Floresta partnered with the Cox Science Museum to host a fun Family STEAM Night. Families explored twenty interactive science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities.  Chase Dulemba and Jase Hutchinson eagerly designed and tested out their rollercoaster as they learned about force and motion.

Floresta’s fifth-grade students learned how habitat loss is one of the most critical issues facing wildlife.  The students became Florida panthers, white-tailed deer, and motor vehicles in a tag-like game to simulate the disappearance of the Everglades habitat. This lesson was completed as part of the school’s effort to become an Everglades Champion School during their Everglades Themed Literacy Week.

Mrs. Madorma’s fifth graders enjoyed a read-aloud of the book Esperanza Rising Up.  As a culminating activity, the class participated in a special Rising Up Ceremony and a Taco luncheon.  Students created symbolic roses with statements of how they will “rise up”.  Students also practiced their public speaking skills during a class-wide presentation.

Meet Flo! For the past 21 days, our Floresta Dolphins have participated in a school-wide embryology project sponsored by our local 4-H.  Students explored the development of living things with this first-hand experience of incubating eggs and watching them hatch.

On Friday, April 11, students at Floresta Elementary participated in their annual Tunnel of Encouragement.  Students in grades K-2 formed the tunnel, and waved balloons, banners, and pompoms, while chanting “Do Your Best on The Test,” as students in grades 3-5 filed into the cafeteria.  Once in the cafeteria, students received insightful and inspiring words from Principal, Ms. Floyd and Assistant Principal, Mrs. Menikheim.  Third grade teachers performed a skit incorporating test taking tips and a motivational song.  Fourth grade teachers shared words of advice and encouragement, followed by a video collage of students hard at work taken over the … Read More

It’s that time of year again! Field day at Floresta Elementary kicked off on Monday, May 12, 2014. Students from all grades participated in a half-day of friendly, yet challenging competitions. The fourth grade students participated in eight events consisting of baton-relay racing, scooter relays, basketball-dribbling relays, paired beach ball relay, sponge relay, tug-of-war, and 50-yard dash. The competition was friendly and hard fought with Mrs. Diaz edging out Mrs. Clarke, Ms. Pagliughi, and Mrs. Burkett. Many parents were in attendance to support their child’s class and to celebrate good sportsmanship. Our very thoughtful and supportive Floresta Elementary PTO provided a … Read More

Floresta Elementary School fourth and fifth grade students competed in the 2011-2012 Scripps Spelling Bee.  First place winner was Anthony Martens from Valerie Doyle’s fifth grade class, and second place winner was Jacob Lucrezia, from Michael Bogin’s fourth grade class.  Congratulations to winners, and to all those who competed.

Ms. Brennan and Mrs. O’Malley’s kindergarten classes learned about Native American Teepee homes. They worked together to build their own teepee using paper, popsicle sticks, and tape. The students had so much fun working together to construct a Teepee that could stand on their own.

Ms. Debbie from 4-H visited the first grade with her new service puppy Buddy. Students learned how to care for a pet, the basic needs of pets, and how to approach a strange pet. Students enjoyed getting to pet and interact with Buddy.

Our Dolphins had a blast during their Winter Field Days!  It was a great way to enjoy the chilly weather with the anticipation of Winter Break.  Our PE Coaches, Erin Perman and Jared Kay did a great job organizing student favorites such as sack races, hurdle relays, and the 3 legged race.

Floresta extended our school-wide theme of Ohana by hosting Family Conference Day during February’s early dismissal day. Teachers and staff demonstrated their commitment to fostering positive relationships by inviting parents into classrooms to learn about their child’s academic progress.  Over 300 families participated in the event and learned about the B.E.S.T. standards and the F.A.S.T. assessment.

Floresta Elementary recently hosted its Special Olympics event, creating a day filled with excitement, encouragement, and school spirit. Mrs. Raphael’s class participated in a variety of activities that celebrated their abilities, determination, and teamwork.   The event brought together students and staff, all cheering on the athletes and celebrating each accomplishment. A special highlight was the support from Ms. Janvier’s 5th grade class, who helped make the day even more meaningful by encouraging participants and assisting throughout the event.   Floresta’s Special Olympics was a wonderful reminder of the importance of inclusion, kindness, and community. Most importantly, it showed that … Read More

Ms. Missy’s M&M Sweeties is a spirited baton group at Floresta Elementary where students learn to twirl, toss, and perform with confidence. Through practice and teamwork, students build coordination, rhythm, and pride in their performances. The group provides a fun and engaging way for students to express themselves while developing new skills and friendships. Their dedication and enthusiasm shine through during practices and performances, bringing energy and excitement to the school community. Students enjoy learning new routines and challenging themselves to improve each day. Ms. Missy’s guidance and encouragement help every member feel successful. Great job to all participants involved!

Floresta Elementary School is recognizing outstanding student authors as the school’s Young Author winners. The students each wrote and illustrated a book on a topic that interested them. Pictured are Ashna Patel, in front, and back, from left, Tiffany Alexander, James Sell, and Gioia Perniello. Students will be honored at a celebration at Manatee Academy K-8 School and parents are invited to take part as well.  Floresta Elementary is proud of all the students who participated in the project and thank their teachers for guidance and support.

Floresta’s kindergarten and first grade students participated in their very first winter concert conducted by Michele Haddock, the music teacher.  Students put on a great show for their families.

Floresta’s after-school tutorial clubs are off to a great start, thanks to the organized and creative leadership of media teacher Geraldine Wills and math coach Vicki Pease. They have put together a wide variety of project-based learning opportunities that align with students’ interests and state standards, and in some cases, provide students opportunities to experience new and different interests. Since students are expected to begin making career choices as early as middle school, what better way to help them make the right choices than to introduce them to career fields and “hands on” experiences in areas not previously explored. Students … Read More

Floresta Elementary School took top honors this year as the school that collected the most donations for the 2013 Bowl for Kids Sake event held in September. Floresta Elementary raised $1,775.00 this year, made possible through the concerted efforts of individuals who are passionate about a cause. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is the nation’s largest bowling event that raises critical funds to support the mentoring relationships of Big Brothers, Big Sisters (BBBS). Floresta Elementary School has stood strong in its commitment to be a part of the important work BBBS continues to do for children in the area. Over the last ten years, … Read More

“Yes, Virginia there is a Santa Claus!” proclaimed the students at Floresta Elementary School during their winter musical. The cast of “Yes Virginia” put on a spectacular performance for parents, teachers, and community members before the winter break. The cast, comprised of fourth, fifth and one first grade students were hard at work since early September preparing for vocal and speaking auditions and learn their lines, songs and dances to put on the show.  It was clear that Floresta Elementary has some very talented singers and actors. Thanks to a very generous gift of $1,000.00 from Macy’s, school staff was able … Read More