Observer CLASS OF 2019
In this special edition, we honor the 2019 graduates of the high schools in the West Orange, Windermere, Dr. Phillips and Southwest Orange communities.
2019 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
AMDA College & Conservatory of the Performing Arts
Baylor University
Berry College
Bethune-Cookman University
Boston University
Clarke University
Drexel University
Duke University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Flagler College
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Institute of Technology
Florida SouthWestern State College
Florida State University
George Mason University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Grand Canyon University
Jacksonville University
Lake-Sumter State College
LeTourneau University
Liberty University
Longwood University
Marywood University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Pennsylvania State University
Purdue University
Rollins College
Samford University
Southeastern University
Stetson University
The University of Alabama
University of Central Florida
University of Colorado at Boulder
University of Delaware
University of Florida
University of North Florida
University of Pittsburgh
University of South Florida, St. Pete
University of South Florida, Tampa
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
University of Toronto
University of Waterloo
University of West Florida
Valencia College
Virginia Tech
Class of 2019 Congratulations
56 STUDENTS N GRADUATING CLASS OVER 3.7 MILLION EARNED IN SCHOLARSHIP DOLLARS
100% COLLEGE PLACEMENT
OVER 10K COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS
MARIAELLICE
ANTONIO
MariaEllice Antonio is an avid reader and runner whose favorite book of all time is “To Kill a Mockingbird,” by Harper Lee. Over the last two years, she has been in dual-enrollment and will be going to UCF in the fall with an associate’s degree already in hand. At UCF, Antonio will go on to study biomedical sciences, and she hopes to become a doctor.
CHRISTINA MOYNIHAN
Over the past four years Christina Moynihan has been involved with the school in just about every way possible. She’s been the school mascot, the president of Eco-Action and editor of the yearbook. As a dual-enrollment student, she will finish at Valencia College before transferring to UCF to study something in the medical field.
OLIVER MUELLER
A senior with a passion for songwriting and story-writing, the outgoing Oliver Mueller was involved all over the Dr.Phillips campus as a member of the Student Council. With an interest in the human mind, Mueller will be attending Rollins College in the fall to study psychology.
All grown up
TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR
Each class that walks through the doors at Dr. Phillips is different, and senior advisers Lisa Golub and Jennifer Parm know that from experience.
As this year’s Class of 2019 paraded through the school during the senior walkout on the morning of Thursday, May 16, there was slight chaos, but unlike previous years, it was controlled.
There was a sense of maturity and growth that haven’t been there in the past, and it’s something that has really made this year’s class special, Golub said. And that growth has shown itself in many aspects — including an increase in students knowing where they are going next.
“I’ve spoken to a lot of kids who I find — more so this year — who are college-bound, military-bound, and they have got a plan in place,” Golub said. A big aspect of that starts with the teachers at Dr. Phillips and their role in helping not only to provide an education but also a family.
During the senior walkout, Parm said she was approached by wave after wave of students who thanked her for the help and for being there for them.
“There were a lot of hugs, and there were a lot of, ‘Sign my yearbook,’ said Parm, a DP alum who now has kids at the school. “I think that if they’re attached to the institution — if they feel like the institution is doing something for them — they’re going to do more.”
By establishing that faith in the physical and metaphorical institution, the staff, teachers and administrators at Dr. Phillips can better connect with their students.
In the case of those such as Golub, being around these students for so long adds stability to their lives and helps add to the culture of a school.
“Another thing that is special about this senior class is I personally have known a handful of these kids since elementary school — when I was working at one of the local elementary schools, and I was on the administrative leadership team,” Golub said. “Some of them stopped me today purposefully, because I’ve known them since they were in second grade, and that is pretty special for me. I’ve watched these babies grow up.”
That feeling of family reaches through the relationships built between the staff at Dr. Phillips and its students, and it also plays
a big role among the student body itself.
If you talk with any senior on the Dr. Phillips campus, they will tell you that a big part of the high-school experience for them comes in the form of friendships made over time.
Some of those friendships have even blossomed over the span of years, and reach beyond
the walls of the school.
“I’ve known these people since elementary school,” MariaEllice Antonio said. “Christina (Moynihan), right here, I’ve done elementary, middle and high with her. I work with her, and we compete together in martial arts. … It’s just cool to see each other grow up and that sort of thing. It’s like, ‘Wow, we’re old.’”
And just like with family, helping students through the complexity of growing up has been a big thing for Golub and Parm when it comes to working with this year’s senior class.
Graduation is an important moment, and for Parm, it is a reminder of why she does what she does.
“I know a lot of kids think
graduating high school is a forgone conclusion, and for several it is, but for all of them it is a massive accomplishment — it is something you have to earn,” Parm said. “A lot of them only remember their lives associated with school. … So school has been something that defines them for all of their working memory and to sort of help them celebrate the culmination of that, and the transition out of that, is really what I’m in this for.”
And there have been specific cases in which Golub has seen the attitudes of students change when they begin to grasp just how big of a moment it is for not just them, but for their families, as well.
Golub recalled one senior in this year’s class who hadn’t bought a cap and gown, because he wasn’t planning on participating in graduation. After having a conversation with him, something clicked, and he had a change of mind.
“He found out that his parents were really excited and couldn’t wait to participate, and he drove up to Winter Park to Herff Jones to get his cap and gown, and he came in the next day and the change in his demeanor was truly amazing,” Golub said. “Every day after that, he was like, ‘I am so excited about this,’ so I know that on graduation day I will cry when he walks past me.”
“
NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Senior Class of 2019! You are about to embark on the next chapter of your life. It will be one filled with new challenges, adventures and myriad opportunities should you choose to take them. I hope each you will choose to take advantage of all that is offered to you and remember the words of Christopher Robin, “You are braver then you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.”
My wish for each of you is to find success in whatever you choose to do, to be the very best at what you choose to do and find joy in all that life gives you! Senior Class of 2019, you represent our motto of being “Never Less Than the Best!” I am proud to have been your principal. You have my heart always!
