FSDB is ready for the 2026 Academic Bowl South Regional!
We’re honored to host 16 schools from 13 states here in St. Augustine this weekend as outstanding deaf and hard‑of‑hearing students compete in a fast‑paced showcase of knowledge, teamwork, and quick recall.
The Academic Bowl, created by Gallaudet University in 1997, has become a beloved national tradition promoting academic excellence, healthy competition, sportsmanship, and lifelong friendships. We’re proud to continue that legacy right here on our campus.
Our FSDB Dragons have been hard at work preparing for the tournament and we’re cheering them on alongside every student who earned their spot to compete.
Huge shout‑out to all of our coaches, staff, and volunteers whose time and energy make this weekend possible!
Best of luck to every team as you learn, compete, and enjoy the history and hospitality of the nation’s oldest city. Onward to Nationals at Gallaudet!
#FSDB #AcademicBowl2026 #DeafEd #GoDragons #Gallaudet #StudentSuccess #ThePrezSnowPost
We’re honored to host 16 schools from 13 states here in St. Augustine this weekend as outstanding deaf and hard‑of‑hearing students compete in a fast‑paced showcase of knowledge, teamwork, and quick recall.
The Academic Bowl, created by Gallaudet University in 1997, has become a beloved national tradition promoting academic excellence, healthy competition, sportsmanship, and lifelong friendships. We’re proud to continue that legacy right here on our campus.
Our FSDB Dragons have been hard at work preparing for the tournament and we’re cheering them on alongside every student who earned their spot to compete.
Huge shout‑out to all of our coaches, staff, and volunteers whose time and energy make this weekend possible!
Best of luck to every team as you learn, compete, and enjoy the history and hospitality of the nation’s oldest city. Onward to Nationals at Gallaudet!
#FSDB #AcademicBowl2026 #DeafEd #GoDragons #Gallaudet #StudentSuccess #ThePrezSnowPost
BEMS Parents and Students...break out your fancy shirts and work on those smiles. Picture day will be next week on Tuesday, February 17.
Who did you root for—the Seattle Seahawks or the New England Patriots? Or were you more excited about the commercials and delicious food?
Our Deaf and Blind Residential Department hosted an amazing Super Bowl party in the dorms on Sunday evening, February 8, and everyone had a fantastic time!
#FSDBAfterSchoolHoursWednesdays
Our Deaf and Blind Residential Department hosted an amazing Super Bowl party in the dorms on Sunday evening, February 8, and everyone had a fantastic time!
#FSDBAfterSchoolHoursWednesdays
They go beyond construction in the traditional sense. In addition to building projects from the ground up, they focus on repair and problem‑solving- the art of tinkering. After extensive use in the hands of students, three cordless drills wore down from years of faithful service enabling hands‑on construction projects. Rather than discarding the tools, students Hunter Minch Bohlin and Nathaniel Loomis took them apart, carefully diagnosing the issues and restoring functionality by salvaging working components from other drills of the same model. This hands‑on repair process strengthened their critical‑thinking skills, particularly in troubleshooting, mechanical reasoning, and resourcefulness.
#FSDBCTETuesdays
#FSDBCTETuesdays
Mark your calendars, FSDB Families! Parent University will offer ASL Level 2 Classes every Thursday from January 29 to February 26 for FSDB parents and guardians.
The classes will be from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Moore Hall CLD. On February 26, it will be located in room 215.
Please RSVP at the following link:
HTTPS://BIT.LY/ASL-PARENT-CLASS-2026
Families must check in at the front gate, and travel reimbursement is available.
Questions? Please contact FSDB Parent Liaison Misty Porter at porterm@fsdbk12.org | 904-827-2988
The classes will be from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Moore Hall CLD. On February 26, it will be located in room 215.
Please RSVP at the following link:
HTTPS://BIT.LY/ASL-PARENT-CLASS-2026
Families must check in at the front gate, and travel reimbursement is available.
Questions? Please contact FSDB Parent Liaison Misty Porter at porterm@fsdbk12.org | 904-827-2988
Now Accepting Applications for Summer Quest 2026!
Ready for an adventure in the oldest city with new friends! Summer Quest is an overnight camp offering Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) activities during the day and various recreational and social experiences in the evening.
Dates
• June 7-12, 2026 (ages 8-12)
• June 14-19, 2026 (ages 13-17)
Who Can Attend?
• Blind/Visually Impaired
• Deaf/Hard of Hearing
• Deafblind (dual-sensory)
• 8-17 year olds
• Florida resident
Visit our Summer Quest webpage to learn more and apply!
April Wallace, Literacy Specialist, shares her favorite memory at FSDB below;
"One of my favorite memories at FSDB is when the word of the year was "Empower." A word that has stayed with me and shaped how I approach every role I’ve held here. Today, as the Literacy Specialist for the Blind Elementary School, my daily motto is “Empowering students by supporting the educators.” My favorite moments are when teachers are excited about a new strategy or come to me to celebrate a student’s success. Those moments are the heart of this work and why FSDB means so much to me."
