately measure pulse, respiration, and temperature. By working collaboratively and applying clinical skills, students built confidence, attention to detail, and a deeper understanding of how vital signs support patient care and medical decision-making—an excellent example of authentic learning in action at Ridgeview.
We are excited to welcome Ms. Repper as our newest Dean at Ridgeview High School! With 32 years in education, including 19 years at the secondary level and 29 years of service to students across Florida, Ms. Repper brings a wealth of experience and heart to our campus. She has spent many of her recent years as a math teacher at Fleming Island High School and is passionate about building relationships and supporting student success.

We’re thrilled to have her join our Panther family, and we know that her leadership and enthusiasm will have a positive impact on all. #PanthersRISE
5 days ago, Ridgeview High School
We are excited to welcome Ms. Repper as our newest Dean at Ridgeview High School! With 32 years in education, including 19 years at the secondary level and 29 years serving students across Florida, Ms. Repper brings a wealth of experience and heart to our campus. She has spent many of her recent years as a math teacher at Fleming Island High School and is passionate about building relationships and supporting student success. We’re thrilled to have her leadership and enthusiasm joining our Panther family.
College App Day is coming to Ridgeview!

Seniors, this is your chance to skip the line AND skip the fee!
St. Johns River State College will be on campus for College App Day, and they’re waiving the $30 application fee for students applying for Fall 2026 enrollment.

📍 Where: Ridgeview High School
📅 When: Friday, February 13, 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00–10:00 AM

This is a great opportunity to take a big step toward your future, right here on campus. Be sure to scan the QR code to register or reach out with questions.

Panthers, don’t miss this opportunity to get a head start on college for free!
6 days ago, Ridgeview High School
🎓 College App Day is coming to Ridgeview! 🎓 Seniors, this is your chance to skip the line AND skip the fee! St. Johns River State College will be on campus for College App Day, and they’re waiving the $30 application fee for students applying for Fall 2026 enrollment. 📍 Where: Ridgeview High School 📅 When: Friday, February 13, 2026 ⏰ Time: 8:00–10:00 AM This is a great opportunity to take a big step toward your future—right here on campus. Be sure to scan the QR code to register or reach out with questions. Panthers, don’t miss this opportunity to get a head start on college—for free! 🐾💙💚
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators! #PanthersRISE
6 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators!
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators!
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators!
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators!
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators!
Our FFEA students, under the leadership of their sponsor, Ms. Robinson, spread some holiday cheer across campus before winter break! Faculty and staff were surprised with a treat cart filled with goodies as a heartfelt thank-you for all they do. This thoughtful gesture is a perfect example of student leadership, service, and appreciation in action. We are so proud of our FFEA Panthers for giving back to the people who make Ridgeview such a special place, and grateful to Ms. Robinson for guiding and inspiring these future educators!
This Friday, let’s show our Jacksonville Jaguars pride by gearing up in teal, black, and gold!

Clay County District Schools is proud to support the Jaguars as they take on the Buffalo Bills this Sunday. Let’s fill our schools with team spirit and show that Jaguars pride loud and proud!

#GoJags #JacksonvilleJaguars #OneClay
7 days ago, Clay County District Schools
Jaguar Day
Huge thank you to 7 Brew Coffee ☕💙

As they prepare for their official opening on Monday, the 12th, the 7 Brew Coffee team stopped by to surprise our teachers and staff with delicious, much-needed caffeinated beverages, and it truly made our day!

