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Trailblazer 5K Run for Literacy Receives Department of Education Award

RAP 071e-(ZF-7293-26150-1-006)Firm Shareholder Travis Miller and Wife Karena Direct Race to District and Regional Awards

Desoto Trail Elementary School’s Trailblazer 5K Run for Literacy was recognized as one of the Florida Department of Education’s Family and Community Involvement award winners at the 2016 Florida Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Leadership Convention in Palm Harbor, Florida. Joined by principal Michele Keltner, race directors Travis and Karena Miller received the award on behalf of Desoto Trail. They also participated a breakout session in which the award winners shared their experiences, successes and challenges with other elementary school representatives from across the state.

The Trailblazer 5K and One Mile Run for Literacy was organized four years ago to support the school’s media center. In addition to raising needed funds, the race creates a fun, fitness-oriented event for the school and community. In 2016, the race added to its reading theme by introducing awards for participants dressed in book character costumes.

Earlier this year, the Trailblazer 5K was named a district-level award winner at a ceremony in Tallahassee. The Florida Department of Education then named the race as a regional winner, leading to the recognition at the state PTA conference. The Family and Community Involvement Award recognizes exemplary school practices that focus on increasing family involvement, welcoming families into the local school system, providing effective communication, supporting student success, and promoting collaboration with the community.

“I am extremely proud of Desoto Trail Elementary School for being the recipient of the Florida Department of Education’s Family and Community Involvement Award for its program, Trailblazer Run for Literacy,” said Leon County Schools Superintendent Jackie Pons.  “When we have authentic and sustained engagement by families and the community in our schools, our students benefit tremendously.  Strong partnerships with families and the community are essential components in assisting us to achieve our school improvement goals.”

Florida Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart added, “We have some of the most talented students and educators in the nation, and to be most impactful, schools need family support and community engagement.” said Commissioner Pam Stewart.