WEST ORANGE TIMES &
We celebrate the Class of 2025 with our special section.
Buckles leaves the Lions’
den
After stepping down as president of Foundation Academy, Dave Buckles is using the lessons he learned to help schools across the country with his company, Paradox Consultants. SEE PAGE 7A.
YOUR TOWN
HONOR OUR HEROES FOR MEMORIAL DAY
There are several ways to honor our heroes this Memorial Day.
Ocoee begins the observances Thursday, May 22, with its Memorial Day Ceremony. Retired U.S. Army Col. Shay Talley-Bradley will speak at the ceremony, which begins at 11 a.m. at Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee.
Oakland native John Ward invites the public to attend a Memorial Day Service at 9 a.m. Monday, May 26, at Oakland Cemetery, corner of West Sadler Avenue and South Walker Street. Attendees will help place flags on the headstones of every veteran buried in Oakland. Following the flag placement, a Memorial Resolution will be read, and taps will be played.
Winter Garden will host its Memorial Day Community Celebration 2025 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 26, at Veterans Memorial Park, 420 S. Park Ave., Winter Garden. This event is presented by the city and American Legion Post No. 63.
Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home will host its 75th annual Memorial Day Service at 10 a.m. Monday, May 26, at the cemetery, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha. In Windermere, the town will host a Memorial Day Observance at 10 a.m. Monday, May 26, at Town Hall, 520 Main St. Windermere.
Senior moments
The local flag football team qualified for the Junior
SEE
est Orange High School’s Class of 2025 worked for four years for these moments. And finally last week, they enjoyed them all. The seniors participated in three Warrior traditions — the Sen’ya Later Parade, the Senior Walkout and Senior Sunset — to cap their final week of their high school careers. SEE PHOTOS PAGE 4A.
Winter Garden man faces calls for trial in Peabody abuse suit
Dozens allege James Toltz abused them as students in Peabody, Massachusetts, schools. PAGE 5A.
Windermere
Photos by Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
5FAST
1Gun report, employee allegations disrupt Windermere High Windermere High School students and faculty endured a difficult day Monday, May 19.
First, reports of a student with a gun disrupted normal operations.
According to Principal Andrew Leftakis, the school was placed on a hold while law enforcement investigated the campus.
About two hours later, Leftakis reported police were able to identify the student, who was off-campus. No weapon was found.
Just hours later, Leftakis told parents a school employee was placed on administrative leave following allegations of misconduct.
“I can assure you I take all allegations very seriously, and there is an ongoing investigation by the (OCPS) Office of Professional Standards,” Leftakis told parents. “Although I cannot discuss employee matters, please know this person will not be on campus during the investigation.”
the employee was a teacher.
2
Jag Cantina nears Windermere opening
A new, upscale Mexican restaurant and tequila bar will open soon near Windermere.
Signage now is up for Jag Cantina, which will open in the building formerly occupied by Black Rock Bar & Grill, 8965 Conroy Windermere Road, Orlando. According to its website, Jag Cantina will offer a “unique dining experience, where nature’s bounty meets Mexican culinary tradition.”
The restaurant will serve handcrafted cocktails and feature a tableside tequila experience. The kitchen menu will feature both traditional favorites as well as signature dishes. Michigan-based Black Rock Bar & Grill opened in the space in May 2016 and closed in December 2024.
3
Ocoee, Windermere seniors receive $10K scholarships
The Addition Financial Foundation has awarded $10,000 scholarships to two local high school
The scholarships are a part of the foundation’s Joseph A. Melbourne Jr. Annual Scholarship Program, which awards $65,000 in scholarships to six high school seniors as well as two graduate-level scholarships.
“A significant part of the Foundation’s mission is to support education in a way that’s meaningful and lasting,” said Cristina Lehman, executive director of the Addition Financial Foundation. “These students are not only exceptional scholars but also committed community members. It’s an honor to invest in their future and help shape the leaders of tomorrow.”
Recipients were selected based
4
HCA files plans for new ER in Horizon West HCA Healthcare is considering building a free-standing Emergency Room in Horizon West, near Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital. Catalyst Design Group, on behalf of Boyd Development Corporation, filed plans with Orange County for a 10,860-square-foot ER with 36 parking spaces on 1.5 acres.
The project could proceed without a rezoning, as the current zoning and future land use permit a medical clinic. The ER would be located south of an ABC Fine Wine & Spirits store, which paid $2.5
This comes two months after construction began on HCA Florida West Orange Emergency in September.
If constructed, The Horizon West ER would open in a rapidly growing area near Lake County and Wellness Way.
5
Tourist tax collections top $40 million in March Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced Tourist Development Tax collections received by Orange County for March 2025 were $40,177,100. That is a 0.9% decrease compared to March 2024.
“Although collections were slightly lower than last March, they still mark the second-highest monthly total on record and only the second time they’ve topped $40 million,” Diamond said.
According to Visit Orlando, Orlando’s travel performance in March was softer compared to the same month last year, primarily because of the shift of the Easter holiday from March in 2024 to April in 2025. Hotel occupancy was down by 4.6%, settling at 76.6%. Overall, hotel demand saw a slight decrease of 3.8%.
The Average Daily Rate for Orlando hotels reached $230.62, reflecting a .7% increase from the previous year ($229.09). Short-term rentals
Courtesy photo
Ocoee High School’s Malik Maxceant received a $10,000 scholarship.
Happy Birthday, dear Ocoee!
The city of Ocoee continued its centennial celebrations with a special Time Capsule Ceremony, held May 13 on the Withers-Maguire House lawn. The event included speeches from Mayor Rusty Johnson, District 1 City Commissioner Scott Kennedy, District 2 City Commissioner Rosemary Wilson, District 3 City Commissioner Richard Firstner and District 4 City Commissioner George Oliver III. Carol Burkett, the Orange County Mayor’s Office deputy chief of staff, also read a special proclama-
tion from Mayor Jerry Demings.
After presenting several of the items that will be placed in the 100-year time capsule, the mayor and commissioners led the singing of “Happy Birthday” and followed that with the ceremonial groundbreaking of the time capsule burial site.
Attendees then enjoyed food from Ocoee-based businesses such as Ocoee Taco Company and DG Doughnuts, as well as live music from members of the Ocoee High School jazz band.
ENG
MICHAEL
—
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
MAY 13, 2025
I have lived in Ocoee for 70 years and my wife, Marilyn, has lived here her entire life.
We have raised our five children here, and four of them are still living here with our grandchildren.
As of the date of the centennial, I have served on the City Commission for 39 years, 10 as its mayor. We have grown from 10,000 to 50,000, but this number will grow dramatically in the years to come. Our city desires to keep its identity but is also willing to grow and change for the betterment of the entire community. I hope and believe it will still be able to maintain the small-town feeling our residents want and deserve.
My wish is that when this capsule is opened in 100 years, the articles and letters inside will provide a picture of how Ocoee used to be in 2025.
In closing, it is my desire for peace and prosperity to all present and future citizens of Ocoee.
Sincerely, Mayor Rusty Johnson
Members of the Ocoee High School jazz band performed at the time capsule ceremony.
From left: District 1 City Commissioner Scott Kennedy, District 2 City Commissioner Rosemary Wilson, Mayor Rusty Johnson, City Manager Craig Shadrix, District 3 City Commissioner Richard Firstner and District 4 City Commissioner George Oliver III.
Ocoee Community Event Aide Kaitlyn Ochoa presented a collection of Ocoee Fire Department pins and badges that are included in the time capsule.
Mission complete
West Orange High School’s Class of 2025 celebrated the end of their high school careers with a trio of events last week.
First, the Warriors took over Plant Street in Winter Garden for the annual Sen’ya Later Parade Wednesday, May 14. The next day, they celebrated their final day of school with the Senior Walkout followed by the Senior Sunset events.
West Orange High’s graduation will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, May 23, at Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida.
— MICHAEL ENG
1944
Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com
Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com
Senior Editor / Liz Ramos, lramos@OrangeObserver.com
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Staff Writer / Debra Garcia, dgarcia@OrangeObserver.com
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PHOTOS BY THOMAS LIGHTBODY | TK PHOTOGRAPHY
Former Massachusetts teacher faces decades-old allegations
DEBRA GARCIA STAFF WRITER
Forty-six plaintiffs who claim they were abused as children now are seeking a jury trial against a former Massachusetts teacher living at a Winter Garden address.
Three years after a civil lawsuit was filed, the plaintiffs against the city of Peabody, Massachusetts, and retired physical education teacher James Toltz now are seeking to bring their case in front of a jury.
Toltz, 83, who, according to records, moved to a Winter Garden address in 2020, is accused of abusing dozens of children over 27 years.
The case centers on former students who have come forward with allegations of sexual abuse by Toltz, a former teacher and coach at Higgins Middle School and JFK Junior High School in Peabody, Massachusetts. These allegations span from 1969 to 1996, implicating Toltz in repeated misconduct during his tenure at both schools.
About 46 individuals have accused Toltz of abuse, describing a pattern of predatory behavior that continued unchecked for nearly three decades.
According to court documents filed in November 2022, Toltz allegedly “provided cocaine to several plaintiffs at Higgins, JFK and at his private residence.”
The legal battle against Toltz and the city of Peabody began with multiple individual lawsuits filed by survivors, many identified only as “John Does” to protect their identities. Each plaintiff initially pursued claims separately, which limited the scope and visibility of the allegations.
Since the filing in 2022, 13 plaintiffs demanded the court to declare the case as class action. This change would allow all survivors who experienced similar abuse by Toltz to be represented collectively under a single legal case. By consolidating these
claims, the class action provides a unified voice for the survivors and simplifies the legal process. Since then, 33 more plaintiffs have been added to the case, with each amended complaint demanding the case be class action.
In addition to the sexual abuse claims, the plaintiffs also reported experiencing severe emotional and psychological trauma as a result of the alleged abuse by Toltz.
