Lion Life, June 2026

JUNE 2026

LION LIFE

SAGEMONT PREP

BUILDING TOMORROW'S INNOVATORS, ONE PROJECT AT A TIME When you walk through the halls of Sagemont Prep's Lower Campus, you will quickly discover that learning is always purposeful. Our students do not simply study concepts from a textbook; they engage in meaningful, yearlong Signature Projects that encourage them to ask questions, solve problems, develop solutions, and connect their learning to the world around them. Rooted in Sagemont Prep's passion for empowering students to innovate for tomorrow, each yearlong Signature Project develops essential skills while nurturing the curiosity, creativity, and confidence that drive deeper learning.

The journey begins with our youngest learners as they investigate the natural world through hands-on studies of birds, wildlife, and ecosystems. As students progress, they become Kinderpreneurs by creating a KinderMart and developing products to operate a marketplace. In first grade, students continue on as problem finders and problem solvers as they explore ways to protect and support animal habitats. Our second graders expand their perspectives by investigating natural disasters and examining how communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from challenging events around the world. Our third-grade students tackle an authentic South Florida challenge by designing fishing-inspired businesses that balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship.

In fourth grade, students step into the role of inventors, researching real-world challenges and developing innovative solutions through "The Next Big Invention."

The Lower Campus Signature Project experience culminates in fifth grade with the Lions' Den, where students develop products, analyze costs, pitch business ideas, and present their entrepreneurial ventures to families and the community. Through reflection and refinement, our Sagemont Prep students learn that innovation is not just about having great ideas; it is about improving them.

Each Signature Project is strengthened by community partners, making them a powerful example of how learning extends beyond the classroom. The students explored wildlife and habitats at Flamingo Gardens, examined behindthe-scenes business operations at Publix, and learned from first responders at the Weston Fire Station, where they toured emergency vehicles, operated a fire hose, and learned firsthand how communities prepare for and respond to natural disasters. Our students studying South Florida's fishing industry participated in field experiences at the Biscayne Bay Nature Center and Peace Mound Park, where they explored local ecosystems, practiced responsible fishing techniques, and observed native wildlife.

Entrepreneurship and innovation remain central throughout the Signature Project experience. Our 5th graders tested business concepts, participated in the JA BizTown experience, and refined their ideas through Roar Tank, where they presented products and business plans to a panel of judges before showcasing them during the Entrepreneurship Expo.

Sagemont Prep's Signature Projects create more than memorable learning experiences. Each one develops confident communicators, creative thinkers, responsible innovators, and engaged citizens who understand that their ideas can make a difference.

A Defining Year in Aerospace Engineering

Our aerospace students earned top finishes at NASA, marking our strongest results yet.

These results are a reflection of the time, dedication, and steady growth our students have invested in the program. We are especially grateful to Mrs. Weber, who led our high school team, and Ms. Mejias, who guided our middle school students, for their leadership, commitment, and continued support of our aspiring engineers.

This year marked a defining moment for Sagemont Prep’s aerospace engineering program as both our middle and high school students delivered their strongest performance to date at the Aerospace Engineering Competition at NASA. Competing against top programs from across the country, our students demonstrated not only technical skill, but the confidence and composure to perform on a national stage.

Our high school team achieved its best results ever, earning first place in the Mercury Design Challenge, along with a fourth-place finish in the Landing Challenge and fifth place in the Flight Simulation Challenge. In the Mercury Division, students were tasked with designing and building a fully functional prototype aligned to a space mission concept, requiring them to apply advanced engineering principles while working within real-world constraints.

Our middle school team also delivered an outstanding performance, placing sixth in the Engineering Challenge. Their work reflects a strong foundation in problem solving, collaboration, and iterative design that continues to grow year after year.

At Sagemont Preparatory School, experiences like this are part of a larger commitment to innovation and realworld learning. Whether designing, testing, or presenting their work, our students are not simply participating. They are building the mindset and skills that will carry them forward as the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.

Sagemont Prep Students Selected Among the Nation’s Top Leaders at LEAD Conference Sagemont Preparatory School students Cole Matheny, Rayyan Peshimam, and John Matheny recently represented the school with distinction at the 2026 LEAD Conference in Washington, D.C., joining a global community of student leaders committed to making an impact.

Hosted annually by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the LEAD Conference brings together members of the National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, and Student Government for an immersive leadership experience centered on scholarship, service, leadership, and character. This year’s conference welcomed more than 2,000 students from around the world, with only 136 selected as presenters. Sagemont Prep was especially proud to have three students chosen to present among this highly competitive group.

Cole and John presented on balancing screen time and maintaining healthy technology habits, a topic they felt was increasingly important for students today. Inspired by challenges they observed among their peers, the pair focused on helping students better manage their device use while encouraging healthier routines, stronger time management, and a better balance between technology and everyday life.

Rayyan presented on the effects of technology and how students can build healthier relationships with it through awareness, moderation, and intentional habits.

Inspired by watching students rely heavily on technology in school and daily life, he wanted to provide practical strategies students could apply in meaningful ways.

Preparing for the conference required weeks of research, planning, and practice. Working closely with NJHS Advisor Ms. Martin, the students spent time after school refining their presentations and strengthening their public speaking skills while developing greater confidence and leadership abilities.

Their achievement reflects both their individual dedication and Sagemont Prep’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities that empower students to grow, collaborate, and lead with confidence.

LYLIANA Caceres YOUTH LEADERSHIP BROWARD LEADERSHIP | SERVICE | IMPACT

Leadership and community impact recently took center stage for Sagemont Preparatory School student Lyliana Caceres through her participation in Youth Leadership Broward, a countywide program that brings together students from across Broward County to strengthen leadership skills and create meaningful change within their communities.

Throughout the program, Lyliana collaborated with students from a variety of schools and backgrounds while helping lead an award-winning service project titled “Solution to Pollution,” focused on environmental awareness and community involvement.

The initiative included organizing beach cleanups, participating in Young At Art’s recycled fashion show where the team earned second place overall, and hosting environmental outreach activities for younger students at Sagemont Prep’s Lower Campus.

“One of my favorite parts of the experience was collaborating with students from different schools and backgrounds,” Lyliana shared. “Everyone brought different perspectives and ideas to the program, which made working together really meaningful.”

At the conclusion of the program, “Solution to Pollution” earned first place out of eight service projects across Youth Leadership Broward, recognizing the team’s hard work and impact throughout the year. “This experience changed the way I view leadership because it showed me that leadership is not just about being in charge, but about working with others and supporting your team to make a positive impact,” Lyliana explained.

Lyliana also credits Sagemont Prep for helping prepare her for opportunities like Youth Leadership Broward by encouraging students to challenge themselves, pursue meaningful experiences, and develop confidence both inside and outside of the classroom.

“My advice would be to just go for it, even if you’re unsure at the beginning,” she said. “A lot of growth comes from those uncomfortable moments.”

CLASS OF 2026

Bound for

EXCELLENCE. We are proud to celebrate the remarkable college acceptances earned by the Class of 2026 as they take the next step toward their future.

Auburn University Barry University DePaul University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Florida Atlantic University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Institute of Technology Florida International University Florida State University Georgia Institute of Technology Hofstra University Howard University Indiana University Bloomington Keiser University Louisiana State University Lynn University McGill University Milwaukee School of Engineering Mississippi State University New York Institute of Technology Nova Southeastern University Palm Beach Atlantic University Penn State University Pensacola State College Purdue University Rochester Institute of Technology Savannah College of Art and Design Seton Hall University St. John’s University St. Thomas University Stetson University

Temple University The Ohio State University University of Alaska Fairbanks University of Arizona University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of Central Florida University of Dayton University of Denver University of Florida University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of Kentucky University of Massachusetts University of Miami University of Michigan University of Minnesota Twin Cities University of Nebraska–Lincoln University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Florida University of Oklahoma University of Pittsburgh University of South Florida University of Southern California University of Tennessee, Knoxville University of Virginia University of Washington University of West Georgia Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Tech Wake Forest University Waseda University Wofford College

2026

The Sagemont Prep International Festival is one of the most meaningful traditions in our school community, bringing together students, families, faculty, and staff for a vibrant celebration of the cultures that make our community so extraordinary. As the #1 Most Diverse Private School in Florida, according to Niche, Sagemont Prep is proud to foster a community where families from more than 40 countries come together to share traditions, perspectives, and experiences from around the world.

This year’s festival was especially meaningful as our Lower and Upper Campus families collaborated to create an experience filled with connection, pride, and community spirit. Throughout the event, our families proudly shared their heritage through beautifully designed cultural booths, traditional attire, authentic cuisine, music, and interactive displays that transformed our Upper Campus into a vibrant global celebration.

Students had the opportunity to explore traditions from across the globe, discover new perspectives, and build meaningful connections through shared experiences.

From cultural showcases to the stories behind each family’s traditions, every part of the festival highlighted the pride, unity, and sense of belonging that define the Sagemont Prep experience.

At Sagemont Prep, diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and the International Festival serves as a joyful reflection of the cultures, connections, and community spirit that continue to shape our school community. mmmmm

SAGEMONT PREPARATORY SCHOOL

ATHLETICS HOME OF THE SAGEMONT PREP LIONS

Momentum Beyond the Game Sean Leonardo, Athletic Director

Championship Success Across Our Programs

Looking Ahead to the Future and Continues Enhance of our Facilities

The 2025–2026 school year marked another exciting chapter for Sagemont Prep Athletics, highlighted by championship victories, academic achievement, and continued program growth. Across every level of competition, our student-athletes demonstrated the dedication, discipline, and character that define Sagemont Prep.

As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 school year, we are excited to continue building on this momentum through expanded opportunities, new programs, and continued facility enhancements. We are proud to announce that Sagemont Prep Competitive Cheer and Competitive Dance will officially begin competing next year, adding even more opportunities for students to grow, lead, and represent the school through athletics.

This year, our Boys Varsity Basketball program made school history by capturing its fourth consecutive State Championship, while success continued across multiple programs throughout the year. Our Middle School Basketball team captured a championship title, and our Girls Volleyball team earned its second consecutive District Championship, continuing to build one of the strongest traditions in program history.

Excellence Beyond Competition Student-athletes continued to excel beyond competition during the 2025–2026 school year, with many earning Scholar Athlete recognition for their strong academic achievement. Their commitment to balancing rigorous academics with athletic success reflects the discipline and character that define Sagemont Prep Athletics.

A special congratulations goes to our Varsity Soccer program, where more than half of the team earned academic recognition this year, exemplifying the values and expectations of Sagemont Prep Athletics.

In addition to expanding our athletic offerings, we are also excited about the continued enhancement of our athletic facilities. One of the most anticipated projects is the completion of our newly renovated gym floor featuring the updated Sagemont Prep logo. We look forward to unveiling the refreshed space at our first volleyball game on September 1st and celebrating this exciting new chapter for Sagemont Prep Athletics with our community.

As our programs continue to grow, we remain committed to creating an environment where studentathletes are challenged to compete at a high level, lead with character, and represent Sagemont Prep with pride both on and off the field, court, and campus.

Sagemont Prep Alumni Spotlight Katherine Malahias, Class of 2019 Undergraduate: University of Miami Bachelor’s of Science in Communication Studies and Public Relations

Graduate: New York University Master’s Degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communication

Katherine started her journey at Sagemont Prep in Kindergarten!

Life After Sagemont Prep: After graduating from Sagemont Prep, I attended the University of Miami, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and Public Relations. Following graduation, I worked as a Coordinator at Nova Southeastern University’s College of Optometry, where I managed social media accounts and organized conferences for optometrists and alumni. I later decided to continue my education at New York University School of Professional Studies, earning my master’s degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communications while also interning for Poston Communications. Today, I am continuing my career in New York as a full-time Junior Associate at Poston Communications.

How did Sagemont Prep ignite your passions?

During my time at Sagemont Prep, among other activities, I was proud to serve as Co-Editor-in-Chief of the 2018-2019 Yearbook, which quickly became my favorite part of the school day.

Interviewing fellow students, photographing sporting events, and designing spreads sparked my passion for storytelling and communications. Those experiences inspired me to explore how I could turn my interests into a career. Today, I work at a PR agency in NYC where I help share my client’s stories and connect them with new audiences.

Sagemont Prep Staff Inspiration: Mrs. Safont was a huge inspiration to me during my time at Sagemont Prep. She was incredibly passionate about her subject area and always made learning engaging and enjoyable. I still remember all of the experiments we did in class and the energy she brought to every lesson.

Words of Advice: Take advantage of all the opportunities and support that Sagemont Prep provides. This is the perfect time to try new things, step outside of your comfort zone, and discover what truly excites you. Sagemont Prep makes it easy to get involved, and those experiences can help shape both your personal and professional future.

Lion Legacy

Sagemont Prep Performances

Week Without Walls

Life at Sagemont Prep

ANNOUNCING THE 2026- 2027 SCHOOL YEAR

SAGEMONT PREPARATORY SCHOOL WILL BE

Celebrating

O F E XC E L L E N C E

T H R E E D E C A D E S . O N E L E G A C Y.

Sagemont Preparatory School inspires academic excellence through intellectual exploration, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Students are encouraged to take responsible risks and develop a deep understanding of social responsibility as active agents of change.

Intellectual Curiosity & Creativity

Eagerly connecting existing knowledge to unique ideas absorbed from beyond the classroom leads to the exploration of imaginative solutions through critical thinking, and the development of resilience.

Analytical Thinking & Problem Solving

Building the ability to cut through noise to assess issues, and efficiently and effectively tackle complex problems, making informed decisions and finding innovative solutions.

Collaboration

Supporting and sharing ideas, wisdom, and approaches of others to jointly discover solutions or uncover untapped opportunities.

Responsible Risk-Taking

Breaking traditional grades-driven approaches by exploring ideas, partnerships or leadership roles, exposing individuals to vulnerability, and leading to student-powered confidence, new skills, knowledge, and success.

Reflection

Challenging oneself by thoughtfully examining results and experiences, and striving for continual improvement, developing confidence, and selfawareness.

SAGEMONT PREPARATORY SCHOOL RESOURCES Sagemont Prep Calendar of Events

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Kristin Sorokin Lion Life, Editor-in-Chief