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Grego: County’s school system is in ‘good shape’ Around Osceola Wednesday, 25 August 2010 00:00 By Rick Madewell Assistant Editor Osceola County’s school system is in “good shape,” according to the system’s leader. Michael Grego, Osceola County schools superintendent, was featured speaker at the Aug. 13 quarterly luncheon of the St. Cloud Greater Osceola Chamber of Commerce at the Royal St. Cloud Golf Links. The super- intendent told the gathering that this was his 30th start of a school year and he spoke of his climb up the ladder to where his is today, laughing that it has been a nervous climb every step of the way. He said, however, that he was “very blessed to be here in Osceola County … and I’m still nervous.” Grego then spoke about safety factors for upcoming school openings, asking every member of the audience to be patient when they see red bus lights and are moving in slowed traffic. Keep in mind, he said, the children are “our most precious commodity.” Education within a community is extremely important, the superintendent said. “The quality of our community is directly related proportionately to the quality of our schools,” he said. “There’s nothing greater than education and we are on our way to be the best.” Grego said he applauded the community for helping to raise FCAT testing scores above state rates — with 79.2 percent. The superintendent also pointed out that St. Cloud High School had reached an excellent graduation rate at 92 percent, adding that the dropout rate in the county is lower than the state average. “It’s not an option in our community,” he said. “We need an education. We need to expect it from our students. If we don’t dream big for them, who will?” Grego spoke of other shining numbers from county schools, with 50 percent of students taking higher level math classes and gifted education classes now are offered in 39 different schools. “The Osceola County School District is in good shape,” he said, alluding to his “State of Education in Osceola County,” speech. “We are a big business but we never want to act that way. And I don’t take for granted the trust and loyalty of our school district. We’re making purchases of $43 million a year and we try to bring businesses back. We want that business and encourage them.” Grego also spoke of the selflessness within the community. “We all make a difference,” he said. “It’s a beautiful community; where there is a need, people are there.” Also at the quarterly meeting, chamber staff gave out awards. Those included: • Community Image Award — new construction: Central Florida Internists. • Community Image Award — renovations: Florida Decorating Center. • Ambassador of the Quarter Award — Yvette Vazquez. • Non-profit Organization Award — Upward Sports Cornerstone Church. • Business of the Quarter Award — Colorscapes Custom Painting. • Volunteer of the Quarter Award — Will Reeder, WJR Enterprises.   Please register or log in to post comments. JComments