Prism
BHS Parent Newsletter - April 5, 2024
Dates to Remember
April 11: Writing Test
April 18: Spring Concert & Art Show (6:30)
April 25: Show Choir to Disney
April 26: Poetry Slam
April 29: Physical Sports Screening (3:30-7:00)
May 1: Algebra 1 EOC
May 2: Geometry EOC
May 2: Senior Recital (6:30)
May 3: Chess Tournament
May 7: US History EOC
May 9: FAST ELA (9th-10th)
May 9: Sports Awards (6:30; Kirk Aud.)
May 9: Senior Trip to Nocatee Waterpark (3:00)
May 10: MAP Math (morning)
May 13: NO SCHOOL
May 14: MAP Reading (afternoon)
May 15: Biology EOC
May 15: Senior Trip - Universal Studios
May 22: Graduation Practice (8:30am)
May 22: Senior Awards (1:15)
May 23: High School Graduation (12:00pm)
May 27: NO SCHOOL
May 31: LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
FSDB Parent/Family Climate Survey - Deadline Extended
It is time for our Spring FSDB Parent/Family Climate Survey! Please take time to fill out the survey before Friday, April 12th (deadline extended). We want to know how we can do things better and what we should celebrate. The educational experience we provide to our students will continue to grow and thrive with your help and partnership. We are excited to hear from you!
Sincerely,
Tracie C. Snow
FSDB President
Survey Links
Parent Climate Survey in English
Encuesta de clima para padres en español
View School Climate Survey for Parents in ASL
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¡Es hora de nuestra Encuesta de clima familiar/padres de FSDB de primavera! Tómese el tiempo para completar la encuesta antes del viernes 12 de abril (plazo extendido). Queremos saber cómo podemos hacer mejor las cosas y qué debemos celebrar. La experiencia educativa que brindamos a nuestros estudiantes continuará creciendo y prosperando con su ayuda y colaboración. Estamos emocionados de saber de!
Atentamente,
Tracie C. Snow
Presidenta de la FSDB
Enlaces de encuestas
Parent Climate Survey in English
Encuesta de clima para padres en español
Justin Cosgrove, Assistant Principal
We just wrapped up another prom season in the Blind High School. Our junior class sponsors, Ms. Lang, Mr. Puch, and Ms. Mackey did a tremendous job in making sure the kids had a night to remember.
Now, we move into the stretch run. Our freshmen and sophomores will take the BEST Writing test on Thursday, 4/11/2024. Their teachers have been working on making sure the students are ready to roll for this test. As we get closer to the finish line, please remind your students to keep focused and finish strong.
Thank you for your continued support of our school.
Artist-in-Residence Visit from Pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner
Alexis Fernandes, BHS Senior
Renowned pianist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner inspired students at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind during his visit on March 21st. A graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School of Music in New York City, Sanchez-Werner captivated students with his remarkable talent and inspiring journey in the world of classical music.
During his visit, Sanchez-Werner shared insights into his own musical journey, highlighting the transformative power of classical music in connecting people and enriching communities. He emphasized the importance of music as a universal language that transcends barriers, resonating deeply with the diverse student body of the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind.
Sanchez-Werner’s engagement with the students extended beyond mere performance. He took the time to mentor one of the school’s own students, Levi, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for music in future generations.
In an interactive session with members of the high school Music Department, Sanchez-Werner encouraged students to share their favorite composers, sparking discussions about musical preferences and styles. From Stravinsky to Schumann and Beethoven, the students were inspired by Sanchez-Werner’s passion for classical music and his ability to connect with audiences of all backgrounds.
Moreover, Sanchez-Werner expressed his appreciation for other genres, including jazz and Latin American music, showcasing the diversity of his musical influences and expanding the students’ horizons. He weaved this into discussions beyond the technical playing of notes and mentored students on finding the meaning and power of music in a transcendental way and challenged them to go well beyond the mere playing of notes.
The visit left a lasting impression on students, who gained valuable insights into the world of classical music and the possibilities it holds for personal and collective growth. Sanchez-Werner’s mentorship and performance served as a testament to the transformative power of music, reaffirming its importance in education and community building.
