✨ What an Incredible Day at Southside Elementary! ✨

A heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who joined us for our Campus Beautification Day! Because of the generosity, teamwork, and school pride shown by our amazing families, dedicated teachers and staff, and incredible community partners, our campus is even more welcoming and beautiful as we prepare to welcome our Little Pirates back for an EPIC school year.

We are especially grateful to First Baptist Church Fernandina Beach and First Federal Bank of Florida – Fernandina Beach for volunteering their time, energy, and support. Your partnership means so much to our school community!

It truly takes a village, and today was a wonderful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together. Thank you to everyone who mulched, planted, cleaned flower beds, organized, and helped make Southside Elementary shine.

We can't wait to welcome our students and families back to a campus that's ready for an amazing 2026–2027 school year! 💙🏴‍☠️

#SouthsideElementary #LittlePirates #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #CommunityStrong #CampusBeautification #ThankYou

https://canva.link/6tcryy7ti5mnx19
3 days ago, Southside Elementary School
✨ What an E.P.I.C. first day back! ⚾💙

Today, we officially welcomed our amazing teachers and staff back to Southside Elementary, and what a fantastic start it was! The day was filled with celebrations, team-building games, delicious food, sweet treats, laughter, and plenty of time to reconnect as we prepare for an incredible school year.

Our faculty and staff are energized, inspired, and ready to make this our most E.P.I.C. year yet—one built on Excellence, Professionalism, Innovation, and Collaboration.

The countdown is on until we welcome our Little Pirates back to campus! We can't wait to partner with our families for an amazing 2026–2027 school year because Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts. 💙🏴‍☠️ https://canva.link/9v1q2k2ss3u1l1l

#SouthsideElementary #LittlePirates #EPICYear #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #BackToSchool #TeamSES
4 days ago, Southside Elementary School
📣 Quick Note for Our Southside Elementary Families! 💙💛

If you didn't receive a phone call from your child's teacher today, don't worry! 📞 You can expect a welcome call next week as our teachers continue reaching out to families.

We are so excited to kick off the 2026–2027 school year and can't wait to welcome our Little Pirates back to campus! 🏴‍☠️

📅 Meet the Teacher
🗓 Friday, August 7
⏰ 9:30–11:30 a.m.

We can't wait to see our hallways filled with smiling faces. Here's to an amazing year ahead—Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts! 💙💛

#SouthsideElementary #LittlePirates #MeetTheTeacher #BackToSchool #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #EPICSchoolYear
4 days ago, Southside Elementary School
A school announcement graphic with a blue gradient background and a large white rounded rectangle outlined in blue. At the top center is a circular Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot logo. Large blue text reads, "Quick Note", followed by gold script that says, "for our families!" The message states: "If you didn’t receive a phone call today, you will receive one next week from your child’s teacher. We are so excited for the 26–27 school year, and we can’t wait to see you!" A blue banner near the bottom reads "Meet the Teacher" in gold lettering, with the event details below: Friday, August 7th, 9:30–11:30. Decorative blue and gold accent lines and a heart icon add a cheerful, welcoming feel.
📚 Every Minute Matters! ⏰

A strong start to the school day begins with being on time! At Southside Elementary, our daily Accelerated Reader (AR) testing time is from 7:25–7:50 a.m. Arriving on time allows for students to take AR tests on books they read the night before at home.

Here's how families can help:
📖 Encourage your child to read their AR books at home.
🎒 Make sure they arrive prepared and ready to test.
⏰ Plan to arrive at school on time each morning so they don't miss valuable testing time.

Those first minutes of the day matter. Being on time helps students start their morning with confidence, stay on track academically, and work toward achieving their quarterly AR goals.

