A huge thank you to Ms. Sonia, our fabulous Plant Manager, and her dedicated HES crew for all of their hard work this summer. From moving everything out of classrooms to stripping floors, deep cleaning, and applying fresh wax, they are working tirelessly to make sure our campus is clean, safe, and shining for the 2026-2027 school year.
We appreciate the care, pride, and effort they put into our school every day. Thank you for helping prepare a welcoming environment for our Mustangs to learn, grow, and succeed! 💙💛
#CrackerTrailElementary #CTEMustangs #MustangPride #SummerCleanup #BehindTheScenes #ThankYouHESCrew #ReadyFor2627 #MustangsLeadTheWay #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork 🐴✨
📚❤️ South Florida State College Gives Back! ❤️📚
In celebration of Read Across America, we were excited to welcome several staff members from South Florida State College into our kindergarten and 1st grade classrooms earlier this year!
As part of their volunteer outreach to elementary schools across Highlands County, SFSC team members spent time reading with our students and sharing their love of books. 📖✨
Our young learners absolutely loved having special guest readers, and we truly appreciate the time, energy, and heart they poured into our classrooms. Thank you for helping us inspire a love of reading in our Mustangs! 🐴💙
#CTEMustangs #CTERocks #SFSCGivesBack #ReadAcrossAmerica #HighlandsCountySchools #ElementaryEducation #CommunityPartners #MustangPride #ReadersAreLeaders
We're taking another trip down memory lane with CTE's 1992-1993 Faculty & Staff Photo!
After blazing a trail of success during its very first year, this incredible herd of educators and staff members was ready to saddle up for year two. Check out those shirts featuring CTE's original logo—a true piece of Mustang history! 🐎⭐
So, Mustangs, we have a few challenges for you:
👀 Were you here then?
🍎 Is your teacher in this picture?
🐴 Can you identify the ONE current Mustang still working at CTE today?
🏫 Can you tell us what area of the school they worked in back then?
Drop your answers and memories in the comments! We love celebrating the people and moments that helped make CTE the special place it is today.
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #ThrowbackThursday #TBT #MustangLegacy #OriginalMustangs #CTEHistory #OnceAMustangAlwaysAMustang #GallopingThroughTheYears #MustangMemories
Our Mustang campers are diving into creativity and fun with this year’s summer daycare theme, "Under the Sea Adventure!" A special thank you to the SHS Art Department for donating their amazing artwork from this year's Soup Up the Arts event. The beautiful pieces have helped transform our space into an underwater wonderland!
Each week, campers create their own sea creatures and explore ocean-inspired activities. To make the adventure even more exciting, our Mustangs are swimming like fish twice a week at the SHS pool!
Thank you to our school partners for helping make this summer unforgettable for our campers. 💙🌊
#CTEMustangs #UnderTheSeaAdventure #SummerCampFun #MustangPride #CrackerTrailElementary #CommunityPartnerships #SoupUpTheArts #MakingWaves
This spring, members of the CTE Art Club had an incredible opportunity to visit South Florida State College's Art Department for a day filled with creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning!
Students rotated through three engaging experiences:
🖌️ The Drawing Studio, where they practiced gesture drawing using teapots and live models.
🌊 The Suminagashi Experience, learning the ancient Japanese art of paper marbling.
🖼️ A guided tour of MOFAC led by SFSC Curator Mrs. Tomberlin, where students explored a variety of artistic works and exhibits.
The day concluded with an exciting clay-throwing demonstration by artist Jim Fetzer, giving students a firsthand look at the art of pottery creation. Of course, no college visit would be complete without lunch at the longtime SFSC favorite, Kelly's Bistro!
Thank you to South Florida State College for providing our Mustangs with an inspiring experience that encouraged creativity, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the arts. Huge Thanks to our field trip organizer and art club sponsor Mrs. Kristine Sebring, co-sponsor Mrs. Debbie LaBarr, and chaperone Mrs. Nancy Nichols. We are proud of our young artists for representing CTE so well!
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #CTEArtClub #FutureArtists #ArtsEducation #CreativeMustangs #SFSC #LearningBeyondTheClassroom #MustangExperiences #CreatingMemories
Take a ride back in time with us to 1991-1992 when CTE first opened its doors! This classic faculty and staff photo features the amazing herd of educators and support staff who welcomed our very first Mustangs and helped build the foundation of the school we know and love today.
Thirty-plus years later, their legacy is still galloping strong! 🐎⭐
Were you a student at CTE back then? Is your teacher in this picture? Can you identify CTE's first principal and assistant principal? Drop your guesses, memories, and shout-outs in the comments below!
Thank you to the original Mustangs who helped make CTE a special place from day one. 💙
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #ThrowbackThursday #TBT #MustangLegacy #OnceAMustangAlwaysAMustang #CTEHistory #BuildingTraditions #MustangFamily #GallopingThroughTheYears
The team from Excavation Point was hard at work clearing overgrowth from our school's southernmost retention pond, and our daycare students had a front-row view of the action—from a safe distance, of course! 🚜🌿
There's something fascinating about watching big equipment in action, and our Mustangs enjoyed every minute of the show while watching some important work that helps keep our campus safe and looking its best.
Thank you to Excavation Point for helping maintain our school grounds!
#CrackerTrailElementary #MustangPride #CTEMustangs #FutureMustangs #LearningEverywhere #CommunityPartners #ExcavationPoint #MustangStrong
✨🐴 Mrs. Jones' class ended the school year on a bright note with an awesome Glow Party! 🐴✨
These Mustangs were glowing with excitement as they celebrated a year filled with learning, laughter, friendships, and memories. From neon colors to glowing smiles, the classroom was shining almost as brightly as our students' futures!
You could say Mrs. Jones' class didn't just finish the year—they lit it up! 💡😎
What a fantastic way to celebrate all of their hard work and success. We hope our Mustangs have a safe, fun, and bright summer!
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #GlowParty #LitUpLearning #BrightFutures #MustangMagic #LastDayFun #ShiningBright #MustangStrong
During our final Herd of Honor, we recognized our Mustangs who exemplified the character trait of Honesty. Honesty means being truthful in our words and actions, taking responsibility for our choices, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Our honored Mustangs consistently demonstrated integrity, trustworthiness, and strong character both in and out of the classroom.
We are incredibly proud of these students and the positive example they set for our school community!
A special thank you to our teachers for participating in and supporting the Herd of Honor program throughout the year. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Mrs. Thomas for continuing to organize and lead this meaningful tradition that celebrates the character and success of our Mustangs.
May Herd of Honor students were:
Jace F.
Daniel B.
Grace G.
Chloe B.
Rory C.
Natalie V.
Adilynn B.
Axyle J.
Wylder B.
Dominic M.
Emerson H.
Sophia C.
Isabel M.
Shaylee P.
Tiago G.-P.
Avery M.
Deshad E.
Kamilah Q.
Catalina M.
Braxton M.
Hope P.
Caroline P.
Gabriella E.
Hank M.
Brinley M.
Adalynn K.
Collin M.
Holland N.
Rylee C.
Jaelynn M.
Isabella B.
Jack M.
Miley M.
Kyley W.
Jack N.
Matthew H.
Keira J.
Congratulations to all of our Herd of Honor recipients this year! 💙⭐
#MustangPride #HerdOfHonor #CharacterCounts #Honesty #MustangStrong #StudentSuccess #FutureLeaders #PositiveCharacter #MustangNation
💙🐴 Exciting Changes at CTE! 🐴💙
This summer, our front office is getting a much-needed remodel and update to help keep our students, staff, and visitors as safe as possible. Believe it or not, our office has remained largely unchanged since CTE opened in 1991—aside from a tile replacement about 15 years ago and painting over the original wood paneling. (Who remembers that original wood? 😊)
A huge thank you goes to our SBHC Facilities Team for the hard work they will be putting in throughout the summer to make these improvements possible.
While construction is underway, our summer office staff has temporarily relocated just a few doors down. Our phone line remains active, so please don't hesitate to call if you need assistance with registration, records, or general questions.
We are also happy to share that Patsy's Memorial Tile Wall will remain standing as a special tribute to our longtime Mustang and beloved School Momma. 💙
We can't wait to welcome everyone back to see the transformation!
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #BuildingForTheFuture #StudentSafety #SBHC #OnceAMustangAlwaysAMustang #MustangFamily
☕💙 A Brew-tiful Way to End the Year! 💙☕
A huge THANK YOU to our amazing PTO for sponsoring The Brew Crew coffee trailer as a special end-of-the-year treat for our staff!
Our teachers and staff work tirelessly throughout the year to support our Mustangs, and this thoughtful gesture was a wonderful way to show appreciation for all they do. We are grateful for the partnership and support of our PTO and for The Brew Crew's delicious drinks that helped make the day extra special.
Thank you for helping us celebrate an incredible school year! 🐴💙
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #BestPTOEver #TheBrewCrew #StaffAppreciation #ThankYouPTO #MustangStrong #EndOfYearCelebration #CTEFamily #FuelingOurMustangs @thebrewcrewfl
💙🐴 A CTE Tradition Continues! 🐴💙
One of our favorite end-of-year traditions is the annual Staff vs. 5th Grade Kickball Game! This exciting event is a fun way to celebrate our 5th graders as they wrap up their CTE journey and prepare for middle school.
The competition was fierce, the laughs were plentiful, and memories were made as our students and staff took the field one last time together. After an action-packed game, the staff came away with the victory, winning by a score of 38 to 24! 🏆⚽
Thank you to our amazing 5th graders for the energy, sportsmanship, and leadership you've shown throughout your years at CTE. We are proud of each and every one of you and can't wait to see all that you'll accomplish in the future.
Once a Mustang, always a Mustang! 💙🐴
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #StaffVsStudents #5thGradeTradition #MustangStrong #FutureMiddleSchoolers #CTEClassOf2033 #MakingMemories #OnceAMustangAlwaysAMustang
Throughout the school year, Student Leadership Team has collected funds during Hat Days, and they recently voted to donate those funds to one of our very own, Mrs. Bonnie "Action" Jackson.