Dr. Suzanne Knight
Ocoee High School
President: Megan Sanzi
Vice president — classes: Hailee Doyno
Vice president — student life: Lily Morgan
Community relations secretary: Emily Ratcliff HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN
Matthew Hogan and Destini Hendricks
PROM
Omar Torres and Emily Ratcliff GRADUATION
7 p.m. Saturday, May 25, 2019, at the Addition Financial Arena, University of Central Florida, 12777 Gemini Blvd. N., Orlando
Cassandra DeJean
Esmeralda Deleon Camacho
Jean-Mitchel Delva
Devonte Denton
Angie Deranvil
Louidnie Deravil
Elson Deshomme
Lazano Devega Myers
Alex Dietrich
Edward DiGiovanni Nicholas DiGiovanni
Dixon
Zuri Dixon
Michael Doan
Christian Dominguez
Sheelove Dorcena
Nephtalie Dorvilien
Ronan Dougherty
Tion Downing
Hailee Doyno
Angely Duarte
Brandon Duchesne
Kalon Duncan
Michaela Dunston
Wendy Dupre
Morgan Durden Christian Edmond
Rogdjina Emile
Jobed Encarnacion Alvarez
Ariana Enrique Cardona
Trina Epps
Guerland Ervilus
Whitney Espute
Guillermo Estrada
Wilnieka Exilhomme
Jeremiah Fails
Kerby Felima
Alexander Felix
Ariel Felix
Esther Fernand
Ashley Fernandez
Calmar Figaro
Abigail Fink
Desmione Fisher
Kaleyanne Fitzgerald
William Fletcher
William Fletcher
Amber Folkes
Nathaniel Fonseca
Duane Forbes
Madison Foster
Keshyin Francis
Kadijah Freeman
T’Keyah Frett
Hector Fuentes
Amanda Fuls
Ryan Fusco
Reno Gabriel
Ahmed Gaffoor
Fernando Garcia
Sofia Garcia
Valeria Garcia Arvelo
Crystal Garcia-Chavez
Nayely Garcia-Chavez
Yareli Garcia-Ramirez
Mikayla Garland
Mikayla Garland
Austin Garver
Chester Geffrard
Korwin Gillens Jr
Darien Gilmore
Demari Glover
Tyree Glover
Shane Godoy
Herminio Gomez
Adrianna Gonzalez
David Gonzalez
Delila Gonzalez
Samuel Gonzalez
Channdler Goss
Davyn Goss
Abigayle Graham
Kevon Graham
Quishun Grant
Kaniya Gray
Phillip Gray
Tyler Gray
Cydney Greenwood
Sarah Greenwood
Carmen Greer
Jordyn Gregory
Destiny Grimes
Carissa Griner
Isabella Grogan
Milande Gros Negre
Samantha Guerrier
Rasaan Gumbs
Carlos Gutierrez
Jose Gutierrez
Lissette Guzman
Collin Hall
Hylan Hall
Jules Hall
Alqualios Hammonds
Cody Hansen
Madilynn Hansen
Jaden Harding
Brian Haridin
Deara Harris
Nathan Hartman
Jalen Hawkins
Siana Hayden
Ajilelah Hazel
Taje Heflin
Destini Hendricks
Peterly Henris
Isamar Hernandez
Jose Hernandez
Teresa Hernandez
Nayeli Herrera
Isaac Herrera-Badajos
Justin Hickes
Reginald Hicks
Khai Ho
Hung Hoang
Brian Hobart
Matthew Hogan
Megan Hogan
Bridgett Hopper
Marcus Howard
Jenny Hue
Daphne Ibarra
Idalia Ibarra
Omran Ibrahim
Hannah Isbell
Daisja Isidore
Louishane Jack
Eddie Jackson
Jayquan Jackson
Deandra James
Deania James
Jawaad James
Ziaharr James-Hearns
Deandre Jarrett
David Jasmin
Jayson Jean
Wilna Jean
Kerina Jean Louis
Roosevelt L Jean Paul
Mideline Jean-Francois
Samantha Jefferson Kalysta Jeffrey
Jilliane Jimenez
Alex Job
Emma Johnson
Indiyah Johnson
Isaiah Johnson
Kenneth Johnson
Talika Johnson
Amara Johnson Hampton
Elijah Jones
Nehemiah Jones
Anessa Joseph
Anthony Joseph
Carlene Joseph
Elijah Joseph
Laure Joseph
Linda Joseph
Mishma Joseph
Rijdyna Jules
Lauren Kamuda
Evan Katutis
Thomas Kauffman
Keziah Kennard
Alexa Kennedy
Joseph Kennedy
Adriel King
Shonell Kissoon
Savannah Knapp
Harrison Koller
Noah Kopsho
Dahlia La Pommeray
Thalia La Pommeray
Esmeralda
Laborico-Baltazar
Mia Lafaver
Miranda Lafaver
Diedra Laguerre
Blondine Lamour
Gage Lamoureux
Vincent Lanclos
Karen Landa
Troy Lane
Ettiene Laneaux
Sarah Lanier
Sydney Larscheid
Davion Law
Cainan Lawler
Phu Le
Thomas Le Quang
Joshua Leaster
Janissa Legister
Rachel Leith
Serenity Lemon
Jasmine Leonard
Emily Lewis
Joshua Lewis
Kandy Lezotte
Ashley Liberte
Giordano Logiste
Ethan Long
Eric Lopez
Kevin Lopez
Jennifer Louis Jean
Jataveius Louitan
Jennifer Ly
Alexis Mack
Anjali Mahavir
Jose Maldonado
Seon Manawar-Khan
Jennifer Manzano
Robert Manzueta
Angel Martin
Corbin Martin
Carlos Martinez
Damarius Maxwell
Delvin Mays
Jermaine McCoy
Kendall McCoy
Bailey Mckenzie
David Mckenzie
James McLeod
James Mcneil
Joselyn Medina
Mario Medina
Paola Melendez
Janet Mendez
Emilien Mera
Mioche Mesilas
Jeff Meus
Graciela Meza-Reynaga
Zachary Mickle
Christian Milfort
Haley Milliken
Gerline Miracle
Jose Miranda Aguilar
Dalton Mobley
Alyssa Mohabir
Aaron Mohammed
Kade Molnar
Michael Monroe
Brando Mora
Lily Morgan
Selara Mosley
Flor Mota
Favian Munguia
Amyah Myrie
Lentz Napoleon
Jonathan Navarro
Lauryn Nelson
Christina Nguyen
Danh Nguyen
Hien Nguyen
Jennifer Nguyen
Nhi Nguyen Sang Nguyen
Vy P Nguyen
Matthew Nielsen
Samuel Noel
Akhir Noormohamed
Jake Norris
Danny O’Connor
Ashley Oakes
Jedelande Odumas
Veronica Ogburn
Jacob Ondecker
David Ortiz John Ortiz Jose Ortiz Julien Ortiz
Ximena Osorio Julian Pagano Carl Page Edwin Palomino Darrian Parker
Parker Kai Patterson Sarah Paupaw
Pearce Falonne Pelissier
Christian Abati
Robert-Che’ Bonilla
Unified and unique
STANDOUT SENIORS
BRANDO MORA
Brando Mora is this year’s valedictorian. He will be attending the University of Florida to study computer science.
JEREMIAH FAILS
Jeremiah Fails will be attending the University of West Kentucky on a football scholarship. He plans to major in sports medicine.
ERIN PEARCE
Erin Pearce is one of Ocoee High’s Super Scholars. She will be attending the United States Naval Academy to study either chemistry or biology. She hopes to go into the nuclear program with the U.S. Navy.
ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER
If there was one word to describe Ocoee High’s Class of 2019, it’s diversity — especially when it comes to the seniors’ plans for their future.
“Our Class of 2019 is definitely different than any other class we’ve had here (at Ocoee High),” said Nikki Reis, college and career specialist at Ocoee High. “We tracked all the data of where our kids are going after they graduate, and this year, we actually have them going to 73 different institutions. Where they’re going to and where they’re branching out to is going to be so memorable for Ocoee High School. We’ve got kids going out of state. We’ve got kids going (to) technical (schools), community (colleges), state (colleges), apprenticeships; everything really. I think their eclecticism and diversity is what makes them unique.”
“I really think that that’s their strength,” Ocoee High senior sponsor Wendy Cartwright said. “They are diverse, but they are also unified.”
Brando Mora is the valedictorian for Ocoee High’s class of 2019. He currently is enrolled at
the University of Florida, where he plans to major in computer science. He said the different talents among his fellow peers is also a reflection of his class’ diversity.
“It’s so varied, and there’s so many different kinds of talents that people have in it,” Mora said. “Everyone has their own little talent … and they can range from sports, to academics, to video games, to dance and singing.”
Jeremiah Fails will be attending the University of West Kentucky on a football scholarship. He plans to study sports medicine. Fails said although the class is diverse, it also is a tight-knit group.
“Everybody knows each other,” Fails said. “Everybody is comfortable with each other. It’s a friendly environment. The Class of 2019 is very friendly.”
Fails added the Class of 2019 will be remembered for being laid-back. He also said the class would be remembered for the athletic accomplishments and improvements that took place throughout the school year.
Every year, Ocoee High seniors gather at the school’s football field and line up in the shape of their class year for an aerial photo. This year’s class has been the most diverse in terms of post-secondary education choices.
a Super Scholar. Last year, we had our first Super Scholar. This year, we had two. … That’s huge for us.”
Pearce will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy to major in either chemistry or biology. She said she’s been wanting to join the military since age 5.
“I’ve always felt the need to serve and to help those around me and to fight for justice across the country,” Pearce said. “The Naval Academy is one of the best options I have.”
“ NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
As the proud principal of Ocoee High School, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2019 and wish them every success as they enter the next chapter of their lives.
For four years these students have bonded together to become not only highly successful but very much the class “with class.” From Super Scholars to those with industry internships right out of high school, this class has it all! They represent the best of best our youth today and will certainly make a positive mark on our community and in our world.
Class of 2019, you defined greatness!
Reis added that one unique accomplishment of this year’s class of seniors is that this class has two OCPS Super Scholars
“Most of the time in sports — individually and throughout a team — broke school records this year,” Fails said. “We broke track records, football records (and) even baseball records as well (this year).”
— Dahlia LaPommeray and Erin Pearce — marking the first time Ocoee High has had that many since OCPS began the program.
