A Message from the Principal: September at FSUS
Dear FSUS Families,
As we approach the end of September, I am filled with immense pride for our incredible scholars, teachers, and the entire FSUS community. From our flourishing academics to the excitement on campus, it’s clear that this school year is off to a fantastic start. Our fall sports are in full swing, and the energy from students, staff, and families is contagious!
This month was packed with exciting events. Highlights include the Middle School Club Rush on the 18th, Early Release Day, Dad's Take Your Child to School Day, the Middle School Glow Dance, and the return of the Walking School Bus—just to name a few. Be sure to check the school calendar for full details so you don’t miss out on any of the fun.
FSUS continues to shine as a premier academic institution, and I am truly honored to serve as your K-8 principal. Thank you for your unwavering support, and let’s make the rest of September amazing!
Go Noles,
Principal Wilkinson
Introducing the FSUS School Motto: Inspiring Pride and Excellence
This school year, we've introduced a new FSUS School Motto for grades K-8, and it’s already making a big impact! Played daily on the morning announcements, the motto serves as a reminder to our students of the values we hold dear at FSUS—hard work, integrity, and respect. The motto is more than just words; it’s a way for students to start each day with a sense of pride and purpose.
Since its introduction, the school motto has helped unify our K-8 scholars, reinforcing the idea that we are all part of something greater. It’s become a point of pride for the entire FSUS community, reminding us that together, we can achieve excellence.
As we continue to instill these values in our students, we look forward to seeing them carry this sense of pride both in and out of the classroom.
"Gimme a Break" Program: Showing Appreciation for Our Middle School Teachers!
Shoutout to Coach Kelley and Coach Harley for their amazing initiative, the "Gimme a Break" program, designed to support our hardworking middle school teachers. This thoughtful program gives teachers a much-needed breather by providing them with a KitKat bar and covering for them during those extra moments they need—whether it’s for making additional copies or handling parent phone calls.
At FSUS, we know how important our teachers are, and Coach Kelley and Coach Harley's program is just one of the many ways we express our appreciation. We love our teachers and are always looking for creative ways to make their day a little brighter!
Gold Orchestra Students Master Posture with a Fun Challenge!
FSUS Gold Orchestra students have been working hard on improving their posture in a unique and fun way—by balancing wiffle balls and bouncy balls on their violin strings! While it might sound simple, this challenge is much harder than it looks. The exercise helps students focus on maintaining proper playing posture, which is essential for good technique and sound.
This creative approach to learning is just one of the ways our orchestra students are honing their skills while keeping things playful and engaging.
Join "Color a Better World" Vol. 5- Submit Your Artwork!
By participating, your child will have the opportunity to share their positive message with our community and help support the elementary art department through this important fundraiser. The coloring book is more than just an art project. It is a medium through which students learn and share values that are essential to fostering a compassionate and connected community. This project gives students a sense of belonging and pride, providing them with an opportunity to see their work published and celebrated.
How to Participate:
Who: K-5 students are invited to submit their original drawings.
What: Artwork should reflect the theme "Healthy Habits, Happy Lives." (Follow Submission Guidelines)
When: Please submit the artwork by Friday, October 4.
FSUS had the honor of hosting Florida's Teacher of the Year, Jaime Suarez, on September 5. This incredible educator was recognized for their dedication, innovative teaching methods, and commitment to student success across the state.
Ms. Suarez spent time with our teachers and students, sharing valuable insights on best practices in education, classroom strategies, and building meaningful connections with students. The event included a Q&A session where our students had the opportunity to engage in a rich dialogue about the future of education in Florida.
Principal Wilkinson expressed her excitement about the visit, stating, “Having such a distinguished guest at FSUS allows us to learn and grow as a school. Our faculty is inspired to continue our mission of providing exceptional education for every student.”
We are grateful for the visit and look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in education.
8th Grade Teachers Host Grade-Level Breakfasts for Collaboration and Fellowship
Our middle school teachers recently came together to host a series of grade-level breakfasts, fostering collaboration and strengthening relationships among the staff. These gatherings provide a relaxed setting for teachers to share ideas, discuss strategies, and connect with one another outside of the classroom.
The breakfasts are designed to build a sense of community and teamwork, allowing teachers to support one another while enhancing the learning experience for our students. We are grateful for the dedication of our middle school team
Dad's Take Your Child to School Day & Walking School Bus Event a Big Success!
On Thursday, September 19th, FSUS PTSA held a fantastic event combining two wonderful traditions: Dad's Take Your Child to School Day and our first Walking School Bus of the year! It was an exciting morning filled with smiles, fun, and community spirit as fathers, students, and families joined together to kick off the day in a special way.
The morning started bright and early at the Southwood Town Center, where families gathered for the Walking School Bus. A large group of enthusiastic students and their dads, as well as other family members, checked in by 7:15 am near El Jalisco’s and then made their way to the flagpole green space. Led by trained volunteers, the group departed at 7:30 am, walking the planned route to school. It was a great way for everyone to enjoy some fresh air and exercise before the school day began.
After arriving at school, fathers and father figures stayed to enjoy pastries and photo opportunities with their children. It was heartwarming to see so many dads—along with stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, and other significant role models—spending quality time with the students. Although the event focused on dads, many mothers and other family members joined in the celebration, making it a true family affair. Thanks to everyone who participated, it was a memorable and meaningful way to bring our FSUS families together.
We can’t wait to see even more of you at next year’s event!
Dads Take Your Child to School Day: A Special Spotlight on Dr. Small
We are excited to celebrate Dads Take Your Child to School Day, a special opportunity for fathers and parental figures to be involved in their child’s education. This day highlights the important role dads play in their children's lives and in our school community. Dr. Small, a dedicated father to Christopher Small, Jr., sets a wonderful example for us all. Not only is he an involved dad, but he also serves as a positive role model for our students, often stepping in as that loving, supportive figure when needed.
Middle School SGA Hosts Back-to-School Glow Dance
Our Middle School Student Government Association (SGA) kicked off the school year in style by hosting a fun-filled Back-to-School Glow Dance! The event was a glowing success, with students enjoying an event of dancing, music, and neon lights. The SGA worked hard to create a welcoming and exciting atmosphere to help students bond, make new friends, and start the year on a positive note.
We’re so proud of our SGA for organizing such a fantastic event, and we can’t wait to see what else they have planned for the school year!
K-8 Dismissal Procedures
Elementary Walkers & Bike riders: Students who are walking home or riding their bikes are permitted to walk to the back gate with Special Area teacher, Ms. Curtin. It is expected that these students promptly exit the campus and head home, rather than lingering outside the gate.
K-8 Car riders: All students who are car riders should go to the front car loop to wait for their ride. Elementary students can only be picked up at the back gate if they are accompanied by a secondary student. The secondary student must present a car tag to pick up the elementary student from the front car loop before both students proceed to the back gate.
We appreciate your assistance in helping us keep all students safe. If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact Jaye Corbett, jcorbett@fsu.edu.