Supporting Academic Achievement in

Rural Northeast Florida Communities

November's Resiliency Leaders for Grit

NEFEC supports the development and implementation of Florida's Resiliency Education Initiative. Each month NEFEC superintendents and administrators are recognized for a specific characteristic of resilience.

Superintendent Ted Roush - Suwannee County Schools

Aimee Ferguson, Executive Director of HR, Bradford County

Chasity Lord, Ruth Rains Middle School, Dixie County

Bobby Bossardet, Flagler Palm Coast High School, Flagler County

Ronda Adkins, Trenton Elementary School, Gilchrist County

Dee Westfall, Yankeetown School, Levy County

Tara Middleton, Yulee Middle School, Nassau County

Bradford Aspiring Leaders Completers

Congratulations to Karen Brugh, Tina Maxey, and Audrey Murphy from the Bradford County School District for completing the Aspiring Leaders Program!

The 40-hour program is designed for instructional personnel who desire to explore the possibility of becoming a school leader. Job well done!

For more information on the Aspiring Leaders Program, visit

NEFEC Aspiring Leaders

Annual Secondary Counselors Forum

The Institute for Small and Rural Districts (ISRD) and NEFEC's Instructional Services Program hosted the Annual Secondary Counselor Forum in early November. Over 100 secondary school counselors participated.

The day began with an inspiring keynote from Patrick T. Grady. It continued with informative sessions featuring updates from the Florida Department of Education's Student Support Services, Khan Academy exploring the new digital SAT, and Hamilton County's Elizabeth Mitchell sharing strategies on keeping parents and students informed with all things graduation.

Thank you to all who contributed to an amazing day!

26th Annual Golf Tournament

FREE's annual golf tournament is scheduled for March 22, 2024, at The Palatka Golf Club.