“Orange County Public Schools celebrates (its) Super Scholars, and that is a senior (who) gets accepted into one of the top-20 universities in the nation or one of the military academies,” Reis said. “Two years ago, Ocoee had never had
Cartwright said the school practices a number of traditions each year to honor its seniors and to give them lasting memories. One of those traditions involves the seniors gathering at the school’s football field and lining up in the shape of their graduation year. What makes this year’s photo unique is it was the first time the photo was taken by a drone. “We do some really cool things for our seniors,” Cartwright said. “On the first Friday (back from winter break) is when we go out and we do the picture on the field where they line up on the numbers 2019 — or whatever the graduation year is — and it’s a way for the class to be unified. … We try to create those very unique experiences for our kids.”
Laura Beusse
Courtesy photo
Olympia High School
GOVERNMENT
Cameron Cisewski, Samantha Gelman, Taylor Kirby, Tripoli Mulvihill, Aleisha Palmer, Aaron Russo HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN
Latrell Pryor and Taylor Kirby
PROM KING AND QUEEN
Micah Hurst and Kristie Romeus
8 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2019, at Addition Financial Arena, University of Central Florida, 12777 Gemini Blvd. N., Orlando
Nascimento
Intentional acts of kindness
STANDOUT SENIORS
LUKE CAREY
Carey was named OCPS
Male Athlete of the Year. He started playing water polo prior to his freshman year and eventually became the captain of the school’s water polo and swim teams.
PIERRE LESPERANCE
Lesperance, known for his brilliant mind and quiet demeanor, was accepted into the extremely competitive Harvard University, which has an acceptance rate of 5.4%.
SAMANTHA HSU
Hsu stood out for her philanthropic efforts. She created a new annual tradition at Olympia that fundraises for Florida Impact to End Hunger.
GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR
Every high-school class is remembered by something upon their graduation. And for Olympia High School’s graduating senior class, it’s their desire to have a positive impact in the world.
Olympia’s Class of 2019, comprising more than 800 students, impressed their teachers in the usual ways: academically and athletically. But they also stood out for their philanthropy, selflessness and community involvement.
“For this class, what’s really impressive is just the amount of effort and hard work that these children put into everything that they do,” Olympia yearbook adviser Michael Cacciatore said.
“This is a class of children with so many achievers, like athletically, artistically, intellectually and everything, but what’s really impressive is just that it’s a group of children who give back. They’re not selfish. I’ve taught many groups before, and this group, especially, has always seemed to be very driven, very altruistic, and just the type of people who realize that they’re not here just for themselves. Their selflessness is one of their
best qualities. Anyone can tell you that the 2019 class is really just a truly selfless group.”
One prime example is Samantha Hsu, who bases her actions on making a difference in the world. She is the student who launched the school’s new tradition, the Titan Turkey Trot, to raise money for Florida Impact, dedicated to reducing hunger and poverty in Florida.
“(She) is a member of the National Honor Society, and she was also its vice president,” Cacciatore said. “She created an event called the Turkey Trot on campus. And it’s essentially a volunteer-based event that was brought together to raise funds for two poverty-focused organizations. And she raised thousands of dollars, and she did it simply out of the kindness of her heart. She was also a Science Olympiad, a member of the school’s orchestra and a member of Student Government. She also took an incredibly strong workload, all while bringing a new tradition to the school and giving back.”
Another senior, Tripoli Mulvihill, organized a rally following the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in South Florida.
“She and the Student Govern-
sity of Florida in the fall.
“Luke Carey was OCPS’s Male Athlete of the Year and Olympia’s Male Athlete of the Year,” Cacciatore said. “He was captain of the water polo team. He was captain of the swim team. He’s just an extraordinary athletic young gentleman, and not only is he athletic, but he’s also intellectually gifted.”
Pagan-Pearl said he feels there is a significant amount of cynicism in modern society, but he believes this year’s class, and the upcoming generation as a whole, promote ideals of tolerance and kindness that give him hope.
Aqueena Fernandez is one such individual.
“I’ve taught her in 10th grade and 12th grade, and I’ve seen her growth from then to now,”
NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
ment Association planned it, and thousands of Olympia students came into the courtyard,” he said.
Michael Pagan-Pearl, Olympia’s language-arts teacher, attested to the brilliance of one senior who shined academically and athletically: Pierre Lesperance. A soccer and lacrosse player, Lesperance, was admitted to Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
“Pierre Lesperance is going to Harvard, which in itself is impressive, but he’s definitely one of the smartest in this class,” Pagan-Pearl said. “He’s got this quiet confidence. He doesn’t draw attention to himself and just goes under the radar for a lot of people, but he’s well-respected by his peers. He’s incredibly brilliant, and he just adds another level of diversity and
excellence to our campus.”
Senior Sara Komatsu, named an OCPS 2019 Super Scholar along with Lesperance, also was accepted into Harvard.
Another student who excelled both academically and athletically is Luke Carey, who took on a heavy course load and still managed to lead the school’s water polo and swim team as captain. He will be attending the Univer-
Pagan-Pearl said. “In 10th grade, she was this very smart but quiet girl, and now she’s this amazing, confident young woman who has such idealism about the world. She’s incredibly well-spoken and incredibly kind and helpful to everyone. All of them really have this hopefulness for the future, despite things being so awful right now in so many ways, but this generation has idealism. They think you should be kind to each other and embrace diversity, and Aqueena really represents that idea of embracing people for who they are and being kind to each other. She gives me hope for the future. They all do.”
This is my favorite time of year as we celebrate our graduating seniors, the Class of 2019. One of the more emotional events takes place on Monday, May 20, with the senior walkout. It is Olympia’s informal goodbye and send-off to the Class of 2019. It will be my honor and privilege to oversee our graduation ceremony on Friday, May 24, at 8 p.m. at the Addition Financial Arena at UCF. I look forward to seeing the joy and jubilation of the students and their families as together we commemorate the successful end of their high school life. I extend my sincere hope for continued successes in the future to each and every graduate.
Guy Swenson
Courtesy photo
Olympia High School’s Class of 2019 will be remembered for its philanthropic efforts and willingness to contribute in positive ways to the community.
West Orange High School
George “Braxton” Tomecek
SALUTATORIAN Jared Myton
President: Brianne Butler
Vice president: Hanna VanderLey
Secretary: Sarah Pogany
Treasurer: Amelia Conenna
Historian: Courtney McHale
Publicity chair: William Vigeant
STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
President: Zachary Stewart
VP of Campus Involvement: Amanda
Denis
VP of Community Involvement: Sally Golden
VP of Public Relations: Madison Wright
Treasurer: Lauren Andre
Secretary: Dylan Setaram HOMECOMING
AND QUEEN Zachary Stewart and Sally Golden
AND QUEEN
Smith and Mekelya Griffin
9
May
Marvin Hans Jack Butler
Carmen Byrd
Cardenas Maria E Cardoso
Evan Robert Carney Julian Angelo Carpio
Caroline Carr Yurit Carrasco Emily Alexa Carrasquillo
Carter
Cayo
Chilton Shian-An Chiou Samuel Ayeyi Christson-Davids
Julian Ciccarone
Cineus
Gregory Cioci
Faith Cochrane
Andrew Coello
Brenna Grace Coheley
Sean Coleman
Princejudah Collins
Ashton Elizabeth Conan Amelia Michelle Conenna Joshua Enrique Conn
Alexandria Grace Cooney