“The sexual assaults, batteries, abuses and/or rapes, perpetrated by defendant Toltz under the supervision of defendant Peabody, had the purpose or effect of interfering with plaintiffs … education by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating and sexually offensive educational environments,” court records state.
In the same court document, plaintiffs allege the city of Peabody “knew, or in the exercise of reasonable care should have discovered, that defendant Toltz was engaged in illegal and inappropriate sexual conduct with children under his supervision.”
They contend school officials and city authorities repeatedly failed to properly supervise Toltz or take disciplinary action, despite numerous warning signs and complaints. This alleged negligence allowed the abuse to persist unchecked, further victimizing the students under Toltz’s care.
Toltz, plaintiffs’ attorneys Mitchell Garabedian and Carmen Durso, and defense counsel William Breen, Zachary Wallack and Elizabeth Lashway did not respond to repeated requests seeking comment.
The plaintiffs, all now adults, collectively are represented in the civil lawsuit. Toltz, however, remains unrepresented and has not appeared in court.
The court proceedings now are moving forward with a timeline that includes upcoming hearings to address motions related to the possibility of a trial or settlement negotiations in the near future.
In an email update on the case to an anonymous plaintiff from Amanda L. Bryant, a member of the plaintiff’s legal team, Bryant said the team is “in the process of discovery, including exchanging information with counsel and scheduling depositions.”
The plaintiffs and the city of Peabody asked the court to cancel the Final Pretrial Conference originally scheduled for April 1, 2025, and instead hold a Rule 16 Conference— a court meeting designed to help manage complex litigation. Their motion explains the case involves unusually complex circumstances, including events that allegedly occurred many years ago, a large group of plaintiffs and a key individual — former physical education teacher Toltz — who is now elderly and reportedly ill.
“The parties state that they have encountered considerable difficulty in advancing this case rapidly due to the amount of time since the events alleged,” court records state. “The number of claimants suing together in one suit under pseudonymous names, the lack of ready access to the alleged perpetrator, who is long since retired and living outside the commonwealth.”
On March 31, Judge Camille Sarrouf granted the motion, rescheduling the Final Pretrial Conference and allowing the parties’ request to amend the scheduling order. A Rule 16 Conference is set for June 2, 2025. At that time, the judge and attorneys will meet to evaluate the status of the case and establish a new, reasonable timeline for its progression. This conference aims to help both sides coordinate their efforts and move the case toward a jury trial, which both parties have agreed is the appropriate resolution.
In a letter sent to the Observer, a writer who identifies as a former student of the accused teacher, blasts the city of Peabody’s December 2024 legal response to the ongoing abuse lawsuit.
n AUG. 16, 2022 — A group of anonymous plaintiffs filed a civil lawsuit against the city of Peabody and former physical education teacher James Toltz, alleging misconduct. To protect their identities, the court allowed the use of pseudonyms and ordered that their sworn affidavits — statements describing their experiences — remain sealed until the case is resolved.
n AUG. 17, 2022 — Attorney Michael J. Heineman joined the legal team representing several of the plaintiffs.
n NOV. 10, 2022 — The lawsuit was formally served to both Toltz and the city of Peabody, making them officially aware of the claims.
n NOV. 30, 2022 — The plaintiffs filed an amended complaint, updating their original lawsuit to reflect new information and possibly new individuals involved.
n DEC. 9, 2022 — Attorney Donald L. Conn Jr. appeared in court on behalf of the city of Peabody, signaling the city’s formal legal response.
n MAY 22, 2023 — The plaintiffs requested a status conference — a hearing that allows the judge and attorneys to assess the progress of the case and decide next steps. This was approved May 25 and scheduled for June 12. However, that was delayed until July 17, 2023.
n JULY 17, 2023 — At a rescheduled status conference, all parties
The author addresses the letter “to the neighbors of Toltz,” accusing city officials of “ducking responsibility,” dismissing their legal defense as a “disgraceful dodge” and urging community members to stay vigilant. While the author of this letter will not be named, the author is a plaintiff in this case.
agreed to a 90-day pause in discovery, the legal process where both sides collect and exchange evidence. The discovery stay likely was intended to give the parties more time to address ongoing developments in the case.
n OCT. 19, 2023 — A subsequent status conference resulted in the court setting a Jan. 12, 2024, deadline for the defense to file a formal response to the lawsuit.
n MARCH 19, 2024 — A Rule 16 conference — designed to establish a schedule for the rest of the case — was set but later rescheduled.
n APRIL 23, 2024 — The rescheduled planning meeting was ultimately canceled at the plaintiffs’ request.
n OCT. 3, 2024 — Plaintiffs filed a motion to amend the complaint once again, seeking to add more individuals to the lawsuit. This brought the total number of John Doe plaintiffs to 41.
n OCT. 7, 2024 — The court approved the changes. A second amended complaint officially was filed, now listing 46 plaintiffs.
n APRIL 1, 2025 — A final pretrial conference was on the court’s calendar but was rescheduled by the court without a specified reason.
n JUNE 2, 2025 — A new Rule 16 conference is scheduled, where attorneys and the judge will revisit deadlines and trial planning.
“The city’s so-called ‘investigation’ into the claims is another red herring. … If it’s an internal probe, it’s about as trustworthy as a fox guarding the henhouse,” the plaintiff wrote. “Peabody’s blanket denial of knowing about the alleged abuse is a convenient cop-out. … Schools don’t get to outsource accountability.”
IN OTHER NEWS
n A team of University of Central Florida environmental studies students — Lauren Mettke, Lindsay Sigler, Danny Slort, Alana Foote, Kacey Dykeman and Rebecca Bryant — presented findings from their capstone Tree Canopy Plan. The project was sponsored by professor Michael Gilbrook and referred by Emily Bush of Bike/ Walk Central Florida. The students recommended planting 317 new trees, particularly along Oakland Avenue, Tubb Street and the West Orange Trail. Estimated costs range from $7,000 for three-gallon trees to $45,000 for 15-gallon trees. The team advised removing trees rated “poor” under arborist supervision to promote long-term growth and safety.
n The commission also approved the regular appointment of Ed Kulakowski to the Planning and Zoning Board, moving him from his previous alternate position.
n Finance Director Gabrielle Leon reported the town has resumed normal check-signing procedures, returning to joint authorization by the town manager and a commission member as of April 3.
n Community Outreach Manager Lynn Dattolo announced the second annual car show, held Saturday, May 17, coinciding with the opening of a new exhibit called “Life in the Pet Lane” at the Arts and Heritage Center.
n Police Chief Darron Esan announced the delivery of two new police vehicles donated from Clermont to the Oakland Police Department. Additionally, the department received a special wrap for its School Resource Officer car. Mayor Shane Taylor and Commissioner Sal Ramos contributed to funding the vehicle’s creative wrap. Esan praised the result, stating the car “looks fantastic” and thanking commissioners for their support in acquiring and customizing the new vehicle.
Contractor to blame for improper materials in Oakland road project
Public Works Director Mike Parker said the contractor used inconsistent fill material, which did not adequately bind together.
DEBRA GARCIA STAFF WRITER
Town of Oakland Public Works Director Mike Parker gave commissioners an update on the town’s unpaved street improvement plan at the Oakland Town Commission meeting Tuesday, May 13.
Parker addressed concerns about a recent contractor using inconsistent fill material, including debris not suitable for road construction. The amount used for one-third of the road was not enough recycled asphalt to adequately bind the aggregate together.
Parker told the contractor to make Edgegrove Lane and Mather Smith Drive look like Petris Street, meaning to use similar material, compaction and appearance.
Petris Street is medium to dark gray, contains a good variety and gradation of particles that allow the material to compact and has little crumbled concrete or limestone. Because of the contractor’s error, neither Edgegrove Lane nor Mather Smith Drive have the same characteristics as Petris Street.
“We’ll hold (the contractor) to removing the wrong material,” Parker said. “We’ve got the evidence that it was improper material.”
High-priority roads include sections of East Gulley Avenue, North Walker Street, North Daniels Street, West Henschen Avenue, West Sadler Avenue and West Gulley Avenue.
Resident Scott Hren underscored the issue by bringing two bins of road debris collected from Edgegrove Lane.
“I have samples over there — rocks and all of the recycled road debris that ended up being glass, metal, parquet
flooring, PVC pipe — all the junk that’s usually associated with building roads up,” he said.
“We’re pretty close to paving that would have lasted 20 years guaranteed,” he said.
Traffic Engineer Myra Monreal outlined three options for road surfacing. She recommended recycled asphalt millings as the town’s primary material, describing them as “screen machine laid and rolled” — a process designed to reduce dust, though not as smooth as traditional asphalt. She noted the material aligns with Oakland’s small-town character.
Another option included traditional asphalt paving, which offers a smoother, longer-lasting surface but comes at a higher cost. Base improvements for streets also require additional engineering and drainage work before any paving begins.
Monreal emphasized a phased five-
Windermere restrooms stalled
Windermere Town Council directs town staff to look at alternate location for Town Hall restrooms.
LIZ
RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Windermere Town Council has decided to pause work on the construction of restrooms to give town staff time to look at other potential locations for the restrooms at Town Hall.
The Town Council approved the Town Hall restroom and renovation project at council’s Dec. 10 meeting. Under those plans, the restrooms potentially would be constructed close to Town Hall adjacent to the town’s ADA parking spots near Town Hall. Council Member Brandi Haines brought forth a motion at council’s meeting Tuesday, May 13, to rescind the approval of the restroom portion of the project to allow for town staff to look at alternate locations with community feedback in mind.
Several residents spoke against the planned location during public com-
ments, citing concerns regarding safety and maintaining Town Hall’s historic designation.
Windermere’s Joan Foglia said she, along with other residents, have been collecting signatures for a petition to ask council to reconsider its December vote and consider other locations. She said the petition had 110 signatures as of Tuesday, May 13.
