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POWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL

Growth - Respect - Ownership - Winning Attitude - Leadership

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cheerleaders with panther mascot
student in spirit gear
four students sitting at a lunch table

Welcome to Powell Middle School!

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Safety is one of our top priorities. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills and guardians trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.

  • Our regular school day typically begins at 8:35 a.m. and ends at 3;10 p.m., with after-school programs available for families needing extended care. On early release days, dismissal is at 12:10 p.m.

  • Registration can be done in person at the school office.
    Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
    Click here for more information.

  • In Hernando County School District, technology is seamlessly integrated into classrooms to enhance teaching and learning across all grade levels. Students benefit from a one-to-one Microsoft laptop program, giving them daily access to powerful tools like Microsoft 365 and Canva for Education. Teachers use interactive smartboards such as Promethean and Newline to deliver dynamic lessons, while platforms like Canvas LMS and Nearpod support personalized instruction, real-time feedback, and student engagement. Classrooms are also equipped with audio enhancement systems to ensure every student can hear clearly, improving focus and accessibility. These tools foster collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, preparing students for success in a digital world while promoting responsible digital citizenship.

Upcoming Events

View the full calendar to see all the exciting events we have happening in the next few weeks and months!

Panther Den
Powell Courtyard


Mission Statement:
At Powell, we educate the whole student through strong academics, vibrant performing arts, and real-world learning. We build a culture where students lead with respect, take ownership, grow every day, and succeed together.

Grades: 6-8
Enrollment: 1,032 students
Principal: Alex Rastatter
Assistant Principals: Amy DeFilippis and Alan Napier
School Hours: 8:35 AM – 3:10 PM

Principal’s Message

Welcome to Powell Middle School! I am proud to serve as the principal of this incredible school, now in my eighth year at Powell — the first four as assistant principal. As a former Powell student myself, it’s a true honor to lead the very school I once attended as a student.photo of principal Rastatter

Powell Middle is a proud “B” rated school, and we continue to strive toward earning that “A.” Our campus is home to a thriving Performing Arts Program with a long history of Superior ratings, an active Student Government that builds strong connections between families and the school through community events, and a dynamic Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) Program that encourages academic success and positive choices.

Powell’s growing Dungeons & Dragons Club, allows students to sharpen their creativity and teamwork skills through engaging adventures, and our outstanding Athletics Program, has been recognized for earning county championships in several sports over the years.

Another source of pride for our school is our student-led newspaper, The G-R-O-W-L, which is featured monthly in the Hernando Sun. Our talented student journalists write and publish stories that highlight the great things happening across our campus—from classroom innovations and staff spotlights to student achievements and community partnerships. Their work not only showcases school spirit but also gives our students valuable experience in writing, communication, and leadership.

Most importantly, our dedicated staff work tirelessly to provide engaging lessons and make student learning our top priority. Together, we continue to build on Powell’s proud traditions while inspiring every student to reach their fullest potential.

Warm regards,
Alex Rastatter
Phone: 352.796.7095  | rastatter_a@hcsb.k12.fl.us

G.R.O.W.L.—Growth - Respect - Ownership - Winning Attitude - Leadership  middle school logo with red and black