Llewellyn poses next to BHS pianist Derrick.
Llewellyn plays the grand piano while select music students listen intently.
Llewellyn offers feedback and conversation with BHS pianist Levi.
Cobra Chats Are Back!
Hillary Norman, BMS Technology Teacher
There was a delay, but Cobra Chats has resumed! See below for the link to the latest episode of Cobra Chats.
Poll Results: Would You Prefer a 4 Day Workweek?
In the last issue, Jasen McDaniel wrote an article about the 4-day workweek that is becoming more common around the world. He discussed pros and cons as it relates to a school such as ours.
The results of the poll are:
Yes, I would prefer a 4-day work week: 96%
No, I would prefer to keep a 5-day work week: 4%
Engineering Design Process
Kim McCombs, High School Teacher
The High School Earth/Space science classes have been learning about designing solutions to resource problems through the study of the engineering design process and product life-cycle analysis. Students began the unit by evaluating the resources and costs associated with making paper vs. plastic shopping bags and the economic, social, and environmental costs of using renewable and nonrenewable natural resources.
Next, students studied the life-cycle analysis of Jeans and the associated costs in the making, using, and disposing of a pair of jeans, along with hidden environmental and social/political ramifications for other countries.
Finally, students were presented with a design engineering game challenge. They put their knowledge and skills to the test by designing and building Lego Marble Mazes that met certain requirements and criteria. It was great to see the different approaches to the design phase, the unique spins on development, and the creative modifications the different teams came up with. We had some great quality control assistance from Mr. Cosgrove during the optimizing phase!
BHS Art Room News
Sculpture 1 & 2 students have been experimenting with plaster cloth and combining it with a variety of materials to create mixed media sculptures. 2-D Studio students have been enjoying experimental paint techniques using rollers, brushes, marbles, and nature items. They’re using their custom painted paper to create collages and mixed media projects on canvas.
BHS art students will renew their focus on the Principles of Art and Design during the fourth quarter as they complete personal projects and prepare for the Spring Art Show opening on the evening of April 18th. The tactile show will be open for visitors an hour before and after the Spring Music Concert and will be on display for students and staff through Tuesday, April 23rd.
Music in Our Schools Month
March marks the month where music in schools is celebrated. Music in Our Schools Month (MIOSM) is sponsored by the National Association of Music Education. School music programs accomplish so much more than just playing or listening to music. Strong music education programs are essential to all children's overall education.
While parents, administrators, and the wider community often only see the wonderful results of a music performance, what is often missed are the months of practice and rehearsals and more importantly the learning process that takes place to make it all happen. The true purpose of arts education is not to create more professional musicians or dancers or artists. The purpose is to create more complete human beings who are critical thinkers with curious minds who can lead productive lives. Countless research studies have proven the many benefits of music education specifically in creating neural pathways, strengthening creative thinking, improving math and reading skills, and bolstering time management skills, health, stability, and decision-making skills. Social skills, self-discipline, and a sense of belonging also go hand-in-hand with music programs. Music education students are high achievers. Music is the one subject that requires the use of the left and right hemispheres of the brain to work equally at the same time.
The Music Department at FSDB celebrated Music in Our Schools Month this year with a plethora of music activities showcasing the students.
An Overview of MIOSM at FSDB:
Below is a list of all of the fun, awesome, educational events that took place during the past month:
2/28-29: The Layover/Act 2 Theatre Presentations
2/28: Tri-M Music Honor Society Inductions
2/29: International Thespian Society Inductions
3/1-4/2: Music Madness Music Bracket Competition
3/6: Spring Open House Event (Blinding Lights and McKenzie B)
3/7: Blinding Lights Performance at the Mooney Awards
3/13-3/17: International Thespian Society Florida State Festival (Music Theatre - Tampa)
3/18: New Yamaha Silent Piano Delivery to the Music Building
3/21: Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner Masterclass Presentation
3/21: Blinding Lights sings National Anthem at the Orlando Magic NBA game (with 25,000 FB views and over 300 shares!)
