Zachary Bridgett is one of the teachers in the SOAR program at FSDB. He loves working at FSDB because of the strong sense of community and the support that the SOAR program fosters.
Zachary shared, "It feels like a place where everyone supports each other and grows together." As the SOAR Class Sponsor, he looks forward to guiding and supporting his students, empowering them to believe in themselves and pursue their goals in life.
One of Zachary's favorite memories as a SOAR teacher so far has been celebrating when his students receive their diplomas. He remarked, "It's a bittersweet moment, but I'm so proud to see how much they've grown during their time at this school."
A fun fact about Zachary is that he was the valedictorian of his MFA program and was the only Deaf student in the entire program.
#FSDBSOARSaturdays #ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Zachary shared, "It feels like a place where everyone supports each other and grows together." As the SOAR Class Sponsor, he looks forward to guiding and supporting his students, empowering them to believe in themselves and pursue their goals in life.
One of Zachary's favorite memories as a SOAR teacher so far has been celebrating when his students receive their diplomas. He remarked, "It's a bittersweet moment, but I'm so proud to see how much they've grown during their time at this school."
A fun fact about Zachary is that he was the valedictorian of his MFA program and was the only Deaf student in the entire program.
#FSDBSOARSaturdays #ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Let's test your knowledge about the history of FSDB!
Who was the US President who visited the FSDB campus in 1921 and 1923?
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeek
Who was the US President who visited the FSDB campus in 1921 and 1923?
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeek
A Day in the Life of the FSDB President:
Last week, I had the pleasure of showcasing our beautiful campus and sharing the incredible programs we offer with Mr. August Perry, Legislative Correspondent for U.S. Congressman John Rutherford.
Mr. Perry was genuinely impressed by the impactful work at FSDB—from our academic buildings and boarding facilities to our well-maintained grounds. During his visit, he engaged with both students and staff, leaving with a deep appreciation for our mission and community.
Campus tours like this truly broaden understanding—not just of the fantastic students we serve, but of the FSDB program.
@reprutherfordfl
#FSDBThePrezSnowPost
Last week, I had the pleasure of showcasing our beautiful campus and sharing the incredible programs we offer with Mr. August Perry, Legislative Correspondent for U.S. Congressman John Rutherford.
Mr. Perry was genuinely impressed by the impactful work at FSDB—from our academic buildings and boarding facilities to our well-maintained grounds. During his visit, he engaged with both students and staff, leaving with a deep appreciation for our mission and community.
Campus tours like this truly broaden understanding—not just of the fantastic students we serve, but of the FSDB program.
@reprutherfordfl
#FSDBThePrezSnowPost
Welcome Danielle Hassey to FSDB!
Danielle will be working as a Residential Instructor at Vaill Hall. She looks forward to working with deaf children.
Some fun facts about Danielle are that she was previously a student at FSDB and loves to fish.
We are happy to have you here at FSDSB!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Danielle will be working as a Residential Instructor at Vaill Hall. She looks forward to working with deaf children.
Some fun facts about Danielle are that she was previously a student at FSDB and loves to fish.
We are happy to have you here at FSDSB!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Last week in Kramer, we captured a moment of staff member Dawson teaching students how to play Uno with large print cards.
#FSDBAfterSchoolHoursWednesday
#FSDBAfterSchoolHoursWednesday
Congratulations to Wesley Homewood on his new position!
Wes was previously a 5th-grade teacher at a Deaf elementary school and is now the newest DeafBlind Specialist.
He is excited to collaborate with incredible professionals across the campus to support the unique needs of DeafBlind students, from the Early Learning Center (ELC) to the SOAR program.
Originally from Saint Augustine, Wes enjoys traveling to different states and national parks across the country, working out, and watching football. Go Chiefs! Boomer Sooner!
We are very proud of Wes!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Wes was previously a 5th-grade teacher at a Deaf elementary school and is now the newest DeafBlind Specialist.
He is excited to collaborate with incredible professionals across the campus to support the unique needs of DeafBlind students, from the Early Learning Center (ELC) to the SOAR program.
Originally from Saint Augustine, Wes enjoys traveling to different states and national parks across the country, working out, and watching football. Go Chiefs! Boomer Sooner!
We are very proud of Wes!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
In Woodshop, we have trained each student in DHS in the safety and handling of a circular saw, as part of a benchmark: Define and elaborate on the organization and construction industry, and why safety is critical.
#FSDBCTETuesdays
#FSDBCTETuesdays
Congratulations to Brooke Stimpfle on her new position!
Brooke previously worked as an Early Learning Center teacher and has now transitioned to her role as a first-grade teacher at Deaf Elementary.
She is excited to share her knowledge and experience with her new department and looks forward to growing professionally by learning new things in her teaching role.
Brooke is from Gainesville and has a deaf dog!
We are so proud of you, Brooke!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Brooke previously worked as an Early Learning Center teacher and has now transitioned to her role as a first-grade teacher at Deaf Elementary.
She is excited to share her knowledge and experience with her new department and looks forward to growing professionally by learning new things in her teaching role.
Brooke is from Gainesville and has a deaf dog!
We are so proud of you, Brooke!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Madison Baggett, 2nd-grade Blind Elementary Teacher, shares her favorite memory below:
" One of the most memorable events I have been a part of at FSDB was BES Agriculture Day! Our students got a hands-on experience thanks to local farmers and researchers who brought the farm to campus! Coming from a farming family, it was really special to see my students connect with agriculture.
Students met a local beekeeper and learned about the life cycle of bees, explored bee boxes, tasted fresh honey, and even tried on a beekeeper suit. They also learned from researchers who showed them locally grown fruits and vegetables. They tested their senses to identify differences and even got to pick blueberries straight from a bush! A local cabbage farmer taught them about the life cycle of cabbage, its nutritional value, and how to prepare it. Everyone got to take a WHOLE cabbage and a slew of potatoes home!
Ag Day was such a fun event, but it also was a meaningful connection between our school and the agricultural community, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the food we eat and the people who grow it for us! "
#FSDBMemoryMonday
" One of the most memorable events I have been a part of at FSDB was BES Agriculture Day! Our students got a hands-on experience thanks to local farmers and researchers who brought the farm to campus! Coming from a farming family, it was really special to see my students connect with agriculture.
Students met a local beekeeper and learned about the life cycle of bees, explored bee boxes, tasted fresh honey, and even tried on a beekeeper suit. They also learned from researchers who showed them locally grown fruits and vegetables. They tested their senses to identify differences and even got to pick blueberries straight from a bush! A local cabbage farmer taught them about the life cycle of cabbage, its nutritional value, and how to prepare it. Everyone got to take a WHOLE cabbage and a slew of potatoes home!
Ag Day was such a fun event, but it also was a meaningful connection between our school and the agricultural community, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the food we eat and the people who grow it for us! "
#FSDBMemoryMonday
Fall Sports have begun!!
Please be sure to stay current with the sports schedules on our website: fsdbathletics.org
We hope to see you come out and support our Dragons!
#GoFSDBDragons #GoFSDBCobras #FSDBSportsSundays #PridePassionPerserverance
Please be sure to stay current with the sports schedules on our website: fsdbathletics.org
We hope to see you come out and support our Dragons!
#GoFSDBDragons #GoFSDBCobras #FSDBSportsSundays #PridePassionPerserverance
As an FSDB athlete or fan, what is your favorite sport to play or watch?
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeek
#FSDBQuestionOfTheWeek
One of the best parts of being President is spending time with our students after the school day ends.
There’s always something exciting happening on campus—boarding program activities, athletics, recreation, clubs, and enrichment opportunities.
This week, I had the joy of joining the Deaf Middle School girls dorm for their beginning-of-the-year “sorting” activity, where students were placed into teams for the year. Our creative boarding program supervisor used cupcakes with hidden food coloring to reveal each student’s team—so clever and fun!
There’s truly nothing better than connecting with our students and staff… and enjoying a cupcake while doing it!
