JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — March 5, 2026  Lt. Gov. Jay Collins visited River City Science Academy Southeast, a K–8 public STEM charter school in Jacksonville, where he met with students and educators to discuss the importance of perseverance, literacy, and STEM education in shaping future leaders.

Collins addressed middle school students and high school seniors from the RCSA high school campus during a campus assembly, sharing his personal journey and encouraging them to remain resilient in pursuit of their goals. Reflecting on academic challenges he faced early in his own education, Collins emphasized how determination, education, and service helped shape his path from military service to earning college degrees and ultimately serving in public office.

Collins expressed that every student, regardless of background, has the ability to achieve great success. He encouraged them to never let their circumstances dictate their future possibilities.

Following the assembly, Collins participated in a question-and-answer session with middle school students, during which he spoke about leadership, perseverance, and the role education plays in opening doors to future success.

During his visit, Collins also spent time in several classrooms across the campus. In a kindergarten classroom, he spoke with students about the meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance, helping them explore vocabulary such as “republic” and discussing how civic values help protect the freedoms and rights of citizens.

The visit also included a student panel discussion with select seniors and seventh-grade civics students. During the conversation, students engaged with Collins on current events, leadership, and the importance of informed civic participation.

Collins was welcomed to campus by River City Science Academy Founder and Executive Director Dr. Dogan Tozoglu, Director of Public Affairs and Engagement Sel Buyuksarac, School Principal Dr. Alaaddin Akgul, and Dean of Academics Crystal Basford, Ed.S.

During a campus tour, school leaders shared how River City Science Academy integrates STEM and literacy instruction across subject areas to prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven future. The visit also highlighted the work of the River City Science Academy network’s six Jacksonville campuses in equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in a digital and STEM-focused world.

“Welcoming Lt. Governor Collins to our campus was a tremendous honor,” said school leadership. “His message of perseverance, education, leadership, and civic responsibility resonated deeply with our students and reinforces the importance of preparing young people to become informed leaders and innovators.”

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About River City Science Academy Southeast

River City Science Academy Southeast is a K–8 public STEM charter school in Jacksonville, Florida, and part of the River City Science Academy network. The school is dedicated to providing a rigorous, innovative education that emphasizes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while strengthening literacy and critical thinking skills. Through cross-curricular STEM learning and real-world applications, River City Science Academy prepares students for success in college, careers, and civic life.