Duval County Public Schools’ 150th Birthday Celebration
1/13/2014
This year, the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) celebrated its 150th birthday by unveiling a new branding campaign and holding a district-wide School Choice Expo. The new branding campaign includes the district's new website and the district's mascot, "DJ." DJ is a smart, friendly dog with an attitude for fun and learning. The School Choice Expo, formerly known as Magnet Mania, took place on Saturday and was an opportunity for parents and caregivers to learn about the diverse educational opportunities throughout the district. During the School Choice Expo, different elementary students and Sandalwood High School students performed for expo attendees.
As a parent, I attended the School Choice Expo to visit my son's neighborhood school exhibitor table. I was greeted by an administrator and provided my contact information for an upcoming school tour in the spring. While maneuvering through the crowd of parents and children, I stopped by Andrew A. Robinson Elementary school's table. Mr. William Jackson, a local teacher and Jacksonville Public Education Fund volunteer, was speaking to a parent explaining the definition of magnet schools.
The School Choice Expo was a great opportunity to learn, ask questions and meet with teachers and administrators in the district.
Here are some other fun facts provided by Duval County Public Schools:
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2014 is the 145th year of the Duval County School Board
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J.M. Hawks opened the first free public school in the state of Florida in Jacksonville
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Ale'ta Turner