#ThePrezSnowPost
There’s always something exciting happening on campus—boarding program activities, athletics, recreation, clubs, and enrichment opportunities.
This week, I had the joy of joining the Deaf Middle School girls dorm for their beginning-of-the-year “sorting” activity, where students were placed into teams for the year. Our creative boarding program supervisor used cupcakes with hidden food coloring to reveal each student’s team—so clever and fun!
There’s truly nothing better than connecting with our students and staff… and enjoying a cupcake while doing it!
#ThePrezSnowPost
During the first week of cooking in the apartment, Dracob Hunt is preparing spaghetti while Addison Allen is making BLTs.
#FSDBAfterSchoolWednesdays
#FSDBAfterSchoolWednesdays
Hello FSDB Department Families! We are excited to introduce this year's Virtual Community Braille Course, "Let's Braille Together!"
This eight-week virtual beginner class is designed to teach the fundamentals of beginning braille by sight to help you learn just enough to help your child, student, friend or colleague. Students can then decide whether to learn more and take more intense training!
Parents/guardians, educators, and community members involved with children who are
blind/visually impaired (B/VI) are invited to take this course.
Classes start OCTOBER 20 to DECEMBER. 15, 2025
Every Monday from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST.
To register, please go to the link below:
https://bit.ly/FSDB-Comm-Braille-2025
Questions? Please get in touch with Jennifer Valderrama at valderramaj@fsdbk12.org
Note: These classes are for Florida residents 18 years of age or older. Priority seating is given to Parents of blind or visually impaired children.
Hello FSDB Families! On Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in the Kirk Auditorium, FSDB Parent University Presents: Student Life Open House!
"What happens when the school day is DONE?"
Come see what the students have to say about it!
During this event, you will learn about after-school activities and have an opportunity to meet the excellent staff working with our students.
Meet Staff From:
• Athletics
• Arts
• Recreation
• Mental Health
• School Clubs
• Dorms
All FSDB families are invited to attend this meeting. Day student families, this means you, too! Please reach out to the appropriate Director of Student Life to make plans for your student to stay after school today. Please RSVP by August 26.
Travel reimbursement is available for this event.
Contacts:
Deaf Department: Mel Goodall | botterbuscm@fsdbk12.org
Blind Department: Marja Wheeler | wheelerm@fsdbk12.org
RSVP:
Please RSVP at the link or QR code:
https://bit.ly/Student-Life-Open-House-Fall-2025
"What happens when the school day is DONE?"
Come see what the students have to say about it!
During this event, you will learn about after-school activities and have an opportunity to meet the excellent staff working with our students.
Meet Staff From:
• Athletics
• Arts
• Recreation
• Mental Health
• School Clubs
• Dorms
All FSDB families are invited to attend this meeting. Day student families, this means you, too! Please reach out to the appropriate Director of Student Life to make plans for your student to stay after school today. Please RSVP by August 26.
Travel reimbursement is available for this event.
Contacts:
Deaf Department: Mel Goodall | botterbuscm@fsdbk12.org
Blind Department: Marja Wheeler | wheelerm@fsdbk12.org
RSVP:
Please RSVP at the link or QR code:
https://bit.ly/Student-Life-Open-House-Fall-2025
In D&B Designs, student managers are learning to communicate with customers via email using a professional salutation, body, and closing.
#FSDBCTETuesdays
#FSDBCTETuesdays
Alessandra French, Mental Health Counselor in Deaf Elementary School, shares her favorite memory below:
" The FIRST thing that came to mind was FIELD DAYS! I first got hired as an elementary teacher, so DES was the department I first joined, and Field Days were the first thing I would call "extra" that I joined in on as a new teacher.
I was on the field day committee for most of my year as a DES teacher before I changed positions, and I LOVED IT. The kids ALL knew what field day meant; it was a tradition to paint shirts with your class the day before. The whole school did it, and it got us all so excited! And then we spent all day outside playing water games, eating popcorn and popsicles and having the BEST time. Some kids graduate who will still say their field day is one of their most incredible memories, and it's one of mine, too! "
#FSDBMemoryMonday
" The FIRST thing that came to mind was FIELD DAYS! I first got hired as an elementary teacher, so DES was the department I first joined, and Field Days were the first thing I would call "extra" that I joined in on as a new teacher.