“I know that you as Town Council members and the town’s team have been working so hard on these bathrooms and the renovations of Town Hall really feel like you’ve engaged the public and you know what they want, but I can tell you, after talking to these 110 residents, that is not true,” Foglia said. “These 110 people do not want the bathrooms on the corner of the Town Hall. … Let’s take a breather. Let’s do this the right way. Don’t waste money. Find out what the residents really want. Find the best and safest
place to put the public restrooms and look for the money.”
Council Member Tony Davit said staff should look at alternate locations as well as conduct cost estimates on ADA compliance in those other locations.
Council Member Andy Williams said a hard look should be taken at all potential locations.
“We need to get clear directions, because I hate doing this twice,” Williams said. “It’s getting tiresome.”
Council directed town staff to take 30 days to look at the ADA requirements for putting the bathrooms behind the library and the associated costs. In this time, town committees such as the Windermere Tree Board will be able to provide input.
Depending on the estimated costs, the council can determine whether town staff should proceed with obtaining community feedback on the potential locations.
Windermere Town Council will discuss the Town Hall restrooms again at its meeting on Tuesday, June 10.
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY
n Recycled asphalt millings as primary material n Phased approach over five years n Prioritizing roads connecting neighborhoods n Funding source: 100% transportation impact fees
als and found a Woodlawn caretaker willing to help with repairs but had not received a response from the town.
Taylor acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting because the cemetery is privately owned, the town has limited authority to intervene.
EDUCATORS HONORED
year
approach, with recycled asphalt millings to be used where feasible and engineering assessments conducted for more complex projects.
Mayor Shane Taylor added infrastructure upgrades such as sewer, stormwater and waterline improvements will be evaluated alongside the roadwork.
PRESERVING A CEMETERY’S HERITAGE
Oakland commissioners are drafting a letter to the owners of Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home and reaching out to descendant families to discuss potential ways to preserve Oakland Cemetery.
Resident Jill Cox addressed commissioners with concerns regarding damaged and fallen headstones at the historic cemetery.
She detailed eight fallen headstones and explained she contacted individu-
IN OTHER NEWS
n The Town Council issued a proclamation for Municipal Clerks Week May 4-10.
n Windermere Town Council adjourned its meeting and convened as the town’s Local Planning Agency. The agency held a public hearing to consider approving the transmittal of the town’s draft comprehensive plan, which the agency unanimously approved. After reconvening as Town Council, councilors unanimously voted to transmit the comprehensive plan.
n Council members unanimously approved an ordinance allowing construction activity from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays. The ordinance does not allow construction and demolition on Sundays and town-observed holidays.
n The meeting minutes for the virtual resident pre-construction meetings for West Second Avenue on Feb. 26, Feb. 27, March 9 and March 26 were unanimously approved.
The commission honored Larry Kimpel, longtime Oakland Avenue Charter School teacher and coach, who is retiring.
Taylor announced May 13 as “Larry Kimpel Day” in honor of Kimpel’s career as an educator.
Kimpel, who overcame personal health challenges, reflected on his journey from being told he wouldn’t succeed to becoming the 2025 Florida Charter School Champion Teacher.
“I almost died three times through blood clots and heart stents,” Kimpel said with tears in his eyes. “The good Lord had his hand behind me, without a doubt. He’s the one that helped me do that, and if it wasn’t for Him keeping His hands under me, (I) would have never been here.”
A video tribute was presented to Pamela Dwyer, the Oakland Avenue Charter School principal, in recognition of her dedication to education.
n The memorandum of understanding between John Armstrong and the town of Windermere was unanimously approved.
n The quit claim deed for the Main Street/Windermere Road roundabout was unanimously approved.
n The consulting agreement between the town of Windermere and F.W. Chase Enterprises LLC was unanimously approved.
n The School Resource Officer agreement between Orange County Public Schools and the town of Windermere was unanimously approved.
n Windermere Town Council unanimously approved sidewalk repairs with Precision Sidewalk Safety Corp on both sides of the road from town limits to Maguire Road.
n Town Council liaison assignments were made.
n The evaluation for Town Manager Robert Smith was unanimously approved.
Debra Garcia
Resident Scott Hren provided asphalt millings from Edgegrove Lane.
Former Foundation president launches consulting business
MICHAEL ENG EDITOR AND PUBLISHER
Change — even when you know it’s God’s plan — is hard.
And the more time that passes, the harder it gets.
That’s why Dave Buckles’ eyes well with tears as reality sets in: He is no longer the president of Foundation Academy.
“I hate goodbyes,” he said. “That’s why I couldn’t stand in front of (the staff) and tell them. I did it by video. I couldn’t handle seeing their faces. We’re family.”
After 11 years at the helm of Foundation Academy, Buckles resigned from his post earlier this month.
“It’s been an incredible honor to serve as president of Foundation Academy,” he wrote in his announcement. “Watching God transform lives, expand our campuses and deepen our commitment to Christcentered education has been one of the greatest blessings of my life.
“Recently, God has been stirring something new in my heart — to help
schools with leadership coaching at the senior levels, develop strategic plans and so much more,” Buckles wrote. “That’s why I’ve made the decision to step down as president of Foundation Academy.”
Buckles now will focus his efforts on his company, Paradox Consultants, which offers leadership coaching and strategic planning consulting for all industries but especially in school administration and leadership. Through Paradox, he’ll be drawing from the well of knowledge he gained from guiding Foundation through the last decade of growth and expansion.
“I’m answering a bigger calling,” Buckles said. “God is using me in a bigger way to help schools across the country.”
PARADOX CONSULTANTS
For more information about Paradox Consultants, visit paradoxons.com.
However, although Buckles has absolute faith in the decision, that doesn’t make it any easier to leave Foundation. After all, half his closet is Lions gear.
“Really, God? This is what I’m supposed to be doing?” he said.
FIRM FOUNDATION
Buckles is somewhat of a unicorn in the private school leadership landscape. He came to Foundation in May 2014 — not as a lifelong educator or school administrator but rather as a general contractor with 15 years of construction experience.
“Foundation was a school that had 68 acres in one of the fastest growing areas in the country,” Buckles said. “They needed someone to help with the vision and the growth strategy. I came from a construction background and have a passion for kingdom ministry.”
Buckles’ first order of business: Divide the academics and business operations into separate silos. In this way, he could ensure the educational component of Foundation Academy
remained strong while he guided the school’s growth.
During Buckles’ tenure, Foundation enjoyed tremendous expansion. The student population grew from 565 to 1,450 and the staff from 76 to more than 200. Foundation’s budget expanded from $6.5 million to $25 million.
In 2017, Foundation broke ground on its much-anticipated $1.5 million athletic complex. Two years later, it opened its elementary-age Lakeside Campus with five students — dubbed “the Fab Five.” Now, the campus educates 325.
In 2022, the school celebrated the opening of a new educational building at the Tilden Campus. In 2024, the school opened the school year with the Tilden Campus’ new Mane Cafeteria/Worship Center.
The school also now offers a virtual school option through Foundation Academy Virtual Learning.
In the last 10 years, Foundation’s test scores have outscored the national average by 15%.
The 88-member Class of 2025, which celebrated commencement last week (see Page 7B), earned more than $3 million in academic and athletic scholarships. Furthermore, 12 Foundation student-athletes will play in college — a school record.
One Foundation alum — Danny Stutsman — was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 2025 NFL Draft. Another — Braden Holcomb — appears to be on his way to the MLB.
And although Buckles often was the one at the podium giving speeches and sharing these accomplishments, he is quick to note the successes were the result of God’s will and the hard work and dedication of the entire Foundation family.
“I was blessed to lead with some phenomenal people,” he said.
ASK THE RIGHT QUESTION FIRST
“My crowning achievement (at Foundation Academy) was to create a community in which students could thrive beyond even their expectations,” Buckles said.
He also points to the school’s Coffee with Dads group, a professional networking group that raises money for tuition assistance and mission trips to the Dominican Republic among his cherished memories.
“The end result is doing life together — bringing the community together,” he said. “You don’t do that with just a building.”
Now with Paradox, Buckles hopes to take what he’s learned at Foundation and assist schools throughout the country.
FUTURE AT FOUNDATION
Although she had planned to retire this year, Carol Grosshans, longtime vice president of education at Foundation, agreed to stay and serve as interim president for one year as the board searches for a permanent replacement.
“I was very humbled by the ask, and I’m excited to work with the team,” she said. “We are so excited for Dave (Buckles) and the opportunity he has. We have such a great group of leaders here. Dave has done such a great job setting up the team.”
And with no large-scale construction projects slated for the next year, Foundation now has a year to step back, take a breath and take time to find Buckles’ successor.
The board is in the process of creating a profile of the perfect candidate. The search likely will begin in the fall.
“Now, we’re going to take a step back assess where we’ve come from, shore up and get ready for the next big step,” Grosshans said. And although Buckles won’t be delivering any more State of the Academy addresses, that doesn’t mean he won’t be visible or, more accurately, audible on Foundation’s campus. Last football season, Buckles took to the announcer’s booth, and next season, he hopes to reprise his role as the “Voice of the Lions.”
“Hopefully, that can happen,” he said with a smile. “This isn’t goodbye. This is, ‘See you later.’”
“We’re not trying to answer the question” he said. “We’re trying to help individuals ask the question. To figure out what the question is. To ask the right question first.”
And in doing so, administrators and leaders then can begin to build the culture and environment that yields the growth and community they desire for their schools.
As he walks with leaders he coaches, Buckles employs an acronym — R.A.W. Realignment: Align your people and priorities with purpose. Action: Turn vision into executable strategy. Win: Achieve measurable success with clarity.
“There’s 1,440 minutes in 24 hours,” he said. “You can’t make a minute longer; but you can make it better.”
Windermere honors local heroes with Armed Forces Day ceremony
Senior Airman Calvin Anderson with the U.S. Air Force isn’t able to go home to Windermere often, because he spends most of his active-duty service in other countries.
But on Saturday, May 17, Anderson said he was grateful his visit home coincided with the town of Windermere’s annual Armed Forces Day, a ceremony to honor local active-duty service members.
Anderson shared his love and passion for his job as a combat controller and said he has re-enlisted for another five years in the Air Force.
More than 50 people attended the ceremony at Town Hall to honor the 11 local active-duty service members.
After an invocation from Chaplain Andy Jones, Mayor Jim O’Brien and Town Council Member Tony Davit shared remarks.
“To the men and women serving, please know your sacrifice is not lost on us,” Davit said.
The event included light bites and refreshments and a slideshow of pictures and videos from several of the service members. Cards Windermere Elementary School students made were on display, and care packages were created to send to the service members. — LIZ RAMOS
Photo by Michael Eng
In August 2024, Dave Buckles and the Foundation Academy community celebrated the opening of the Mane Cafeteria/ Worship Center at its Tilden Campus.
Members of the Lone Sailor Division of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps attended Armed Forces Day.
Left: Windermere’s Dorrie Batten and Pam Martini organized Armed Forces Day. Their respective children serve in the military. Staff Sergeant Charles Martini serves in the Marine Corps, and Lt. Allie Hayes serves in the Navy.
Left: Chaplain Andy Jones led the invocation at the ceremony.
Senior Airman Calvin Anderson with the U.S. Air Force and Corporal Steven Stoumbos with the U.S. Marine Corps were grateful to attend Windermere’s Armed Forces Day in person.
Windermere Elementary School students wrote cards for the local service members.
LAKEVIEW POINTE
The home at 7166 Enchanted Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $542,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,119 square feet. Days on market: 13.
LATHAM PARK NORTH
Ahome in the Golden Oak community at Walt Disney World topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from April 28 to May 4.
The home at 9720 Vista Falls Drive, Golden Oak, sold May 1, for $9,800,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 6,535 square feet. Days on market: Five. The sellers were represented by Karen Balcerak, Golden Oak Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
AVALON AT TURTLE CREEK
The home at 10819 Woodchase Circle, Orlando, sold April 30, for $662,500. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,001 square feet. Days on market: 19.
The home at 10543 Woodchase Circle, Orlando, sold April 30, for $637,500. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,013 square feet. Days on market: Three.
ESTATES AT PARKSIDE
The home at 8156 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold May 2, for $2,025,000. Built in 2018, it has seven bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,593 square feet. Days on market: 22.
The home at 8361 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold May 1, for $1 million. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,748 square feet. Days on market: 40.
HIDDEN SPRINGS
The home at 5929 Cedar Pine Drive, Orlando, sold April 28, for $592,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,182 square feet. Days on market: 281.
PARKVIEW RESERVE
The home at 8333 Park Cliff Way, Orlando, sold April 29, for $1,392,370. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,041 square feet.
The home at 10355 Parkview Reserve Lane, Orlando, sold April 30, for $925,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,172 square feet. Days on market: 225.
SANDY SPRINGS
The home at 7943 Snowberry Circle, Orlando, sold April 30, for $590,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,180 square feet. Days on market: 36.
SHADOW BAY SPRINGS
The home at 5517 Bay Lagoon Circle, Orlando, sold April 29, for $535,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,862 square feet. Days on market: 37.
SOUTH BAY
The home at 9227 Cypress Cove Drive, Orlando, sold May 1, for $950,000. Built in 1980, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,190 square feet. Days on market: 281.
TOREY PINES
The home at 5142 Pine Top Place, Orlando, sold May 1, for $935,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,132 square feet. Days on market: 26.
VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE
The condo at 5012 Shoreway Loop, No. 30307, Orlando, sold April 30, for $635,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,097 square feet. Days on market: 44.
GOTHA
SADDLEBROOK
The home at 1946 Thoroughbred Drive, Gotha, sold April 29, for $615,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,160 square feet. Days on market: 10.
HORIZON WEST DEL WEBB OASIS
The home at 15819 Gem View St., Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $429,000. Built in 2024, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,579 square feet. Days on market: 49.
EDEN ISLE
The home at 6344 Earthgold Drive, Windermere, sold April 29, for $625,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,854 square feet of living area.
HAMLIN RIDGE
The townhouse at 16434 Hamlin Hills Road, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $433,990. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,729 square feet.
HARVEST AT OVATION
The townhouse at 13560 Autumn Harvest Ave., Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $485,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,785 square feet. Days on market: 62.
LAKE BURDEN SOUTH
The home at 7587 Lake Albert Drive, Windermere, sold May 2, for $1,240,000. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,149 square feet. Days on market: 40.
LAKE SAWYER SOUTH
The home at 7343 Derexa Drive, Windermere, sold April 29, for $655,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,612 square feet. Days on market: 77.
LAKE STAR AT OVATION
The home at 16874 Muskgrass Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $956,350. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 4,728 square feet. Days on market: 38.
The home at 16875 Muskgrass Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $615,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,857 square feet. Days on market: 209.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE
The home at 12614 Hawkstone Drive, Windermere, sold April 29, for $925,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,125 square feet. Days on market: Two.
The home at 6610 Helston Lane, Windermere, sold April 29, for $640,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,786 square feet. Days on market: Four.
The townhouse at 15407 Blackbead St., Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $448,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,730 square feet. Days on market: 37.
SUMMERPORT
The home at 4852 Blue Major Drive, Windermere, sold April 28, for $540,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,083 square feet. Days on market: 13.
TRIBUTE AT OVATION
The townhouse at 9362 Bolshoi Alley, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $444,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,835 square feet. Days on market: 60.
The townhouse at 9356 Bolshoi Alley, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $429,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,693 square feet. Days on market: 26.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 9529 Nautique Lane, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $730,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,227 square feet. Days on market: 67.
The home at 14310 Shocklach Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 1, for $535,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,282 square feet of living area. Days on market: 61.
LEGADO
The townhouse at 9109 Legado Drive, Windermere, sold April 28, for $448,750. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,687 square feet. Days on market: 126.
OSPREY RANCH
The home at 12609 Clear Sapphire Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $679,091. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,693 square feet.
PROVIDENCE
The home at 6232 Talaria Drive, Windermere, sold April 30, for $772,500. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,387 square feet. Days on market: Four.
SILVERLEAF RESERVE
The home at 16432 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $638,405. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,080 square feet.
SILVERLEAF RESERVE
BUNGALOWS
The home at 4997 Railroad Vine Alley, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $514,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,678 square feet. Days on market: 35.
STOREY GROVE
The home at 9542 Beautiful Way, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $620,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,136 square feet. Days on market: 37.
SUMMERLAKE
The townhouse at 15524 Blackbead St., Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $455,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,785 square feet of living area. Days on market: 86.
The home at 17066 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $630,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,489 square feet of living area. Days on market: 61.
The home at 16560 Point Rock Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $565,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,216 square feet. Days on market: Seven.
The townhouse at 16027 Juniper Inlet Alley, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $445,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,814 square feet. Days on market: 28.
WINDERMERE LANDINGS
The home at 6054 Roseate Spoonbill Drive, Windermere, sold April 30, for $512,500. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,984 square feet. Days on market: 26.
WINDERMERE SOUND
The home at 7325 Ella Lane, Windermere, sold April 30, for $505,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,988 square feet. Days on market: Three.
WINDERMERE TRAILS
The home at 8255 Bryce Canyon Ave., Windermere, sold April 30, for $500,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,840 square feet. Days on market: Six.
OAKLAND
HULL ISLAND
The home at 1112 Hull Island Drive, Oakland, sold April 29, for $1,272,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,562 square feet. Days on market: 49.
OCOEE
ARDEN PARK NORTH
The home at 2732 Norway Maple Court, Ocoee, sold April 30, for $575,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,632 square feet of living area. Days on market: 16.
CROSS CREEK
The home at 427 Fern Meadow Loop, Ocoee, sold April 30, for $432,500. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,468 square feet of living area. Days on market: 254.
OAK TRAIL RESERVE
The home at 2950 Timber Hawk Circle, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $440,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,853 square feet of living area. Days on market: 25.
PEACH LAKE MANOR
The home at 1002 Ursula St., Ocoee, sold May 2, for $360,000. Built in 1960, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,589 square feet. Days on market: 201.
PRAIRIE LAKE VILLAGE
The home at 2029 Majestic Elm Blvd., Ocoee, sold April 28, for $435,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,224 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.
SILVER GLEN
The home at 1374 Century Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $859,000. Built in 1996, it has six bedrooms, three baths and 3,790 square feet of living area of living area. Days on market: Three.
SOUTHWEST ORANGE
GOLDEN OAK
The home at 9720 Vista Falls Drive, Golden Oak, sold May 1, for $9,800,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 6,535 square feet. Days on market: Five.
LAKE SHEEN SOUND
The home at 9143 Sheen Sound St., Orlando, sold April 30, for $2,331,734. Built in 2024, it has six bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,232 square feet of living area.
WEST ORANGE
TILDENS GROVE
The home at 5310 Tildens Grove Blvd., Windermere, sold April 28, for $1,580,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 3,957 square feet. Days on market: 35.
WATERSTONE
The home at 11748 Waterstone Loop Drive, Windermere, sold May 2, for $1,349,000. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,235 square feet. Days on market: 59.
WINDERMERE
HARBOR ISLE
The home at 3037 Seigneury Drive, Windermere, sold April 29, for $2,650,000. Built in 2001, it has six bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 6,601 square feet. Days on market: 28.
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 6874 Valhalla Way, Windermere, sold May 2, for $2,350,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,660 square feet. Days on market: 57.
MANORS AT BUTLER BAY
The home at 2544 Carter Grove Circle, Windermere, sold April 28, for $860,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,802 square feet. Days on market: Four.
RESERVE AT BELMERE
The home at 11931 Provincial Way, Windermere, sold April 28, for $1,665,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,316 square feet. Days on market: 20.
The home at 1403 Lake Whitney Drive, Windermere, sold April 28, for $1,220,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,041 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.
RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND
The home at 11324 Bridge House Road, Windermere, sold April 30, for $4,700,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, five baths, three halfbaths and 7,304 square feet. Days on market: 15.
TOWN OF WINDERMERE
The home at 904 Main St., Windermere, sold April 30, for $3,650,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 6,079 square feet of living area. Days on market: 194.
The home at 400 W. Second Ave., Windermere, sold May 2, for $905,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,346 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA
The home at 2026 Willow Lauren Lane, Windermere, sold April 29, for $1,130,000. Built in 1994, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,419 square feet of living area. Days on market: 30.
LOCAL MOTION
Coming Thursday, July 31
Ad Space Deadline: Wednesday, June 25
Local Motion 2025/2026 is your go-to guide for everything West Orange County, helping both new and longtime residents stay connected with their community. Covering Winter Garden, Windermere, Horizon West, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Oakland, and Gotha, it’s packed with valuable insights and local must-knows.
Community & Events - Local history, leadership insights, and a must-attend event calendar.
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• School Guide - Public, private, and charter school listings, plus special education options.
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WINDERMERE DOWNS
The home at 9605 Hollyglen Place, Windermere, sold April 30, for $760,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,447 square feet. Days on market: 62.
WINDSOR HILL
The home at 9548 Crown Prince Lane, Windermere, sold April 28, for $900,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,997 square feet. Days on market: 10.
WINTER GARDEN
AMBERLEIGH
The home at 342 Lake Amberleigh Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $695,000. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,239 square feet. Days on market: Four.
COVINGTON PARK
The home at 636 Bainbridge Loop, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $475,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,606 square feet. Days on market: Five.
DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN
The home at 234 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $1,450,000. Built in 1920, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,267 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.
JOHNS LAKE POINTE
The home at 753 Sandy Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $660,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,021 square feet. Days on market: Five.
LAKEVIEW PRESERVE
The home at 3394 Buoy Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $701,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,747 square feet. Days on market: 447.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 1041 Linehart Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $905,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,084 square feet. Days on market: 64. The home at 932 Kylee Alley, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $715,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,936 square feet. Days on market: Six.
REGENCY OAKS
The home at 13144 Social Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $487,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,936 square feet. Days on market: Five.
STONE CREEK
The home at 15300 Starleigh Road, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $455,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,203 square feet. Days on market: 54.
The home at 1801 Seatonham St., No. 1, sold May 1, for $450,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,575 square feet. Days on market: 10.
VALENCIA SHORES
The home at 704 Tangelo Court, Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $555,000. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,797 square feet. Days on market: 176.
WALKERS GROVE TOWNHOMES
The townhouse at 705 Walkers Grove Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 1, for $545,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,951 square feet. Days on market: 79.
The home at 234 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, sold April 30, for $1,450,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from April 28 to May 4. The sellers were represented by Matt McKee, Compass Florida LLC.
First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden
Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org
Starke Lake Baptist Church
Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org
Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy
1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com
Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM
M E T H O D IS
First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube
PRESBYTERIAN
St. John's Presbyterian Church Meets at West Orange High School 1625 Beulah Rd., Winter Garden 321-343-7741 Sundays: 10:30AM www.stjohnspca.com
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1
In a five-set match against Freedom High, the Horizon Hawks boys volleyball team won the Class 6A, Region 2 Championship, 3-2, to claim the program’s first regional title.
This historic championship win was a breakthrough for the Hawks; Horizon reached the regional championship game in both 2023 and 2024.
Leading the way for the Hawks in the title-game win were junior outside hitters James Caleo and Pietro Franco, who both recorded 16 kills each, and senior setter Ian Oliveira, who dished out 54 assists.
Sophomore libero Jonathan Nogueira led the team with 22 digs Caleo added 20 digs as well.
Horizon went on to fall in the state semifinals to Central Florida powerhouse Winter Park High, 3-0, and finished the historic season with a 19-11 record.
2
Former Dr. Phillips High flag football star and current Ottawa University quarterback Olivia Cadiz won the NAIA Women’s Flag Football Championship, 34-20, over Keiser University. This is the Lady Braves’ fifth consecutive national title. They finish the season a perfect 23-0.
Cadiz, a freshman at Ottawa, served as the backup for redshirt senior quarterback Madysen Carrera this season, appearing in 16 games and throwing for 446 yards on 49of-80 passing with 10 touchdowns and four interceptions. However, she was not featured in the championship game.
3Foundation Academy has announced Devin Bennett as its new track-and-field head coach. Bennett, a native of New York, set multiple school records in his running days. He placed fifth in the 2010 New York Indoor State Track-andField Championships. Bennett went on to run cross country at the Division I level for Siena College and then at the D-II level at New Hampshire University.
Most recently, Bennett served as both the boys and girls trackand-field and cross country coach at Windermere Prep, where he coached various state championship qualifiers and led the boys track-and-field team to its first district championships this season.
4
The West Orange football team topped visitors from Jacksonville, Oakleaf High, 34-29, in a thrilling spring game Thursday, May 15, at Raymond Screws Field. After falling behind by two touchdowns in the first half, 217, the Warriors fought their way back into the game thanks to four second-half touchdowns by rising sophomore quarterback A.J. Chung.
5
Former Foundation Academy standout football player Danny Stutsman officially signed his first professional NFL contract with the New Orleans Saints.
The former Oklahoma Sooners star linebacker was a fourthround selection, the 112th overall pick, in the 2025 NFL Draft and signed a four-year, $5.23 million rookie-scale contract, which included a $1.03 million signing bonus. Stutsman joins a Saints off-ball linebacking group led by former All-Pro and two-time Pro-Bowler Demario Davis and 2021 second-round pick Pete Werner.
Foundation Academy girls sprinter Lee Peters finished a dominant track-and-field season — where she claimed 12 golds — with a state title in the
Proof positive
After qualifying for the Junior Olympics in Houston, NXT GEN — a Windermere-based travel flag football team — is asking the community for help getting there.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
SPORTS EDITOR
At its core, sports always should be a meritocracy. Those who dedicate the time, put in the work and reach the pinnacle of their respective craft should be the ones who earn the opportunities to compete at the highest levels.
This baseline truth — that if you work hard and develop your talents, you will earn the opportunity to be successful — is one of the biggest lessons that can be
learned by youth athletes and one of the biggest motivations for parents to place children in youth sports.
It also is one of the reasons why the parents and coaches of NXT GEN, a youth travel flag football team based in Windermere, are rallying together to help fundraise and send this team of fifth- and sixth-graders to Houston this July after they qualified to play in the first flag football competition at the 2025 AAU Junior Olympics.
Part IV: Sam’s spring football stops
Sports Editor Sam Albuquerque takes you behind the scenes of spring high school football in West Orange and Southwest Orange.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
The fourth and final week of the 2025 spring high school football session is here, and West Orange and Southwest Orange teams have squeezed every ounce they could out of their allotted spring practices, scrimmages and exhibition games as they now await the start of fall camp. This week, we dive into the area’s top 2024 team, the Dr. Phillips Panthers; update readers on the massive changes at the area’s only postseason trophy-winning team, the Legacy Eagles; and discuss one of the top
candidates for this season’s breakout team, the Central Florida Christian Academy Eagles.
CENTRAL FLORIDA
CHRISTIAN EAGLES
2024 record: 3-6
Coach: Kevin Blackman, third season
Key returners, additions: QB Mason Mathis, QB Gavin Pritzkau, ATH Davy Murphy, OL/DL Teagen NAME, OL/ DL Cole Harbin, ATH Jace NAME and ATH Nyshaun Dyer
After a winless first season in charge of the CFCA Eagles, Kevin Blackman and his staff showed the ability to grow and develop their players and program in year two by winning three games in 2024. This upcoming season, however, will be more than just another step in the right direction for Blackman’s program. Based on what I saw during my time with the Eagles this spring and what their coaches are expressing, the expectation for 2025 is that this ball club will take a massive leap.
NO. 1: ATHLETES ON THE OUTSIDE If you ask Blackman about his collection of playmakers on the perimeter, on either side of the ball, the word optimistic is an understatement. He flat-out
on what I saw this spring, CFCA’s collection of receivers, running backs, corners and safeties is impressive and, most important, a significant improvement from last season. “I could argue that we have the best core of
100-meter dash. Page 2B.
Sam Albuquerque
One of the most notable areas of growth for CFCA this offseason has been the size
both its offensive
defensive lines.
NXT GEN, a Windermere-based youth travel flag football team, qualified to play in the Junior Olympics in Houston this July.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque NXT GEN quarterback Jackson Ochoa dropped back for a pass during a practice.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORING AND SHANNON TILL/STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES
Lee Peters
Since Foundation Academy’s Lee Peters was an eighth-grader she has been competing for podiums and medals, claiming the bronze medal in the 100-meter dash and silvers in both the 200-meter dash and 4x100-meter relay at the 2022 Class 1A, District 7 meet.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Peters has elevated from a young up-and-comer competing for medals at different Central Florida meets to to becoming the fastest female short-distance runner across Florida in Class 1A.
After a dominant regular season — during which Peters never finished lower than fourth place — the Lions sprinter won the individual district and regional championships in the 100 and 200 and finished the 2025 season with a bang by posting personal-best times in both sprinting events at the Class 1A state championship meet. Her time of 11.60 in the 100 was good enough to claim the state title in the event, and her 23.79 finish in the 200 landed her the silver medal.
How does it feel to be
What do you enjoy the most about track?
I love to compete, I love to train, and I love my team.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from track? Track is all mental, so never give up and keep running hard.
What is your favorite track memory?
Winning states this year in the 100-meter dash while setting my personal best time of 11.60.
Who is your favorite athlete?
THE BASICS Age: 17
Sport: Track and field Grade: Junior School: Foundation Academy
Plus, he’s my trainer and has taught me so much.
Who is someone that has made an impact on your track-andfield journey?
Tisifenne Taylor. She’s been my coach for four years and has helped me become the runner I am.
What is your go-to pre-meet meal?
Steak, potatoes and veggies.
What is your go-to pre-meet hype song? “Praise” by Elevation Worship.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby? Shopping.
What is your favorite subject in school?
English because I love to read.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
The Bible, my family and a submarine.
What is your favorite movie? “The Notebook” because it’s a great love story.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Jesus because I would want to hug him and thank him for dying on the cross for me.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I would go back to the beginning of time and slap the apple out of
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your Don’t give up so easily.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be? Will I win a gold medal at the
Who is your favorite superThe Flash because he’s so fast.
Who is your favorite supervillain? Gru because he has all the
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and To be able to teleport so I can go anywhere in the world when
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Bora Bora and Fiji because the water is so beautiful, and South Africa to see all the different
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be I would be a cheetah so I could
Does pineapple belong on Not on a good pizza.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Youth flag football team qualifies for Junior Olympics
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
“For us as parents and coaches, this opportunity is really special to see,” NXT GEN parent and assistant coach Michael Woodall said. “These kids have worked so hard for about half their life at this point to grow as athletes and to have the chance to play in the Junior Olympics — which is something we didn’t even know was ever going to be an opportunity until a couple of years ago — and go there and win a medal, it’s pretty special. I don’t know if they’re really going to be able to appreciate it until they get there, but once they do get there, I think they’ll understand it.”
This collection of 10 and 11 year olds, who have been playing competitive sports together since they were 5, are no strangers to winning.
In fact, beyond qualifying for the first flag football Junior Olympic competition, NXT GEN actually claimed the AFFL Youth World Championship and the 2024 Under Armor National Championship.
Led by the Woodalls — Michael and his wife, Kelli — it’s easy to see why the parents and coaches of NXT GEN quickly got to work on brainstorming different ideas to raise the money needed to help fund the expenses of sending the team to Texas for the competition. With the help and generosity of various donors from local businesses, the group gathered enough items to raffle off a YETI cooler full of more than $2,500 worth of goodies — such as gift cards, YETI products, a round of golf for four and much more.
RAISING THEM RIGHT
It makes complete sense for parents to rally together and do their part to help give their children a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But when it comes to this group of young athletes and the amount of time dedicated to developing their skills, chemistry and the discipline they have in their approach during each competition they’ve participated in, the amount of effort put in by the NXT GEN community becomes even more reasonable.
The idea of reinforcing these types of characteristics in this group of fifth- and sixth-graders by rewarding their hard work and achievement with this opportunity is a no-brainer for any parent. That no-brainer takes an even bigger step forward when the players start talking about the opportunity to play in this historic event.
“I feel so blessed that we have this opportunity to play in the Junior Olympics,” NXT GEN player Tyler DeBakey said. “It’s even cooler since it’s the first time Junior Olympics is hosting a flag football tournament. We’re just blessed.”
That type of humble and grateful mindset is prevalent in this collection of athletes, and it is at the heart of everything the NXT GEN coaches want to teach these athletes.
“At the end of the day, when they leave here and go on to middle and high school athletics, and life in general, they’re going with understanding of the concept of discipline, the understanding of what it takes to be a good teammate, to be coachable,” Michael Woodall said. “These are good group of kids, and they’ve allowed us as coaches and parents to lay the groundwork for the future. As they get older and grow up, it’ll be up to them to take that as far they want to take it.”
Because these core tenants are so woven into the fabric that makes up the NXT GEN community, it often is what makes the team stand out among its competitors.
“The biggest compliment I ever get about our team is how disci-
plined they are and how humble they are,” NXT GEN parent and coach Thomas Ochoa said. “They really respect their opponents, and in this era — where everybody is focused on being flashy and they’re dancing and throwing stuff in the opponent’s faces — this group is the most humble and disciplined bunch you’ll see out there.”
GOING FOR GOLD
Developing this humble and disciplined culture isn’t just making mom and dad happy, it’s also one of the main reasons why NXT GEN has been so successful on the flag football field.
“When we show up at a lot of these tournaments, we’re never the biggest team,” Michael Woodall said. “Still, despite certainly not the betting favorite going in, more times than not, we leave those tournaments with the trophy. From my perspective that comes from the effort these kids put forth on the field, in practice and just their dedication to making sure they understand the things we’ve been working on for so long.”
This culture of humility and discipline — along with monumentalsized support from the NXT GEN parents and the winning that naturally comes with it — has allowed this group of players to do something that isn’t very common in any level of sports now-a-days: Develop chemistry. And not the microwaved version of chemistry, no, this is that spend half-of-yourlife-as-teammates type chemistry. The type of chemistry that might just carry a team to a gold medal at AAU Junior Olympics.
“Our team has the potential to win it all,” NXT GEN quarterback Jax Ochoa said. “Because we’ve been together for such a long time, we have so much chemistry with each other that it helps us play better.”
That type of confidence isn’t just coming from the quarterback, because of the level of chemistry this group has developed and the amount of work they’ve put in, this level of confidence is exuding from the entire team.
“I know this team works really hard,” NXT GEN receiver Wade Woodall said. “We’ve been around (one another) for a really long time — some of us for like half our lives — and I just think that’s going to help us. I think we’ll be one of the best teams out there.”
The confidence doesn’t stop with the players. The coaches know this group of athletes have what it takes to make some noise this summer in Houston.
“They’ve always performed well under pressure, so I don’t think the stage will be too big for them,” Michael Woodall said. “Hopefully, they can put it all together and bring home the gold.”
FUNDRAISING RAFFLE
To help fund NXT GEN’s trip to the 2025 AAU Junior Olympic Games in Houston this summer, the team’s parents — along with the generosity of local donors — are raffling this Yeti cooler filled with more than $2,500 worth of gift cards, Yeti cups, adult beverages and more. The drawing will be Saturday, June 21, and can be viewed live on the team’s Instagram (@ NXTGEN_407). To purchase raffle tickets, send a Venmo to NXT GEN assistant coach and parent Michael Woodall (@ mwoodall79) with your name and number in the description. One ticket is $20, three tickets will cost $50, and seven will cost $100. For more information about the raffle, email mikelliwoodall@gmail.com.
RAFFLE PRIZE n YETI Roadie 32 Wheeled Cooler ($375 value)
n Two YETI 10 ounce Rambler Wine Tumbler with lid ($50 value)
n Two YETI 12 ounce Rambler Colster Silm Can Insulator ($50 value)
n Two YETI 12 ounce Rambler Colster Can Insulator ($50 value)
n Two YETI 10 ounce Rambler Lowball ($50 value)
n Round of golf for four at Golden Bear Club ($300 value)
n Four tickets to an Orlando Solar Bears game ($100 value) n Infusion Tea ($50 value)
n Four tickets to Congo River miniature golf ($65 value) n Four tickets to Crayola Experience ($120 value)
n Salon Dulay gift basket ($300 value)
n Titleist hat and golf shirt $90 value)
n Five free bagels and a tumbler from Jeff’s Bagel Run
n More than $500 worth of alcoholic beverages
n A total value of $1,150 worth of gift cards (Westgate Resorts, $300; Medi Weight Loss, $250; Frontera, $200; Piesano’s, $100; Yellow Dog Eats, $100; Josie’s Pizza, $50; Gator’s Dockside, $50; Crooked Can, $50; and Fandango, $50
If NXT GEN does end up bringing home that inaugural gold medal, it’ll be a special moment for the trail-blazing team.
“Considering the fact that this is the inaugural flag football event at the Junior Olympics, it makes it that much more special for this group,” Thomas Ochoa said. “We’ve won the inaugural world championships before, so to be the first to do it again and to lead the way at this level, it’s really special as well.”
Sam Albuqerque
NXT GEN receiver Wade Woodall cut across the field during a practice.
Spring brings optimism
Orlando,” he said. “I know that’s a lot to say, but at every position we have a playmaker. Davy Murphy, who had a breakout season for us last year as our top receiver, is not only back but has grown tremendously both mentally and physically. Deshaun Jones, who was big at the end of last season for us is back — I think he scored in each of the last three games and against Cornerstone had 140 yards or so receiving.
Nyshaun Dyer, our leader on defense last year as an eighth-grader, is back and better and will be a factor on offense, as well. All those guys are coming back, and now we’re adding Jase (Gibson), who is a rising freshman. He might be the most dynamic player on the field for us. … I believe he has all the tools to be special and we have the quarterbacks to get him the ball in space. When that happens, I don’t think anybody’s going to touch him.”
NO. 2: QB BATTLE IS NECK-IN-NECK
After last season, it seemed rising junior Mason Mathis would have locked up the Eagles’ starting quarterback position entering the spring, but with rising eighth-grader Gavin Pritzkau joining the team, the competition for CFCA’s QB1 is as tight as could be. When asked if he has named a starter before the Eagles’ spring game against Cornerstone Charter, this was Blackman’s response: “Honestly, no,” he said. “I will say Mason in the fall was almost our everything on offense, and he did everything right on the field, everything we asked him to do. But then we were blessed with adding Gavin, who wants to come here and also play. It’s never a bad thing having competition at any position, but especially at that position, right? My philosophy is: The best man is always going to play. … That’s what iron sharpening iron looks like, and that’s
my mentality at QB, too. … Honestly, they’re both killing it right now, which is good for our team, but as a coach, it’s making this decision very, very hard. A lot of sleepless nights for us, because both of the guys are doing exactly what we’re asking them to do.”
NO. 3: CHAMPIONSHIP EXPECTATIONS
“We now have championship expectations,” Blackman said. “I know that’s big coming from two seasons ago, where we didn’t win a game and last year, when we won three. But … what I see every day is these guys are putting in the work. I wouldn’t set these expectations if we didn’t deserve it, but we have guys filling up the weight room during the offseason. We have guys locked in on watching film. … Everybody’s locked in and moving in the same direction. We feel like a ship, where we’re all paddling together in the same direction, and I feel like we can be competing for a championship, as long as we continue to go the way that we’re going. As long as we come into the fall with the same mindset as we do now, we’ll be fine.”
