January 24, 2018
See My Success: Seminole Ridge HS Student Battles Brain Tumor, Strives to Live Life to the Fullest
At the age of 14, Seminole Ridge High School senior Dasani McLeod Geohagen began having intense migraine headaches.  Her parents ultimately took her to get a CT Scan, the results of which would change her life. 

"I had craniopharyngioma. Being in that hospital bed makes you feel vulnerable in a sense," Dasani shares. "I mean, I'm like, 'I'm going to die.''

Three surgeries later, Dasani is in great health.  She reports each year to St. Jude's Children's Hospital each year for a clinical research study, and has vowed to make every moment of her life count. 

"Having a brain tumor changed my outlook on life, because I realized, you [have to] live life to the fullest. You never know when it's going to be taken away."

Click play above to watch Dasani's remarkable story. 
Choice Program Application Deadline Extended through February 2
The window to apply for a Choice program for the 2018-2019 school year has been extended through February 2, 2018.

This extension does not apply to the December 1, 2017 deadline for Arts programs requiring auditions.  Learn more...
Barnes & Noble Helps Foster a Love of Reading in Palm Beach County Children
Celebrate Literacy Week, Florida! is underway in Palm Beach County, and local Barnes & Noble stores are doing their part to ensure students have access to new books that will help them grow as readers.

More than 6,200 students will receive free books this week, thanks to proceeds from the book drive that took place in Barnes & Noble stores during the holiday season.

Lantana Elementary School students were excited to dive into their new books with School Board Member Erica Whitfield, who shared their enthusiasm for the new titles. Read more...
Saturday Passport Fairs Coming to WPB Post Office
Planning a summer vacation abroad? Circle February 24 or March 24 on your calendar! The WPB Post Office has scheduled Passport Fairs on Saturdays - no need to request time off from work or pull the kids out of school! Appointments are not required and multiple passport agents will be available both days to expedite the process.
See Tracks? Think Train.  Help us Promote Rail Safety in Palm Beach County

As you are likely aware, Brightline trains are now traveling throughout Palm Beach County. 

Motorists and pedestrians - including students walking/biking to and from schools - should practice safety and use caution when approaching railroad crossings. 

The District plays a critical role in educating families and children about railway safety.  Please take a few moments to review the safety tips in the photo above with your students, and  click here to access additional safety resources. 
Quote of the Day
"Think like a proton and stay positive." 
"You're a 10? Maybe on a pH scale, cause you're basic!"
"What do plants eat between meals? A 'light' snack!" 
"You are living, you occupy space, you MATTER!"

Science teachers at John F. Kennedy Middle School got a little cheeky this week, making sure students were encouraged, motivated and ready to take their diagnostic assessments.  View photos...
District Employees - Share Your Selfies and Tell Us Your Success Stories!

As a Team PBCSD employee, we know you're awesome - and we want to share your success stories with the world!

The Department of Communications and Engagement is once again asking employees to be part of a selfie campaign.  Click here to learn how you can get involved and become PBCSD famous! 
Attending Educational Summit 2018? Registrations are Due February 3

The event will include sessions on planning for college, setting the stage for academic success, mental health, financial aid/planning and much more! Free breakfast and lunch will be provided. Registrations are due February 3. Participants must register for the summit by emailing  [email protected].
Tax Season is Here, W-2 Forms Now Available

W-2 forms for 2017 are now available through Employee Self Service in PeopleSoft.

For those employees who did not consent to receive their W-2 electronically, the District will mail the forms to the employee's address on record.  Learn more...
Tell Me Something Good....
High school seniors have taken over the Palm Beach County convention center this week, participating in the District's annual HBCU/HSI College Fair. In addition to learning more about postgraduate options from the institutions in attendance, many students are leaving the Fair with acceptance letters and scholarship offers in hand! 

Jupiter High School senior Christian Holmes received an extra special surprise this morning. Palm Beach State College offered her the  Presidential Honors College Scholarship (valued at $12,000!) to help her pay for her education. Congratulations, Christian! 
 Looking to Save Some Cash? Check Out Deals on the Employee Discount Portal!
The Employee Discount Portal is your one-stop shop for great deals on a variety of goods and services! From vacations and entertainment to cell phone service and car dealership discounts, visit the Employee Discount Portal to make sure you always get the best deal!