#FSDBMemoryMondays #ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Informed & Included Parent Chat:
FSDB recognizes that family involvement positively impacts student success and encourages parents/legal guardians to take an active and supportive role in parents & staff members to share ideas and work together.
Topics:
- Be included in decision making.
- Meet with FSDB Principals and Staff.
-Provide feedback on grant spending.
- Plan for the upcoming school year.
Date: March 6, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: Moore Hall CLD
Contact: Misty Porter , porterm@fsdbk12.org
RSVP by March 4, 2026
RSVP Link: https://bit.ly/Parent-Chat-Spring-2026
FSDB recognizes that family involvement positively impacts student success and encourages parents/legal guardians to take an active and supportive role in parents & staff members to share ideas and work together.
Topics:
- Be included in decision making.
- Meet with FSDB Principals and Staff.
-Provide feedback on grant spending.
- Plan for the upcoming school year.
Date: March 6, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: Moore Hall CLD
Contact: Misty Porter , porterm@fsdbk12.org
RSVP by March 4, 2026
RSVP Link: https://bit.ly/Parent-Chat-Spring-2026
On Thursday, February 5th, FSDB Wrestling celebrated their Senior Night at home. They completed the regular season with a perfect 2-0 record, defeating Mandarin and Wolfson! Congratulations to all the seniors and the entire wrestling team!
#FSDBSportsSunday
#FSDBSportsSunday
Zachary Bridgett, a dedicated SOAR teacher, recently attended the St. Johns County School District's Teacher and Rookie Teacher of the Year event.
Thank you, Zachary, for your commitment and outstanding contributions to the FSDB community.
#FSDBSOARSaturdays #ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Thank you, Zachary, for your commitment and outstanding contributions to the FSDB community.
#FSDBSOARSaturdays #ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Attention all current students and alumni! We want to hear how FSDB has played a pivotal role in shaping who you are today. Share your journey with us!
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeekFriday
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeekFriday
Welcome, Laurel Jones, to FSDB!
Laurel previously worked as a consultant and is now joining us as a Behavior Program Associate in the Transportation Department.
She is excited to get to know the students and to practice her ASL. Laurel is looking forward to her journey ahead at FSDB.
Originally from High Point, North Carolina, Laurel has a passion for learning.
We are thrilled to have you here with us!
#FSDBFam #YouBelongAtFSDB #ThisIsFSDB
Welcoming Our Newest FSDB Team Members! 🌟
Throughout the school year, I have the opportunity to meet with our new staff members during our Onboarding event. It is always a wonderful time to get to know the individuals who have chosen to become part of our FSDB community.
We had a fantastic group join us on Wednesday which included four proud alumni!
As part of the session, in addition to sharing our Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Planning goals, I lead an activity where each person introduces themselves, their position, and their “why” for choosing FSDB.
Hearing these reasons is always heartwarming:
✨“I’m here for the students.”
✨“I want to give back.”
I’m continually grateful and humbled knowing that being part of FSDB is a choice and that it is a meaningful one.
Some of our new employees shared over this year that they were inspired simply by driving past campus and attending a job fair. Others have been part of the St. Augustine community for years and always envisioned working here. Many grew up on our campus and want to support the next generation of students. And some first connected with us as students themselves during an Open House, catching the spark of who we are.
Whatever their reason, I am thankful for each person who chooses to be part of our thriving community with a thriving vision where together, we prepare each student for a lifetime of success.
Photo description: President Snow takes a selfie in the foreground while a group of new staff members sits around tables in a training room, smiling and waving during an onboarding session. A presentation screen is visible at the back of the room, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
#FSDB #FSDBProud #WelcomeNewStaff #ThisIsFSDB #MissionDriven #StudentFocused #ThePrezSnowPost
Throughout the school year, I have the opportunity to meet with our new staff members during our Onboarding event. It is always a wonderful time to get to know the individuals who have chosen to become part of our FSDB community.
We had a fantastic group join us on Wednesday which included four proud alumni!
As part of the session, in addition to sharing our Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Planning goals, I lead an activity where each person introduces themselves, their position, and their “why” for choosing FSDB.
Hearing these reasons is always heartwarming:
✨“I’m here for the students.”
✨“I want to give back.”
I’m continually grateful and humbled knowing that being part of FSDB is a choice and that it is a meaningful one.
Some of our new employees shared over this year that they were inspired simply by driving past campus and attending a job fair. Others have been part of the St. Augustine community for years and always envisioned working here. Many grew up on our campus and want to support the next generation of students. And some first connected with us as students themselves during an Open House, catching the spark of who we are.
Whatever their reason, I am thankful for each person who chooses to be part of our thriving community with a thriving vision where together, we prepare each student for a lifetime of success.
Photo description: President Snow takes a selfie in the foreground while a group of new staff members sits around tables in a training room, smiling and waving during an onboarding session. A presentation screen is visible at the back of the room, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
#FSDB #FSDBProud #WelcomeNewStaff #ThisIsFSDB #MissionDriven #StudentFocused #ThePrezSnowPost
Last week in Recreation, Blind Middle School actively engaged in a successful yoga session.