DR. PHILLIPS PANTHERS
2024 record: 12-2
Spring game: Won, 21-10, at Winter Park High
Coach: Rodney Wells, 14th season
Key returners, additions: DB Xayvion
Mincey, OL R.J. Stamm, RB Zion Matthews, ATH Rashaud Taylor, DB Torrey Scott Jr., DB Mchenry Fortilien, DL Maurice Jones Jr. and DL Demarco Henderson III
After a senior-heavy offense led the Panthers to a Class 7A Regional Championship game appearance last season — the furthest of any area public school program — one would think this program would be in rebuilding mode going into 2025. The Panthers are losing 11 college football players to graduation; of those, four will play at the Division I level.
But Dr. Phillips doesn’t rebuild under Rodney Wells, the area’s longest-tenured and winningest coach; the Panthers reload. After watching the talent DP’s trotted out onto Showalter Field against Winter Park, especially on the defensive line and secondary, expect the Panthers to be among not only the area’s best teams but also the state’s.
NO. 1: DEFENSE’S TIME TO LEAD
With eight seniors leading the high-scoring Dr. Phillips offense last season, the Panthers’ young-buttalented defense was afforded the time to develop on the field. Despite losing some key leaders on that side of the ball, this DP defense has the talent and experience along its front and secondary to be the area’s best in 2025. The only position group that doesn’t return most of its starters on defense is the linebackers, but if you know anything about Wells, the former DP and Syracuse backer, you know he’ll get that position sorted out.
Speaking to Wells after the Panthers’ road spring game win over the Wildcats, he liked what he saw from his defense.
“The defensive line was pretty dominant tonight, which is what they’ve been doing all spring,” Wells said. “They’ve given our offensive line hell and made them better because of it. With Maurice, who was out tonight but will be healthy soon, we have a really strong group up front. We have to keep them healthy over the summer. On the second level, we still have to get our linebackers right. We lost four linebackers and about 350 tackles from those guys, so that’s something we have to get right, but we will. The secondary is really good; we lost our leader from last season in Maliki Wright, but we got a lot of guys back and added some young guys, too. Right now, I feel good about that group. We have six, maybe seven guys that can play on Fridays in the secondary.”
Foundation softball advances to regional finals
After giving up a run in the top of the first inning to the visiting Lakeland Christian Lady Vikings, the Foundation Academy softball team quickly responded with back-to-back home runs in the bottom of the opening inning and never relented in this Class 1A regional semifinal matchup.
With Belmont University commit Riley Winters dialing up pitches from the circle for the Lions, Foundation didn’t allow another run in the six-inning game and from the batter’s box sophomore Norah Ranaudo led the way, going 2-for3 with a home run and two RBIs. With the win, Foundation advanced to the Region 2 championship game — falling to Geneva School, 5-3, Thursday, May 15, at home. — SAM ALBUQUERQUE
NO. 2: REPLACING QB1
One of the biggest questions for this Dr. Phillips team coming into the spring was at the quarterback position. Stanley Anderson-Lofton, the team’s starter the past three seasons, is now at Middle Tennessee, and there will be a new Panthers QB1 in 2025.
As of the spring game, Wells felt comfortable saying that rising junior Jake Belcher, a transfer from West Virginia, is DP’s starter.
“Right now, yes, Jake is the starter,” he said. “At Dr. Phillips, though, there’s always a competition at every position, and the way that the young guy (Tien Williams) came in and made plays, he’ll have the chance to fight for the spot. We’re going to have a good summer and see where we land come the fall.”
NO. 3: ZION MATTHEWS IS THE REAL DEAL
With a pair of seniors leading the running back room in 2024, the junior transfer from Osceola High didn’t see much action for the Panthers, carrying the ball just 47 times for 375 yards. Based on his physical development, growth as a leader and the roster turnover on the offense, the 5-foot-11, 200-pound rising senior will be the feature playmaker on offense.
“Oh yeah, Zion’s awesome,” Wells said. “He runs so hard and is a load to take down. Over the offseason, he did everything to get better. He did all the track workouts and got a little slimmer and much faster. He’s our workhorse back this season.”
LEGACY EAGLES
2024 record: 5-6
Coach: Jed Ebersole, interim
Key returners, additions: ATH Jason Conserve and OL/DL Wyatt Canaan
After a 1-6 start in 2024, the Legacy Eagles rattled off four consecutive wins and claimed the SSAC Class 1A Championship — the only team in West Orange and Southwest Orange to win a postseason trophy. Since the miraculous turnaround of last season, Legacy has seen significant changes to its football program — and athletic department as a whole — with third-year coach Zachary Fox stepping down from his role and defensive coordinator Jed Ebersole being named interim coach. Along with the coaching change, the roster also has seen major turnover, with the majority of its key starters not returning in 2025.
NO. 1: TEACHING THE GAME
“We’re definitely young, and that’s honestly something I think is positive,” Ebersole said. “We’ve got some kids (who) have never played football before, but they are athletic, having played basketball, baseball. We have a couple of wrestlers out here, too, so it’s just a matter of getting them into football and teaching them how to take their athleticism and apply it to football. … There’s a lot of potential here, and as I’ve told these guys all year, the first year may be rough, we may go through some growing pains, but as long as we’re focused on getting better each week, in the next couple of years they’re going to reap the rewards of that hard work.”
NO. 2: FLEXIBLE APPROACH ON OFFENSE
One of the biggest catalysts for Legacy’s 2024 run was a shift in offensive identity, moving from a spread-based concept to the singlewing. With the coaching change and roster turnover, the Eagles are taking a flexible approach this offseason toward their offense as the offseason unfolds.
“We’re still working through that decision right now,” Ebersole said. “When we went single wing last season, it obviously worked really well for us, but we made that call because we didn’t have a guy to run the spread concept. Right now, we have a young guy out here who is looking like he can be a promising quarterback. We still have to work with him to get him where he needs to be; that’s why, right now, our plan is to play a mix of single wing and spread. Not sure where we’re going to end up settling in the fall, because it’s going to really depend on how many big guys we end up having. ... Ultimately, we’re going to do whatever is best for the personnel we have.”
NO. 3: PREPARING FOR PERMANENCE
Ebersole, despite being unsure whether the interim tag will be removed from his title, is approaching this spring as if he will be the program’s next permanent head coach.
“I really don’t know what the future holds,” he said. “From my end, I’m treating it as if I’m going to be the coach in the fall, because that’s how I would want someone else to do it. … But until then, we’re preparing for the fall under the assumption that I’ll be here.”
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
Dr. Phillips defensive back Mchenry Fortilien (No. 6) made a tackle in the Panthers’ spring game win over Winter Park High.
Legacy football’s Jason Conserve is one of the Eagles’ top returners in 2025.
Left: Foundation softball’s Norah Ranaudo celebrated as she rounded third base.
Right: Foundation pitcher Riley Winters launched the ball toward home plate.
Lions softball’s Katherine Johnson reached first base during the 11-1 home win.
Foundation shortstop Norah Ranaudo was all smiles as she made her way to the middle of the infield.
INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK
JESSICA SINANAN INDEPENDENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Jessica Sinanan is an instructional coach at Independence Elementary School. She is responsible for supporting and coaching teachers through instructional planning and co-teaching, data collection and analysis, teaching reading and math small groups to at-risk students, and facilitating Science of Reading professional development. She also assists with bus arrival and dismissal as well as breakfast and lunch.
Sinanan also is the after-school tutoring program coordinator, coordinates Multicultural Night, co-leads the Literacy Committee and Literacy Night with the school’s media specialist and co-leads STEAM Night with the school’s academic coach.
A colleague nominated her for the Golden Spoon Award for providing support with instruction and being willing to collaborate.
“She works daily with teachers and students to improve our students’ education,” Principal Jeff Peters said. “Through her actions, our teachers become better educators, and our students’ learning is enhanced.”
What brought you to your school?
When I moved to Florida in 2023, I desired to find a close-knit school community. Throughout my first year in Florida, I kept an eye on job openings for a leadership position at Independence Elementary, because it reminded me of the school I came from on the South Shore of Boston. Situated in the heart of a community with high expectations for learning, when the opportunity presented itself to join as an instructional coach, Mr. Peters graciously brought me onto his team.
What do you love most about your school?
I love the people I work with and how Independence Elementary has the small-town community feel. Teachers and students alike are happy to be there, greet you each day with a warm smile and put forth their best effort. It is a community that desires excellence in all areas and works collaboratively for the success of all students.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
As an instructional coach, the most rewarding part of my job is having the opportunity to work with teachers and students across grade levels to enhance instruction. All students deserve a world-class education, and I am blessed with the opportunity to work with so many incredible teachers who support students each and every day.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
When I was in elementary school, I had a unique experience from kindergarten to third grade. I attended a one-room schoolhouse in a small town in northern New Hampshire, with the same teacher, Ms. Sandborn, for all four years. She fulfilled every role from principal to teacher, to nurse and more and helped me discover my love of learning by giving me old curriculum materials I used at home to play “school.”
REPORT CARD
TITLE: Instructional coach
YEARS AT SCHOOL: One
YEARS AT OCPS: One
Who influences you?
In everything I do, I desire to make my family proud. They encourage me to be my best, support me through difficult times and are my greatest cheerleaders in life.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
While I have many favorite children’s books now, when I was a child, my favorite book was “The Tale of Despereaux” by Kate DiCamillo. It is a story of the power of love, hope, courage, forgiveness and compassion. I believe that story sparked my love for reading that would come years later.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
You can catch me at the local farmers markets, enjoying the beach or sitting outside with a good book. During summer vacation, I visit my family in northern New Hampshire and hike a mountain or two. I take every opportunity I have to be outside enjoying nature.