Thank you for partnering with us to ensure every student matters and every moment counts! 💙💛 #SouthsideElementary #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #OnTimeEveryTime #ReadersAreLeaders #ARSuccess
5 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text in the center reads, "AR TIME," with "AR" in blue and "TIME" in gold. The simple, high-contrast design is intended to draw attention to information about Accelerated Reader (AR) activities or announcements.
As we gear up for an incredible new school year, the leadership teams from Emma Love Hardee Elementary and Southside Elementary had the opportunity to welcome back our amazing bus drivers this morning! 🚌💙 The morning was filled with team-building, collaboration, and a review of the important expectations that help ensure every student has a safe, positive, and successful start and end to each school day. Our bus drivers are often the first and last school team members our students see each day, and we are incredibly grateful for the care, dedication, and commitment they show to our children and families. Thank you for all you do to help make this school year a great one! Here's to a safe journey and an outstanding year ahead! 🚍✨ #OneTeamOneGoal #BackToSchool #StudentSafety #SouthsideElementary #EmmaLoveHardee #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts
6 days ago, Southside Elementary School
A group of approximately 12 school bus drivers and school administrators stand together smiling in a meeting room for a group photo. A presentation screen behind them displays a welcome message thanking bus drivers for "driving with purpose." The group is dressed in a mix of school spirit shirts and casual attire, reflecting a welcoming, team-oriented atmosphere as they gather to prepare for the new school year. Tables are visible in the foreground, and the room includes classroom-style features such as a projector screen, clock, and doors.
School administrators stand at the front of a meeting room presenting to a group of school bus drivers seated at tables during a welcome-back meeting. A large presentation screen displays a slide titled "Purpose" with a school bus graphic and key discussion points about supporting bus drivers, supporting students, clarifying procedures, and addressing questions or concerns. The attendees are focused on the presentation, creating a collaborative and professional atmosphere as the team prepares for the upcoming school year. The room includes classroom-style tables and chairs, an American flag, and presentation equipment.
A school administrator stands at the front of a meeting room leading an interactive discussion with a group of school bus drivers during a welcome-back meeting. A large presentation screen displays the activity titled "My Route...My Why," encouraging drivers to reflect on what they enjoy most about being a bus driver and when they know they have made a difference. Bus drivers are seated at tables, engaged in conversation and smiling as they participate. Gift bags are lined up on a table near the front of the room, adding to the welcoming atmosphere as the transportation team prepares for the new school year.
The first day of school is almost here. We look forward to welcoming students back for another amazing year in the Nassau County School District.

Download our app to stay updated on the 2026-2027 school calendar. Download for Android https://aptg.co/s1V3Sq Download for iPhone https://aptg.co/dtLZNY

#WeAreNassau #NicerInNassau
6 days ago, Nassau County School District
Blue Nassau County School District graphic reading “Back to School” with the subheading “The First Day Is Almost Here” and the date August 10, 2026. Additional text says, “Get ready for an amazing year ahead.”
🏴‍☠️ Campus Beautification Day is THIS Saturday! 🌿✨

Our Southside Elementary family is just days away from welcoming students back, and we need your help to make our campus look its very best!

📅 Saturday, August 1, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Southside Elementary School

Join fellow families, staff, community members, and business partners as we:
🌸 Refresh our butterfly garden
🌳 Spread mulch around campus
✂️ Trim trees and landscaping
🌼 Pull weeds, spruce up flower beds, and tackle other campus projects

Every helping hand makes a difference, and together we can create a beautiful, welcoming campus for our Little Pirates!

☀️ Florida summer is in full swing, so it will be HOT! We'll have water and Gatorade available, but we encourage everyone to bring a refillable water bottle or additional drinks to help stay hydrated throughout the morning. Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, gardening gloves if you have them, and don't forget sunscreen!

Many hands make light work, and we can't wait to see our Southside village come together. Thank you for helping us make Southside Elementary a place where Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts! 💙💛 https://canva.link/lsxh2e2xtfo69p6

#SouthsideElementary #SouthsideStrong #LittlePirates #CampusBeautification #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts
6 days ago, Southside Elementary School

🏴‍☠️ Our Custodial Crew Is Ready for an Amazing School Year! 🏴‍☠️

Before the hustle and bustle of a new school year begins, our incredible custodial team took a well-deserved break to enjoy lunch with the administrative team. It was a wonderful opportunity to review this year's schedules, discuss plans for a successful year, and, most importantly, spend time building relationships as one team.

At Southside Elementary, we know that strong schools are built on strong relationships. Our custodial staff works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our campus is clean, safe, and welcoming for every student, staff member, and family. We are so grateful for their dedication and commitment to our Little Pirates!

Here's to a year of teamwork, collaboration, and making every moment count. Thank you to our amazing custodial crew for all you do! 💙💛

#SouthsideElementary #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #LittlePirates #OneTeamOneMission #BuildingRelationships #BehindTheScenes #GratefulForOurCustodians

7 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Six Southside Elementary staff members stand in a circle indoors participating in a team-building activity, each holding a section of orange yarn that forms a connected web between them. The group is smiling and engaged, representing collaboration, communication, and the importance of every team member's role in building strong connections. The activity takes place in a classroom or meeting space with cabinets, a bulletin board, and office furniture visible in the background.

Excellence isn't built in a single year. It's built year after year. Southside Elementary School has earned an A school grade for 12 consecutive years, reflecting a culture where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to achieve their very best. That's the kind of consistency families can trust.

#WeAreNassau #NicerInNassau

Enroll today in your neighborhood A-rated school and experience the excellence that makes Nassau County one of the highest-performing school districts in Florida. https://www.nassau.k12.fl.us/enroll

8 days ago, Nassau County School District
Graphic celebrating Southside Elementary School for earning an A school grade for 12 consecutive years. The design features a large gold "12," the message "12 Consecutive Years as an A School," and Southside Elementary School's mascot, highlighting a sustained tradition of academic excellence and student success in the Nassau County School District.
Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs July 20 through August 20, 2026. During this time, many school supplies, clothing, footwear, learning aids, and other eligible items can be purchased tax-free.

Visit https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool/ for a complete list of qualifying items and additional details before you shop.
13 days ago, Nassau County School District
Graphic promoting Florida's Back to School Sales Tax Holiday. The Florida Department of Revenue logo appears at the top. Large teal text reads, "Back to School Sales Tax Holiday." Below, the dates "July 20 to August 20, 2026" are displayed, followed by the message, "For a list of qualifying items, visit floridarevenue.com/BacktoSchool." A row of colorful sharpened pencils spans the bottom of the graphic.

📅 Plan ahead for the 2026-2027 school year!
Whether you're planning a family vacation, a long weekend getaway, or simply looking ahead, our 2026-2027 Extended Break Planner makes it easy to see every major school break at a glance.
From long weekends to holiday breaks, the school calendar offers several opportunities throughout the year for families to reconnect, recharge, and make lasting memories together. We hope this planner helps you make the most of every season.

📄 Download and print a copy here: https://aptg.co/-gcVxm

This planner highlights major district breaks, but there's even more to look forward to throughout the year!
For your school's complete calendar, including events, activities, and important dates, visit our online calendar or download the Nassau County School District app.
📱 District App:
Download for Android: https://aptg.co/s1V3Sq
Download for iPhone: https://aptg.co/dtLZNY
🗓️ Online Calendar: https://nassau.k12.fl.us/calendar

2026-2027 Extended Break Planner
🔹 Labor Day 3-Day Weekend: September 5 through 7
Students return on September 8
🔹 Columbus Day 3-Day Weekend: October 10 through 12
Students return on October 13
🔹 Thanksgiving Break 9-Day Break: November 21 through 29
Students return on November 30
🔹 Winter Break 17-Day Break: December 19 through January 4
Students return on January 5
🔹 Martin Luther King Jr. Day 3-Day Weekend: January 16 through 18
Students return on January 19
🔹 Presidents Day 3-Day Weekend: February 13 through 15
Students return on February 16
🔹 Spring Break 10-Day Break: March 13 through 22
Students return on March 23
🔹 School Holiday 3-Day Weekend: April 30 through May 2
Students return on May 3

Enroll today in your neighborhood A-rated school and experience the excellence that makes Nassau County one of the highest-performing school districts in Florida. https://www.nassau.k12.fl.us/enroll

#WeAreNassau #NicerInNassau

13 days ago, Nassau County School District
Graphic titled "Nassau County School District 2026-2027 Extended Break Planner." The planner lists major school breaks for the 2026-2027 school year and the date students return to school. Labor Day: September 5 through 7, students return September 8. Columbus Day: October 10 through 12, students return October 13. Thanksgiving Break: November 21 through 29, students return November 30. Winter Break: December 19 through January 4, students return January 5. Martin Luther King Jr. Day: January 16 through 18, students return January 19. Presidents Day: February 13 through 15, students return February 16. Spring Break: March 13 through 22, students return March 23. School Holiday: April 30 through May 2, students return May 3. The graphic features the Nassau County School District logo with blue and white branding.
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟

Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Jacqueline Chavez our newest Paraprofessional!

We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community.
A message from Ms. Chavez:

Hello my name is Jacque Chavez. I live in Kingsland GA. I live with my husband and two cats! I have three grown sons and 6 grandchildren. I have been a paraprofessional in Arizona, Colorado and Florida. With 20 years experience.

I love spending Sunday dinners with family. Going to the beach working out and reading.

We are thrilled to have Ms. Chavez as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together!

Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨

#WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts See less
13 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with blond hair in ponytail is pictured against aa waterfront view. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Jacqueline Chavez,” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “Paraprofessional.” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.
🎉☕ Kindergarten Boo Hoo Breakfast ☕🎉

Calling all Kindergarten parents and guardians! We invite you to join us for our annual Boo Hoo Breakfast on Thursday, August 13th, from 7:45 AM–8:30 AM.

After you walk your child to their classroom and say your goodbyes, join us for a special time to connect with other Kindergarten families, learn about our amazing PTO, and discover the many ways you can get involved at Southside Elementary this year.

We look forward to welcoming our newest Little Pirate families and partnering with you for an incredible school year because Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts! 🏴‍☠️❤️
14 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text reads, "CALENDAR UPDATES." A blue banner below says, "SES WEBPAGE AND NCSD APP." At the bottom, white text reads, "Utilize our website calendar for all scheduled events." The design encourages families to check the Southside Elementary website and Nassau County School District app for the latest school calendar updates and events.
🍎 Back-to-School Checklist for Southside Families! ⚓

Help your Little Pirate start the school year off right by completing these important annual tasks:

✅ Complete your Free & Reduced Meal Application
Meal benefit applications must be submitted each school year, even if your family qualified last year.

💳 Set Up or Manage Your Lunch Account
Use the online meal account system to add funds, enroll in automatic payments, and monitor your child's lunch account with ease.

🙋 Apply to Be a School Volunteer
Volunteer applications must also be completed every year and approved by the Nassau County School Board. If you'd like to:

Chaperone a field trip
Volunteer in your child's classroom
Help with school events or activities

...your volunteer application must be submitted and approved before you can participate.

Taking care of these items now will help ensure you're ready for all the exciting opportunities this school year!

Thank you for partnering with us to make Southside Elementary a wonderful place to learn, grow, and serve. 💙💛

Every Student Matters. Every Moment Counts. 🏴‍☠️
14 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text reads, "TIME TO APPLY." Two blue banners below list "FREE & REDUCED LUNCH" and "VOLUNTEER APPLICATION." The graphic reminds Southside Elementary families that it is time to complete their annual free and reduced-price meal application and volunteer application before the start of the school year.

🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟

Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Kelli Tucker, our new 1st Grade Teacher!

We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community.

Hi, Little Pirates!

My name is Kelli Tucker. I live in Fernandina Beach with my husband, Kyle, and our dog, Pepper. This is my fifth year as an elementary educator. I graduated from the University of North Florida with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and am currently pursuing a master's degree.

I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, gardening, reading, and shark tooth hunting. I am passionate about making a positive impact in our community and a meaningful difference in education. I can't wait to meet you all this school year!

We are thrilled to have Ms. Tucker as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together!

Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨

#WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether


15 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with long brown hair is pictured against a softly blurred outdoor background. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Kelli Tucker,” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “1st Grade.” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.
⚾🏴‍☠️ Welcome Back, Southside Families! 🏴‍☠️⚾ The July/August edition of the Southside Parent Connection Newsletter is here, and we are excited to kick off a brand-new school year! Inside this edition, you'll find important back-to-school information, key dates, school updates, helpful reminders, and resources to help your Little Pirate start the year strong. As we begin another amazing year together, we remain committed to our mission: Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts. By working as a team—school and home—we can help every child learn, grow, and thrive. https://app.smore.com/n/u5kw3 #SouthsideElementary #LittlePirates #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #BackToSchool #SouthsideParentConnection #TeamSouthside #NewSchoolYear
15 days ago, Southside Elementary School
📅 Chart Your Course for a Great Year, Little Pirates! ⚓

Our 2026–2027 Southside Elementary Calendar of Events is now available! From teacher planning days and holidays to family events, award ceremonies, and special school celebrations, you'll find all the important dates in one place.

📍 Visit the Southside Elementary website to view the complete Calendar of Events.

📱 Have the NCSD App? You can easily access Southside's calendar and other important Nassau County School District dates right from your phone. We'll keep our calendar updated throughout the year so you'll always have the latest information.

Be sure to check it often and stay connected. We can't wait to make this an amazing year because Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts! 💙🏴‍☠️
17 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text reads, "CALENDAR UPDATES." A blue banner below says, "SES WEBPAGE AND NCSD APP." At the bottom, white text reads, "Utilize our website calendar for all scheduled events." The design encourages families to check the Southside Elementary website and Nassau County School District app for the latest school calendar updates and events.
📞 Teacher Welcome Calls Begin July 31!

Starting July 31, our Southside Elementary teachers will begin reaching out to -families to introduce themselves and welcome students to the new school year. This first connection is an exciting step in helping your child feel confident and ready for a successful year ahead!

🏡 Please make sure your contact information are up to date in FOCUS so you don't miss important back-to-school communications.

Need to update your information? Please call (904) 491-7941 after July 27 and speak with Ms. LaCombe.

We are excited to welcome our Little Pirates back for another fantastic school year! Keep an eye on your phone —your child's teacher is looking forward to connecting with your family soon. ✉️⚓💙💛

Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts.
17 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Blue and white Southside Elementary graphic featuring the Little Pirate mascot at the top. Centered inside a white rounded rectangle is the text “SES Class Assignments” in large blue and gold letters. The design uses the school colors of blue, white, and gold and serves as an announcement for student class assignments.
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟 Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome back to Ms. Jonnilin Danford, our new 1st Grade teacher! We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community. A message from Ms. Danford: Hello! My name is Jonnilin Danford. I live locally with my husband, Josh, and our three children, Julian, Jai, and Harper. This is my third year as an elementary educator. I earned my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Saint Leo University. I am a Florida-certified K–6 teacher with Reading and ESOL endorsements. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, spending time outdoors, and making memories with my family. Random fun fact: I love random green things such as avocados 🥑, lizards 🦎 and cactus! 🌵 I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to Southside Elementary School and am excited to continue growing alongside such an amazing school community. I look forward to the years ahead and to making a positive impact in the lives of my students and their families. We are thrilled to have Ms. Danford back as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together! Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨ #WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts
18 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with long brown hair and highlights is pictured against a softly grey blurred background. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Johnnilin Danford” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “1st Grade.” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.
At SES, our Kindergarten & Pre-K students do a “staggered start” which means that 1/3 of the students will come on Aug. 10th, 1/3, on the 11th, and the final 1/3 will come on the 12th as their first day of school. Then, all kindergarteners will attend starting on the 13th as a full class. Information on what day your child begins will be relayed to you by their teacher on August 3rd when they call to introduce themselves.
19 days ago, Southside Elementary School
Blue and white informational graphic featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large text in the center reads, “Kindergarten Staggered Start.” A blue banner below displays the dates “August 10th–12th.” At the bottom, white text states, “First full day for Kinder students will be Thursday August 13th.” The design uses Southside Elementary’s school colors of blue, white, and gold.