LEINITIA ROBINSON – LucieLink

Classrooms2Careers: Jackson Drugs Pharmacy Learning Round

March 30, 2026 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Pharmacy Technician teachers from Fort Pierce Westwood Academy (FPWA), along with St. Lucie Public Schools Career Coaches, participated in an Educator Learning Round hosted by Jackson Drugs Pharmacy. The visit was led by President and Owner, Natasha Ramlagan, who welcomed educators for a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s operations and future growth plans. During the learning round, participants engaged in an informative tour and discussion centered on Jackson Drugs Pharmacy’s expansion and its mission to grow in direct response to the needs of the surrounding community. Mrs. Ramlagan shared insight into how community demand shapes services, workforce needs, and long-term … Read More

Classrooms2Careers: Careers in Law, Public Defenders Office

March 9, 2026 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

High school students from St. Lucie Public Schools interested in becoming lawyers or pursuing careers in the legal field were recently invited to participate in a career information session and tour with the Public Defender’s Office. This opportunity was made possible through the support of SLPS Career Coaches, who work to connect students with real-world career exploration experiences. Assistant Public Defender (Felony Division Head) Stephen Hooper hosted the visit and led a comprehensive session on pathways into the legal profession. He discussed what it takes to become a lawyer, shared his personal journey to becoming a licensed attorney, and highlighted … Read More

Classrooms2Careers: Smithsonian Marine Station

March 9, 2026 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

High school students from across St. Lucie Public Schools (SLPS) had the opportunity to participate in a behind‑the‑scenes tour and information session at the Smithsonian Marine Station. This special Classrooms2Careers experience introduced students to a variety of marine science career pathways and real-world research happening right here on the Treasure Coast. Seven students from Treasure Coast High School (joined by Industrial Biotechnology teacher: Mr. John Williams) and St. Lucie West Centennial High School attended the session, where they explored several cutting-edge research areas, including: Chemical Ecology Benthic Ecology Everglades Restoration Projects Coral Reef Research During the visit, students heard directly … Read More

Classrooms2Careers: Marine & Maritime Career Expo

March 9, 2026 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Students from St. Lucie Public Schools recently had the chance to explore exciting future opportunities at the 2026 Chart Your Course: Marine & Maritime Career Expo. Held in February, the event was made possible through the ongoing collaboration between the Fort Pierce Yacht Club Foundation and St. Lucie Public Schools. Aligned with the Classrooms2Careers initiative, the expo introduced both 8th graders and high school students to a wide variety of careers connected to the marine and maritime fields. Throughout the day, students met with local businesses, industry experts, and post‑secondary partners. Exhibitors provided hands‑on activities, interactive demonstrations, and informative sessions … Read More

Classrooms2Careers: FCHC Volunteer/Intern Experience

January 12, 2026 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Celebrating St. Lucie Public Schools’ First Official Florida Community Health Centers Student Volunteer/Intern! Indya Burchell, a senior at Treasure Coast High School, has become the first official student volunteer/intern with Florida Community Health Centers (FCHC)! Indya discovered this exciting opportunity through her father, who works at Fort Pierce Westwood Academy and shared a flyer distributed to the school from the District’s Career Coaches. She reached out on December 1, 2025, interviewed the very next day, and officially began her volunteer orientation on January 5, 2026. As part of the onboarding process, Indya submitted her resume, completed the FCHC application packet, … Read More

Classrooms2Careers – Career Chat: Medical Examiner

December 15, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

St. Lucie West Centennial High School senior Hannah Lewis is pursuing her dream of becoming a Forensic Pathologist or Medical Examiner. With guidance from her Career Coaches, Hannah had the unique opportunity to meet with Dr. Raman Baldzizhar, Medical Examiner for Circuit Court 19 and a medical student assigned to their office. During this personalized session, Hannah asked insightful questions and received expert advice on the career pathway to becoming a Medical Examiner, including recommended education steps and certifications. She also learned about diverse careers in forensic science and medical fields, gaining valuable knowledge to help shape her future goals. … Read More

