Author: KATHERINE AVRA

Being a twin means you do most everything together. From similar laughs to clothing and friends, twins walk alongside each other for many of life’s most important moments. The Maxon twins Christian and Christopher are no different. While attending River’s Edge Elementary, the twins met and were mentored by Dr. Kevin Perry while he was the acting principal. The boys were instantly drawn to his energy and insight. As employees of St. Lucie Public Schools, Coach Maxon and his wife Cheri also connected with Dr. Perry at Southern Oaks as he visited classrooms. From there, the family encouragement continued through … Read More

The Fashion Club, in collaboration with FAITH Univerzity, recently hosted an engaging and impactful financial literacy workshop led by esteemed alumna Sandra Gabriel, a proud graduate of the FPC program. During this dynamic session, Ms. Gabriel guided students through essential financial topics, including goal setting (both short- and long-term), paycheck budgeting, credit fundamentals, investment strategies, and scam prevention. We are deeply grateful to Ms. Gabriel for generously sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of leaders. It’s always a privilege to welcome alumni back to campus to invest in our students’ growth and success. We look forward to future … Read More

Fort Pierce Central High School continued its commitment to environmental stewardship and community beautification with its annual tree planting event, proudly hosted by the Student Government Association (SGA). SGA continued the Tree Restoration Project this year by planting our second Oak Tree in as many years. Student volunteers gathered on the school grounds to plant the tree, further enhancing the campus’s natural landscape and contributing to a greener future for generations to come. This initiative began with the idea to replace the trees knocked down by a hurricane during the 2010s in 1 North Parking Lot. The Kimberly Pearson Foundation of … Read More

Once a Cobra, Always A Cobra This past Thursday, Fort Pierce Central High School had the distinct honor of celebrating the retirement of two extraordinary educators: Mrs. Marina Clementz and Dean Patricia Reese. Their combined 74 years of service to St. Lucie Public Schools have left an indelible mark on generations of students, families, and colleagues. Mrs. Marina Clementz has dedicated an incredible 35 years to St. Lucie Public Schools, with 34 of those years spent shaping lives at Fort Pierce Central. Throughout her career, she served as a school counselor, director of school counseling, and most recently, as our … Read More

The St. Lucie County High School Juried Art Show is an annual celebration of young artistic talent, showcasing the creativity and skill of students from across the county. This year, FPC hosted the exhibition with the reception taking place on May 16th from 4-6 pm on the second floor of the district office. Viewing will continue during the work week until May 23rd. Special thanks to Emily Royo-Yeno, Jaela Davis, and Amy Montabana for your never-ending effort and support in making this event a success for our students! Photo credits to FPC Yearbook incoming co-editor-in-chief Vincent Robinson & FPC Bookkeeper … Read More

The Fort Pierce Central High School Student Government Association was thrilled to continue the second annual Crystal Apple Awards, a celebration recognizing the dedication, hard work, quintessential characteristics, and positive impact of our incredible staff members. This prestigious event allows students to express their appreciation for the faculty and staff who make a lasting impression, contributing to a supportive and inspiring learning environment. Students have the unique opportunity to cast their votes for staff members across various categories, ensuring that individuals from all departments and roles receive the recognition they deserve. Whether it’s a teacher who brings lessons to life, … Read More

On May 14, 2025, Fort Pierce Central High School celebrated its graduating seniors in a night filled with recognition, celebration, and heartfelt moments. Proud Principal Gardner started off the evening with his opening remarks. The Senior Awards and Scholarship program brought together students, families, and faculty to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of the Class of 2025. The event highlighted students who excelled in academics, extracurricular activities, and community service. Seniors involved in various clubs were recognized for their contributions, while those earning scholarships, cords, and stoles proudly received their honors. St. Lucie County’s commitment to supporting students was … Read More

On May 16, Fort Pierce Central’s Special Olympics Rising Stars athletes teamed up with parents and volunteers to have a fun-filled day of events. Students played bowling, corn-hole, and basketball, among other sports. Special thanks go to Coach Jeanie Glenton and Coach Peter Crespo for use of their equipment and facilities. Additionally, a very special thanks to the parents and volunteers who helped make this memorable event a reality. The Rising Stars coaching staff is comprised of Project Coordinator Jeannette Baechle, Coach Rose Renda and Assistant Coach Jessica Leyva. Shout out to Monica Lewis, Daisy Viruet and Ana Gonzalez for … Read More

On behalf of the Freshmen Class, Mrs. Darlene Brown, the dedicated and enthusiastic class sponsor, expresses her immense pride in the outstanding success of Fort Pierce Central’s first-ever class field trip for Freshmen to Bowlero. This special event marked a memorable milestone for the school’s newest students, providing them with an opportunity to bond, have fun, and create lasting memories outside of the classroom. The students were absolutely thrilled as they engaged in a variety of exciting activities throughout the trip. Bowling lanes were filled with laughter and friendly competition as students eagerly aimed for strikes and spares, celebrating each … Read More

As the slight breeze came across the docks near the Manatee Center, volunteers set up on the evening of May 9th for the first-annual Kimberly Pearson Memorial Foundation “Friend-Raiser” in Fort Pierce. National Honor Society and Key Club members from Fort Pierce Central High School covered tables with purple and gold table cloths, carefully unpacked the sale items, and curated tables with paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and crocheted artworks. Mrs. Heather Blackmon’s sculpture students from Westwood Academy joined David Graham’s drawing, painting, and ceramics students from Port St. Lucie High School, as well as Fort Pierce Central High School artists from … Read More

From May 5 to May 9, 2025, Fort Pierce Central High School celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week with a vibrant, travel-themed experience titled “A Trip Around the World.” Faculty members embarked on a journey through Mexico, Greece, England, the USA, and Asia, enjoying a week filled with cultural delights, surprises, and heartfelt gratitude. Each day, teachers were transported to a different destination, with themed decorations, cuisine, and activities reflecting the country of the day. Principal Gardner got upgraded to Captain for the duration of the trip, seen here opening the cabin doors and greeting passengers as they boarded their flight. The … Read More

Congratulations to Mrs. Emily Royo-Yeno, Fort Pierce Central High School Yearbook advisor, and her dedicated Yearbook staff. This week the entire Yearbook team celebrated the Graduating Class of 2025 as they gathered at the auditorium steps for the annual Senior Yearbook Signing, marking a memorable milestone in their final days of high school. Attempting not to smudge the crisp pages as students excitedly yet carefully flipped through their books, thoughtful, funny, and somewhat sentimental anecdotes were drafted inside each cover. Some students drew a cute doodle, while others lavishly embossed their signature, leaving some to recount an inside joke or … Read More

Fort Pierce Central’s Owen Youngblood participated in the first annual Florida High School Art Awards & Metaverse Exhibition. Owen’s artwork “Cityscape” was a finalist in the Student Athlete/Arts Community Service Network Inc. High School Art Show.  The “Cityscape” project utilized One and Two Point Perspective Lines to create a city view using Adobe Illustrator in Mrs. Amy Montabana’s Digital Art 1 class. The Florida High School Art Awards & Metaverse Exhibition is an exciting event where Florida high school students can submit artwork for a chance to be featured in a Metaverse Exhibition and win scholarships. The exhibition ran from … Read More

On May 14, students from Fort Pierce Central High School’s ESE department visited the Culinary and Nursing Programs to learn more about how they work. Students went to the Nursing Program and learned about sanitation and how to properly don and doff gloves. Next, they went to the Culinary Program and learned to how properly set tables and provide a comfortable atmosphere. Students were treated to a delicious meal from Big Apple Pizza. This experience was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Assistant Principal Christie Torres, Lori Applebee, Chef Jesse Strell, Chef Cindy Swertfager, Joycelyn Gumbs and Jeannette Baechle. Special … Read More

Fort Pierce Central High School recently welcomed retired educators from Cobra Nation for a special luncheon at the Cobra Café, celebrating their dedication and lasting impact on the community. The event was a heartfelt tribute to those who shaped generations of students, featuring delicious food prepared and served by Fort Pierce Central culinary students. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully crafted meal as students showcased their skills in both the kitchen and customer service, demonstrating the school’s commitment to hands-on learning. Adding to the warm atmosphere, the Fort Pierce Central choir performed a selection of songs, filling the café with music that … Read More

The Kimberly Pearson Memorial Foundation of Fort Pierce Central High School is proud to partner with the Manatee Center for the first annual “Friend-Raiser!” This event will take place on Friday, May 9th, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Manatee Center, located at 480 N. Indian River Drive. This special community gathering is designed to unite friends, families, and supporters to celebrate and raise funds for the renovation of the beloved Manatee Center. Attendees will be treated to an evening of vibrant entertainment and activities, featuring live performances by the Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society, setting the … Read More

Rebecca Mendez-Solis, a dedicated and hardworking student, was honored with a full scholarship to Indian River State College (IRSC) at the prestigious Take Stock in Children Awards Ceremony on April 29. She was joined in celebration by her mentor and reading teacher, Ms. Collins, who provided invaluable guidance and support throughout her academic journey. Take Stock in Children is a transformative program designed to assist first-generation students in achieving their educational goals by providing crucial post-secondary completion and degree attainment support services. Each year, this initiative helps aspiring scholars by offering them the resources and mentorship necessary to navigate the … Read More

Fort Pierce Central High School recently celebrated academic excellence at the annual Top 10 Senior Breakfast, recognizing the outstanding achievements of the school’s highest-ranking graduates. Held in a warm and celebratory atmosphere, the event brought together honorees, their families, and faculty members to applaud their dedication and hard work. Over a delicious breakfast, the Top 10 seniors reflected on their journeys, shared future aspirations, and expressed gratitude for the support of their teachers and peers. School administrators commended their commitment to academic success, emphasizing the impact of their leadership and perseverance. The breakfast served as both a moment of recognition … Read More

At the St. Lucie County Annex building, the Student Perks Coffee Cart is more than just a morning pick-me-up—it’s a hands-on learning experience for Fort Pierce Central High School students in the ESE program, shares Mrs. Jeannette Baechle, Varying Exceptionalities teacher at FPC. Through this program, students gain valuable employment skills, including inventory management, food safety, customer service, and money handling. Each week, they take their business beyond the school walls, selling coffee and pastries, where they have built a dedicated base of loyal customers. On May 2, Fort Pierce Central High School and Fort Pierce Westwood Academy teamed up … Read More

The Fort Pierce Central High School Wind Ensemble recently achieved a remarkable milestone, earning a Superior rating at the 2025 State Music Performance Assessment held on Friday, May 2nd. This is the first time our school has received this honor since 2015. Under the direction of Mr. Stephen Gabin and assistant director Ms. Cory Cas, the Wind Ensemble showcased months of dedication, teamwork, and musical excellence. Their performance not only highlighted their technical skill but also reflected their passion and pride in representing Fort Pierce Central and St. Lucie County. This accomplishment was made possible through the support of our … Read More