#FSDBAfterSchoolHoursWednesdays
#FSDBAfterSchoolHoursWednesdays
Welcome, Kendall Younkman, to FSDB!
Kendall will be working as an Instructional Assistant in the Deaf Elementary School. She has always loved working with children and is looking forward to continuing that passion at FSDB, helping them become successful.
Kendall is from Tampa, Florida. She grew up near the water and has been riding her family's boat since she was two years old.
Kendall is an FSDB alumna from the class of 2016 and is very excited to return to FSDB to help deaf children like herself.
We look forward to having you here with us!
#FSDBFam #YouBelongAtFSDB #ThisIsFSDB
Kendall will be working as an Instructional Assistant in the Deaf Elementary School. She has always loved working with children and is looking forward to continuing that passion at FSDB, helping them become successful.
Kendall is from Tampa, Florida. She grew up near the water and has been riding her family's boat since she was two years old.
Kendall is an FSDB alumna from the class of 2016 and is very excited to return to FSDB to help deaf children like herself.
We look forward to having you here with us!
#FSDBFam #YouBelongAtFSDB #ThisIsFSDB
The purpose of this activity is to provide horticulture students with practical, hands‑on experience in propagating begonias through cuttings. Because begonias represent a large and diverse plant family with varying cultural requirements, this exercise allows students to understand propagation techniques that can be applied across many varieties.
Hanging baskets were chosen specifically for this project because many begonia species naturally exhibit trailing or cascading growth habits. Using hanging baskets not only supports these plants’ optimal development but also enhances their visual appeal—an important consideration for students learning both plant science and the commercial aspects of the horticulture industry.
#FSDBCTETuesdays
Hanging baskets were chosen specifically for this project because many begonia species naturally exhibit trailing or cascading growth habits. Using hanging baskets not only supports these plants’ optimal development but also enhances their visual appeal—an important consideration for students learning both plant science and the commercial aspects of the horticulture industry.
#FSDBCTETuesdays
Brendan "BP" Murphy, Sr. Residential Instructor in the Apartment Program and Museum Coordinator, shares his favorite memory during his time at FSDB.
"My best memory was giving tours of the FSDB Museum, which I have been doing for about 15 years. I absolutely loved it. Many visitors enjoyed the tours so much that they often wanted to return to revisit the museum. About ten years ago, I had two guests: an FSDB alumna and her husband. This turned out to be my longest tour ever, lasting four hours! They really appreciated it and had a lengthy discussion about her experiences at FSDB in the 1960s. Normally, these tours last 1 to 2 hours, so I learned a lot from her, which is valuable in my role as a historian. It’s fun to lead the tours, be patient with visitors, and ensure they are satisfied with their visit to the FSDB Museum. I invite you to come and visit the fabulous FSDB Museum!"
#FSDBMemoryMonday #FSDBFam #YouBelongAtFSDB #ThisIsFSDB
"My best memory was giving tours of the FSDB Museum, which I have been doing for about 15 years. I absolutely loved it. Many visitors enjoyed the tours so much that they often wanted to return to revisit the museum. About ten years ago, I had two guests: an FSDB alumna and her husband. This turned out to be my longest tour ever, lasting four hours! They really appreciated it and had a lengthy discussion about her experiences at FSDB in the 1960s. Normally, these tours last 1 to 2 hours, so I learned a lot from her, which is valuable in my role as a historian. It’s fun to lead the tours, be patient with visitors, and ensure they are satisfied with their visit to the FSDB Museum. I invite you to come and visit the fabulous FSDB Museum!"
#FSDBMemoryMonday #FSDBFam #YouBelongAtFSDB #ThisIsFSDB
The FSDB Wrestling team traveled to Indiana School for the Deaf last week for the Willigan Wrestling Tournament. They placed 2nd Place in Duals and 3rd Place in Individuals. Go over to our FSDB Athletics account to view the individual results and awards.
#PassionPridePerseverance #GoFSDBDragons #GoFSDBCobras
#PassionPridePerseverance #GoFSDBDragons #GoFSDBCobras
This week, our SOAR students dove deep into The Yellow Wallpaper through Socratic Seminars!
In a Socratic Seminar, students lead the discussion themselves—asking questions, citing evidence, and building on one another’s ideas. This kind of dialogue helps students practice the exact skills needed for AP Literature: close reading, interpretation, and explaining how an author’s choices create meaning.
We loved seeing students think out loud, challenge interpretations, and engage thoughtfully with complex texts. Way to go, SOAR!
#FSDBSOARSaturdays
In a Socratic Seminar, students lead the discussion themselves—asking questions, citing evidence, and building on one another’s ideas. This kind of dialogue helps students practice the exact skills needed for AP Literature: close reading, interpretation, and explaining how an author’s choices create meaning.
We loved seeing students think out loud, challenge interpretations, and engage thoughtfully with complex texts. Way to go, SOAR!
#FSDBSOARSaturdays
Even though the 16th Annual Mason-Dixon Tournament hosted at the Tennessee School for the Deaf was canceled, we still want to celebrate the annual tournament. We ask: what year did the boys' basketball team first win Mason-Dixon?
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeekFridays
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeekFridays
