RIVEROAK Technical College

The Suwannee county School District will resume all regular operations tomorrow Friday October the 11th. Thank you.

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Cooper Lee. His Electrical instructor, Jeremy Ulmer, shared why Cooper is an outstanding student: "Cooper is a quick study and gets the concepts he is presented with in my course. He will be an asset to the electrical field in whichever direction he pursues." When asked why he chose RIVEROAK, Cooper shared, "I want to pursue my education in the electrical field." As a dual enrollment student, Cooper is taking the first step toward growing his career as an electrician. Upon graduation, he plans to attend Santa Fe College to complete his Journeyman's license. We know great things are in store for Cooper's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Ms. Jenny Benson, who teaches Practical Nursing. Jenny shared the path that led her to become a nursing instructor; "After 20 years of nursing experience, primarily in the field of oncology research, an opportunity to teach in a classroom setting at RTC opened, and I believed it would be a great opportunity to teach a group of students seeking a career in the health field. As a research nurse coordinator, I spent much time training nurses in the research specialty on how to interpret studies and how to follow specific protocols when caring for patients. I have been able to incorporate those skills in the classroom setting to prepare the LPN students to become exceptional nurses." Jenny's passion for education stems from her compassion as a nurse: "I am passionate about the nursing career because it allows me to care for others in a way that I would like to be cared for. Giving care to a person when they are at a difficult stage in their lives brings hope to that individual. It also gives me a rewarding feeling to know I was a part of a healing process in a person's life." For potential students considering the field of nursing, Jenny shared the following advice: "When you have a calling in life, do all you can to pursue your dreams. Do not let anyone or anything get in your way. Put forth all your efforts and passion to achieve your goals with love, care, compassion, and a zeal to help those in need. The most difficult things to endure are often the ones that bring the most joy in our lives and help build strong character." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Hayden Williams for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Hayden's instructor, Mrs. Mary Vickers, shared, "Hayden shows great determination in studying, and it shows in her grades. She picks up quick on skills during lab time as well." When asked why she chose RIVEROAK, Hayden shared, "I heard amazing things about RIVEROAK from former students. I was told it was a great college to attend to receive an amazing education and still be able to balance a work and home life." Hayden chose the surgical technology program because she wants to help people and also get to see surgical procedures up close. In the future, Hayden hopes to obtain a job with UF/Shands in either the pediatric, cardiology, or neurology field. We are so proud of you, Hayden! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

RIVEROAK would like to congratulate Tiffany Smith for being this week's Career and Technical Education Instructor Spotlight. Smith is in her third year of teaching and serves as the agriculture teacher at Suwannee Middle School. Smith shared, “I chose to become an agriculture/CTE instructor to spark the same passion for agriculture that I have. I love that I get to educate the younger generations on topics, such as, where their food comes from and the different species and breeds of livestock. The relationships CTE instructors form are different than most other subject areas!” Smith's passion for agriculture is fueled by a quote from M.S. Swaminathan: “If agriculture goes wrong, nothing else will have a chance to go right." For students considering the field of agriculture, Smith shared this advice: "The agriculture industry and medical industries will always be around! People always need to be fed, clothed, and have shelter, as well as medication whenever they fall ill. Agriculture has a very wide variety of career paths. You don’t always have to be working on a farm to be considered a part of agriculture." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear

21st Century and Reading Program will be closing early on Wednesday, September 25th. We will be closing at 4:00 p.m.

Superintendent Ted Roush has announced that as of the date and time of this notice, the Suwannee County School District, working closely with local emergency management, consultation with the Florida Department of Emergency Management, and the National Weather Service, has made the decision to close school operations for Thursday, September 26, through Friday, September 27. There will be no before or after-school activities, including athletic events or practices, during this period of closure. The Suwannee County School District will resume regular operations on Monday, September 30, for the already scheduled Professional Development Day, weather and utility conditions permitting. Students will return as scheduled on Tuesday, October 1. Any changes to this plan of action will be communicated by 5:00 P.M. on Sunday afternoon, September 29, through the District's website, social media, local, and regional television and radio broadcasts.

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, Julian Smith. Julian is enrolled in RIVEROAK's Brick & Block Masonry program. His instructor, Ms. Olivia Bruening, shared, "Julian consistently demonstrates positive qualities, such as leadership, creativity, and perseverance. His dedication to masonry is inspiring, and he serves as a great role model for his peers." When asked for his reason in selecting RIVEROAK, Julian shared, "The reason why I chose RIVEROAK is because I'm a very hands-on person, and I felt like this would be the place that would further my future with the masonry program." He enrolled in the masonry program because he said the world will always need masons, and because he likes working with his hands. Once he graduates, Julian plans to begin working and hopefully start his own business. We know great things are in store for Julian's future! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Mrs. Mary Vickers, Surgical Technology instructor, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. Reflecting on her first two years as an instructor, Vickers shared, “I stepped out of the operating room and into a new environment that is teaching. I went from being an alumni of RIVEROAK to being an instructor, and I am blessed to be here." She is passionate about her field because she shared, "Surgery takes a certain kind of individual. You are the right hand of the surgeon and get to do incredible things." Within her program, she is responsible for educating students on sterility and how to assist during surgical procedures. Vickers encourages potential students wanting to enter this career field with the following advice: "Being a Surgical Tech is a rewarding career, and there will always be a need for them." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

RIVEROAK Technical College is celebrating Constitution Day! Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution by thirty-nine brave men on September 17, 1787, recognizing all who are born in the U.S. or by naturalization, have become citizens (constitutionday.com). #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Angelina White for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Angelina chose RIVEROAK because of the variety of classes and the many opportunities offered to students so they can excel and achieve their goals. Angelina's instructor, Mrs. Janie Maxwell, shared, "Angelina has worked hard and excelled in both her practical and her theory work. Her attendance is excellent, and she is always willing to take services." When asked about her program choice, Cosmetology, Angelina shared, "I couldn't think of anything or any other career I would rather be doing. I love the people, the services, and the ability to help others in such a creative way." Once she graduates, Angelina plans to work in a local salon and hopefully be in her own salon one day. We are so proud of you, Angelina! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

SAVE THE DATE! Join the excitement and plan to attend RIVEROAK's Career Fair & Program Showcase, scheduled for February 13, 2025! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #earnacareerinayearfl #earnacareerinayear #preparingaskilledworkforce #fltechnicalcolleges #fltechcolleges #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #YourWay #YourWayFL #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

Congratulations to RIVEROAK's Faculty Spotlight, Ms. Olivia Bruening, who teaches Brick and Block Masonry.  Olivia shared "I became an instructor because I have a deep-rooted passion for sharing my knowledge and helping others succeed in the field.  I find great joy in watching my students grow and achieve their goals.  The opportunity to inspire and guide minds is incredibly rewarding as an instructor." Olivia's leadership and influence have continued beyond her student years. As a graduate of two RIVEROAK industrial programs, she has served on a panel for the Florida Department of Education, providing insights on the importance of supporting non-traditional learners.  Under her guidance, the Brick and Block Masonry program has flourished, and she is actively planning a "Women in Industry" initiative to encourage and support potential students, particularly women, in exploring careers in the masonry field. Olivia's journey from a shining student to a dedicated instructor exemplifies the philosophy of "growing our own," and her ongoing contributions continue to make a lasting impact on the community and the industry. #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

RIVEROAK will be celebrating National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week September 16-20, 2024! Did you know more than 43 million adults in the United States cannot read, write, or do basic math above a third-grade level? (proliteracy.org) #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #FLAdultEd #GetThereFL #adultandfamilyliteracyweek #proliteracy #AEFLweek2024 #FLAdultEd #YourWay #YourWayFL #YourWayFLAdultEd #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #preparingaskilledworkforce

May we never forget.

Congratulations to this week's Student Spotlight, James Westberry. James is enrolled in RIVEROAK's Electricity program. His instructor, Mr. Jeremy Ulmer, shared "James is a reliable student that will be a benefit to any electrical-related industry that he decides to pursue. He has the work ethic required to succeed in this field." James chose RIVEROAK because it is local and the great opportunities it supplies to students. James has always wanted to be an electrician and his career goals are to join a local industry and work in telecommunications. We can't wait to see what the future holds for James! #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

Ms. Greta Thornton, Nails and Facials Specialty instructor, is this week’s Staff Spotlight. Thornton has worked at RIVEROAK for 17 years and shared, “I began working at RTC when it was Suwannee Hamilton Technical Center as a substitute in the Early Childhood Program. I was hired as a VPK Teacher soon after. While working in VPK, I was approached about teaching a Nails Specialty Program in Madison County through SHTC. I have been teaching this program for the last 13 years. I am a licensed Full Specialist with the state of Florida and most recently began teaching the Facials Specialty program as well. I enjoy teaching others a job skill that can be an avenue to a lucrative career. I have had the privilege of teaching others skills and knowledge in this industry and that gives me a sense of pride that I can help my students make a great living at helping others." When asked why potential students should consider Nails or Facials Specialty, Thornton shared "This career path is a great way to meet people, be creative and be helpful to others. It is a skill set that can be learned and with practice you get better. With patience and building clientele, it’s a great way to make a living and make new friends." #GrowYourFutureWithUs #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #GetThereFl #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFl #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures

RIVEROAK would like to recognize Erika Sosa-Cruz for being selected as this week's Student Spotlight! Erika's instructor, Ms. Frye, shared "Erika is taking charge of her future by pursuing her Florida high school diploma through our Adult Basic Education Program. Since day one, Erika has been a model student; attending every class, arriving on time, and consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic. Her diligence is paying off, as she's made significant progress toward reaching her educational goals. This bright young woman is laying the groundwork for an even brighter tomorrow." Erika shared that she chose RIVEROAK because she really liked the campus and it offered the program she needed to pursue her goals. Erika's career plans include attending college to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. We are so proud of you Erika! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce #FLAdultEd #YourWayFLAdultEd

RIVEROAK Technical College's campus is closed today and will reopen Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Wishing all a happy and safe Labor Day! #GrowYourFutureWithUs! #GrowWithUs #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #CTEWorks #GetThereFL #YourWay #YourWayFL #FlTechColleges #FloridaTechnicalColleges #EarnaCareerinaYearFL #EarnaCareerinaYear #preparingaskilledworkforce

RIVEROAK is accepting applications for Spring Term 2025! Seats are limited in most programs, so don't delay. Applications can be accessed online at www.riveroakcollege.com or you can drop by RTC's campus. This is the perfect time to #GrowYourFutureWithUs! #WeGrowFuturesHere #WeGrowFutures #GrowWithUs #CTEWorks #fltechcolleges #fltechnicalcolleges #earnacareerinayear #earnacareerinayearfl #preparingaskilledworkforce #YourWay #YourWayFL