Emily Marian Cordova
Adrianna Lynne Cordoves
Jacqueline Corona
Louis Bosc
Connor Edward Bouchie
Tyler Mark Boudreau
Anthony William Bower
Zoe Marie Boykin
Cecelia Bracero
Noah J. Brady Halle Nicole Brasse
Kyle Allan Brower Jr. Catherine Callaway Brown Nigel Brown
Caroline Eman Budron
Gabriela Cristina Burgos
Janexsy Rhea-Ann Burgos
Blake Alexander Bustamante
Brianne Louise Butler
Adriana Milagros Correa
Olivia Taylor Correa
Elizabeth Cottle Kyle Coulson
Tyler Cowles
Kaeli Bryan Crews
Megan Ashley Crouse
Ravyn Alexis Cumbie
Eleanor Hannah Curran
Roman D Argenio
Abigail D’Souza
Caleb Danner
Kristal Denea Danvers
Rickey Denzil Davis
Claire Elizabeth De Beer
Raian De la Rosa Polanco
Dina Basim Deeb
Anthony Michael Deen
Steele A Deering
Kendall Lianne Defranco
Matthew Tyler Delano
Billy Delva
Kayla Marie Faith DeMarco
Terryana Leenae Demps
Amanda Marie Denis
Grace Caroline Desmond
Angelina Di Fiore
Natalie Anne Diaz
Nataly Marie Diaz D’Acosta
Julia Marie Dimant
Maria Devya Diyaljee
Flora Thi Do
Victoria Dominato
Dayne John Donnelly
Jacob Mitchell Doren
Jenna Lynn Douglas
Patrick Anthony DuChene
Matthew R. Duguay
Sean Van Duong
Kianna Nicola Dwyer
Austin T. Edwards
Nihat Akin Ercan
Courtney Jarai Erskine
Isabella Allee Escandon
Bryan Eggert Escobar
Phoebe Espinel
Felix Aidem Espinoza
Logan Philip Estrada
Sebastian Andres Estrada
Eumica Julie Eugene
Lauren Coe Mcleod Evans
Joshua Mangundayao Fabic
Layla Fadloullah
Robert Cameron Fernandez
Natasha Moreira Ferreira
Brandon Figueroa
Jaelin Nicole Figueroa
Jennifer Finch
Ethan Christopher Fisher
Cameron C Fleming
Nathon John Fleming
Rakeem Craig Francis
Shalayah Francis
Adam Elijah Gal
Christine Nicole Galiano
Zachary Antonio Gallegos
Christian Corey Galloway
Susan Soria Galvarro
Eduardo Garcia
Naythan Garcia
Trevor A Gardner
Tyriek Nazaim Gelin
Nicholas Arden Giammarino
Henry James Gillis
Keyshawn Latrell Goins
Sally Anne Golden
Jeremy Gomez
Edgar Gonzalez
Elias Gonzalez
Daniel Isaac Gordon
Dylan Gordon
Caroline Whitney Grant
Jordan Fracis Green
Susan Elizabeth Grey
Mekelya Mohnae Griffin
Tamia Ambriyuna Griffin
Kyra Griffith
Christopher Robert Grzeszczak
Michael Gusewelle
Trevor Dean Hackbardt
Journah Lynae Hall
Keymiya Deshay Hall
Ryan
Emily Ann King
Kayley Elise King
Hannah Elisabeth Kleiman
Christina Kline
Blake Thomas Kolczynski
Maximillian Alexander Konters
Dylan Leslie Kopasz
Anna Korotetskiy
Sydney Jane Koster
Fei Kou
Kiyanna Harp
Shane Yodhra Krishna
Nicholas W. Kuhn
Sabrina Lammoglia
Lauren Elizabeth Mccarthy
Brennan Lockhart McDonald
Courtney Jean McHale
Avery Scott McIntyre
Kiera McKeever
Andrew Boyd Mckelvain
Angela Madeline McKeown
Tiffany Hope McVicker
Chankrisna R. Meas
Orlando Rocco Medina
Lexington Anne Meehan
Michael Mejia
Devin Mendieta
Zachary Menendez
Emily Grace Micallef
Cameron Jordan Miller
Nicholas Ian Miller
Spenser R Millsaps
Joshua Mixon
Mackenzie Alyce Mize
Rece Mock
Alexander Joseph Mohr
Francesca Molfino
Killian Anthony Mollica Cowan
Alissa Kaitlin Monday
Giselle Montalvan
Daisy Montenegro
Jeimy Morales
Liza M. Morales
Madeline Moreland Nicholas James Moreo Matthew Sayle Morgan-Ring
Michael R. Morrissey
Yatzari Ibarra
Damien Jay Mosby Ashley Moses Vanessa Kaitlyn Mroczka Kenrick Morgan Mudalier
Mulai Lora Michelle Mullens Sasha P Mullings
Myrtil
Nadeau
Nagele
Nastasi
Drew Noegel
Kathryn Martin
Isabella Victoria Martinez
Nathalie Victoria Martinez
Paola Martinez
Sebastian M. Martinez
Priscila Lorena Maseda-Tamara
Maximilian Mathers
Hunter Mathews
Isabella Marie Matos
Nicholas Matthew
Tyler Jacob May
Kim
Olivia Nari Kim
Nathaniel Mayes
Shyanne Lola Mayes
Nunez
Nourse
Kathleen Ostrander
Natalia Ovalle
Mehmet Jonathan Ozdemir
Adriana Marie Padro
Christian Edgardo Pagan Alicea
Alex Michael Page
Megan Marie Pagliuca
Sarai Niccole Panet
Rachel Panke
Christopher J. Pariseau
Andrew James Parker
Miyetta Parker-Evans
Jacob Christian Patterson
Tyler Jason Patterson
Ian Everette Payne
Sarah Pearaylall
Lydia Rose Pedersen
Melissa Andrea Pereyra
Armand Demarco Perez
Edward Perez
Kiara Isbel Perez
Marisela Perez
Pedro Jose Perez
Jeffry Alejandro Perez Vecchione
Cassandra Perrin
Joshua Allen Persad
Allison Ruth Persaud
Chris Persaud Jake
Phanouvong
Pierre Paul
Pineda Paskalia Evans Carolina Pio
Sabrina Marie Placide
Plaza-Caprio Sarah G. Pogany
Pollpeter Jordan Elizabeth
Haley Simonne Hadley
GEORGE “BRAXTON”
TOMECEK
Tomecek is this year’s valedictorian. He was this year’s president of West Orange’s National Honor Society, an AP Scholar and member of the Cornell Club. He will attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, and major in chemical and biomolecular engineering.
ZACHARY STEWART
Stewart was the Student Government president at West Orange. He played varsity soccer since his freshman year and was crowned Homecoming king this year. He will attend Florida State University to study pre-med to become a dermatologist.
TYWON LITTLE
Little will be attending Charleston Southern University on a football scholarship and plans to major in sports medicine. This year, he was named Defensive MVP and Athlete of the Year, and was selected to play on Orange County All-Star football team.
Class size amended
ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER
When members of West Orange High’s Class of 2019 began their high-school careers as freshman, the class was about twice the size it will be on graduation day.
After Windermere High opened in August 2017, many of its students came from West Orange. After the school was split, West Orange High’s Class of 2019 became, in a way, a class divided. And although there are benefits to having smaller class sizes, many seniors had to get used to not seeing some of their friends around school every day after the split.
George Braxton Tomecek, 18, is the valedictorian for West Orange’s Class of 2019. He will be going to the Georgia Institute of Technology to major in chemical and biomolecular engineering. He said the split took some getting used to because many of his friends ended up transferring to Windermere.
“Windermere and West Orange — up until two years ago — were one school,” Tomecek said. “All the kids (who) went to Windermere all were in our same class, and at the start of (our) junior year, we lost, basi-
there’s upwards of 1,100 kids in your grade, you can’t run for as many leadership positions (and) you can’t get involved in as many things because there’s not enough spots for everybody.”
Nadia Morel, a guidance counselor and co-senior adviser at West Orange, said the size of the Class of 2019 makes it stand out from previous classes.
“The biggest thing that makes them unique is their size,” Morel said. “We haven’t had this small of a class in — I don’t even remember. Because of that, more of the kids know each other, whereas before, it was hard to know everybody in the class because there were 1,000 seniors. I think they’re more connected in that way.”
Morel estimated this year’s senior class size to be a little more than 550.
everyone (else) in the class.”
Zachary Stewart, 18, will be studying pre-med at Florida State University and plans to become a dermatologist. He played on the varsity soccer team throughout his time at West Orange and even on the Orange County All-Star soccer team. He said after Windermere High opened, the soccer team lost many quality players.
“It affected a lot of the sports teams — losing quality athletes to Windermere,” Stewart said.
“I lost a lot of friends that I met freshman year that I became close to. … It was a huge challenge. Losing a lot of athletes (made it) hard for sports to really dominate.”
Tomecek also said the change was for the best, because it afforded more opportunities to the students who stayed at West Orange.
cally, half of our friends. Some of us lost upwards of 70 to 80% of our friends. I’d say that was probably the biggest challenge for everybody as a whole, because you had to make new friends. Obviously, you still had friends there, but it was a complete change.”
“With a smaller class … there’s a lot more opportunities,” Tomecek said. “A lot of the opportunities I had to get involved with things wouldn’t have been there if we had stayed as one school, because when
Tywon Little has received a football scholarship to attend Charleston Southern University, where he will major in sports medicine. He also played on the track, wrestling and weightlifting teams at West Orange. He said another unique aspect of the class is how well everyone got along.
“Some seniors from previous classes didn’t (interact) with their (fellow) seniors,” Little said. “I think we (interacted) with everybody. Everybody has, generally, a good chemistry with
Rima Rabieh also is guidance counselor and co-senior advisor at West Orange. She said despite the loss of athletes, the school still did well this year in sports.
“It was harder on the (athletic) teams this year because they lost a lot of kids that they had played with — they lost them the year before, but it was still kind of a transition,” Rabieh said.
“Despite that though, a lot of them still went to districts and regionals, and still were amazing. They still did really well. … Despite all the kids we lost, we still have such amazing programs and such amazing kids.”
Dear West Orange Graduates, It is with great pride that I congratulate you on your achievement. Despite all the distractions you face in our over-stimulated society, you made it. You persevered and will soon be alumni. Note that this graduation should only be the first of many — whether it be college, the military, tech school or something other. It is a reality that your generation needs more than the standard high-school education. I, therefore, challenge you to go forth into the world and strive for even greater success. You all have greatness within you; this is your time to shine.
Sincerely, William J. Floyd
File photo
West Orange students still had plenty of school spirit after Windermere High opened.
Windermere
High School
VALEDICTORIAN
SALUTATORIAN Mackenzie Peck
STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
President: Carter Zavada
12th-grade class ambassador: Mckenna Griffitts
Treasurer: Breanne Hartman
Parliamentarian: Emileigh Schwaeble
HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN
Samuel Dupre and Mckenna Griffitts
PROM KING AND QUEEN
Judah Martin and Emileigh Schwaeble
GRADUATION
7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., Orlando
Alyssa Marie Betzner
Biernat
Broyles
Brozovich
Brueggeman Isabella Kieulan Bui
Grace Michelle Arroyo
Grace Elizabeth Austin Joseph Rafael Aviles Diaz
Kristen Azevedo Jorge Elias Aziz Campos Oriana Del Valle Aziz Campos
Buitrago Zachary Keaton Bunch
Pedro Rafael Cora-Mena
Joshua Robert Corjay
Yan Luis Correa Fernandez
Brenda Correa Mendes
Emanuelle Costa Bianca Santos Coutinho
Aubrey Jordan Crain
Jeremiah Anthony Crandon
Kendall Lynn Cress
Rheannon Marie Crisco
Peter Crosby Carson Crossley
Amanda Cruz Lima De Araujo
Makayla Nyssa Cruz-Vazquez
Juan Esteban Cubillos
Ana Carolina Ramos Cunha
Joshua Curry
Sierra Grace Cyprian
Alex Tony Cyr
Ava Rae Czyzewski
Daniela Alejandra Da Silva
Joanna Daley
Kevin Thanh Duy Dao
Victoria Leivas Datcho
Tyler Lapointe Davis
Irelyn Dawson
Derek De Bakker
Alondra Fabiola De La Cruz
Matthew Henry De Varona
Matilda De Zotti
Nicholas Joseph DeCarlo
Renzo Giovanni Decarlo
Leonardo Campagnoli Delgado
Jose Alejandro Delgado Tirado
Quintino Campos
Campos
Esteban Candido
Camila Castellanos
Andres Castellanos
Layth Charani
Diego Andres Chavez
Joshua Miller Chavous
David Y Chehab
Anushka Cheruvattath
Braden Jett Chesbro
Saad Choudhry
Valery Kerven Chrispin
Abraham Cisneros
Taurian Kewaun Clark
Joseph Vincent Cobb
Michael Patrick Coleman
Cristina Isabel Collazo Lopez
Joshua Colon
Steven R. Colon
Andrea Paola Colon Barber
Benny Roberto Colondres
Klaus Alexander Contreras
Roberto Jose DelgadoMendez
Gabriel Donovan Deneen
Terrance Lee Dennis
Sarah Michelle Dewland
Michael A Deyo
Andrea Victoria Di Amario Hernandez Isabella Patricia DiMeo
Ricardo Giovanni Diotaiuti Saturni
Juan Javier Dominguez
Elizabeth Dopico
Hannah Gabrielle Dorado
Briana Angel Dramko
Grant Paul Drogosch
Natalia Elyse Dunbar
Jayden Marquis Duncan-Bell
Andrew James Dunham
Brigid Elizabeth Dunne
Natalia Andreina Echegaray
D Agostino
Houda Eletr
Aya Fatima Elkhatib
Chukwuemeka Amarachi
Emetuche
Lauren Ashley Estevez
Axel Andres Estrada Soler
Julianna Estrella de Araujo
Costa Caden Tanner Ewell
Yhsis Victoria Faggart
Heaven Lee-Montaiza Failey
Chandler Halvorson Farber
Nicole Antunes Faria
Victor Faria
Grant William Farrar
Aali Ahmed Faruqui Helen Feliz
Miguel Angel Fernandez Sebastian Fernandez Giulia Ferraz Venturini
Maria Juliane Ferreira
Gisselle Elizabeth Ferrer
Emely Ferrera
Sophia
Grant Thomas Greca
Rodney Green
Gabriela Emily Grenet
Mckenna Leigh Griffitts
Andreina Guevara
Joao Pedro Guidi
Trent Davis Guillen
Clara Santos Freitas Guimaraes
Jose Guzman Sanchez Emmett Nicholas Haag
Ryan Elliot Haag
Bianca
Magnelli
Vanshika Maitreya
Maui Kai Malone
Mckenna Grace Malquist
Micaela Nicole Manley
Mayra Ramalho Manno
Yiwen Mao
Kelsey Marie Marchese
Dawson Louis Margeson
Madison Rae Margeson
David Markowitz
Andres Eduardo Marquez
Riley Brandon Marschall
Judah Benjamin Martin
Brayden Martinez
Javier Sincere Martinez
Valentina Elena Martinez
Xelayris Martinez Ortiz Stephanie Martins
Samuel Aaron Marzella
Sarah Aiman Marzouk
Christian Scott Masone
Julia Massambani Resende
De Oliveira
Adrian Alejandro Mata Tyler Adem Matik
Gabriela Isaura Matute Gonzalez
Krystal Alyssa McCalla
Carson Everett McCulloch
Joseph Maxon McDonald
Andrea C McGee
Stephanie Rose Mcgee Maximillian Sanford McGouirk
Matthew Thomas McKeon
Ryan Edward McKinney
Gabriela Lucila Medina Lopez
Mary Kathleen Meehan
Jean Carlos Melean Garcia
Marcos Melendez
MACKENZIE PECK
Peck helped put together the school’s National Honor Society and established one of its beneficiary nonprofits as Yellow Brick Road, which raises awareness for congenital heart disease. She has served as historian and vice president of NHS, was a member of the orchestra and is the class salutatorian. Peck will attend the University of Florida’s honors college.
KAVYA SHAH
Shah was instrumental in helping create and lead both the chemistry and neuroscience clubs — the latter of which accomplished a major feat this year in winning the districtwide Brain Bee. Shah will attend Harvard University to study either biology or neuroscience. He hopes to one day become a physician scientist.
First class
DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR
When Windermere High opened its doors in 2017, the buzz and excitement surrounding West Orange’s first new high school in years was the talk of the town.
CARTER ZAVADA
Zavada served as SGA corresponding secretary and president, as well as captain of the varsity basketball team and president and founder of WHS’s chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Zavada signed to play basketball at Pennsylvania’s Gettysburg College.
As there are with many new beginnings, there was also a certain degree of uncertainty. After all, opening a new high school is a large undertaking for all involved — the district, students, parents, staff and the community at large.
Throughout the past two years, it has taken a village to create the Wolverine community. All involved have helped lay the foundation for generations to come and build a repertoire of world-class curricula, programs and extracurriculars.
Many Wolverines are former West Orange Warriors, Olympia Titans or Dr. Phillips Panthers. Some came from out of state and some from private schools. But the common thread that ties them together now is navy blue, silver and lime green. It’s the Wolverine pride they have built and embraced.
“I feel like at first, there was maybe a little resistance, because so many of them did still have ties to their other schools, but it’s really been nice to see them
embrace the Wolverine spirit and help build the traditions,” said WHS senior class and SGA adviser Ashley Hoffman.
Members of the Class of 2019 only have been at WHS for two years, but they will forever hold the title of being the school’s first graduating class — a point of pride for these students who have worked to help create the high-school experience they desired.
“It goes without saying that we’re the first,” said senior Carter Zavada. “A big reason for me coming here was getting to build the foundation of a school. Very few students across America get to experience that for the first time. Being able to build a foundation for a school and being the first seniors to graduate is what really and truly is one of the best things about this class and what makes it special.”
Windermere High has experienced a plethora of firsts in its infancy. This year, it opened its off-campus football stadium, which drew a crowd of thousands to Deputy Scott Pine Community Park for the first home game. It has grown a healthy portfolio of student clubs and extracurriculars, many of which are experiencing firsts of their own. Its dance marathon raised nearly
Windermere High’s off-campus football stadium
football season, allowing for a raucous and spirited first
$88,000 this year for Children’s Miracle Network, the varsity basketball team made its way to the state Final Four, the band shined at multiple competitions, and the drama department already has multiple shows in the books. For the seniors, paving the way
for future Wolverines has been a task to which they have risen. Senior breakfasts, tailgates, icecream socials, prom and both the Senior Sunrise and Senior Sunset are now part of the perks of being a WHS senior.
“There’s just so many awesome things that the seniors were
really able to help shape and leave their mark on,” Hoffman said.
“It’s been really great to see the senior class lay the foundation of excellence and achieving greatness that hopefully the future Wolverines will continue to build upon as they build on the legacy that these seniors have started.”
For Zavada, his hope is to leave a legacy of selfless leadership and service. Having been captain of the varsity basketball team and involved with SGA, he has experienced leadership in both academics and athletics and hopes to pass that down to the underclassmen.
“(I want to leave) a selfless legacy that isn’t focused on ourselves but on how we can do better to impact our community and world,” Zavada said. “That is one that I hope lives on outside of our graduating class. A lot of great memories I’ve been lucky enough to experience have come through my involvement in SGA and basketball.”
Fellow senior Kavya Shah, who helped build the neuroscience and chemistry clubs, noted that coming into the school as juniors enabled his class to shape their unique experience.
“We didn’t have anyone to look up to when we were juniors, so I think that we were able to create our own unique identity,” Shah said.
“I hope they know just what a huge mark that they are making on the school,” Hoffman said. “They might not see it now, but they really are the laying the foundation for years to come. They’ve done a rally great job, we’re proud of them, and we couldn’t have done it without them.”
NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Many thanks to the community, families, Orange County Schools and students who contributed to the building of this beautiful school. Two years ago, I tasked students with making Windermere High School their own, to fill it with their own traditions that others could follow. To be the leaders of a new school, to be the pathfinders of Navy, Lime and Silver. They did not fail in this request; they exceeded my expectations and made me proud. They have blazed a trail that will be followed forever by Wolverines to come. Never forget that before you entered the doors of our school, it was just walls and windows. You pumped life into this school. The school board of Orange County gave us beautiful buildings, but you made it come alive with your pride and your spirit. Congratulations to the first class of WHS, the Class of 2019!
Douglas Guthrie
File photo
at Deputy Scott Pine Community Park opened in time for
home game against rival West Orange High.
7
DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR
There’s a saying that goes, “It’s not about the size of the dog in the fight; it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”
And so it is for Central Florida Christian Academy’s small but mighty Class of 2019.
Although this year’s graduating class comprises just 16 seniors, they were 16 strong — so tight knit, in fact, that they called themselves family.
“What makes my class unique, I would say, is we could bicker and fight, but at the end of the day, we’d always come together and be there for one another,” said new CFCA graduate Raenika Maxime.
“It’s like we became a family. We’re always there to support each other, cheer them on and be there when they’re down.”
Upper School Coordinator Kristi Laviolette marveled at the fact that although this senior class was smaller than in previous years, each member of it was involved to some degree in the arts, athletics and academics. Each left his or her own mark on the school — and some big shoes to fill.
“When they’re gone, it’s
going to be a big hole that needs to be filled by other students coming up, because they were involved in so many different parts of our student body,” Laviolette said.
And although there are just 11 boys and five girls in the class, the diversity is something that has set them apart from others.
“They, as a whole, are a class I would use two words to describe,” Laviolette said.
“One is diverse. They come from diverse backgrounds and diverse ethnicities. One of them is from a different country, and about half of the class has come here in the last two years, so they’re very new.
Central Florida Christian Academy Diverse and driven
“The other word I’d use to describe them is driven,” she said. “They all have pretty specific goals in mind. Five are signed to play athletics at the college level next year. They’re driven, not just in sports, but (also) in their extracurriculars.
…They were ready to move on to the next stage of their life and to do it passionately and purposefully.”
Perhaps one of the biggest highlights of the year was the varsity basketball team taking home the team’s first state
championship. The accomplishment will forever be cherished by new graduate Jordan Preaster, who was a member of the senior-heavy team.
“The highlight of my year was of course winning states,” Preaster said. “What makes our class unique is that we had six seniors on the team, so the Class of 2019 basically led the group to win at states.”
And the lessons that they learned at CFCA — such as being persistent, taking leadership in stride and putting your heart into everything you do — will stick with them as they go their separate ways.
“It was lessons through leading, as in always trying to do the right thing and stuff like that,” Preaster said. “I had the Lower School looking up to me, I’ve got little brothers that look up to me, and I’ve got my community looking up to me … It’s always trying my best to do right and do things in God’s way.”
As the Class of 2019 goes its separate ways, Laviolette wants its members to know the impact they left on their alma mater won’t go unnoticed.
“We will miss them a lot,” she said. “They were able to help and support each other — and the student body and staff. … They cared about each other, they were bonded. It was kind of like a big family.”
STANDOUT SENIORS
RAENIKA MAXIME
Maxime was a member of the Praise Team. She also has served in the following roles: SGA class vice president, SGA public-relations coordinator, National Junior Honor Society, Beta Club, GLOW Discipleship, cheerleading, JV volleyball, varsity volleyball, varsity softball, yearbook copy editor and Homecoming representative.
JORDAN PREASTER
Preaster helped lead the varsity basketball team to its first state championship. Preaster will be attending Bethune-Cookman University on a basketball scholarship and plans to study computer information systems.
TAN VO
Vo is the only international student in the class; he moved from Vietnam toward the end of 2015. The class valedictorian was a member of Beta Club, National Honor Society, chess club, JV basketball, varsity track and varsity baseball. He also served as both the SGA class president and yearbook design/ photo editor.
Central Florida Preparatory School
Gotha, Florida 34734 GRADUATION
5:30 p.m. Friday, May 17, 2019, at Church of the Messiah, Winter Garden
“You’re
ISABELLA OUTAR DR. PHILIIPS HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2019
off to great places! Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!” -Dr. Seuss.
Roland & Carmen Outar are delighted to send Bella out into the world for her next great adventure. Congratulations, Isabella, on your graduation from Dr. Phillips High School. We are so proud of you, and the beautiful young lady you have become.
Qualified quartet
GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR
Central Florida Preparatory School’s Class of 2019 may have only had four seniors, but each one brought a lot to the table.
According to the school’s executive director, Chris Wester, and school’s principal, Sandy Gomez, the school’s four graduating seniors — Arianna Fusco, Jackson Gooden, Samantha Marrero and Nour Al-Mehani — are all wellaccomplished individuals with big aspirations and the determination to serve their communities.
“They’ve proven themselves to be a very community-minded group,” Sandy Gomez said. “They have done a lot of work with the National Honor Society to give back to the community in a variety of different ways and to give back to the school. They worked to raise money for (the) Wounded Warrior (Project); they worked to raise money for the ASPCA (and) the American Heart Association. They’ve done two drives for various food pantries. They’re definitely
We Love You Always, Dad, Mom & Emma
very community-minded young people.”
The senior quartet were also big academic achievers who pushed themselves to complete AP courses and earn college credit, such as Arianna Fusco, who graduated a year early thanks to her hard work and earned an industry certification as a biomedical technician.
“Arianna started with us in her kindergarten year, so she was able to participate in our biomedical science program and, last year, when she was in 10th grade, she completed the four-year program,” Gomez said. “And she passed the exam through the University of Florida, so as a sophomore, she earned an industry certification as a biomedical technician. It’s very impressive.”
Jackson Gooden, the only boy in this year’s senior class, hopes to serve his country in the U.S. Army after graduation.
“Jake is a little more on the quiet side, but he’s a very kind young man with a good sense of humor,” Wester said. “He wants to pursue a career in the military and would ultimately
like to become a pilot at some point to fly fighter jets or cargo planes. He just wants to serve his country.”
Another senior, Samantha Marrero, served as an excellent role model to the school’s younger students during her time at CFP, Wester added. Marrero hopes to become a nurse or veterinarian.
“Samantha came to us as a third-grader,” Wester said. “She was a member of the National Honor Society. And she’s been a leader in just about every way on campus. And she’s just a very sweet, kind and compassionate person that really likes to give back to others.”
And Al-Mehani, who came from Kuwait before joining the school in 11th grade, plans to study environmental engineering at Loyola Marymount University in California.
“Nour has only been in the United States for two years,” Wester said. “She came to us from Kuwait and says she has absolutely enjoyed her American experience. She’s a member of the National Honor Society, and she’ll be attending a very good college in Cal-
ifornia. She’ll be majoring in environmental engineering.”
Gomez and Wester both considered this year’s class unique because of their ability to push through personal adversities and still remain positive and academically focused.
“For the most part, they’re very academically driven,” Gomez said. “They have all worked really hard. All four of them, in some way, experienced some type of personal hardship that they overcame to be successful. And despite their hardships, they continue to focus on the community and giving back. I think that really speaks to the ethos of that class.”
Wester chimed in as well, adding he believes that all four seniors will go on to have a positive impact on their community.
“They’re great kids — they really are,” he said. “And we’re incredibly proud of them. We’ll certainly be following their progress in the future, and I know they’re going to make a great impact wherever they end up landing. I’m sure they’ll have an impact on the community around them because they’re certainly 21stcentury leaders.”
STANDOUT SENIORS
or
JACKSON GOODEN Gooden, who goes by Jake, started at CFP as a ninth-grader. After graduating, he aims to build a career in the military and become a pilot.
to study environmental engineering.
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ARIANNA FUSCO Fusco attended CFP since kindergarten. She will be attending Valencia College to pursue a degree in nursing.
From left: Arianna Singleton Fusco (High Honors), Nour Al-Mehaini (Student Council and Highest Honors), Samantha Marrero (Student Council and High Honors) and Jackson Gooden.
SAMANTHA MARRERO Marrero attended CFP since third grade and aims to pursue a degree in either nursing
veterinary medicine at Valencia College.
NOUR AL-MEHANI Al-Mehani joined CFP from Kuwait in her junior year and plans to attend Loyola Marymount University in California
Montverde Academy
Varina
AND QUEEN Camilo Moreno Vasquez and Samantha Pacheco
1
May 25, 2019, at Montverde Academy’s Center for Sportsmanship & Wellness, 17235 Seventh St., Montverde
The First Academy
SALUTATORIAN
CLASS
Dakota Sirois, Bryson Boast, Victoria Del Campo, Susannah Cogburn, Felipe Ferraz
STUDENT COUNCIL
President: Erin Hassell
Treasurer: Ben Smith
Parliamentarian: Anna Grace Williams HOMECOMING
Foundation Academy
With distinction
AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
The drive of the students in the Class of 2019 is unparalleled, said Foundation Academy guidance counselor Tim Covey and Athletic Director Lisa Eaves.
Members of this class have reached high achievements academically “and strive to do the best they can in all areas,” they said. “Furthermore, what truly makes them unique is the fact that they push each other to do better. They celebrate one another’s achievements. There is no sense of jealousy among the class, and they are
“
truly happy for each other.”
The Class of 2019 has a long list of distinguished students in various capacities — from sports to academics to the arts — including these five notables.
Victoria Del Campo is an international student from Brazil. She is an AP Scholar with Distinction and an SBACS Scholar finalist and will attend the University of Toronto.
Madison Fernandes has been the lead in three Foundation Academy musicals and has Superior rankings at district and state levels for thespian and choir competitions. She is an AP Scholar
with Honors and plans to study performing arts at the University of Central Florida.
Samantha Jenkins is firstchair flute in the Foundation band and received the John Philip Sousa Award. She is an AP Scholar and has received a full ride to Stetson University.
Andrew Johns has played varsity football and has received state and national recognition among high school football. He has signed to play with Liberty University.
Ben Smith is an AP Scholar and will attend the University of Florida. He has been offered several academic scholarships. He is a Legacy Lion, having spent 13 years at Foundation Academy, and he is an Eagle Scout.
NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Taylor and Alysse Sutherin
6 p.m. Monday, May 20, at Foundation Academy, 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden
van der Riet
Anna Grace Williams
Karter Wilmot Joey Zagame
Dear Seniors, What a joy it has been to watch you walk through your high school years! You are an outstanding group of students. You are determined, courageous and ready to take on the world. Go make a difference. Be world changers. Stand with those who need a friend and remain committed to truth. Your
STANDOUT SENIORS
FELIPE FERRAZ
Ferraz is the Class of 2019 valedictorian and has received a full ride to Duke University. He also is an AP Scholar and Gates Scholarship recipient.
heavenly Father adores you. Remember that His plans are always best!
Your Foundation Academy family will forever be in your corner, cheering you on. I am here to love and encourage you and I continue to pray God’s richest blessings for each one of you!
Blessings, Lisa Bacon
JONATHAN RICHARDSON Richardson is the salutatorian. He is a National Merit Scholar and earned a full ride to the University of Alabama. He is a Legacy Lion, having attended Foundation Academy since K4. He also is an SBACS Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction.
RILEY DESIN Desin was diagnosed with a rare condition and has been a patient at Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals since he was young. His family has hosted fundraisers for the hospitals. He was named the 2019 Shriner’s Hospitals for Children Patient Ambassador and has traveled the country for the organization.
Legacy High School
Roberta
VALEDICTORIAN
Sarina Khemchandani
SALUTATORIAN
Shanthi Ramakrishna
INTERNATIONAL
LAUREATE SCHOLAR
Yiyue“Jessie”Xu
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
President: Carmela Casaburi
Vice president: Alfred Yoo
Secretary: Becca Sealy
Marketing manager: Lauren Isbel
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
ASSOCIATIONSENIOR CLASS
President: Alex Sleiman
Vice president: McKenzie Fraley
Historian: Isabella Salles de Souza Santos
Representatives: Thomas Anderson, Katelyn Nassar, Ben Farrell, Blake Burlakoff
Boarding representative: Kaisai “Cathy” Chen
HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN
Zehao “Gavin” Dong and Lyndsey Huizenga
PROM KING AND QUEEN
Nanchen “Johnson”Yang and HsiChen “Jully” Liang
GRADUATION
7 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2019, at the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando
Windermere Preparatory School
Dylan Christopher Adams
Adiel Luis Aguiar
Kehinde Ajayi
Taiye Ajayi
Najji Bakari Xavier Allen
Robert Collin Allen
Michael John Ambrozie
Thomas Anderson
Sofia Annese
Daniyal Ansari
Mohammad Masood Anwer
Saaya Arai
Maxim Artamonov
Guilherme dos Reis Oliveira Assunção
Nabiha Tahsin Atiquzzaman
Manahil Awan
Gabrielle Azambuja
Anushka Balouria
Grace Charlotte Bennett
Eric Berggren
Livia Bezerra Costa
Alexander Kent Bishop
Ben Esper Blizard
Jared Blount
Jenna Nicole Boatman
Caitlyn Isabella Brice
Blake Alexis Burlakoff
Victória Krau Cabral
Enrico Affonso Camilli
Kevin Colin Cannon
Carmela Angelique Casaburi
Giulia Castaldelli
Andrew Harrison Caylor
Juan Diego Cepeda Cardona
Jiawei Chen
Kaisai “Cathy” Chen
Rich Chuang
Jamil Chukr Cordeiro de Azevedo
Carrington Christina Chung
Jackson Paul Conley
Madison Ann Conroy
Simon Patrick Cooper
Alexa E. Cortes
Dorthe Sofie Dale
Gabriela Donati Fuertes de Camargo
Davi De Luca Vinocur
Sebastian Deodat
LeAnne Diab
Renato Gabriel Di Lollo Chacon
Alevtyna Dimova
James Dodds
Zehao “Gavin” Dong
Zachary Licong Ebaugh
Elise Catherine Eckhoff
Jacob William Fagan
Luca Leonard Falz
Benjamin David Farrell
Dania Fernandez
