Message from SCPS - Snakes & Other Wildlife

Dear SCPS Families,

Snakes are a part of Florida’s natural environment and a common concern for residents of our Central Florida community. Like alligators, bears, and other wildlife, snakes should be treated with respect and avoided if at all possible.

Earlier this week, a student at Markham Woods Middle School had an encounter with a possible venomous snake while in the P.E. field. With the current lack of rain and dry conditions, experts have informed us the chances of critters coming out from wooded areas in search of water is high right now and may increase chances of seeing such animals on our campuses and surrounding properties.

To be proactive, we want to encourage parents to speak to their children about snakes and other native wildlife, while also emphasizing the importance to treat them with respect and a “leave them alone” philosophy. Students should never attempt to approach snakes or any other wild animals at school, at home or elsewhere.

We would also like to advise caution to those students who are traveling near wooded areas to and from school to be extra cautious. We ask our walkers and bike riders to be aware of their surroundings and speak with a teacher or administrator immediately if they come across a venomous reptile or wild animal while on campus.

Below are some useful links regarding snake awareness for you to review with your children:

http://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/snakes/

http://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/dealing_with_snakes.shtml

https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/herpetology/fl-snakes/venomous-snakes/

In closing, we want to ensure you that we are working closely with our district Maintenance Department and school administrators to monitor our campus grounds regularly in an effort to hopefully avoid any further encounters. As always, we are deeply committed to the safety and well being of our students.   Thank you!

Sincerely,
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS)