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Citrus County Schools

Every Journey Begins Here...

 

Citrus High Students stand together in front of a large window during a trip to the State's capital in Tallahassee FL.

Citrus High Leaders Visit State Capitol in Tallahassee

 

On Tuesday, December 2nd, students from Citrus High School’s Superintendent’s Council and Student Government took a special trip to Tallahassee. There, students spent the day exploring the state's capitol building and learning about Florida's government. The visit was designed to give student leaders an opportunity to get a first-hand look at state leadership. 

During their time in Tallahassee, Citrus High students toured not only the capitol building but also sat in the House Chamber to learn about how it functions. Members of the Superintendent’s Council and Student Government said the experience was both inspiring and eye-opening, noting that they now better understand how local governments work, the responsibilities of public officials, and the importance of being involved as citizens. This trip not only strengthened students' leadership skills but also encouraged them to think about the impact they can make as leaders in the future. 


 

 

Lecanto High School Students Spread Holiday Cheer at Their
Annual “Reindeers for Residents” Event

 

 

Student Writer: Amadeus Solis

 

 

SGA Advisor Angela Rausch and the students from Lecanto High School will once again bring holiday cheer to the Citrus community during the school’s annual Reindeers for Residents service event, held this year on Wednesday, December 10, 2024, at The Reserve Assisted Living Facility in Lecanto. The event, hosted by the LHS Student Government Association (SGA) in collaboration with IB CAS and other school clubs, aims to connect students with local senior residents through music, crafts, and conversation.

“Reindeers for Residents” is designed to create meaningful intergenerational connections, offering students the chance to brighten the holidays for individuals who may not otherwise receive many visitors. Students provide their own transportation and meet directly at The Reserve, where they spend up to two hours participating in activities. Reindeers for Resident is entering its 8th year of holiday service; however, before Reindeers, the Elves for Elderly program operated for over a decade. The Rausch family, Angela, Celeste, Colton, Hollie, Aby, and Coach, have committed themselves to this project for close to two decades.

While caroling is a staple of the evening, students stress that the event is not limited to singing. Students are encouraged to mingle, talk with residents, participate in crafts, and engage in simple activities. “We’re there to bring joy and company,” Ms. Dutcher shared. “If students don’t want to sing the entire time, that’s okay. The residents love sing-alongs too, and everyone joins in together.”

In addition to visiting residents, Lecanto students are participating in a holiday ‘Stocking Stuffing’ to collect items such as socks, mittens, small blankets, snacks, lotions, and games for residents. Although bringing a pre-made stocking is not mandatory, students who choose to create one will earn community service hours, as they will for singing or participating in the event itself.

This year’s event offers a unique opportunity for students from all grade levels and organizations to give back, support one another, and strengthen the school’s culture of service. “Reindeers for Residents” embodies Lecanto High School’s commitment to kindness, involvement, and community stewardship during the holiday season.

Students interested in attending can scan the QR code on the event flyer or arrive at The Reserve Assisted Living Facility, 2341 W. Norvell Bryant Highway, anytime between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM. With stockings, songs, crafts, and warm conversations, Lecanto’s young “reindeer” are ready to make spirits bright once again.

 

Lecanto High Students pose together in front of a decorated Christmas tree during Reindeers for Residents event.

Lecanto High students and residents at the Reserve gather around a table, participating in crafts during Reindeers for Residents event.

Lecanto High students sit around tables, engaged in conversation with residents at The Reserve during the Reindeer for Residents event.