Nassau County School District earned the top ranking in Florida, with every school in the district receiving an A rating from the state Department of Education, officials announced at Thursday’s school board meeting.
The achievement was celebrated through a video message from Congressman Aaron Bean, delivered by District Director for U.S. Representative Aaron Bean, Brian Campbell. Bean, a Nassau County graduate himself, entered the recognition into the congressional record.
“Nassau County Schools has been named number one in the state of Florida by the Department of Education,” Bean said in the video. “And more impressive, every single school in the district earned an A rating from that department of education.”
The congressman emphasized that the success reflects community-wide effort. “It’s not about grades, it’s a reflection of community vision, a commitment to excellence and a belief in every student’s potential,” Bean stated.
The district serves approximately 12,000 students across 17 schools, with Bean recognizing various school mascots: “Let’s go Warriors, let’s go Hornets, Flashes and Let’s Go Pirates.”
Superintendent Dr. Kathy Burns accepted the printed congressional record on behalf of the district, marking a historic milestone for Nassau County’s educational system.
“We’re excited to celebrate with all of Nassau County our most recent top ranking from the Florida Department of Education,” said Burns in a statement to Nassau NewsLine. “Our No. 1 district and all A-rated schools are the result of targeted goal setting, hard work, and the commitment of our teachers, support staff, district leaders, students, parents and communities. It truly is nicer in Nassau!”
School year begins successfully despite minor transportation adjustments
Nassau County schools completed their first week with 12,299 students enrolled, coming close to the projected 12,349, Superintendent Dr. Kathy Burns reported at Thursday’s board meeting.
“It’s been a great first week of school,” Burns said, though she acknowledged some initial challenges with bus routes and schedules that are typical for the opening weeks.
The district addressed attendance notification issues that arose during the transition. Due to schedule changes, attendance calls went out at 4 p.m. during the first week, but starting Monday, notifications will be sent in the morning immediately after attendance is taken at each school.
One parent, Natalie Voitak, had requested the earlier notification timing during public comment, citing safety concerns about delayed communication regarding student absences.
Looking ahead, Burns announced that the new Commissioner of Education will visit Nassau County schools on Friday, August 22, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., touring the district office and several schools.
The district also recognized strong community support through events like the Back to School Bash at Elm Street, where organizations provided free physicals, backpacks, and other resources for families.
Board members expressed satisfaction with the smooth start, with several noting positive feedback from school visits during the opening week.
