The Pulse: Putnam County School District Podcast

In this episode, Dr Rick Surrency discussed the impact of cell phones with Dr. Chris Ferguson. The impact of cell phone bans in schools, social media effects on youth mental health, and what parents and educators need to know. He shares data-driven insights and challenges common assumptions about technology and student well-being.

Agriculture is about much more than farming—and students at Q.I. Roberts Junior-Senior High School are discovering just how many opportunities exist within the field. On this episode of The Pulse, we hear from agriculture teacher Ms. Rogers and five FFA students about their experiences in FFA, 4-H, livestock shows, hydroponics, and the new AICE Agriculture course. Students share how agriculture has helped them build confidence, develop leadership skills, explore careers, and prepare for life after high school. They also discuss hands-on projects, including growing lettuce through hydroponics and bringing that harvest to the school cafeteria. The conversation also explores the future of agriculture, from sustainability and food production to technology, precision irrigation, and artificial intelligence. These students are learning that agriculture isn’t simply about where our food comes from—it’s about innovation, science, leadership, and preparing to feed future generations.

Putnam County Schools is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with its sixth annual Hispanic Heritage celebration! In this episode of The Pulse, Superintendent Rick Surrency is joined by educators and students to talk about the history of this growing tradition and what makes this year’s celebration special. From traditional dances, music and cultural displays to piñatas, soccer, traditional clothing and authentic foods, students and families will have an opportunity to learn, celebrate and experience the rich diversity of Hispanic cultures. This year’s theme, “Unidos Somos Más,” or “Together We Are More,” captures the spirit of bringing people together through understanding and appreciation. Tune in to hear how Putnam County Schools is using Hispanic Heritage Month to create awareness, encourage acceptance and celebrate the many cultures that make the community unique. Event date: October 2nd at C.L. Overturf Jr. Auditorium at 10:30

Season: 5, Episode: 6- In this episode of The Pulse, Putnam County School District leaders discuss their focus for the new school year, including strengthening K–2 instruction, improving attendance, supporting students with disabilities, and building strong school communities. They emphasize collaboration, intentional leadership, and creating a strong foundation for long-term student success.

Season 5 \ Episode 5- Putnam County School District is celebrating its 49th Annual College and Career Fair! Students in grades 7–12 and their families are invited to explore more than 70 opportunities, including colleges, universities, technical schools, military branches, local businesses, and industry leaders. Hear tips for making the most of the event, inspiring student success stories, transportation information, and why it’s never too early to start planning for your future.

On this episode of The Pulse, Superintendent Rick Surrency sits down with primary school principals: Mechele Higginbotham, Beth Leary, Christon Lee, Leah Lundy, Paula Adams, and administration: Jonathan Hinke (Executive Director Strategic Initiatives/School Improvement), Rick Surrency (Superintendent of Schools), Laura France (Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction) who led their schools to significant academic gains, including A and B school grades and record-high point totals. The conversation explores the strategies behind their success, including strong core instruction, targeted intervention, empowered leadership, staff collaboration, family engagement, and building a culture of pride and continuous improvement. District leaders also share how these school-level achievements are contributing to Putnam County School District’s strongest overall academic performance in years. Tune in next week when we discuss what we are doing for future growth.

Season: 5, Episode: 3 Dr. Rick Surrency speaks with our PCSD 2026 Football Coaches: Lantz Lowery Palatka Jr./Sr. High, Erik Gibson- Interlachen Jr./Sr. High and Tim Ross- Crescent City Jr./Sr. High. They are committed to supporting our student-athletes in every aspect of their development, including proper nutrition, hydration, physical conditioning, and mental preparedness. Most importantly, we will always keep academics at the forefront, because education is the foundation for our students’ future success beyond the football field. We invite you to come out, support our football team, and experience all the excitement of the season. Go Teams!

Season: 5, Episode: 2. PCSD Pulse Podcast Celebrates 50 years of creativity and excellence with Florida School of the Arts! In this episode of The Pulse, Superintendent Rick Surrency talks with Michelle Sjogren and JoLynn Carter of St. Johns River State College about the school’s beautifully renovated facilities, upcoming ribbon-cutting, and capital campaign to enhance student learning with state-of-the-art technology. They also discuss the life-changing impact of arts education, scholarship opportunities, upcoming performances, and how the community can help support the next generation of artists and performers.

Superintendent Rick Surrency sits down George Kastrouis the CEO Express Medical Imaging Group to discuss the power of preventive healthcare and early detection. Learn how the partnership with Putnam County School District is expanding access to diagnostic imaging for employees, making services like MRIs, ultrasounds, mammograms, and cardiac CT scans more affordable and convenient. They also discuss why screening matters, how early diagnosis can save lives, and what patients can expect when seeking care. Don’t miss this informative conversation about improving community health through innovation, education, and accessible medical services.

Big things are happening across Putnam County Schools, and this episode of The Pulse takes you inside two of the district’s most exciting construction projects. Join Superintendent Rick Surrency as he sits down with J.D. Thompson, district leaders and James Marini of Ajax construction to discuss the progress of the new Crescent City K-8 School and the future Palatka Primary School. Hear how these state-of-the-art campuses are being designed to serve students, families, and the community for generations to come. You will learn about the planning, partnerships, and teamwork that are bringing these projects to life. The conversation also explores how local hiring, improved traffic flow, expanded community spaces, and modern learning environments are shaping the future of education in Putnam County. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at the schools of tomorrow—and the people making them a reality.

A brand-new school is opening in Putnam County, and we’re taking you behind the scenes of one of the district’s most exciting projects. On this episode of The Pulse, Superintendent Rick Surrency sits down with Construction Management Director J.D. Thompson and representatives from Ausley Construction to discuss the new Palatka Intermediate School. Learn what it took to transform the site, overcome construction challenges, improve drainage, redesign traffic flow, and create a state-of-the-art campus built for today’s students. The conversation also explores: The partnership between Putnam County School District, Ausley Construction, and Casper Architects. How modern schools are designed with enhanced safety and security features. New technology that supports learning and classroom communication. Innovative spaces that will inspire students for years to come. What parents and the community can expect as the school opens for the 2026–2027 school year. Join us for an inside look at the planning, teamwork, and vision behind one of Putnam County’s newest schools—and discover why this campus is much more than just a new building.