RIVEROAK Technical College

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Meixiu Liu! Her ESOL instructor, Jennifer Campbell, shared why she is an outstanding student: "Meixiu is a hard worker who gives a 100% effort in all that she does. She is very detail-oriented and asks excellent questions to help further her understanding. The enthusiasm she brings to the classroom inspires her classmates. She has grown significantly this semester, and I know she will continue to make strides as she moves closer to her goal of being a business owner. In addition to her studies, she is a devoted wife and mother. I am very proud of her, and I know she will go very far in life." When asked why she chose RIVEROAK's Adult ESOL program, Meixiu said, "I chose RIVEROAK because it is close to where I live, and I have studied here before. I want to have better English speaking skills and communication with people." Meixiu's career goals are to study cosmetology and then open her own business." We know great things are in store for Meixiu's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

All Suwannee County District schools will operate on the Early Release Bell Schedule on Friday, December 20, 2024, to kick off the Christmas holiday break. Please plan accordingly. We wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May you all enjoy a relaxing and safe holiday!

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Tammy Neil as this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Tammy has been an educator for 34 years, and she is currently serving at Suwannee Middle School as a Computer Science Instructor and Esports Coach. Tammy shared why she became an educator: "From the moment I started kindergarten, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I didn’t always know what I wanted to teach. I started teaching math because I loved finding the answers. I became a media specialist because my school (at the time) needed someone with computer skills. I started teaching Computer Science about 10 years ago. I finally discovered where I should be teaching. The fact that I get to also run the Esports program is an added bonus for me. " Passionate about teaching her students, Tammy shared, "“I love being there when students discover they can do hard things, or least things they think are hard. Helping them find their passions is the best part of my day.” To potential students considering the field of education, she shared the following advice: "I encourage anyone that wants to teach to go for it. Helping to shape the future is an amazing gift." Congratulations, Tammy! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Makayla Levingston for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Her Cosmetology instructors, Mrs. Aubrey Wilson and Mrs. Janie Maxwell, shared, "Makayla should be featured because she has had a willingness to learn since day one. She is always receptive to a new challenge, always has a positive attitude, and continues to excel in this program.” When asked why she selected RIVEROAK for her postsecondary education, Makayla shared, “I chose RIVEROAK because it was the closest hair school to me, and I’ve heard so many great things!” Concerning her passion for this field, she shared, “I’ve always been interested in hair and nails, and I feel like this is the direction God is leading me.” Upon graduation, Makayla plans to work at a salon for a couple of years and eventually open her own salon with her best friend. We are so proud of you, Makayla! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Mr. BJ Blackmon, who teaches Master Automotive Service Technology. Having four years of experience in the field of education, BJ shared why he chose to work at RIVEROAK: "I became an instructor because of my passion for what I do, as well as a passion for these kids to have a trade that will carry them a lifetime." He shared the following advice for current and potential students: "My passion for the Automotive field started when I was very young, wanting to know how things work. To me, it is like Legos but on a much larger scale now. My advice would be for you to work on cars because they will always need someone to work on them." BJ shared the following words of encouragement: "You are never too young or old to learn about the automobile, if you have a passion for it." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Jarvis McGrew. His Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R) instructor, Tyler Carrozza, shared why he is an outstanding student: "Jarvis has shown the drive and work ethic needed to be very successful in his career. He has shown motivation and willingness to learn inside the classroom and in the lab. He also takes time to lend a helping hand to his fellow classmates whenever he can." When asked why he chose RIVEROAK, Jarvis shared, "I chose RIVEROAK to receive my postsecondary education because it has staff and administration that are willing to go above and beyond to ensure my personal success, along with RTC's goals, align with my educational goals." Jarvis chose the HVAC/R program because of personal interest and because this career path shows a steady growth. He shared his plans for when he completes the program: "My plan post-graduation are to apply for a job in my field, find my niche, and learn the necessary skills in order to start my own business." We know great things are in store for Jarvis' future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

RIVEROAK would like to recognize first-year teacher, Dennis Prewett, as this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Prewett says he became a CTE instructor at Branford High School because he wanted to share his knowledge and experience. He shared, "I wanted to share my knowledge of Information Technology (IT) that I have gained over a 30+ year career working with the Department of Defense System as a System Engineer, Program Manager, and IT Professional. I’m hoping to steer students to a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. I had a math teacher in high school that inspired me and changed my trajectory. I’m hoping to do the same for my students." Dennis said he has always enjoyed working with information technology and is amazed how IT has changed over the last 40 years. Prewett shared, "Computers are a part of kid's daily lives, and it is fun to watch kids start to understand the technology around them." To potential students wanting to explore this industry, he offers the following advice: "There are so many different career paths in Engineering and Information Technology. I majored in Applied Mathematics and worked in a number of different careers as a program manager, system engineer, network engineer, and a system administrator." Congratulations, Dennis! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear

RIVEROAK would like to recognize LaPrecious Ivey for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Her Adult Basic Education instructor, Ms. Angela Hester, shared, "This student is the only one I have ever had join me prior to being accepted into a program. She lost a child and was extremely depressed, so she decided to enroll to increase her TABE scores, hoping to eventually be accepted into the nursing program here at RIVEROAK. She started this program last year and is still going strong!" LaPrecious shared, "I heard that RIVEROAK had a great nursing program from the people I worked with as they bragged on the program. I chose the nursing program because it was close to home, and because I have a goal to accomplish." Upon graduation, LaPrecious plans to further her education in the nursing field. We are so proud of you, LaPrecious! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

Mrs. Janie Maxwell, Cosmetology instructor, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. Having served for thirteen years in the field of education, Janie shared, "From my first visit to RIVEROAK, I knew I belonged here. I moved from Kentucky almost 20 years ago, and the “small town feel” seemed like home. teaching what I love seemed like the natural 'next step' in my career." She offers the following advice to current and potential students: "Cosmetology opens so many doors for a creative person. You can be as structured or 'free spirited' as you'd like. The range of income is determined by the work you'd like to apply." Passionate about her field, Janie added, "This is a career that you can do for a lifetime. It can be as much or as little as you want, so therefore, it can be useful at any stage of your life." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Rebecca Dantzler. Her Surgical Technology instructor, Mary Vickers, shared why she is an incredible student: "Rebecca is an exceptional student who picks up on things quickly. She maintains an A average in class and excels in lab skills. I can't wait to watch her continue to grow." Rebecca chose RIVEROAK for her postsecondary education because she heard about the great things happening here. She shared, "It was a no-brainer to pick RIVEROAK for the surgical tech program." Concerning her passion for this field, she shared, "I have always been interested in the medical field, especially in aspects of surgery. I've always wanted to help people and this is a great way to do so." Upon graduation, Rebecca plans on becoming a traveling surgical tech, along with furthering her education to become a surgical first assist. We know great things are in store for Rebecca's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Just a reminder, the Suwannee County School District will be closed for Thanksgiving break from Monday, November 25th, through Friday, November 29th. Regular school operations will resume on Monday, December 2nd.

Unlock your passion at RIVEROAK! RIVEROAK Technical College is accepting applications for the Automotive Collision Technology Technician program! If you have a passion for automotive repair and want to #GrowYourFutureWithUs, now is the time to apply! Classes are scheduled to begin January 6, 2025. For more information on how to start your journey in the world of Automotive Collision Technology, give RIVEROAK a call at (386) 647-4210 or drop by campus! Don't miss this opportunity to turn your love for cars into a rewarding career! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #WeGrowFutures #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #WeGrowFutures #preparingaskilledworkforce

Join RIVEROAK's Brick and Block Masonry Program and lay the foundation for a successful career in the construction industry! Applications for Spring Term are currently being accepted. What You’ll Learn Essential Masonry Skills: Master bricklaying, block construction, and blueprint reading. Tools & Techniques: Hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and materials. Construction Principles: Understand structural integrity, safety protocols, and efficient building methods. What you'll earn Opportunities to earn National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Masonry Levels 1, 2, and 3 credentials and a Postsecondary Career Certificate from RIVEROAK Technical College. #GrowYourFutureWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #WeGrowFutures #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

Attention aspiring chefs and hospitality enthusiasts! RIVEROAK is currently accepting enrollment for the Professional Culinary Arts and Hospitality program! From culinary techniques to hospitality management, you'll receive hands-on instruction from experienced professionals. Secure your spot in the Professional Culinary Arts and Hospitality program by submitting your application today! Classes are scheduled to begin January 6th, so do not miss out on this opportunity to kickstart your culinary career! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFutures #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Deborah Coleman as this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Deborah has been an educator for 27 years, and she is currently serving as the Suwannee High School Agriculture Instructor. Deborah shared why she became an educator: "I became an educator to help students develop skills to be productive members of society and to be good citizens. I chose Career and Technical Education because it provides the hands-on education that many students seek to help them understand standard courses. Career and Technical Education also teaches practical life skills that are beneficial for everyone." When asked why she is passionate about the field of agriculture, Deborah shared, "I'm passionate about agriculture because it is the industry that feeds the world. With agricultural skills, anyone can be self-sufficient." For potential students considering this industry, Deborah gives the following advice: "Agriculture is an industry that has many career opportunities. Those opportunities go beyond production. Agricultural Technology is expanding, so having technology literacy will benefit you as well." Congratulations, Deborah! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Remington Poppell for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Her interim Cosmetology instructor, Crystal Royal, shared, "Remington always shows a willingness to learn and execute instruction with practicals and clients. She has shown independence and also helps her peers. She is serious, vigilant, and her customer service is impeccable." When asked why she chose RIVEROAK, Remington shared, "I selected RIVEROAK because it was the best school in my area to continue to learn to be a Cosmetologist." Remington shared, "I chose this career path because I have always had a love for doing hair since I was young, and I like to make people feel better about their self-esteem." After graduation, she plans to work in the field of cosmetology in her hometown of Perry, Florida. We are so proud of you, Remington! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Mrs. Cynthia Frye, who teaches Adult Basic Education. Having fourteen years of experience in the field of education, Cynthia shared why she became an instructor: "I chose to become a teacher because I have always had a servant's heart. From the very beginning of my career, my philosophy has been to empower students to achieve their dreams. I believe in the potential of every individual, and I strive to inspire my students to reach for the stars. Throughout my career, I have learned that education is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about nurturing confidence and resilience. Being an instructor at RIVEROAK has allowed me to continue my passion helping others." Frye loves seeing her students succeed. She shared the following advice: "Never give up on your dreams or goals. The journey toward your dreams may not always be easy, but it will always be worth it. Every time you feel like giving up, remind yourself of the reasons you started. You are capable of remarkable things, and your dreams are valid." Cynthia encouraged potential students to believe in the power of adaptability and resilience. She shared, "Your circumstances can change quickly, and it's your response that will shape your path. Don't wait to make change happen. Together, we can turn challenges into stepping stones for success!" #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Breayana Robinson. Her Pharmacy Technician instructor, Katie Miller, shared why she is an incredible student: "Breayana is a hard-working student who works two part-time jobs while having excellent attendance every day. She has maintained a high grade throughout the program. Breayana is dedicated to becoming a Pharmacy Technician. She will definitely be an asset to a pharmacy." When asked why she selected RIVEROAK for her postsecondary education, Breayana shared, "RIVEROAK will provide me with technical training at the highest industry credential. I selected RIVEROAK because of its location; it's where I grew up, and it's closer to me. RIVEROAK gives me the opportunity to achieve my goal by earning my national and state certifications." Breayana said she has always wanted to work in the health care industry, even as a child. She shared, "I've seen many of my loved ones help patients get the best care they had to offer. I chose Pharmacy Technician to be an advocate for patients." Upon graduation, she plans to be a Pharmacy Technician and further her career in the Pharmaceutical field by acquiring advanced certifications or specializations. We know great things are in store for Breayana's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

RIVEROAK would like to congratulate Jennifer Byrd for being this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Byrd has been teaching for 36 years and serves as a technology teacher at Suwannee Middle School. When asked why she chose to teach CTE, she shared, "I have taught a lot of different subjects and grade levels over the last 36 years. About 15 years ago, the technology position came open at Suwannee Middle School, and I 'jumped on' the chance to teach this area. I had always incorporated technology into my other classes I taught so it seemed like the best thing to do at the time." Jennifer's passion for technology stems from the fact she can incorporate many different subjects she has taught into her classes, incorporating them differently than academic classes, by covering the content through project-based learning. Byrd shared, "Technology is all around us – students have actually grown up with it. Things are changing every day. They need to take an active role to stay up with the times. Keyboarding skills are such a necessity in so many careers. Businesses use Microsoft Office Programs, and it is truly amazing to watch my students earn Adult Level Certifications. The knowledge and skills they learn can never be taken away from them." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear

Participant registration is now open for RIVEROAK's 5K Walk/Run for Veterans on Saturday, November 9th. To register early and save $10, please use the QR code on this flyer or click here: https://forms.gle/mKAu82GFNhWcD79C6. If you would like to sponsor the event or if you have questions, contact Jennifer at 386-647-4208. We hope to see you there! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #5K #Walk #Run #Race #Veterans