RIVEROAK Technical College

Mrs. Katie Miller, Pharmacy Technician instructor, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. Having served for fourteen years in the field of education, Katie's passion for teaching stems from her desire to have a positive impact on the lives of her students. She shared, "I became an instructor to make a difference in the lives of students and to help them become successful individuals by reaching their educational/career goals." For students considering the Pharmacy Technician program, Katie gives the following advice: "Being a nationally certified and registered pharmacy technician is a rewarding career. There are many job opportunities in a variety of settings and one can earn their credentials in less than a year." Concerning her passion for the field of pharmacy tech, Katie shared, "I am passionate about the pharmacy technician field because pharmacy techs use their skills and expertise on a daily basis to assist patients in having better outcomes of wellness." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Dear Parents and Guardians, Please review the following information about the FortifyFL mobile app that is available to all parents, guardians, and students.

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Alexis Ramirez for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Her Facials Specialty instructor, Greta Thornton, shared, "Alexis is a hard worker that has stayed on top of her work and has done anything asked. She enjoys giving facials and has had several clients rave about her technique. She will be an asset to any salon or spa." Alexis selected RIVEROAK for her postsecondary education because it was an affordable program, matched her personal interests, and was a close distance from her home. She shared, "I chose the Facials Specialty program because I want to enhance other people's beauty. I also want to go into a career that I love and help others fall in love with themselves again." Upon graduation, Alexis plans to work in a salon or spa for the first few years of her career and build her clientele list in South Florida. Then, she plans to one day return to Live Oak where she hopes to open her own spa. We are so proud of you, Alexis! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Mrs. Robin Hall, who teaches Practical Nursing. Now in her third year of teaching at RIVEROAK, Robin shared, "After 42 years of various nursing positions, I found myself not willing to continue but not ready to retire. Teaching new nurses offered an opportunity to remain productive, experience a new area of nursing, and hopefully have a positive effect on tomorrow's nurses." To students considering the Practical Nursing Program, Robin gives the following advice: "This is a tough course, but if your heart is in it, your time is well spent. We want to be that leap board for furthering your nursing journey." When asked why she is passionate about the nursing field, she shared, "I am passionate about future nurses being more aware of others' needs rather than theirs. Compassion and dedication are key attributes for nurses." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

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

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

The Suwannee county School District will resume all regular operations tomorrow Friday October the 11th. Thank you.

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