Mrs. Jackson is the definition of strength, perseverance, and determination. Her grit in the face of challenges inspire our students, staff, and community every day. She reminds us that courage is not about never facing obstacles—it is about continuing to move forward with hope and resilience.
We are proud of our student leaders for choosing to support someone who has made such a meaningful impact on our school family. Mrs. Jackson, please know that the entire CTE Mustang family is behind you and cheering you on every step of the way.
CTE loves you, Mrs. Jackson! ❤️
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #MustangsLeadTheWay #StrongerTogether #CommunityStrong #CTEFamily #MustangLeadership #GritAndGrace #WeLoveMrsJackson #MustangStrong
After much mystery… secret meetings… dramatic debates… and probably way too many fish jokes… our 2027 school musical has officially been chosen!
Some students wanted to venture in the jungle… with The Jungle Book!
Some wished for a magic lamp… with Aladdin!
But this year… we’re going under the sea! 🌊
🐟✨ Our 2027 musical will be… Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS! ✨🐟
That’s right! Get ready for ocean adventures, colorful sea creatures, catchy songs, and at least 47 students asking if they can play a shark.
So start practicing your swimming (on land only, please), warm up those singing voices, and remember…
🎶 “Just keep singing… just keep singing…” 🎶
Audition information will be coming fall 2026. It will be open to all 4th and 5th graders at CTE. Sea you there! 🐠🌊
💙🐴 A Special Thank You from the Mustangs 🐴💙
After 7 wonderful years, we are sunsetting our Art Banner Program this summer.
A huge THANK YOU to Glades Electric, Mrs. Sebring, and Hines Ag Services for their support and assistance in helping keep this program going over the years. Your partnership and generosity have meant so much to our school and students.
We hope these banners have brought joy and inspiration to everyone who has seen them throughout the community. Thank you for supporting our Mustang artists and celebrating their creativity with us! 🎨💙🐴
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #StudentArtists #CommunityPartners #ThankYou #GoMustangs #SupportingTheArts #MustangCreativity
The last day to pick up student medication from our school clinic is Thursday, May 28, 2026.
If you missed last week’s pickup window, medication may be picked up during the following times this week:
📅 Tuesday, 5/26: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
📅 Wednesday, 5/27: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
📅 Thursday, 5/28: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
🚫 Medication was NOT sent home with students last week.
🗑️ Any medication remaining at school after May 28, 2026 will be properly discarded according to district guidelines.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Nurse Dean at Cracker Trail Elementary at 863-471-5777.
Thank you for your cooperation and for helping keep our Mustangs safe and healthy! 💙🐴
#CTEMustangs #MustangPride #StudentSafety #HealthyMustangs #GoMustangs
As you celebrate this exciting milestone, we hope you’ll stop by campus and snap a picture in front of our marquee before you head off to your next adventure. Your time here has helped build the legacy of our Mustang family, and you will always be part of the herd. 💙
Graduates and families, we’d love for you to share your graduation photos in the comments so our school community can celebrate with you! 📸✨
Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Wishing everyone a fun, memorable, and safe graduation weekend. 🎉
#MustangPride #OnceAMustangAlwaysAMustang #ClassOf2026 #MustangLegacy #GraduationWeekend #FutureReady #ProudMustangs
Each day, our safety patrols help make arrival and dismissal run smoothly by assisting with student drop off and pick up, showing leadership, responsibility, and kindness along the way. Their hard work and dedication help keep our campus safe for everyone!
A special thank you to our patrol sponsor, Mrs. Cook, for her leadership and support throughout the year. 💙
We are so proud of this incredible group of student leaders as they head off to middle school next year! We know they will continue to do great things. New patrols will soon step into these important leadership roles and continue the Mustang tradition of service and responsibility.
#CTERocks #MustangPride #SafetyPatrol #MustangsLead #StudentLeaders #FutureLeaders #ThankYouSafetyPatrols #MustangStrong #MiddleSchoolBound 🐴💙
This is a reminder that all student medication must be picked up from the school clinic by 2:00 PM on Friday, May 22, 2026.
🚫 Medication cannot be sent home with students.
🗑️ Any medication remaining at school after May 28, 2026 will be properly discarded according to district and state guidelines.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Nurse Dean at Cracker Trail Elementary at 863-471-5777.
Thank you for your cooperation and helping us keep our Mustangs safe and healthy! 💙
🍋🐴 Our Mustangs Turned Reading Into Real-World Fun! 🐴🍋
Mrs. Jones’ 3rd grade class recently finished reading The Lemonade War and brought the story to life by creating their very own lemonade stands! Students worked hard designing creative displays, developing presentations, and serving up delicious lemonade for staff and visitors to enjoy.
Guests had the opportunity to vote for the best lemonade and the best presentation, making this an exciting and engaging learning experience for everyone involved. 🎉👏
Congratulations to our winners:
Best Lemonade: Fresh Fizz!
Best Stand: Da Boiz!
We are so proud of our Mustangs for combining literacy, creativity, teamwork, and entrepreneurship in such a fun way! 💙💛
#MustangPride #TheLemonadeWar #3rdGradeFun #HandsOnLearning #FutureEntrepreneurs #MustangsLeadTheWay