Classrooms2Careers: Mock Trial, Student Experience

November 24, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

As part of the Classrooms2Careers initiative, students from St. Lucie Public Schools participated in the Mock Trial – Civil Discourse and Difficult Decisions program at the St. Lucie County Courthouse. This hands-on experience gave students a unique opportunity to explore careers in law and the judicial system. Students attended with their teachers from Criminal Justice, Law Academy, and related elective courses, representing four high schools: Fort Pierce Central High School – Mr. Wilder Fort Pierce Westwood Academy – Ms. Brown St. Lucie West Centennial High School – Mrs. Baumgarten and Mr. Nichols Treasure Coast High School – Mrs. Cintron-McCray, Ms. … Read More

HCA Assistant Chief Nursing Officer visits FPWA

April 14, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Assistant Chief Nursing Officer Lex Lalicon from HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital recently visited the Nursing Assistant program students at Fort Pierce Westwood Academy: The W.E.S.T. Prep Magnet (FPWA). The event featured an engaging and informative discussion on setting goals, career paths, and options in the nursing and healthcare industry. Topics covered included planning for post-high school graduation, transitioning to college, and pursuing a career in healthcare. Students learned about the opportunities and benefits of nursing, current employment demands within the healthcare sector, and tuition reimbursement or scholarships available to HCA employees. Additionally, students gained insights into various departments and … Read More

Nursing Assistant Students Experience Simulated Hospital

April 14, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Students from St. Lucie West Centennial High School (Mrs. Ciufo and Mrs. DeJesus’ classes) and Fort Pierce Westwood Academy (Mr. Burchell’s classes) recently attended a special event at Indian River State College’s School of Nursing. Fifty students, who have either earned or are working towards their Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) industry certification, were invited to participate in a simulated learning day alongside college nursing program professors. The event included a comprehensive college tour, hands-on learning experiences in classroom and hospital simulation rooms, detailed information about the nursing programs offered at the college, admission requirements, available scholarships, and a question-and-answer session. … Read More

Career & Technical Education Entrepreneurship Showcase

April 7, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department recently hosted middle and high school students from across St. Lucie Public Schools for the CTE Entrepreneurship Showcase. Supported by business alliances, the event featured awards provided by sponsors. Students not only competed but also had the opportunity to network with post-secondary education leaders, business professionals, and entrepreneurs. The focus leading up to and during the showcase was on infusing lessons centered on entrepreneurship, innovation, and providing mentors to support students in developing an entrepreneurial mindset. Winners of the Event: New Food Truck Concept (High School) 1st Place: Treasure Coast High School (Jayanna G., … Read More

SLPS Celebrates Career & Technical Education Month

March 10, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Throughout February, St. Lucie Public Schools proudly celebrated Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. This initiative highlights the importance of K-8, Middle, and High School CTE programs and courses in preparing students for success in furthering their education and careers after high school graduation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ashley Capital for generously sponsoring the CTE shirts, to Xello for professional learning day prizes, and to Certiport for providing ear pod cases. Their support plays a crucial role in celebrating CTE. A special thank you goes out to all the dedicated Career and Technical Education teachers and administrators, supporting … Read More

Training Day for Fort Pierce Central’s EMR Students

March 3, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Students from Mrs. Applebee’s Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) program at Fort Pierce Central High School recently participated in a training day with the St. Lucie County Fire Department. This invaluable experience provided students with the opportunity to complete a variety of educational and simulated training. The training day was packed with a variety of educational activities, including HIPAA Training, CPR/AED skills, a Fire Station Tour, and a Flight Rescue Team presentation. This hands-on experience not only enhanced the students’ practical skills but also inspired many to continue their education in nursing, emergency medical services, therapy, and fire. The collaboration between … Read More

Chart Your Course: Marine & Maritime Career Expo

March 3, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

St. Lucie Public School students recently had the unique opportunity to participate in the Chart Your Course: Marine & Maritime Career Expo. This exciting event was hosted by the Fort Pierce Yacht Club Foundation in collaboration with the Career & Technical Education department of St. Lucie Public Schools. It was designed to introduce 8th graders and high school students to the numerous career opportunities within the marine and maritime industries as part of the district’s “Classrooms to Career” initiative. The expo featured a diverse array of industry and business professionals, and post-secondary institutions. A wealth of knowledge through hands-on demonstrations … Read More

Becoming a Physician with HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital

February 17, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

The St. Lucie Public Schools Office of Teaching and Learning, in collaboration with the Curriculum and Career & Technical Education (CTE) departments, recently hosted the “Becoming a Physician” event with HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital. Over 200 Fort Pierce Central High School students from the classes of Mrs. Applebee (CTE teacher), Ms. Charles (CTE teacher), Mrs. Thawley (CTE teacher), and Mrs. Friedberg (Science teacher) registered for this informative event. Special guest presenters from HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital included Drs. Matese, Cardriche, Rhim, Munkres, and Williams. These esteemed professionals shared valuable insights into career opportunities within the medical field and … Read More

