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January 21, 2026
Citrus High Schools Hosts Car Show Fundraiser
Citrus High School recently brought students, staff, and community members together for an exciting car show fundraiser. This event featured a wide variety of vehicles, from classic cars to custom builds, all proudly displayed on campus.
Students and attendees had the opportunity to walk through the show, admire the unique designs, and learn about the history behind each car. The car show created a lively atmosphere for car enthusiasts and supporters in the community to enjoy.
The car show fundraiser was a successful example of how Citrus High school continues to find creative ways to engage students and give back. Proceeds from the event went to the FFA program to help support their activities, making the car show not only entertaining but meaningful. By combining a shared passion for cars with a strong cause, Citrus was able to raise funds while strengthening the connections between students and their local community. Events like this highlight the school’s commitment to involvement, teamwork, and school pride, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who attended.
A Step Into Healthcare: Crystal River High School’s Phil Royal EMT Program
Written by Student Writer: Kaitlyn Smith
As Crystal River High School is known for their Academy of Health Careers, many do not know that the EMT pathway is a unique one. During students senior year, the EMT program granted by the College of Central Florida is a rigorous challenge students can persevere through to achieve their Emergency Medical Technician certification — before graduating. The Class of 2026 has four Biomedical Science students who’ve decided to double-up pathways to give them the stepping stone they need for achieving their truly ambitious dreams of working in a Health Science field.
This program wouldn’t be afloat if it wasn’t for the Phil Royal Legacy Foundation. Phil Royal began his work as a firefighter/paramedic in Pasco County in 1987, but moved to Citrus County by 1988 to continue his dedicated work. By 1990, Phil expanded his deep-rooted commitment by attending the Law Enforcement Academy at Withlacoochee Technical College, where he eventually became director. Phil wasn’t just known for his technical skill, but his compassion and ability to treat everyone with dignity. He has touched the lives of many through his work in emergency response, law enforcement, and youth mentorship. After his passing in 2016, the creation of the Phil Royal Legacy Foundation came to be. The foundation's main purpose is to live out Phil’s vision of respecting one another while bringing the community together. Its work reflects Phil's lifelong commitment to supporting the next generation of public safety professionals. Phil Royal wanted Citrus County students to have a stronger pathway into any emergency medical career — hoping that the school’s Emergency Medical Responder program would become a full Emergency Medical Technician program. In January 2020, that goal was met. giving the course its name — The Phil Royal EMT Program.
