LION LIFE
S A G E M O N T
P R E P
Empowering Students to Lead: From Harkness Discussions to Goal-Setting
Mellesia Nelson, Head of School
Our Sagemont Prep students are empowered to engage, question, lead, and collaborate. This year, we are ecstatic to expand Harkness Discussions across all classrooms while also embedding a strong culture of student goal-setting. Together, these priorities reflect our mission to empower students to innovate for tomorrow.
Harkness Discussions are a student-driven learning approach where every voice matters. Rather than being passive listeners, students are invited to sit together, ask thoughtful questions, make meaningful connections, and build on one another’s ideas Our Sagemont Prep faculty guide as facilitators instead of lecturers, creating space for dialogue that fosters critical thinking, respect, and intellectual curiosity Many of our students describe the experience as empowering and fun, with one noting, “I get to lead,” while another shared, “My opinion matters.” For the past two years, our high school faculty have been training in this model, and now we are extending it from preschool through 12th grade. More than just a method, Harkness is a mindset, one that nurtures collaboration, confidence, and character in each student.
At the same time, Sagemont Prep is embracing intentional student goal-setting as a second school-wide priority. Research consistently shows that when students set clear, realistic goals, they gain direction, motivation, and self-discipline. Helping students define their goals and track their progress ensures that they not only achieve academic success but also develop essential life skills, such as perseverance, resilience, and accountability. Writing down goals, reflecting on progress, and adjusting when necessary transforms this practice into a lifelong habit. By teaching our students to take ownership of their learning in this way, we are preparing them to carry these habits of focus and determination into every aspect of their lives.
Adding to this momentum is our exciting new partnership with EmpowerConnectIQ, a leader in VEX robotics competition and skill development During the first few weeks of school, our students from kindergarten to 5th grade were already engaged in hands-on robotics We are also proud to announce that our new partnership with the London School of Economics will launch this year, bringing students unique opportunities to engage with global thought leaders and explore real-world applications that will shape their future impact.
As we continue the 25-26 academic year, the energy on both campuses is undeniable. With the expansion of Harkness Discussions, the integration of intentional student goal-setting, incredible new partnerships, and the much-anticipated launch of the Sagemont Prep House System, this year has a great deal in store for student growth, leadership, and ownership of learning.
In this issue of Lion Life, please enjoy some student spotlights, including Cali Rushton’s 1st place win in the “National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest” and Sofia Martinez’s award-winning poetry piece, “Gold.” Cali and Sofia’s creativity and accomplishments are a wonderful reminder of the talent and passion that define our Sagemont Prep community.
Mellesia Nelson
Sagemont Preparatory Upper Campus
Felicia Myers, Upper Campus Principal
At Sagemont Prep, our commitment to academic excellence and whole-student development continues to drive new initiatives across the Upper Campus. This year, we are proud to share several exciting developments that are expanding rigor, deepening engagement, and preparing students for success in college and beyond.
To ensure students are well-prepared for advanced coursework, Sagemont Prep has launched a Pre-AP curriculum designed to enhance rigor and boost achievement in AP classes. Pre-AP strategies are now embedded across all courses, giving every student the tools to challenge themselves and pursue higher levels of learning.
To support this growth, we have invested heavily in professional development, sending multiple faculty members to APSI training institutes and specialized Pre-AP training. As a result, our AP program has flourished. We now offer 24 AP courses on campus, including new additions such as AP Precalculus, AP Physics, and AP Comparative Government and Politics. The results speak for themselves as more students are enrolling in AP courses than ever before, and with a 90% pass rate, they are not just participating they are excelling
In January, we are thrilled to launch a new collaboration with the London School of Economics (LSE). Together, we will host a two-day symposium for high school students focused on design thinking and entrepreneurship in fields such as medicine, engineering, and law. Students will not only learn about innovation and pitch development, but they will also have the chance to earn internships with local founders. Selected participants may even qualify for scholarships to attend LSE’s prestigious summer program.
In addition to the Pre-AP strategies now embedded in our classrooms, Harkness discussions provide an added layer of depth encouraging students to move beyond surface-level understanding and engage in nuanced, evidence-based dialogue. Over the past two years, Sagemont Prep has embraced this collaborative, student-led model as a powerful way to foster
deeper inquiry, thoughtful analysis, and meaningful participation
As part of our ongoing commitment to preparing students to think critically and analytically, our goal for the 2025–26 academic year is for every class to engage in at least one Harkness discussion each semester.
At the heart of our Upper Campus experience is Advisory, a cornerstone program that empowers students to reflect, set goals, and take ownership of their personal growth. Through career and personality assessments, vision board creation, and goal-setting exercises, students learn to chart their individual paths. Advisory ensures that each learner has a clear road map for their academic journey and future aspirations.
Equally important are the moments of connection and fun. Advisory incorporates team-building and collaboration, often encouraging students to step away from screens and into the outdoors From balloon tosses and egg races in the parking lot to kayaking at Tigertail Park, these activities foster resilience, teamwork, and joy.
Through expanded AP offerings, global partnerships, the Advisory program, and Harkness discussions, Sagemont Prep is cultivating a culture where students embrace challenge, explore new ideas, and grow as leaders and learners. Together, these initiatives reflect our belief that academic excellence goes hand in hand with personal development, preparing our students not just for college but for life.
Sagemont Prep Lower Campus
Monica Vigna, Lower Campus Principal
At Sagemont Prep Lower Campus, the 2025–2026 school year is unfolding with fresh opportunities for students to learn, grow, and connect. Thoughtful enhancements across academics and school culture are designed to deepen engagement, encourage student voice, and foster a stronger sense of community. Guided by our Educational Pillars of Intellectual Curiosity and Creativity, Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving, Collaboration, Responsible Risk-Taking, and Reflection, students are already embracing meaningful experiences that spark both joy and discovery.
Our signature projects have been carefully enhanced to offer more student-driven, interdisciplinary experiences. These projects encourage students to think critically, collaborate creatively, and apply their learning in authentic ways. We are also introducing Harkness Discussions in every grade, roundtable conversations that empower students to lead dialogue, listen actively, and take ownership of their thinking in a respectful and collaborative environment. This emphasis on student-led inquiry and reflection ensures that every child feels heard, valued, and challenged to grow
Students are also bringing technology to life while developing curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Kindergarteners discovered the fundamentals of robotics as they built their very first creations, including a “puppy” and a “dancing robot” using UBTech kits. Grades 1–2 explored robotics principles through VEX GO, constructing models such as the Competition Base 2.0. Grades 3–5 began learning robotics essentials with VEX IQ, building and driving drivetrains and testing them on this season’s “Mix & Match” challenge course.
In the spirit of building community, we are proud to launch our new school-wide House System. Every student and staff member will soon belong to one of four Sagemont Prep Houses designed to foster belonging, identity, camaraderie, and friendly competition through shared traditions, service projects, and spirit days. This initiative will be introduced gradually, giving students the opportunity to help shape the culture, traditions, and energy of their Houses as the year unfolds.
We are also placing a strong emphasis on student goal setting. Students will be encouraged to set meaningful academic and personal goals, create action steps, track their progress, and celebrate their achievements along the way By taking ownership of their goals, our students will build confidence, responsibility, and lifelong skills for success To further support academic growth, we are expanding the use of IXL across all grades K–5. This adaptive platform provides personalized practice in math and .
language arts, both at school and at home, ensuring consistent support and challenge.
Writing will also take center stage this year with a new school-wide plan designed to build confident, expressive writers across every grade level. Students will explore narrative, informational, and opinion writing through a consistent approach to the writing process, with opportunities to share and publish their work throughout the year
Beyond the classroom, our outdoor learning spaces are being further renovated to give students more opportunities to learn, create, and connect in dynamic environments. Whether through science exploration, quiet reading, group collaboration, or movement-based activities, students will benefit from the inspiration and flexibility of these refreshed spaces.
College Counseling
Paulette Laing, College Counselor
Sagemont Prep seniors have stepped into this season with focus and excitement through two signature events that mark the launch of their college journey. Our Jumpstart Boot Camp gave students the chance to dive deep into the essentials of their applications. They worked on refining college lists, building strong resumes, and shaping personal statements with clarity and purpose. What made the day powerful was watching them take ownership of the process and lean into their next steps with confidence.
The energy carried over into our senior advisory lunch at Caffe Gourmet, where we paired a meal together with meaningful planning. Students filled out their College Tracker, a tool designed to help them stay organized, monitor application progress, and remain mindful of what is needed as deadlines approach. The conversation and collaboration at the tables showed that this journey is not only about individual achievement but also about building community and supporting one another along the way.
Looking ahead, we are excited to continue walking with our seniors as they finalize applications, prepare for interviews, and connect with colleges We look forward to celebrating each milestone, from early acceptances to scholarship awards, and ultimately helping every student find the path that fits their goals and aspirations. These moments capture the heart of our college counseling program. It is not simply about checking off requirements but about helping students grow in confidence, discover their voice, and recognize their capacity to achieve. Seeing them step forward with excitement reminds me every day why this work matters and why I love guiding them through it.
Sean Leonardo, Athletic Director
This school year marks an exciting new chapter in Sagemont Prep Athletics as I step into the role of Athletic Director. My vision for our program centers on two key pillars: enhancing facilities and increasing student involvement.
Over the summer, our athletics facilities underwent a major transformation. The redesigned Athletic Lounge now serves as a hub where athletes can review film, collaborate as a team, and build a stronger sense of community. We also opened a brand-new Recovery and Wellness Center, connected to our weight room. This dedicated space gives student-athletes the tools they need to recover, receive treatment, and ensure their bodies are ready to perform at the highest level. These upgrades reflect my commitment to supporting both the physical and mental well-being of every athlete.
With fall sports officially underway, I am eager to see our Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team set out to defend their district title. At the same time, our talented swim team is preparing for another strong push toward the regional meet.
Our middle school and elementary athletes are also back in action, with girls' volleyball and flag football seasons kicking off I am excited to welcome Coach Olivia Aniol and Coach Tito Rodriguez to our middle school staff. Their passion and energy will inspire our young athletes as they continue to grow in skill and confidence.
This year is just the beginning of our renewed vision for athletics. In addition to our traditional programs, we are working toward launching boys’ varsity soccer, competitive cheer, and additional middle school girls' sports. These opportunities expand athletic pathways, giving more students the chance to shine. Looking ahead, I am eager to add even more female sports teams in the coming school year.
I am proud of the momentum we are building. With improved facilities, new sports offerings, and a renewed sense of pride, this year promises to be one of the most dynamic and memorable in Sagemont Prep Athletics' history. The future is bright, and together we will continue to build a culture of excellence, teamwork, and community both on and off the field.
Sagemont Prep Student Showcase
Sagemont Prep ninth grader Sofia Martinez continues to shine both in and out of the classroom A dedicatedscholarenrolledinhonorsandAPcourses,Sofiaalsomakeshermarkasavarsityswimmer andasanactivememberandVicePresidentofourSagemontPrepSynergyRockBand.
Most recently, Sofia’s talent as a writer earned her top recognition in the Panther’s Poetry Project, sponsored by the Florida Panthers and the Jason Taylor Foundation. The competition challenged studentstowriteanoriginalpoembasedonthetheme“It’sTimetoHunt.”Sofia’spoemwasselectedas thetopentryfromSagemontPrep,adistinctionthatledtoaspecialcelebrationeveningwithherfamily andaprivatetouroftheAmerantBankArena
Gold
By Sofia Martinez
Tomorrow early in the morning
A weary feeling starts forming
Tomorrow late at night
Knowing the cold will come to bite
Stroke after stroke after stroke
I must forget about the cold
For all my mind is focused on
Is the shiny, round, gold
I have no time to waste
Since I know I have a race
But then it rushes to my head
As my peers simply move ahead
I feel as though this is the best I can do
But I will never know unless I try what others can't do
To push myself harder, farther
To be faster, sharper, stronger
It's an opinion if I only say this
But when it is a fact they will have to admit I am the winner, the one who made it
For now, they'll never understand
The work I put in
Only to end up feeling jammed
They come to me to sit and judge
To say when I win it is all just luck
But they don't even have a clue
How much more I am tasked to do
It's not just school and a sport outside of school
It's drums, piano, guitar, singing, track, swimming
And also school
The weight on my shoulders
It still feels like boulders
But if I keep getting stronger
I can hold them for longer
For now, that is my hunt
To always be in the front
To be able to say I got what I earned
Even though it burned
Because this is my goal
When I finish with the gold
Sagemont Prep Student Showcase
Sixth grader Cali Rushton was recently celebrated in Tallahassee for her remarkable achievement in the 42nd annual National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest. This meaningful competition invites students to use their artistic talents to raise awareness about child safety, and Cali’s work stood out across the entire state of Florida.
Her poster, created around the theme “Bringing Our Missing Children Home,” earned first place in Florida and was honored during a special ceremony where state leaders and community advocates gathered to recognize students making a difference through their art. Cali’s creativity and vision were proudly spotlighted as she represented not only herself but also the values of awareness, compassion, and advocacy that this contest promotes.
Her winning poster now advances to the U.S. Department of Justice for national consideration, a testament to the power of her message and the importance of the conversations it inspires. We are so proud of Cali for using her talents to shine a light on such an important cause.
Sagemont Prep Alumni Spotlight
Tiffany Maye-Clarke, Class of 2010
Undergraduate: Cornell University
Bachelor’s of Science in Human Biology and Health & Society
Graduate: Columbia University
Master’s Degree in Applied Exercise Physiology
Graduate: Columbia University Medical Center
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Tiffany is currently the Performance Physical Therapist for the Memphis Grizzlies
Life After Sagemont Prep:
Since graduating, I have pursued my dream of becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy, earning Board Certification in Sports Physical Therapy along with a Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification. Most recently, I completed three seasons as a Physical Therapist in the NBA a role I had aspired to since the age of 16. Prior to that, I completed a Sports Physical Therapy Residency with the University of Miami Athletics and gained valuable experience working for a year in the NFL
How did Sagemont Prep ignite your passions?
During my senior year, I interned in the Physical Therapy Department at Cleveland Clinic Florida and worked alongside Sagemont Prep’s Head Athletic Trainer on the sidelines. That experience opened my eyes to career opportunities in sports medicine and allowed me to build meaningful relationships with mentors in both physical therapy and athletic training Their guidance was instrumental in helping me chart a path toward working in college and professional sports.
Sagemont Prep Staff Inspiration:
I consider Ms. Nelson as one of my earliest mentors, as she inspired me to believe that anything is possible and I could achieve my dream of attending an Ivy League institution as a woman of color if I put in my full effort. Not only did my solid foundation/mentorship from Sagemont Prep allow me to attend my dream college, but now I actually have 3 Ivy League degrees to show for it
Words of Advice:
I truly believe anything is possible if you are willing to work for it and build solid relationships by serving others along the way. Always treat everyone like gold, as your reputation will precede you in potential new opportunities In patient care or any customer service role, you can be the smartest person in the room, but people will always care more about how you make them feel.
Sagemont Prep Alumni Spotlight
Blake Freedland, Class of 2021
Undergraduate: Tufts University Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology
Blake started at Sagemont Prep in Pre-K!
Life After Sagemont Prep:
This summer, I flew myself across the United States and Canada in my own plane! For my graduation trip, I took my Cirrus SR22 on a two-month adventure that brought me to the farthest reaches of the U.S., the northeastern tip of Nova Scotia, and the west coast of British Columbia. Along the way, I got to log hours, push my piloting skills, meet people in the aviation world, and, of course, have a ton of fun.
At Tufts, I served as vice president of my fraternity, worked as a class senator, graduated cum laude, flew the university president around Massachusetts, and even designed and taught my own class. I just landed back in Florida in mid-September and am now focused on exploring a career in the aviation industry. My goal is to build experience and connections that will prepare me to eventually launch my own venture as an entrepreneur
How did Sagemont Prep ignite your passions?
Being part of a close-knit community from such a young age taught me the value of connection and the importance of staying engaged. Sagemont Prep created an environment where I felt supported and encouraged, which helped spark my passions and gave me the confidence to carry them forward.
Sagemont Prep Staff Inspiration:
Dr. Brent Goldman was someone I always looked up to at Sagemont Prep. His calm demeanor and respect for all students guided me in how to carry myself in the classroom and at home. I remember always making sure that I was on my best behavior while he was around, but I soon realized that he had a great sense of humor as well. That showed me that there can be a healthy balance between calmness, focus, and lightheartedness even in serious settings, something I carry with me every day. Years later, my family has become very close with Dr. Goldman, and I still remember the lessons he inadvertently taught me. He was the first school administrator who introduced me to not being afraid to have a good sense of humor
Words of Advice:
Do something that you are passionate about and carry it with you.
Blake flew with his peers over Sagemont Prep for graduation!
Sagemont Prep Splash!
Upper Campus Advisory!
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.
IntellectualCuriosity &Creativity
AnalyticalThinking &ProblemSolving
Collaboration
Responsible
Risk-Taking
Reflection
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.
Building the ability to cut through noise to assess issues, and efficiently and effectively tackle complex problems, making informed decisions and finding innovative solutions.
Supporting and sharing ideas, wisdom, and approaches of others to jointly discover solutions or uncover untapped opportunities.
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.
Challenging oneself by thoughtfully examining results and experiences, and striving for continual improvement, developing confidence, and selfawareness.
Kristin Sorokin Lion Life, Editor-in-Chief