3/23: McKenzie B sings National Anthem at the Jacksonville Icemen Hockey Game
3/28: The Music Man Elementary Theater Production (stay tuned for a write-up and photos in our next issue!)
Athletics Physical Screening
Hello parents!
This year, our Athletics program provides free Physical Screening for all student-athletes from 5th grade to high school students on April 29th and May 15th. You should already have received the EL-2 form via e-mail and mail. If you have any questions or concerns about the EL-2 form, you can reach out to the Athletic Director, Billy Lange, at langew@fsdbk12.org or Staff Assistant, Michelle Tallent, at tallentm@fsdbk12.org.
Thank you,
The Athletics Department
Free Heart Screening
Joy Fraychineaud, Executive Director of Physical Education and Health
You know our Athletics program provides free Physical Screening every year. I am excited to announce that we will provide free Heart Screening for our students. We will have Who We Play For to come and work with us. It will happen at the same time with Sports Physical.
Why should your child have the heart screening? It helps to detect problems before they become major medical issues. If your child did not have the opportunity to have the heart screening, Sudden Cardiac Arrest can happen.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest Stats
*No symptoms prior - 80%
*Youth with Heart Condition - 1 in 300
*Cause of Death on School Campuses - #1
The standard physical detects about 4% of underlying heart conditions. An electrocardiogram (ECG) increases detection to over 95%. We want to be sure that every student to have the opportunity to have the heart screening. The heart screening using ECG is painless and it takes only 5 minutes to complete.
You need to sign up by registering your child online. Remember, it is free!
If you have any questions, you can contact me at fraychineaj@fsdbk12.org. You can learn more about Who We Play For at WhoWePlayFor.org
Consent Forms and More Information About Heart Screening
The first heart screening will be on April 29th from 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Copeland Gym. It will be for all football players and high school student-athletes. You will need to register your child here at https://wwpf.as.me/FSDB42924. You must complete the required consent form.
The second heart screening will be on May 15th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Copeland Gym. From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the heart screening will be for our elementary students who are over 10 years old. It is also for middle school and high school students who do not want to participate in sports. From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the heart screening will be for our fifth graders, middle school student-athletes, and others who missed the appointment on April 29th. You will need to register your child here at https://wwpf.as.me/FSDB51524.
You must complete the required consent form!
You can learn more about Who We Play For at www.WhoWePlayFor.org
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact me at fraychineaj@fsdbk12.org. You can also call me at 904-201-4513.
Ray Charles Apartment
David Mack, Dormitory Program Supervisor
Apartment Young Men students are continuing to master cooking skills with only a couple of shopping trips left for the year. We have about 6 or 7 left. The goal for the month of April 2024 is for our young men to host a positive peer transition social for the incoming juniors.
The past week several of our young men participated in one-on-one video presentation for the Dorm & Parent Open House Presentation. The young men shared with the parents what they enjoyed about the Apartment Program this year, as well as what life skills they have obtained and their goals they would carry with them into the future. The transition social will be a good way for students to show off some of the kitchen skills they obtained throughout the year.
Several seniors have applied for academic and community scholarships. We continue to encourage the young men to apply for as many as possible. A few students have also received their college acceptance letters. This is a major step for these students as it represents the accomplishment of the Apartment Program’s ultimate goals: Developing Lives and Shaping Futures. We have a few students planning on attending an independent living program. Some students shared they have set up their first orientation visits, while others are waiting. The students will soon be aging out of our program, but stressed to our team that they would definitely be keeping in touch. This time of the year is always bittersweet. The young men have made it to the first set of shaping the rest of their lives. Our team is very proud of them all.
Blind High School will be enjoying their Junior / Senior Prom this week, while Deaf High School will have pleasure next month. We are all super proud of our young men and we all look forward to their individual future success.
Wartmann Hall
Cynequa Elmore, Dormitory Program Supervisor
For the remainder of the school year students will use journaling to reflect on their feelings and decision-making. Students will be given 2 or 3 prompts a week to write. Students were given the opportunity to decorate their journals.
