Magnet Innovation Center

08/09/2026

We’re so excited to welcome our students and families back to campus tomorrow for Back-to-School Orientation! 💙💛 We can’t wait to see everyone, reconnect, and get ready for an amazing year at MIC! 🐾

08/07/2026

08/07/2026

🐾 Pride & Panther Profile 🐾
Please join us in welcoming back Ms. Dee Meadows to the Magnet Innovation Center family! We are thrilled to have her experience, passion, and dedication returning to Panther Pride.
With an incredible 37 years in education, Mrs. Meadows has inspired students in a wide variety of courses, including AP Chemistry, Chemistry Honors, Physics Honors, AP Psychology, Biology Honors, Physical Science, and Earth/Space Science. She also served as a school counselor for six years, bringing both academic expertise and a heart for supporting students.
Mrs. Meadows earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Science Education from Auburn University and her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Troy University. A proud Auburn Tiger, you’ll often hear her cheering, “War Eagle!”
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Meadows enjoys reading mystery, thriller, crime, and legal fiction, listening to music, spending time at the beach, and taking walks with her dogs at Frank Brown Park. She and her husband have been married for 39 years and are proud parents of two grown sons. A fun fact—you may not know that she played piccolo in the Auburn University Band!
Her favorite quote comes from Ted Lasso: “I believe in hope. I believe in ‘believe.’”
Welcome back, Mrs. Meadows! We’re excited for another amazing year of learning, leadership, and Panther Pride! 💙🐾

08/06/2026

🐾 Pride & Panther Profile 🐾
Please join us in welcoming back Mrs. Chris Cruickshank to the Magnet Innovation Center family! We are excited to have her return to Panther Nation for another outstanding year.
With more than 40 years of experience as both a teacher and administrator, Mrs. Cruickshank brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and passion for student success. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education (Social Studies) from Millersville University of Pennsylvania, a Master’s Degree in History Education from North Carolina A&T University, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida, and a Specialist Degree in Curriculum & Instruction from UWF.
This year, Mrs. Cruickshank will be teaching Pre-AP English I, Pre-AP English II, and AP Research, where she will continue inspiring students to think critically, communicate effectively, and achieve their goals.
When she’s not at school, she enjoys spending time with her amazing husband, Kent, their two daughters, grandson, two dogs, and three cats. She’s also a proud Florida Gators fan—Go Gators! 🐊
Her favorite quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson reminds us all to lead with courage and purpose:
“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
Welcome back, Mrs. Cruickshank! We’re so glad you’re part of the MIC family and can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make this school year. 💙🐾

08/06/2026

🐾 Pride & Profiles 🐾
Please join us in welcoming Scott Simpson to the Magnet Innovation Center family! Scott joins us as our Plant Manager, bringing a strong work ethic, a wealth of professional experience, and a passion for keeping our campus running smoothly.
A graduate of Pennsylvania State University, Scott earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance with a heavy emphasis in Economics. Before entering education, he built a successful career as a commercial lender, finance associate, and account executive. After spending time as a substitute teacher, Scott discovered he enjoyed staying active, working with his hands, and making a difference behind the scenes—leading him to a career as a plant manager.
Originally from the Pittsburgh area of western Pennsylvania, Scott is a devoted fan of Pittsburgh sports, Penn State, and even a few Pitt teams. When he’s not at work, you’ll likely find him on the golf course, tending to his garden, spending time with family, or hanging out with his yellow lab, Emma.
We’re excited to have Scott as part of Panther Nation. Welcome to MIC, Scott! 💙🐾

08/05/2026

🐾 Pride & Profile 🐾
Please join us in welcoming back Ms. Ann Marie Recke to the Magnet Innovation Center family!
Ms. Recke is a graduate of Alvernia University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Education. She brings 25 years of teaching experience from Pennsylvania, Nassau County, Marion County, and Walton County, having taught nearly every middle and high school math course, as well as Physical Science, Personal Finance, and History.
This year at MIC, she will be teaching Geometry, AP Statistics, AP Business & Personal Finance, and Internship. Her passion for helping students grow both academically and personally makes her a tremendous asset to our Panther community.
When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Recke enjoys traveling, crocheting, cooking, and spending time with her family, including her two sons, one daughter, two granddaughters, and grandson. She’s also a devoted fan of the Phillies, Eagles, and Penn State and loves reading Harry Potter and history books.
Her favorite words to live by are: “Just keep swimming.” and “Failure is not an option.”
We’re excited to welcome Ms. Recke back to MIC and can’t wait to see the positive impact she’ll make this school year. Welcome back, Ms. Recke! 💙🐾

08/04/2026

🐾 Pride & Profiles 🐾
Please help us welcome Mr. Chuck Kilbourn to the Magnet Innovation Center family!
Mr. Kilbourn joins MIC with more than 25 years of experience in education, most recently serving in Hillsborough County Public Schools as a Career and Technical Education Department Head and Business Education Instructor. Throughout his career, he has inspired students in courses such as Digital Design, Digital Art, Entrepreneurship, Customer Service, and other technology-focused classes, helping them earn industry certifications while preparing for future careers.
A proud graduate of Florida State University, Mr. Kilbourn earned both his Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art and his Master’s degree in Art Education. He is passionate about fostering creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning that equips students with real-world skills and confidence for success beyond the classroom.
We’re excited for the knowledge, creativity, and experience Mr. Kilbourn brings to our Panthers and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make at MIC.
Please join us in giving him a warm Panther welcome!
You can’t hide that Panther Pride! 💙🐾

08/04/2026

🐾 Pride & Profiles 🐾
Meet Ms. Kim Griffin, the friendly face who keeps our front office running smoothly as MIC’s School Secretary!
We’re thrilled to welcome Ms. Griffin to the Magnet Innovation Center family! Originally from New Jersey, she made Florida home in 2006 and has proudly served Walton County School District since 2008. Her journey has included Van R. Butler Elementary, Freeport Middle School, Bay School, and now MIC, where she’s excited to once again work alongside Principal Todd Drake.
Ms. Griffin enjoys building meaningful relationships with students, families, and staff, and she’s especially excited to reconnect with many of her former elementary students as they begin their high school journey at MIC.
When she’s not at school, you’ll likely find her fishing, gardening, taking a road trip, or spending time with family and friends.
If you stop by the front office this year, be sure to say hello and give Ms. Griffin a warm Panther welcome!
You can’t hide that Panther Pride! 💙🐾