I was on the field day committee for most of my year as a DES teacher before I changed positions, and I LOVED IT. The kids ALL knew what field day meant; it was a tradition to paint shirts with your class the day before. The whole school did it, and it got us all so excited! And then we spent all day outside playing water games, eating popcorn and popsicles and having the BEST time. Some kids graduate who will still say their field day is one of their most incredible memories, and it's one of mine, too! "
#FSDBMemoryMonday
Congratulations to Maddy Brady on her new position!
Maddy was previously an 8th-grade English and Language Arts teacher and is now the Deaf High School and SOAR English teacher.
She is excited to reconnect with the students she taught in 8th grade and to teach them high-level content.
"We have already begun diving deeply into rhetorical analysis, Beowulf, and research for college success!" Maddy shared.
Originally from Tampa, Florida, Maddy enjoys cooking, working out, and reading books.
While she will miss her Deaf Middle School family, Maddy is looking forward to embracing this new challenge.
Way to go, Maddy!!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Maddy was previously an 8th-grade English and Language Arts teacher and is now the Deaf High School and SOAR English teacher.
She is excited to reconnect with the students she taught in 8th grade and to teach them high-level content.
"We have already begun diving deeply into rhetorical analysis, Beowulf, and research for college success!" Maddy shared.
Originally from Tampa, Florida, Maddy enjoys cooking, working out, and reading books.
While she will miss her Deaf Middle School family, Maddy is looking forward to embracing this new challenge.
Way to go, Maddy!!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Congratulations to Nicol Lobaczewski on her new position!
Before joining the CTE Department, Nicol was an Instructional Assistant for Deaf Middle School. She is excited to advance her career as a vocational instructor, where she will gain new skills and experiences. Nicol looks forward to working with students, assisting them with career-related questions, and supporting their personal growth.
Nicol would like to clarify that her name is "Nicol," without an "e." Any previous confusion regarding the spelling was not an error. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, she also has family roots in Poland, which she visited this past summer, along with Paris, France.
We are proud of you, Nicol!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
Before joining the CTE Department, Nicol was an Instructional Assistant for Deaf Middle School. She is excited to advance her career as a vocational instructor, where she will gain new skills and experiences. Nicol looks forward to working with students, assisting them with career-related questions, and supporting their personal growth.
Nicol would like to clarify that her name is "Nicol," without an "e." Any previous confusion regarding the spelling was not an error. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, she also has family roots in Poland, which she visited this past summer, along with Paris, France.
We are proud of you, Nicol!
#ThisIsFSDB #YouBelongAtFSDB #FSDBFam
FSDB Families, mark your calendars! Parent Engagement Workshop presents: Power Up For Success, Level Up Your Learning.
This workshop will be on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. EST at the Moore Hall CLD.
We will be covering the following topics:
Pause, Recharge, Play On: Mental Health Matters at FSDB
Level Up Your Access!:
•New Website overview and mobile app introduction
•Using the Portal & Skyward Parent Portal overview
•Decode assessments and progress monitoring
FSDB President Tracie Snow will also Pop-In!
Please remember to RSVP to ensure we have sufficient supplies, lunch! Travel Reimbursement is available for this event.
For more Information and to RSVP, please go to the link below:
https://www.fsdbk12.org/page/parent-engagement-workshops-pew
This workshop will be on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. EST at the Moore Hall CLD.
We will be covering the following topics:
Pause, Recharge, Play On: Mental Health Matters at FSDB
Level Up Your Access!:
•New Website overview and mobile app introduction
•Using the Portal & Skyward Parent Portal overview
•Decode assessments and progress monitoring
FSDB President Tracie Snow will also Pop-In!
Please remember to RSVP to ensure we have sufficient supplies, lunch! Travel Reimbursement is available for this event.
For more Information and to RSVP, please go to the link below:
https://www.fsdbk12.org/page/parent-engagement-workshops-pew