SGA Boys Basketball Joins Forces with IRSC Men’s Basketball

February 3, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

The Samuel S. Gaines Academy of Emerging Technologies (SGA) Boys’ Basketball Team, led by Head Coach Cliff Robinson, recently experienced the red-carpet treatment courtesy of the Indian River State College (IRSC) Men’s Basketball Team. The SGA student-athletes were immersed in a day filled with college and athletic insights, campus tours, and the thrilling opportunity to witness the IRSC Men’s Basketball Team in action during a collegiate game. This collaboration marks the beginning of a promising partnership between the two programs, aimed at fostering a positive alliance and expanding opportunities for student-athletes within St. Lucie County. Special thanks to Mr. Keith … Read More

Clerk of Courts Career Exploration Day

February 3, 2025 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Students from the Criminal Justice programs at Fort Pierce Central High School (teacher: Mr. Neal Wilder), Fort Pierce Westwood Academy (teacher: Ms. Mildred Brown), St. Lucie West Centennial High School (teacher: Mrs. Angela Baumgarten), and Treasure Coast High School (teachers: Mrs. Nerieda Cintron-McCray and Mr. Diego Rios) participated in a Clerk of Courts’ Career Exploration Day. This event was hosted by Michelle R. Miller, Clerk & Comptroller of St. Lucie County. All 135 students enjoyed a variety of activities, including a presentation by a K-9 handler, a courtroom tour, guest speakers, forensic evidence analysis by investigators, a drone demonstration, and … Read More

Florida International University Hosts Biomedical Research Internship Program for SLPS Students

August 5, 2024 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Florida International University (FIU) recently organized a prestigious summer internship program, specifically tailored for students from St. Lucie County. Thirteen exceptional students were selected to participate in this enriching opportunity. The internship spanned five weeks and focused on biomedical research training at FIU’s Center for Translational Sciences (CTS). From June 3rd to July 5th, these students delved into various areas, including biosciences, biomedicine, and data science. Through hands-on experience, they honed essential research techniques, developed scientific reading and writing skills, and learned how to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. During their internship, students collaborated closely with FIU … Read More

Chart Your Course: Maritime & Marine Career Expo

February 26, 2024 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

St. Lucie Public School students (middle and high school students) participated in the Chart Your Course: Maritime & Marine Career Expo. This event was hosted by the Fort Pierce Yacht Club Foundation in partnership with the Career & Technical Education department (St. Lucie Public Schools). This career expo provided opportunities for students to learn about various career pathways available to them in St. Lucie County. Local Maritime and Marine business representatives provided information on skills and education needed for various career options, along with guided knowledge on obtaining career goals. The day afforded each student the time to explore post-secondary … Read More

Career & Technical Education Entrepreneurship Mentors, #CTEmonth

February 19, 2024 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher, Mrs. Jasmine Shepherd, lead teacher for the Sports, Recreation & Marketing program at Port St. Lucie High School, is strengthening her students’ connection to community and business experts. Mrs. Lisa Cobb (Executive Director – Youth Empowered to Prosper) and Mr. Jordan Harold (Founder & Entrepreneur of Black Chain, a bitcoin company) were guest speakers for Mrs. Shepherd’s students and are now serving as mentors. Later this month, Mrs. Sheena Heppern of REAS Marketing, will be a guest speaker. Mrs. Shepherd’s students are preparing for the CTE Entrepreneurship Showcase coming up in April 2024. The CTE office has worked … Read More

TCHS Engineering & Manufacturing PreApprenticeship to Apprenticeship Connection

February 5, 2024 By LEINITIA ROBINSON

Treasure Coast High School’s (TCHS) Engineering and Manufacturing program students learned about Apprenticeship opportunities available to them after high school graduation. Students in the program were then able to register for one of two available pre-apprenticeships (Welding or Industrial manufacturing) while enrolled in the program at TCHS. Thank you to Ms. Colleen Gill (CareerSource Research Coast – Apprenticeship Navigator) for presenting to Mr. Phil DePuy’s students. (Photos courtesy of Mr. DePuy) #CTEmonth