Academy of Environmental Science

08/27/2026

🌊 Skills in Action! 🛶

Mr. Wilcox’s Water Safety class was back on the water, putting their skills to the test! Students worked on paddle control, maneuvering and turning, boat balance, navigation, and teamwork as they learned how to confidently and safely handle their kayaks.

It’s more than just getting out on the water. Students are building confidence, communication, problem-solving skills, and teamwork that extend far beyond the kayak. 🌊💪

Another great day of hands-on-learning at AES!

Citrus County School District
Citrus County Education Foundation

08/27/2026

In Mrs. Garritano’s Biology Honors Class, students practiced using the compound light microscope by first examining prepared slides. Then they took science into their own hands 🔬 🤚 Students collected their own cheek cells, stained them with methylene blue, and viewed them under the microscope. 🧫

They were able to observe the cytoplasm and nucleus of their very own cells, making the lesson a little more personal and a whole lot more exciting!

Science is definitely better when you can see it for yourself! 🔬🧬

Citrus County School District
Citrus County Education Foundation

08/26/2026

Out on the water with Coach D today! 🛶🌊

Students took the kayaks out and worked on flip drills, practicing what to do if their kayak tips over while they’re out on the water.

It’s more than just kayaking. Students are building confidence, learning how to respond in unexpected situations, and developing skills they can carry with them beyond the classroom.

Life skills in action! 🩵🧡

08/25/2026

Yep, they’re measuring! 📏🔬

In Mrs. Garritano’s class, students put their metric measurement skills to work with a hands-on lab. After learning about metric conversions and why the metric system is used in science, students got to practice making accurate measurements themselves.

A little measuring, a little converting, and a lot of hands-on science! 🧪

Citrus County School District
Citrus County Education Foundation

08/22/2026

🌱🔬 Getting down in the dirt!

Ms. Markey’s AP Environmental Science students got hands-on with soil microbiology, exploring the tiny organisms that play a huge role in our ecosystems.

During their lab, students focused on soil respiration, investigating how microorganisms release carbon dioxide as they break down organic matter. It’s a great way to see the activity happening beneath our feet and connect classroom concepts to real-world environmental processes!

Science is always better when you can get your hands on it! 🌎💧

08/21/2026

What an AMAZING day at the Academy! 🧡🩵

As part of our Careers in Action series during Research class today, our students had the opportunity to hear from some incredible community leaders and professionals.

First, students met Ms. Audra Curts, City Manager for the City of Crystal River, who shared her career journey and how she found her way into public service. Students then heard from Bob Daughhetee, Assistant Governor for Rotary International District 6950, who shared his experiences and the importance of service and leadership.

The day ended with a very special visit from FWC! 🐊🚤 Our students headed out to the dock where FWC officers joined us with their boat and drone to talk about the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, what it means to be an FWC officer, and the many career opportunities within the agency.

And while all of that was happening, three of our other elective classes were taking learning beyond the classroom, getting out on the water and building skills that will last a lifetime. 🌊

This is what learning at AES is all about. Real experiences. Real people. Real-world skills. And plenty of opportunities to discover what might be next.

We are so grateful to everyone who took the time to share their knowledge, experiences, and careers with our Ospreys today!

A big thank you to Mrs. Hammerle from Citrus County School District for helping us document our event! 📸

Citrus County Education Foundation

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08/21/2026

08/19/2026

A huge thank you to the Marine Science Station for giving our students hands-on learning experiences and an unforgettable day! 🌊🦪🐠

We are so grateful for the opportunity for our Ospreys to get out on the water, explore, learn, and experience marine science firsthand. These are the moments they’ll remember long after they leave the classroom! 💙🧡

08/18/2026

📣 THE ANNOUNCEMENT YOU’VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR! 🧡🩵

Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Beverly Tidwell, our NEW math teacher at AES! 🎉

With more than 30 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Tidwell brings a world of knowledge and experience to the Academy. She has taught all levels of mathematics, including every math course we currently offer at AES… and a few that we don’t. 👀

Maybe that’s a hint for next year… 😉

Ms. Tidwell has served as a Math Department Head, District Math TOSA, and has been a member of several committees that helped develop our state mathematics standards. Needless to say, we are thrilled to have someone with her experience and expertise joining our team!

And there’s one more reason we know she’ll fit right in at AES… 🎣 Ms. Tidwell is an avid fisherwoman and outdoor enthusiast! 🌊🦅

Welcome to AES, Ms. Tidwell! We are so excited to have you join the Osprey family! 🧡🩵

Citrus County School District
Citrus County Education Foundation

08/18/2026

🛶 First kayaking trip of the school year! 🌊

Coach D took his HOPE class out on the water today for their first kayaking adventure. A beautiful day to get outside, learn some skills, and enjoy a little time on the water! 🧡🩵

🛶 Kayaking Reminder for Parents

Students must have water shoes (not crocs) in order to participate in kayaking and other water activities .

If your student needs assistance getting a pair, please reach out to Mrs. Rieck.