Koger Hall
Dawn Ausilli, Dormitory Program Supervisor
#KOGERINDEPENDENCE
Spotlight on Students from the Class of 2024
Leslie Costello, Senior Sponsor
This year's graduating class is the largest in Blind High School history. Thirty-three students will be walking across the stage on May 23. Traditionally we highlight these students in both newsletters so that parents, teachers, and other stakeholders can see what they have accomplished and the direction they are headed after receiving the education, love, and support from everyone at FSDB. Enjoy reading their thoughts and accomplishments as we highlight several students in each of the remaining newsletters for this school year.
Yainoli Garcia
Yainoli "Gia" Garcia is from Orlando, Florida. She came to FSDB at the end of her sophomore year but quickly joined the fabric of the campus. Yainoli was involved with Goalball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Wrestling, Track, Theatre, Leadership Council, ITS, Show Choir, Young Life, Dance Troupe, and Social Dance Club. She was Class President, Prom Queen, and won several awards - the Director's music award, Cross Country Most Improved, and Cheerleading Leadership award. During school breaks, she worked at Joyful Music Therapy as Stage Crew and as a Mentor, Lighthouse Works Call Center in customer service, United Against Poverty as a stocker, and has been an assistant at her family’s business MLB Sport Barbershop Beauty Salon & Nails since she can remember.
Yainoli has an older sister whose children are Gia's favorite people in the world, her nephew and niece. She has a younger sister and younger brother as well. Her parents whom she says do everything they can to make her happy, and her "other half", her Grandma.
One of her favorite memories from FSDB is any time that she'd have to stay for sports, because it's always been fun and she had her favorite people with her to make the best memories with, especially at the social dances. She is also grateful for all the memories created with her class, "one of the craziest groups you can meet who are all talented." She wishes to give special thanks to Coach Tutak, who was like her "school Mom", and Coach Lia for her commitment and strictness, as well as her other coaches for never giving up on her.
To FSDB, she is grateful for every opportunity she was given and for all the staff for seeing something in her that she genuinely couldn't see, viewing her as a successful multi-tasker and leader. Almost every staff member is always there for you and genuinely hear you out.
Her advice to those coming up behind her are to not let what others want or say influence you to break your morals or boundaries; if they are truly your friends, they will prove to you how much they value it. Always remember that whatever you do, do it for yourself.
Yainoli plans to attend either FSCJ or Valencia College to earn her AA degree and then go on to University of Central Florida to major in Theatre and Fashion with a minor in Communications.
Emily Monroe
Emily Monroe is from Orange Park, Florida. She joined FSDB halfway through her 8th grade year. While at FSDB, Emily was involved in Chorus, Young Life, and Outdoor Club. Through VERC, she worked as a docent at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and at a daycare as a general assistant.
Emily has an older sister, Caylee. She enjoys spending time with her 2 mini Dachshunds.
Her favorite memory at FSDB is singing with her classmates in Chorus and performing on stage in concerts. She is grateful for FSDB's teachers having professional business conversations about life skills after graduation to help prepare her for adult life.
Her advice to younger students about to enter high school is to try to get all your assignments done the day it is assigned and to prioritize longer assignments chronologically. It is easier to stay ahead than to try to catch up.
Emily plans to defer accepting her diploma and will return to FSDB to improve her independent living skills and work toward certification in Early Childhood through FCTC.
Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez is from Saint Johns, Florida. Jonathan started at FSDB in Kindergarten and stayed through sixth grade, then left but returned for his senior year. Since returning to FSDB, Jonathan has been an active member of Blind Cadence Drum Line, Concert Band, Ski Club, Wrestling, and Young Life, and has participated in Goalball. Outside of school, Jonathan plays baseball with Field of Dreams and has participated in Cyber Patriots, a cybersecurity competition club and High School High Tech, providing community work and volunteer experiences.
Jonathan has a brother, Alex and a step-sister, Jaiden. Like Jonathan, they too are involved in various activities. For instance, 11th grader Alex plays bassoon in concert band and alto saxophone in marching band and works at Code Wiz, showing similar interests as Jonathan. 8th grader Jaiden plays oboe in the concert band and alto saxophone in the marching band. Jonathan also has 3 pets: a dog named Bella and 2 cats named Bonnie and Clyde.
His favorite memory from FSDB is attending the Braille Challenge. He enjoyed competing in the competitions, playing the drums at the drum circle, and looking at all of the new technology on display.
He is grateful for the Orientation and Mobility program at FSDB for preparing him for the future. He appreciates the mobility instructors taking the time to show him around campus, showing people how to navigate to all of your classes independently, and showing routes off-campus to nearby restaurants and stores.
His advice for younger students is to learn to manage your time carefully, advocate if you need help, and pass all of your classes so you can do all of the fun extra-curricular activities.
Jonathan has always been interested in technology and is looking forward to earning technology certifications and getting a good job in IT. He plans to attend Daytona Rehab Center Independent Skills and Technology programs to obtain certifications toward a future in Technology and Cybersecurity. He plans to then transfer to a college or university to continue his technology education and then work in the technology sector.
Kaylee Peterson
Kaylee Peterson is from Jacksonville, Florida. She has been at FSDB continuously since 3rd grade. She describes herself as positive, helpful and grateful for good friends. Kaylee has enjoyed participating in Clay Club, Young Life, Braille Challenge, Chorus, Illusion Color Guard and Goalball. She has participated in several Career Experience classes.
Kaylee has an older sister who is 21. She also has a step-brother who lives in North Dakota. She enjoys spending time with her 2 dogs and 2 cats.
Her favorite memory at FSDB was spending time with Ms. Denise and other staff members within the school. She also loved the Ice Cream Socials, Valentine's Day activities, and the middle school Christmas events.
She is grateful for how the staff at FSDB treat her and everyone fairly and equally with respect, and how so many people were able to spread a lot of positivity throughout her years here. While there have been some challenges, she feels good and quite confident about her next steps into adulthood thanks to all that FSDB has done to prepare her. It has been the best place!
Her advice to those younger than her is to stay positive and show your true colors. She also wishes everyone the best of luck in your future.
Kaylee plans to return to FSDB in the fall for the Continuing Education Program where she will expand her skills.
Timothy Sousa
Timothy is from Titusville, Florida. He started at FSDB early in his freshman year. While at FSDB, he participated in Young Life, the Culinary program, and Marketing. He was dual-enrolled at FCTC, where he completed 3 automotive certifications. Outside of FSDB, he participated in Young Sound Seekers in conjunction with Stetson University, the Atlantic Center for the Arts, and the Center for the Visually Impaired, where he learned about natural sounds, environmental conservation, and appreciation for the outdoor space.
His favorite memory of FSDB was when he first met Mr. Alexander in his math class his first year here. He is very grateful for having the opportunity to attend FSDB because her always believed that he had a lot more potential, and FSDB brought that out in him.
His advice to younger students comes in the form of a quote: To succeed you must first make the mistake and learn from it.
Tim will be joining a program under the Conklin Davis Center for a year to learn new job and life skills before continuing his education, possibly in the auto technician field. He looks forward to finding a job that he can enjoy doing.
Spotlight on Coach Keith Young
Coach Keith Young is a Physical Education Teacher in both the blind and deaf departments, where he has taught for 15 years. While his hometown is Saint Augustine, he was a military brat who moved around the world and ended up in Honolulu, Hawaii for his high school years. Prior to working at FSDB, he served in the US Air Force for 12 years as an Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician and also owned a martial arts school. In addition to his role as the Physical Education Teacher, he is the Boys' Goalball Coach since 2015. That team has won the last 5 US National High School Goalball Championships and has several members on the US Men's National Goalball Team and the US Boys Youth National Goalball Team.
Keith has a bachelor's degree in physical education, a master's degree in educational leadership and in physical education and health, and a specialist in education degree in physical education and health. His certifications are physical education K-12, health education K-12, exceptional special education K-12, educational leadership K-12, and Visual Impairment.
He is married to Samantha, a registered dietitian. They have a daughter, Abbey, who is in graduate school on her way to becoming a clinical psychologist. They also have a 6-year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Kahuna.
In his free time, he loves reading books about US and military history, biographies, sports science, coaching, and athletes. Recently, he has started gardening.
Coach Young was first interested in working at FSDB because he loves challenges! He states that he owes so much to retired physical education department Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Donna Johnson for hiring and believing in him. He really enjoys teaching the students and watching them grow into young adults! As a physical education teacher, he has students from grades Kindergarten to 12th grade!
Coach Young is grateful that through coaching Goalball at FSDB, he was asked to be the USA Men's National Goalball Team Head Coach since 2019. He coached that team at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games and will be coaching at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. He was also a former USA Deaf Taekwondo Team head coach and coached at the 2013 Sofia Deaflympics. "I’ve been very fortunate to coach and visit around the world!," he said.
Follow Us on Social Media!
Facebook: FSDBBlindHighSchool
https://www.facebook.com/FSDBBlindHighSchool?mibextid=LQQJ4dor
Instagram: @fsdb_bhs
FLDOE Family Portal
The following assessments are now available in the FLDOE Family Portal:
2023-24 PM1 FAST 3 – 10
Fall 2023 FAST ELA Reading Retake and Fall 2023 B.E.S.T. EOC
To access FLDOE Family Portal through Skyward Family Access please follow these steps:
Skyward Family Access > District Links > FLDOE Family Portal
2023-24 Academic Calendar
2024-2025 Academic Calendar
ACCESSING STUDENT PHOTOS
How to access student school photos:
- Go to fsdb.zenfolio.com
- Click “Find Your Photos”
- Enter your child’s Gallery ID number in the box. (Note: Child’s ID number is his/her 5-digit lunch pin number.
If your child does not know the number, please contact administrative assistant Ms. Linda Comeaux.
Parent-Student Handbook Updated
English (PDF): https://www.fsdbk12.org/_files/ugd/527372_fc67617696ae4309b81d119c8117310c.pdf
English (Accessible): https://docs.google.com/document/d/189oKfJEPtQ_yQooJLzkfQ6LGulRbG0yFKjIgq04GN0M/view#heading=h.75fuoq3xm0gu
Spanish (PDF): https://www.fsdbk12.org/_files/ugd/527372_375ea8a0da134cf493f526542d0bbc4b.pdf
Spanish (Accessible): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1I4PT3BEqWWFIhKPXK1iXH7dLYPQUT_R9D4evXppXlNM/view#heading=h.75fuoq3xm0gu
Note: When there are updates due to statutes, rules, or expectations, we review our Parent-Student Handbook, make changes, and re-publish it to our website.
Contact Us
BHS Office
PH: 904-827-2715
Health Care Center
PH: 904-827-2410
VP: 904-201-3910
Transportation
PH: 800-992-8747
Koger Hall (Girls Dorm)
PH: 904-827-2733
MacWilliams Hall (Boys Dorm)
PH: 904-827-2725
Apartments – Boys (Seniors)
PH: 904-827-8247
Apartments – Girls (Seniors)
PH: 904-827-2510
Parent Services
PH: 904-827-2212
VP: 904-201-4527
Campus Police
PH: 904-827-2315
Email: cosgrovej@fsdbk12.org
Website: www.fsdbk12.org/blind-high-school
Location: 207 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL, USA
Facebook: facebook.com/groups/fsdbblindhighschool
The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB) does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, political opinion, affiliation, marital status, genetic information, disability, veteran status or any other basis as mandated by federal and state law in its educational programs, services or activities, or in its hiring or employment practices. FSDB also provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups as required by law.
Contacts for questions, complaints, or requests for additional information are as follows:
Student Discrimination/Harassment
FSDB Boarding Program Administrator
PH: 904-827-2603
Requests in writing can be sent to:
Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind
207 San Marco Avenue
St. Augustine, FL 32084