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
I would dine with Albert Einstein. I would love to learn more about how he overcame challenges with his learning to become one of the most influential scientists in history.
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
The only time I bought school lunch was on grilled cheese and tomato soup day. I used to love seeing it on the lunch menu and got excited to buy lunch with my friends. To this day, I rarely turn down grilled cheese and tomato soup at a restaurant.
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
Growing up, I had a friend named Rachel, and we remained close friends through elementary, middle and high school. We are still in touch through social media and attended each others’ weddings in 2017 and 2019.
What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
I played basketball in elementary and middle school. In middle and high school, I was a member of the Junior National Honor Society and National Honor Society. During high school, I focused primarily on academics and was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship and graduated valedictorian.
— LIZ RAMOS
OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE
Water Spring middle-schooler takes top art award
Sixth-grader Shirley Zhou is one of the top artists in the state, according to recognition from the Florida Art Education Association.
AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY EDITOR
The Florida Art Education Association held its annual student art assessment and selected to two Orange County students for the highest honor, the Award of Excellence.
Shirley Zhou, a sixth-grader at Water Spring Middle School, took home one of the top awards in this statewide competition. Her teachers, Jamie Ruiz and John Duckworth, submitted some of Zhou’s best pieces of work to be assessed by a group of Florida art teachers.
Ruiz said the requirements are rigorous. Duckworth called Zhou “crazy talented.”
Zhou was recognized for two of her pieces of art. “Cheerful Day,” a colored-pencil piece, depicts a colorful scene of her favorite Sanrio character, Pochacco, as a helium balloon in a parade through New York City. “Crow’s Ace” is a pencil drawing of two crows “on an ace poker card with each of their top halves connected together,” Zhou said. One crow is dark, and the other is light, and the differing shades form a sharp contrast, she said.
“I am very grateful to my teacher for helping me submit these competition applications,” Zhou said. Zhou’s talents as an artist extend beyond pencil drawings. She also has created many paintings of subjects such as water lilies, birds, turtles and jellyfish. In her last year of elementary school, she painted an
otter, her school’s mascot, and gifted it to her teacher.
Art is her favorite subject, she said.
“Art can express some of my ideas, and I’m happy in the process,” Zhou said. “Also, I like the outcome of my work.”
The artist started learning how to sketch when she was 9. That coupled with her love of Japanese anime led her to create some spectacular pieces of artwork. She said she learned to draw by following the cartoons.
Zhou hopes to continue improving her skills and hopes to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design after graduating high school. As for a career, she would be happy in anything having to do with art.
“I like drawing comics, and I hope to create some characters that I like,” she said. “I also like playing online games, and I hope to get into animation in the future.”
Courtesy photos
Shirley Zhou is a talented artist who spends much of her free time working on her paintings.
Shirley Zhou of Water Spring Middle School won an excellence award for two pieces of her art: “Cheerful Day,” above, and “Crow’s Ace.” This piece was selected for display at the Orlando Museum of Art.
TFA Class of 2025 Valedictorian Sophia Hong gave her speech during the commencement ceremony.
TFA Class of 2025 Salutatorian Haven Schrimsher gave her speech during the commencement ceremony.
TFA Head of School Steve Whitaker spoke to the graduating class during the commencement ceremony.
TFA graduates Jennifer Vais, left, and Samuel Herbert were honored with the Esther and Daniel awards.
Class of 2025 graduates participated in a candlelight ceremony with the rising senior class.
First Orlando’s Jarian Felton led the worship with a performance of “Firm Foundation” during the commencement ceremony.
First Orlando Senior Pastor David Uth congratulated graduates from The First Academy.
It’s all good: Foundation Class of 2025 turns tassels
Foundation Academy celebrated its 88-member Class of 2025 with an inspiring and emotional Commencement Ceremony Friday, May 16, at Leiferman Gymnasium at the Tilden Campus.
The evening began with an opening prayer by Interim President Carol Grosshans, followed by the recitation of pledges by Junior Marshals Cameron Kotch, Lillian Nadrowski, Madeleine Tilton and Victoria Velazquez-Ward.
SGA co-presidents Brock Gravitz and Camryn Clements recited to Class Verse, and Ehren Steiner recognized the Class of 2025’s seven Legacy Lions — students who have attended Foundation since kindergarten.
Chase Randall delivered the salutatorian address, followed by valedictorian Everett McMullen’s speech.
The Last Lesson was delivered by teacher Brock Ratzlaff.
Then, senior class sponsors Patti Cogburn and Brad Bales read each graduate’s name, and Grosshans and First Baptist Church of Winter Garden Senior Pastor Tim Grosshans presented each graduate his or her diploma and senior Bible.
— MICHAEL ENG
Stephen Ford received his senior Bible from First Baptist Church of Winter Garden Senior Pastor Tim Grosshans.
Graduate Braden White was one of seven Legacy Lions in Foundation Academy’s Class of 2025.
Interim President Carol Grosshans delivered the invocation at the ceremony.
Ehren Steiner recognized the Class of 2025’s seven Legacy Lions — students who have attended Foundation since kindergarten. Left: Emily O’Brien is the daughter of Windermere Mayor Jim O’Brien and his wife, Kristin.
Chase Randall delivered a heartfelt and sentimental salutatorian address.
Everett McMullen delivered the valedictorian address.
Junior Marshal Victoria Velazquez-Ward led the recitation of the pledge to the Bible.
Foundation’s Class of 2025 made a triumphant entrance into Leiferman Gymnasium.
Daniel Ferraz received his senior Bible from First Baptist Church of Winter Garden Senior Pastor Tim Grosshans.
Right: Upper School Principal Sarah Reynolds and Addy West
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
90 years ago
A group of young men, including Ward Britt, Leonard Mann, Herbert Pounds, Noel Griffith and John Vick, sponsored a dance at Legion Hall. Roy Fulmer’s orchestra furnished the music.
80 years ago
Pfc. Ward Britt, who was wounded in Germany, was convalescing at an Army hospital in Thomasville, Georgia. He was visited there by his wife, Gertrude, and young son, Ward.
75 years ago
Groundbreaking ceremonies for the new Lakeview High School gymnasium were held, with Harry M. Smith acting as master of ceremonies. The program launched with the playing of “The StarSpangled Banner” by the Lakeview band, followed by the invocation delivered by the Rev. Albert A. Stulck. The Lakeview Glee Club sang, and speakers were Bud Owens, Ocoee mayor; Mr. Garland Lakeview principal; Mr. Walker, superintendent of Public Instruction; Mr. Johnson, Orange County School Board chairman; Mr. Burcham, Orange County Board of Trustees chairman; and the Honorable J.B. Rodgers, state senator.
50 years ago
Tami Whitlow was the valedictorian and Tanya Miller the salutatorian of Ocoee High School’s Class of 1975 — its last graduating class. Stan Lummus was valedictorian of Lakeview High School’s last graduating class; Denise Morris was salutatorian.
Winter Garden old-timers swapped recollections at Pioneer Night. Sharing their stories were Bob Davis, Jerry J. Chicone Sr. and Hoyle Pounds.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The West Orange County landscape has changed forever due to the loss of our renowned citrus industry.
At one time, well more than a dozen packing and shipping plants lined the tracks that coursed through the region. In this photograph taken around 1915, employees of the John T. Fuller packinghouse assemble for posterity in front of the building that once stood in a tiny community called Fuller’s Crossing (originally platted as Staten’s Crossing). The plant operated on the southwest corner of today’s West Orange Trail and Ocoee-Apopka Road. With our growing population, development has reached this once quiet corner of the county, now the site of Orange Technical College – West Campus, Legacy High School, Hope Charter School, the State Road 429 overpass, shopping centers and more.
The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation documents the many historical events that have come to the region, creating and preserving a legacy for residents to study and appreciate. Call (407) 656-3244 to make a research appointment.
The mission of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and architecture of Winter Garden while creating new cultural experiences. The Foundation also preserves the material culture of West Orange County, using it to educate the area’s youth on the community’s rich history.
40 years ago
Ann and John Harrell, owners of the Winter Garden Loan Co., were the April recipients of the Downtown Business Association’s “Worked Like a Dog” award.
35 years ago
Jim Henson, Windermere resident and creator of Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, died unexpectedly and was remembered worldwide.
West Orange High School baseball teammates Norm Doerges Jr., of Windermere, and Michael Griffith, of Winter Garden, met for
the first time after graduation as competitors. Doerges, a pitcher, was playing for Yale University and Griffith, a catcher, played for the U.S. Naval Academy.
30 years ago
More than 1,000 seniors graduated from the area’s two public high schools, West Orange and Dr. Phillips high schools.
Family, friends, colleagues and former students turned out for the dedication of the Stonewall Jackson Middle School gymnasium in honor of Lester Dabbs, of
Ocoee, who served as principal of the school for 20 years. He also was principal of Lakeview Middle and West Orange High schools and served as commissioner and mayor of Ocoee.
20 years ago
Jim Thomas earned recognition from a national organization for his accomplishments in advancement of environmental concerns. The Award of Honor was the highest achievement award National Garden Clubs Inc. presented.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
MAY 25, 1995
Winter Garden and Ocoee boasted several movie theaters in 1995, and two advertised regularly in The West Orange Times The Star-Lite Drive-In, on East Plant Street in Winter Garden, offered movies for $1.50 per person — or $1.50 for an entire carload of folks on Tuesdays. In a newspaper advertisement, the drive-in featured “Major Payne” and “Streetfighter” to moviegoers, and anyone who cut out the ad and took it to the box office received a free admission with each paid ticket. At Orange Tree Cinema on Maguire Road in Ocoee, film fans had a choice of “Casper,” “Die Hard with a Vengeance,” “Forget Paris,” “Crimson Tide,” “French Kiss” and “Little Princess.” Matinee movies were $3, and twi-lite films were $2.50.
SIGN LANGUAGE by Zhouqin Burnikel, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos
