FDACS Announces "2026 Florida Future Chef" Competition
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is accepting entries for the "2026 Florida Future Chef" competition, a statewide student culinary competition that challenges students to creatively reimagine a school meal with Fresh From Florida ingredients. Participants will design a school meal that brings together at least three of five key components: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy or dairy alternatives.
Students must be between the ages of 8-12. Contestants are required to submit a two-to-five-minute video showcasing a unique take on their proposed school meal by Monday, July 13th. Three finalists will be selected to prepare their meal for FDACS judges during a three-day event in Tampa from September 13th through September 16th.
In addition to earning the title of "2026 Florida Future Chef Champion,” finalists will compete for up to $5,000 in a Florida 529 Savings Plan scholarship, the opportunity to have their recipe included in school menus, and other special prizes.
To review the official rules and enter the competition, click here: https://floridafuturechef.com/.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is accepting entries for the "2026 Florida Future Chef" competition, a statewide student culinary competition that challenges students to creatively reimagine a school meal with Fresh From Florida ingredients. Participants will design a school meal that brings together at least three of five key components: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy or dairy alternatives.
Students must be between the ages of 8-12. Contestants are required to submit a two-to-five-minute video showcasing a unique take on their proposed school meal by Monday, July 13th. Three finalists will be selected to prepare their meal for FDACS judges during a three-day event in Tampa from September 13th through September 16th.
In addition to earning the title of "2026 Florida Future Chef Champion,” finalists will compete for up to $5,000 in a Florida 529 Savings Plan scholarship, the opportunity to have their recipe included in school menus, and other special prizes.
To review the official rules and enter the competition, click here: https://floridafuturechef.com/.
Congratulations to three outstanding leaders from the School District of Indian River County, Osceola Magnet School Assistant Principal Juliette Carroll, Vero Beach Elementary Principal Sarah Van Brimmer, and Vero Beach High School Principal Rachel Serra Finnegan, on successfully completing the Florida Department of Education's 2025-26 Chancellor's Leadership Academy (CLA).
The Chancellor's Leadership Academy is a prestigious professional learning opportunity designed to strengthen transformational leadership and support continuous improvement across Florida's schools. Through this rigorous program, participants deepen their understanding of Florida's academic standards, strengthen their ability to support high-quality instruction, enhance skills in teacher coaching and feedback, and develop expertise in monitoring instructional practices that drive student achievement.
The academy also fosters a statewide network of highly skilled educational leaders committed to implementing data-driven systems that improve instruction and student outcomes for all students.
We are proud of Ms. Carroll, Ms. Van Brimmer, and Ms. Serra Finnegan for their dedication to professional growth and their commitment to excellence in education. Their leadership will continue to make a positive impact on our schools, staff, and students.
Please join us in congratulating these exceptional leaders on this remarkable accomplishment.
The Chancellor's Leadership Academy is a prestigious professional learning opportunity designed to strengthen transformational leadership and support continuous improvement across Florida's schools. Through this rigorous program, participants deepen their understanding of Florida's academic standards, strengthen their ability to support high-quality instruction, enhance skills in teacher coaching and feedback, and develop expertise in monitoring instructional practices that drive student achievement.
The academy also fosters a statewide network of highly skilled educational leaders committed to implementing data-driven systems that improve instruction and student outcomes for all students.
We are proud of Ms. Carroll, Ms. Van Brimmer, and Ms. Serra Finnegan for their dedication to professional growth and their commitment to excellence in education. Their leadership will continue to make a positive impact on our schools, staff, and students.
Please join us in congratulating these exceptional leaders on this remarkable accomplishment.
Mark your calendars, Class of 2027 families.
The School District of Indian River County is pleased to share the graduation schedule for next year's graduating seniors. Graduation is a milestone achievement that reflects years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, and we look forward to celebrating each member of the Class of 2027.
Graduation Schedule:
• Indian River Virtual School – May 18, 2027 | 5:00 PM
• Treasure Coast Technical College – May 19, 2027 | 6:00 PM
• Sebastian River High School – May 20, 2027 | 7:00 PM
• Vero Beach High School – May 21, 2027 | 7:00 PM
We encourage families, friends, and community members to save the dates and join us in honoring our graduates as they take the next step toward their futures.
Congratulations to the Class of 2027. Your journey is just beginning, and we can't wait to celebrate with you.
#SDIRC #ClassOf2027 #GraduationSeason #FutureReady
The School District of Indian River County is pleased to share the graduation schedule for next year's graduating seniors. Graduation is a milestone achievement that reflects years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, and we look forward to celebrating each member of the Class of 2027.
Graduation Schedule:
• Indian River Virtual School – May 18, 2027 | 5:00 PM
• Treasure Coast Technical College – May 19, 2027 | 6:00 PM
• Sebastian River High School – May 20, 2027 | 7:00 PM
• Vero Beach High School – May 21, 2027 | 7:00 PM
We encourage families, friends, and community members to save the dates and join us in honoring our graduates as they take the next step toward their futures.
Congratulations to the Class of 2027. Your journey is just beginning, and we can't wait to celebrate with you.
#SDIRC #ClassOf2027 #GraduationSeason #FutureReady
As we count down to the 250th anniversary of our nation, #MySDIRC is celebrating the learning, growth, and milestones that shaped this school year. The countdown to July 4 continues.
#MySDIRC #America250
#MySDIRC #America250
Student success. Strong outcomes. Real results.
Across #MySDIRC, graduation represents the impact of support, dedication, and a commitment to every student’s future.
Across #MySDIRC, graduation represents the impact of support, dedication, and a commitment to every student’s future.
Today, we remember and honor the men and women who served our country with courage and dedication.
As families across our community gather this Memorial Day, we take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the spirit of service that continues to inspire future generations.
#MySDIRC wishes our students, staff, families, and community a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.
As families across our community gather this Memorial Day, we take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the spirit of service that continues to inspire future generations.
#MySDIRC wishes our students, staff, families, and community a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.
Across #MySDIRC, students are supported every step of the way.
A place to learn, grow, and be inspired.
A place to learn, grow, and be inspired.
Today we recognize and celebrate the incredible speech-language pathologists across #MySDIRC and beyond who help students find their voice, build confidence, and strengthen communication skills every day.
From supporting language development and literacy to helping students overcome speech challenges, your impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Thank you for the expertise and encouragement you bring to our schools and families each day.
Happy National Speech-Language Pathologist Day.
From supporting language development and literacy to helping students overcome speech challenges, your impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Thank you for the expertise and encouragement you bring to our schools and families each day.
Happy National Speech-Language Pathologist Day.
Today, on Peace Officers Memorial Day, we honor and remember the brave law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.
We are grateful for the individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our community each day with courage, integrity, and compassion. Their commitment helps strengthen and support the communities we call home.
#MySDIRC stands in gratitude alongside our community as we recognize the service and sacrifice of peace officers across our nation.
We are grateful for the individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our community each day with courage, integrity, and compassion. Their commitment helps strengthen and support the communities we call home.
#MySDIRC stands in gratitude alongside our community as we recognize the service and sacrifice of peace officers across our nation.
Today, we celebrate the dedicated providers and healthcare professionals who help support the safety and success of our students and staff across #MySDIRC.
Your care, professionalism, and commitment make a meaningful difference in our schools and throughout our community each and every day. We are grateful for the partnerships and support you provide to help students learn, grow, and thrive.
Thank you for all you do.
Happy Provider Appreciation Day.
#MySDIRC #ConnectedByCommunity #DrivenByLeadership
Your care, professionalism, and commitment make a meaningful difference in our schools and throughout our community each and every day. We are grateful for the partnerships and support you provide to help students learn, grow, and thrive.
Thank you for all you do.
Happy Provider Appreciation Day.
#MySDIRC #ConnectedByCommunity #DrivenByLeadership
Today, we recognize the incredible school nurses across #MySDIRC who care for our students each and every day.
From providing comfort and care, school nurses play a vital role in helping students stay healthy, supported, and ready to learn. Their compassion, professionalism, and dedication make a difference in the lives of countless students and families across our community.
Thank you for all you do to care for and support our schools. Happy National School Nurse Day.
#NationalSchoolNurseDay #ConnectedByCommunity #DrivenByLeadership
From providing comfort and care, school nurses play a vital role in helping students stay healthy, supported, and ready to learn. Their compassion, professionalism, and dedication make a difference in the lives of countless students and families across our community.
Thank you for all you do to care for and support our schools. Happy National School Nurse Day.
#NationalSchoolNurseDay #ConnectedByCommunity #DrivenByLeadership
#1 on the Treasure Coast with a 96% graduation rate.
#MySDIRC continues to deliver strong outcomes for students, year after year.
#MySDIRC continues to deliver strong outcomes for students, year after year.
As we count down to the 250th anniversary of our nation, #MySDIRC continues to celebrate learning, growth, and the moments that define our school communities.
Join us as we continue the countdown to July 4.
#MySDIRC #America250
Join us as we continue the countdown to July 4.
#MySDIRC #America250
This week, #MySDIRC recognizes National Apprenticeship Week.
Across Florida, apprenticeship programs are creating real pathways for students to gain hands-on experience, earn while they learn, and step directly into high-demand careers.
With more than 25,000 active apprentices across the state, this work reflects the power of education and industry working together.
We’re proud to be part of that impact here in Indian River County.
#MySDIRC #DrivenByLeadership
Across Florida, apprenticeship programs are creating real pathways for students to gain hands-on experience, earn while they learn, and step directly into high-demand careers.
With more than 25,000 active apprentices across the state, this work reflects the power of education and industry working together.
We’re proud to be part of that impact here in Indian River County.
#MySDIRC #DrivenByLeadership
Today we recognize the administrative professionals who keep #MySDIRC running every single day.
From front offices to district departments, you are often the first voice, the steady support, and the behind-the-scenes force that keeps everything moving forward.
Thank you for all you do for our students, staff, and families.
#MySDIRC
From front offices to district departments, you are often the first voice, the steady support, and the behind-the-scenes force that keeps everything moving forward.
Thank you for all you do for our students, staff, and families.
#MySDIRC
Today, we recognize the volunteers who show up, give back, and make a difference across #MySDIRC.
From classrooms and campuses to events and behind-the-scenes support, your time and commitment help create opportunities for our students every single day.
You are part of what makes our schools stronger, more connected, and more impactful.
Thank you for being a part of our #MySDIRC family.
#ConnectedByCommunity #DrivenByLeadership
From classrooms and campuses to events and behind-the-scenes support, your time and commitment help create opportunities for our students every single day.
You are part of what makes our schools stronger, more connected, and more impactful.
Thank you for being a part of our #MySDIRC family.
#ConnectedByCommunity #DrivenByLeadership
Student success doesn’t happen by chance. It happens through support, connection, and a team that shows up every day.
Across #MySDIRC, our Student Support Services teams are working behind the scenes and on the front lines to ensure every student has what they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
When we support children, we strengthen the future of our entire community.
#MySDIRC #DrivenByLeadership #StudentSupport #ConnectedByCommunity
Across #MySDIRC, our Student Support Services teams are working behind the scenes and on the front lines to ensure every student has what they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
When we support children, we strengthen the future of our entire community.
#MySDIRC #DrivenByLeadership #StudentSupport #ConnectedByCommunity
Why Purple?
Because it represents every branch of the military and every family who serves alongside them.
At #MySDIRC, our support goes beyond recognition. We are committed to creating systems that support military-connected students every step of the way.
Through our Purple Star School Pathway, students experience continuity and care from elementary through high school:
Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts
Sebastian River Middle School
Sebastian River High School
#PurpleUp #MonthOfTheMilitaryFamily #ConnectedByCommunity
Because it represents every branch of the military and every family who serves alongside them.
At #MySDIRC, our support goes beyond recognition. We are committed to creating systems that support military-connected students every step of the way.
Through our Purple Star School Pathway, students experience continuity and care from elementary through high school:
Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts
Sebastian River Middle School
Sebastian River High School
#PurpleUp #MonthOfTheMilitaryFamily #ConnectedByCommunity
Today we honor the legacy of Jackie Robinson, a true pioneer who changed the game of baseball forever.
On Jackie Robinson Day, we reflect on his strength, determination, and the impact of standing firm in who you are. His story is a powerful reminder that one person’s courage can open doors for generations to come.
At #MySDIRC, we are inspired by leaders who push forward, set the standard, and create lasting impact for others.
#JackieRobinsonDay #MySDIRC #DrivenByLeadership
On Jackie Robinson Day, we reflect on his strength, determination, and the impact of standing firm in who you are. His story is a powerful reminder that one person’s courage can open doors for generations to come.
At #MySDIRC, we are inspired by leaders who push forward, set the standard, and create lasting impact for others.
#JackieRobinsonDay #MySDIRC #DrivenByLeadership
At #MySDIRC, our commitment to military families goes beyond a single day. It is built into the pathways we create for students to feel supported, connected, and successful from start to finish.
Our Purple Star School Pathway provides continuity and care at every level:
Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts
Sebastian River Middle School
Sebastian River High School
This pathway ensures military-connected students experience a community that understands their unique journey.
We are proud to stand with our military families today and every day.
#PurpleUp #MonthOfTheMilitaryFamily #ConnectedByCommunity
Our Purple Star School Pathway provides continuity and care at every level:
Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts
Sebastian River Middle School
Sebastian River High School
This pathway ensures military-connected students experience a community that understands their unique journey.
We are proud to stand with our military families today and every day.
#PurpleUp #MonthOfTheMilitaryFamily #ConnectedByCommunity
