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Rock Crusher Elementary

Home of the Gophers

August Gopher Gazette

Posted Date: 08/17/26 (09:00 AM)


Gopher Gazette

Monthly news and updates

August 17, 2026
A cartoon turtle with an American flag shell says 'Welcome back to school! Let's ROCK this year!'

Principal's News

Welcome back to another exciting year at Rock Crusher Elementary!
As I begin my first year as principal, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to lead a school that means so much to me. While this is my first year as principal, Rock Crusher has been part of my journey for many years. I began my teaching career right here at RCE and spent six years as a teacher. After serving as a teacher and other roles throughout the district, I was fortunate to return four years ago as an Assistant Principal. Now, I am honored to continue that journey as your principal.

As we begin this school year, we first celebrate the hard work of our students, staff, and families during 2025–2026. Together, we earned a “B” school grade and made historical gains in ELA. These accomplishments reflect the dedication and commitment of our entire Rock Crusher community and give us a strong foundation to build upon.

This year, we will continue to Believe It and Achieve It by increasing achievement in ELA and mathematics, meeting the individual needs of our students, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow and succeed. We will also continue strengthening what makes Rock Crusher special, our culture. RCE represents the expectations we have for ourselves and, most importantly, for our students:
R — Respect
C — Caring Citizens
E — Exceptional Behavior
When we put these together, we create what it means to be a Golden Gopher. Our goal is for every student to know what it means to be a Golden Gopher—to treat others with respect, be a caring and responsible member of our community, and demonstrate exceptional behavior each day.

We are fortunate to be part of a supportive community where our families and community partners show up, celebrate with us, and continue to make Rock Crusher a special place to learn and grow. That sense of belonging is part of what has always made The Rock unique.

I am excited for the year ahead and all that we will accomplish together.
Believe It! Achieve It! There’s No Place Like Rock Crusher!

With Golden Gopher spirit,
Barbie Bogart
Principal
 

Counselor's Corner

The 2026-2027 school year is off and running. Listening to the sound of students giggling in the hallways is always good and I am excited to be a part of the amazing staff at Rock Crusher Elementary.

The start of the school year can bring about all kinds of feelings-scared, sad, happy, anxious, curious, or overwhelmingly tired, for both students and adults.  Your feelings are valid! It’s also the time of year to practice patience, compassion, understanding and self-care. It may not always be easy, but it will always be helpful 😊

Next, if you are interested in learning more about our partnership with Citrus County Blessings (a weekend food program), now is the perfect time to sign up. (We can send home an application with your student).

Finally, please do not hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns. If I can't help, I can usually find a resource that can. I am looking forward to a great year at Rock Crusher Elementary.

Kelly Burkholder (Ms. B)
School Counselor
 

Family Events & Information

Upcoming Dates

Monday, September 7: No School - Labor Day

September 8-11: Bookfair

Tuesday, September 15: Fall Pictures

Thursday: September 17: SAC Meeting at 4:15

Fall Pictures

Tuesday, September 15 - Fall Pictures
Friday, October 16th - Picture Retakes

Picture flyers will be sent home late August. If you would like to purchase your child's photos, you can order online or with the payment returned on picture day in the envelope from the flyer that will be sent home soon.

*Our commission we make on these packages will be used for activities for the students, and 10% will go to recognizing our staff. If you have any questions, please call 352-795-2010 ext. 4611.
Rock Crusher Elementary thanks its sponsors, featuring logos for Jim Jason The Mason, Inc., Mr. Septic, and Wave Elite Realty Partners.

Partner with Purpose: Power the Future of Our Students


When local businesses back our students, the whole community wins!

Your investment directly funds 90% student enrichment activities, school-wide events, and 10% staff appreciation. With your contribution and our incredible educators, there’s no limit to what our students can achieve - we will ROCK this year!

If you are interested in partnering with RCE, please reach out to Colleen Arnold at arnoldc@citrusschools.org or (352) 795-2010 ext. 4611
 

Title I Time

Rock Crusher Elementary School recognizes teachers teaching out-of-field, with William Criss listed.

School Improvement Plan and Parent Involvement Plan

Parent and Family Engagement (PFE) in a child’s education is a greater predictor of academic success than whether or not that family is affluent or poor. That’s why Title I, Part A program regulations insist on robust parent and family engagement activities at every school where federal funds support effective teaching and engaged learning. Currently Title I, Part A defines parent involvement as the participation of parents in regular, two-way and meaningful communications with school staff that involves the student, addresses learning and engages the family in school activities. Please contact the school to find how you can become more involved in your child’s educational environment. If you would like further information concerning Title l please contact Alice Harrel (Title l Coordinator).
School Improvement Plan
Parent Involvement
Parents' Right to Know Letter
 

Contact Information


Principal: Barbie Bogart
Assistant Principal: Mark Kahler

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following methods:

  • (352) 795-2010
  • bogartb@citrusschools.org
  • https://rce.citrusschools.org/
A cartoon turtle with an American flag shell walks on a blue background surrounded by crayons.
Fortify FL

Community Crisis & Support Contacts

Suicide Hotline- 1-800-273-TALK (8255)  Crisis Text Line #741741 or teen line #839863
Abuse Hotline- 1-800-962-2873
The Centers (Mental Health)- 352-628-5020
Life Stream (Mental Health)- 866-355-9394
AA - 352-621-0599 or Celebrate Recovery 352-247- 6971
NA – 352-508-1641 (naturecoast.org/meetings)
CASA (Domestic Violence Shelter) - 352-344-8111

If you or someone you know is in need, reach out.