McKenzie Capri Fraley
Lucca Francica
Luca Bueno
Maria Fernanda Clini Gavilan
Fatima Gawad
Sarah Maxime Graefe
Kailey E. Grainger
Jackson Newell Grinnell
Giancarlo Diego Guerrero
Yeying Guo
Andrew David Hammer
Griffin Nicholas Hilgenfeldt
Daniel A. Hill
Sarah Kathryn Hudgins
Lyndsey Michelle Huizenga
Sabrina Michelle Humphrey
Andrew Simmons Hunter
Haoxiang “Steven” Huo
Skylar Phillip Marosi
Haaris Masood
Sydney Lee Mays
Devon McCall
Lana McCann
Andrew Walker McLean
Justin Molloy
Arthur Neves Montenegro
Logan Robert Reed Morris
Katelyn Elizabeth Nassar
Matthew Joseph Neary
Dung ”Danny” Nguyen
Kim Nguyen
Chapin Shepard Noel
Joel James Noel
Riley Anne Nowicki
Gerald Cherney Ocasio
Leticia Oiwa
Marieva Palareti Moreira Da Costa
Sylvana Perczek
Mathews Andrade Peres
Linh Thi Ngoc Pham
Laura Philippsen de Campos
Thainá Pilati Russi
Prerna Punjabi
Eden Qian
Shanthi Karuna Ramakrishna
Tabish Riaz
Neilly Ella Ross
Mason Thomas Russell
Mia Russo
Nathaniel Jorge Salzman
Sanidhya Sharma
Kaiwen ”Roderick” Shi
Shannon Marie Simmonds
Alexander Michael Sleiman
Hunter Smallback
Tarleen Kaur Sodhi
Isabella Salles de Souza Santos
Brandon Spangler
Sana Shams Tabrez
Alexander Tarpley
Marya Tawam
Tommie Joy Taylor
Kefei ”Sophia” Tian
Nur Irfan
Lauren Elizabeth Isbel
Khadry Ali Jackson
Zhixing “Ethan” Jiang
Hailey Brooke Jones
Connor Vance Mayland Kameh
Shiv Roy Kaura
Bella Kessler
Mohammad Zuhaib Khan
Sarina Khemchandani
Justin Daniel Kirtland
Tyler Scott Kousaie
Jason Kwatra
Devan Prashanta Laddu
Duy Le
Bailey Anne Leasure
Xiaolan Lei
Dengyin Li
Yulin “Leo“ Li
Hsichen “Jully” Liang
Yiwei Liu
Silvana Lopez Lopez
Anne Rhona Lucas
Nghi Luu Gia
Zongze “Frank“ Lyu
Natasha Marie March
Tran Tri Thien
Pamela Ariana Miguel Vaal Neto
Brinda Vangala
Yasmin Vilela Mota
Eric Yu Yang Wang
Jianfei “Joe“ Wei
Nikolas Tyler Weinstein
Taylor Elyse Wheeler
Emily Chrislyn Work Hongjie ”Leo” Xiao
Yuqing “Charlotte” Xin
Kaiyue Xu
Yiyue Xu
Artemiy Yalovenko
Nanchen “Johnson” Yang
Alfred Yoo
Kuang-chun Yu
Saulo Zaions
James Edward Zakout
Shenyi “Grey” Zhang
Anqi “Angel” Zheng
Evan Zachary Ziolkowski
Egor Zotov
STANDOUT SENIORS
SHANTHI RAMAKRISHNA
After starting her schooling at Windermere Prep in second grade, Shanthi Ramakrishna will be graduating this month as the salutatorian in this year’s class. A passionate pianist and member of the school’s track-and-field team, Ramakrishna will be traveling to Baltimore to attend John Hopkins University in the fall.
Better together
TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR
If you take some time to stroll along the campus of Windermere Prep, you’ll find a family-like atmosphere filled with a diverse group of students and staff.
an important factor in the life of class salutatorian Shanthi Ramakrishna, who has been attending Windermere Prep since the second grade.
MASON RUSSELL
A two-sport standout in football and baseball at Windermere Prep, Mason Russell will be attending Duke University in the fall — where he plans on double-dipping and playing both sports while possibly studying economics in undergrad, before going to graduate school to study business.
RODERICK SHI
Since arriving to Windermere Prep from his home in Shanghai three years ago, Roderick Shi has enjoyed his life as a student at the school. Shi will be continuing his education at the University of California — Irvine for his first year before transferring to Boston University to double major in mechanical engineering and theater.
Most students will tell about the family they have on campus — and how the support has helped them on their journeys through school and life.
They also will tell you how — just as with any family — they find inspiration from one another, which comes in many shapes and forms. One way students have taken care of one another is in the classroom, said Leslie Williams, director of high school at Windermere Prep.
“The care that they have for one another just sets them apart,” Williams said. “In terms of intellectual competitiveness, we have students who are really pushing each other. … So we have students who really push each other, but at the same time they really care about each other. They know that it’s not just them looking out for themselves — they want to make sure that everyone is rising together.”
That sense of family has been
Since those early days in kindergarten, Ramakrishna has felt like there was something special about the people at her school, and it’s those aspects of family and diversity that really stand out when she reflects on her fellow seniors in this year’s class.
“Windermere Prep is like my second home — not only because I’ve been here for so long, and I think it’s just because of the environment that has been kind of cultivated from the mentality and attitude of all the teachers and faculty,” said Ramakrishna, who will be attending John Hopkins University in the fall. “It’s a very nurturing environment. I think the class of 2019 is just like a family — we’re all super close to one another.”
By pushing each other to achieve greater success, there comes new milestone moments that have made this 2019 class stand out.
The most notable of which came when senior Grace Bennett became the first Windermere Prep student in school history to be appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
have excelled in just their senior year here.”
Excelling in anything — whether that be academics, athletics or the arts — requires a lot of motivation, which Williams said is something that this year’s class specializes in and it defines the story of senior Roderick Shi. Shi arrived to Windermere Prep three years ago — from his native home of Shanghai — speaking very little English and not knowing anyone.
But over the span of the last few years, Shi has grasped the language and has established himself as a familiar face around the Windermere Prep community. He’s also become quite the thespian and has found a passion for the performing arts, and it’s all thanks to one specific teacher he met at the school.
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NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Class of 2019 Lakers,
Although she had been looking at military careers, it wasn’t until J.D. Wood — her softball coach at Windermere Prep and Army veteran — took time to help her train and prepare for what tests were to come.
“I joke about this, but it’s true: I saw him more than either of my parents last year, because I saw him to work out every morning and after school for softball,” Bennett told the Observer in February. “He’s a very strong motivator, and he’s also big on
the whole thing where if you work for something it’ll happen. It was encouraging to have someone get that excited and give me sort of an inside look at the world of what I’m entering.”
Along with Bennett’s appointment to West Point, fellow senior Andrew McLean will also be heading to New York to become a cadet.
Unlike Bennett, who has been at Windermere Prep for a while, McLean came to the school this past school year as a senior. His
success in his lone year as a Laker shows that anyone has the ability to truly excel to the next level at the school, Williams said.
“Also something that is nice about our school is even in your senior year, if you are brand new, you’ll find a way to fit in, because our kids are so inclusive with what they do,” Williams said.
“Whether they now have football scholarships and they’re going to go play in college, or they’re going to West Point. … We have a lot of different students who
“Since I came here, I met a very important teacher — Mary Walden — and she basically raised me up,” Shi said. “She believed in me, and she saw the potential in me. I really love the stage and every time I go on stage I’m never shy or nervous.”
And just as Williams pointed out that students helping students is a big part of this year’s seniors, Shi also believes it is this aspect of the 2019 class that truly stands out.
“I feel like our class — the students — really supports each other and raise each other up, and I think that is really important,” Shi said.
What an amazing group of seniors you have been! Your senior class ranges from students from countries around the world to students who have grown up in Central Florida. You have connected to one another throughout your time here, showing that love and respect is a universal language. From the laughter, the singing, the witty banter and philosophical debates, you have graced the Windermere Prep community with everything we educators could have desired. May your next chapters in life be full of the same joy you have shared with us these past years. The hallways will not be the same without you!
With love,
Dr. Leslie Williams
File photo
Grace Bennett became the first Windermere Prep student to be appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Valedictorian ELIZABETH BUZBEE
Salutatorian YUXUAN SONG