South Seminole Academy of Career Exploration proudly hosted its rededication ribbon‑cutting ceremony on Tuesday, February 17, from 10:00–11:00 a.m., marking an exciting new chapter for the school community and celebrating its ongoing transformation as a middle school magnet for career exploration.

Students, families, District leadership, staff, and community partners gathered to honor the school’s revitalized magnet identity and recognize the investments—both structural and programmatic—that continue to expand future‑ready opportunities for students.

A Spotlight on the Academy’s Transformation

The ceremony opened with Welcome & Opening Remarks from Paula Hagan, MSAP Grant Coordinator who introduced the event’s purpose and celebrated the journey that has brought South Seminole Academy to this milestone.

Principal Byron Durias delivered the School Transformation Overview, outlining the school’s evolution from South Seminole Academy to the fully reimagined Academy of Career Exploration. He highlighted the instructional shifts, facility enhancements, and vision guiding the redesign.

MSAP Grant: A Catalyst for Innovation

A central theme of the celebration was the school’s transformation supported by the $5.8 million Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) grant, one of the largest single‑school magnet awards in SCPS history. This funding is enabling the school to build its three Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways—Business & Creation, Service, and Technology—each aligned to high‑school CTE pathways and designed to help students connect early with their future interests and aspirations.

District Leadership Perspectives

Dr. Robin Dehlinger, School Board Chair, delivered remarks on the Vision for Career Pathways in SCPS, emphasizing how SSA’s redesign supports the district’s mission to prepare students for competitive future opportunities and growing workforce sectors.

Superintendent Serita Beamon shared thoughtful Superintendent’s Remarks, reflecting on the importance of early career exploration, community partnerships, and the future impact these student‑centered programs will have throughout SCPS. Her remarks echoed earlier statements about the transformative power of the MSAP grant and the district’s commitment to expanding opportunity.

Student Voice and Celebration

Assistant Principal Dr. Clifphene Reid introduced student speaker McKenna Renda, who delivered a heartfelt reflection on what the transformation means from a student perspective—highlighting the excitement surrounding the new pathways, hands‑on learning spaces, and stronger community culture within the House system.

The morning culminated in the Ribbon‑Cutting Ceremony, featuring district leaders, school leadership, and student representatives, followed by a group photo opportunity to commemorate the milestone.

Guided Tours of CTE Labs & Rebranded Campus

Following the ceremony, Student Government leaders guided attendees through the redesigned CTE labs, refreshed campus spaces, and magnet‑program highlights. Guests had opportunities for Q\&A with staff and students, allowing them to experience firsthand the innovative learning environments supported by the MSAP grant.