We are so grateful for your generosity, positive energy, and support of our school community. Best of luck on your grand opening. We can’t wait to visit and support you at your new location on Blanding Blvd!
7 days ago, Becky Murphy
Huge thank you to 7 Brew Coffee ☕💙 As they prepare for their official opening on Monday the 12th, the 7 Brew Coffee team stopped by to surprise our teachers and staff with delicious, much-needed caffeinated beverages—and it truly made our day! We are so grateful for your generosity, positive energy, and support of our school community. Best of luck on your grand opening—we can’t wait to visit and support you at your new location on Blanding Blvd!
Ms. Klaes’s Astronomy students explored nuclear fusion this week through a hands-on proton–proton chain lab. Students modeled the type of fusion that powers our Sun and other medium- to low-mass stars, deepening their understanding of how energy is created in stellar cores. Using white marshmallows to represent protons, colorful marshmallows to represent neutrons, and popcorn kernels to convey the energy released during the reaction, students worked through each step of the fusion process. This interactive lab helped turn a complex concept into something students could see, build, and explain, connecting classroom learning to real astrophysical phenomena. #PanthersRISE
8 days ago, Ridgeview High School
Ms. Klaes’s Astronomy students explored nuclear fusion this week through a hands-on proton–proton chain lab. Students modeled the type of fusion that powers our Sun and other medium- to low-mass stars, deepening their understanding of how energy is created in stellar cores. Using white marshmallows to represent protons, colorful marshmallows to represent neutrons, and popcorn kernels to convey the energy released during the reaction, students worked through each step of the fusion process. This interactive lab helped turn a complex concept into something students could see, build, and explain, connecting classroom learning to real astrophysical phenomena.
Ms. Klaes’s Astronomy students explored nuclear fusion this week through a hands-on proton–proton chain lab. Students modeled the type of fusion that powers our Sun and other medium- to low-mass stars, deepening their understanding of how energy is created in stellar cores. Using white marshmallows to represent protons, colorful marshmallows to represent neutrons, and popcorn kernels to convey the energy released during the reaction, students worked through each step of the fusion process. This interactive lab helped turn a complex concept into something students could see, build, and explain, connecting classroom learning to real astrophysical phenomena.
Ms. Klaes’s Astronomy students explored nuclear fusion this week through a hands-on proton–proton chain lab. Students modeled the type of fusion that powers our Sun and other medium- to low-mass stars, deepening their understanding of how energy is created in stellar cores. Using white marshmallows to represent protons, colorful marshmallows to represent neutrons, and popcorn kernels to convey the energy released during the reaction, students worked through each step of the fusion process. This interactive lab helped turn a complex concept into something students could see, build, and explain, connecting classroom learning to real astrophysical phenomena.
The backpacks are packed, and the alarms are set! 🎒⏰

As our students return to class tomorrow morning after Winter Break, it’s the perfect time for a quick refresher on getting to school safely. Whether you walk, ride, or drive, we all play a part in keeping our school community safe.

Check out these tips to help us all arrive safe:

🚶 WALK SAFE! - Heads Up, Phone Down! Use sidewalks and cross only at corners and crosswalks. Look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT before crossing. Be seen!

🚲 RIDE SAFE! (Bikes, E-Bikes, & E-Scooters) - Helmet On: It’s the LAW for riders under 16. Obey all stop signs and traffic lights. Ride with traffic and stay bright! Yield to walkers on the sidewalk.
⚡ E-Riders: You are fast and quiet. Drivers don't always expect you—be extra alert and slow down at intersections!

🚌 BUS SAFE! - Wait in a safe place well away from the road. Board or cross ONLY when the driver gives you the "OK" signal. Stay seated and keep the aisle clear.
Drivers: Please review the "School Bus Safety Rules" graphic below so you know exactly when you MUST stop! 🛑

🚗 DRIVE SAFE! - Slow down, especially in school zones. Look twice for kids at every intersection, driveway, and crosswalk. Give bikes 3 feet! Put the phone away and focus on the road.

Let's work together to make the first day back a safe one. Share this post with your students and neighbors to help spread the word!

We can't wait to see you tomorrow! ✨

#OneClay #SafetyandSecurity #HeadsUpClay #ArriveSafe #NewYear2026 #BackToSchool
9 days ago, Clay County District Schools
Heads Up Clay Safety Flyer
School Bus Safety Flyer