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Freedom HS Newsletter 2025 #4

Posted Date: 11/22/25 (10:51 AM)


The Freedom High School logo features a stylized patriot face and school name.

The Patriot Report

Freedom High School Newsletter #4: Thankful for Our Patriot Family

November 22, 2025

From the Desk of Charles France, Principal

Dear Patriot Family,

As we enter this Thanksgiving week, I want to take a moment to express how truly grateful I am for the incredible accomplishments of our Patriots. Through academics, athletics, performing arts, and community connections, you continue to demonstrate what rigor, excellence, and tradition look like in action.
The hard work and dedication of our students and staff remind us every day why we are proud to be an “A” School. From outstanding classroom achievements to championship performances and meaningful service projects, our students and staff embody the spirit of Freedom in everything they do.
As we celebrate this season of gratitude, I wish each of you a joyful and restful Thanksgiving surrounded by family and friends. Thank you for being part of a community that strives for greatness and supports one another every step of the way.
WE ARE FREEDOM!

With Patriot Pride,

Charles M. France
Principal, Freedom High School
A roasted turkey is the centerpiece of a Thanksgiving display.
A banner on a building reads 'Freedom High School' with a large 'A' in the center.

Academic Excellence: Where Patriots Achieve

Virtual Reality Brings Algebra 1 to Life in Ms. Haba’s Class

In Ms. Haba’s Algebra 1 class, students are stepping into immersive virtual worlds where math concepts become tangible and engaging. They’re solving real-world challenges in dynamic environments that make algebra practical and exciting—transforming abstract ideas into hands-on experiences. Teachers can monitor every step in real time through a live dashboard, tracking progress and providing instant feedback. It’s not just learning—it’s an adventure that builds confidence and deep understanding of core Algebra 1 skills!
Students in a classroom use VR headsets and controllers at their desks.
A computer screen displays a program interface with progress indicators and embedded images.
Students in a classroom use VR headsets and controllers for an interactive lesson.
Students in a classroom use VR headsets and controllers at their desks.

AI in Action: Wrapping Up Our First Semester

Students in Ms. Reid’s Artificial Intelligence in the World class are finishing their inaugural semester with creativity and innovation! Throughout the course, they’ve explored how AI shapes everyday life and learned to use cutting-edge tools to design and communicate ideas. As a culminating project, students are creating eye-catching flyers to promote our AI Learning Academy—combining design skills with AI-powered technology. This hands-on experience not only showcases their technical knowledge but also prepares them for real-world applications of artificial intelligence.
Students work on tablets in a classroom, facing a large screen.
A student works on a tablet in a classroom setting.

Physics in Action: The Egg Drop Challenge

All Physics classes joined forces in an exciting collaboration led by Mr. Madhavan and Mr. Correa! Students put their engineering and problem-solving skills to the test by designing a “vehicle” to protect an egg during a drop from varying heights—up to a maximum of two floors. This hands-on project challenged students to apply physics concepts like force, motion, and energy transfer in a real-world scenario. The creativity and teamwork on display were incredible, and the results? Some eggs survived spectacularly!
Students collaborate at desks in a classroom, working on projects and assignments.
Students collaborate in a classroom, examining a paper with instructions.

AP Biology: A Taste of Chemistry and Conversation

In AP Biology, students took science to a whole new level by creating a “chemical apple pie” that tricks our taste receptors! This innovative activity sparked engaging academic conversations about the biology and chemistry behind flavor perception and how our senses interpret taste. Through this hands-on experiment, students explored the intersection of molecular biology and sensory science—making complex concepts both fun and memorable.

FFA Students Shine at Sub-District Contests

We are incredibly proud of our Freedom FFA officers and members who competed in speaking events at the FFA Sub-District Contests on November 20th. Their hard work and preparation truly paid off!
Results:
  • High School Prepared Speaking – 2nd Place: Amelie Rodriguez
  • High School Extemporaneous Speaking – 2nd Place: Emma Freel
  • Creed Speaking – 2nd Place: Thanyasree Ayyanapathy
A huge thank you to our dedicated FFA advisors, Ms. Dodge and Ms. Westgate, for guiding and supporting our students toward success. Congratulations to all participants for representing Freedom with excellence!
Students in blue jackets pose with ribbons, smiling for the camera.

Freedom Friends Preschool: Learning Through Hands-On Experiences

Our Early Childhood Education Level 3 and Level 4 students are making a big impact in the Freedom Friends Preschool! Through hands-on experiences, they are not only supporting our youngest learners but also meeting important course objectives and personal goals.
Under the guidance of Mrs. Longstaff and with the support of our amazing alumni, Ms. Kamyla and Ms. Christina, the Freedom Friends program continues to thrive. These future educators are gaining real-world skills in lesson planning, classroom management, and child development—all while creating a nurturing and engaging environment for preschoolers.
We are proud of their dedication and the collaborative effort that makes this program such a success!
A teacher sits with children on a lily pad-themed rug in a classroom.
Two students hold up 'Wanted' posters with drawings of a turkey disguised as a cupcake.

United as Patriots: Celebrating Spirit, Building Connections!

Students and teachers unite weekly for fun activities that build pride and a strong sense of belonging

Anything But a Backpack Day

Students had a blast showing off their creativity during Anything But a Backpack Day! From laundry baskets to suitcases and even some truly unexpected items, the hallways were filled with laughter and originality. This fun spirit day brought our Freedom High School community together, giving everyone a chance to express themselves and share in the excitement. It’s moments like these that make our campus feel connected and full of energy!
A person stands near a stroller with a laptop inside, outdoors.
A group of students hold up various appliances in a classroom setting.

Building Community Through Student Government Initiatives

Our Student Government continues to bring fun and meaningful engagement to Freedom's campus! This month, they surprised staff with Muffins to Stress, delivering treats as a thoughtful gesture of appreciation. They also organized a creative Thanksgiving activity by collecting staff “thankful thoughts” and turning them into colorful feathers for our gratitude turkey display. Students enjoyed incredible bargains during the thrift sale held at both lunches—an event that promoted sustainability and school spirit—and finalized the week by organizing the Second Annual Blood Drive, continuing their commitment to service and community impact.
Students organize a clothing sale outdoors, with shirts and other items displayed.
A group of students wearing 'Need Help?' shirts stand behind a table of clothes.

Teach IN: Inspiring Our Patriots Through Real-World Experiences

Freedom High School recently welcomed alumni, parents, and community members for our annual Teach IN event—a day dedicated to connecting classrooms with real-world expertise. Guests visited several classes to share their educational journeys and professional experiences, offering valuable advice on achieving dreams, meeting high expectations, and staying passionate about what you do.
We are truly grateful for their time, wisdom, and contributions during their visit. A special thank you to Ms. Rhea Dorris, Ms. Poore, Ms. Zully Escobar, Ms. Rosa Galvez, Ms. Ivana Garcia, Ms. Cristinal Rojas, and Ms. Cinthia Duarte for inspiring our students and reminding them that perseverance and purpose can shape success. Your impact will be remembered!
A collage of images featuring people in educational settings and a logo.

Spotlight on the Arts: Where Patriot Talent Shines

Celebrating Our All-County Band Achievements

Congratulations to all Freedom High School band students who auditioned for the highly competitive OCPS All-County Bands! With over 1,000 students auditioning across the district, we are proud of every Patriot who prepared and completed this challenge.
This year marks a record-breaking achievement for Freedom: 31 students earned spots in the All-County Concert Bands—the most in our school’s history! In addition, 5 students were selected for the All-County Jazz Bands.
A special shout-out to students who placed first chair on their instrument—what an incredible accomplishment!
9–10th Grade Concert Band
Alexander Bachu, Flute/Piccolo*
Gavin Dexter, Tenor Saxophone
Joao Santos, Trumpet
Luan Dos Santos, Trumpet
Elliot Rambis, Trombone
Braeden Monahan, Trombone
Jackson Grassett, Trombone
Myles Kliegl, Euphonium
Caeden Stockdale, Tuba*
Andrew Corzo, Percussion
11–12th Grade Symphonic Band
Courtney Peraza, Flute
Samaiya Pelham, Flute
Nicholas Bonilha, Bassoon
Nicholas Ferreira, Clarinet
Deandre Rivera, Clarinet
Mia Cortes, Bass Clarinet
Isabella Santiago, Bass Clarinet
Landon Grassett, Alto Saxophone
Ayman Douidy, Alto Saxophone
Dillon Rambis, Trumpet
Kenya Arguello Stephenson, Horn
Samuel Turushina, Horn
Conall Edwards, Horn
Carlos Rodriguez Rivera, Horn
Julia Antmann, Trombone*
Isaac Jaramillo, Trombone
Eva Schischa, Trombone
Arafi Kazi, Euphonium*
Nenad Vucetic, Euphonium
Fernando Colon, Euphonium
Elias Broussard, Tuba
Jazz Bands
Landon Grassett, Alto Saxophone*
Ayman Douidy, Tenor Saxophone
Ebergeline Almanor
Julia Antmann, Trombone
Isaac Jaramillo, Trombone
A large group of students in uniform pose in front of a school building.

Pride of the Patriots, Marching Band Annual Holiday Sale

The Pride of the Patriots Marching Band is bringing holiday cheer once again with our annual sale of beautiful holiday trees, vibrant poinsettias, fragrant wreaths, and delicious coffee—just in time for the season of giving!
All items can be viewed and purchased directly through our online store, accessible through this QR code. Pickup details will be shared once items are ready.
Every purchase supports our award-winning band as they prepare for the trip of a lifetime—marching proudly in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City this March!

Patriot Athletics Spotlight

Fueling the Fire, Flying the Flag, Competing with Heart!

A group of young people pose for a photo, each holding a framed certificate.

Celebrating Our Football Team’s Success On and Off the Field

Celebrating Our Football Team’s Success On and Off the Field
At the recent Freedom High School Football Banquet, we proudly recognized 22 football players who maintained a 3.0+ GPA throughout the season—a true testament to their dedication both academically and athletically.
Our Patriots are not only excelling on the field but also making a difference in the community. Upcoming service initiatives include:
  • Volunteering at Harvest Food Bank
  • Helping with Toys for Tots collections
  • Showing appreciation to teachers by delivering food and writing heartfelt letters. Teachers received a letter, a photo, and a team jersey to wear at future games—the start of a tradition that strengthens our school spirit!
Patriots Lead the Way: In the Classroom, On the Field, and In the Community!
Students and teachers pose with Freedom football jerseys, celebrating achievements.

Freedom Varsity Cheerleaders Kick Off Competition Season!

Our Freedom High School cheerleaders are unstoppable! They’ve been excelling in every competition this season, showcasing incredible skill, teamwork, and determination. Their hard work is paying off as they earn their spot to compete at the prestigious Disney Championship.
We are so proud of their dedication and spirit—keep cheering them on as they represent Freedom with pride!
A group of cheerleaders pose in front of a brick wall, smiling at the camera.
The Lake Mary High School cheerleading team poses with their coaches and awards.

Pickleball Courts in Action!

Our brand-new pickleball courts are already a hit at Freedom High School! Students and staff are putting them to great use—whether it’s during physical education classes, after-school activities, or friendly matches that bring our community together. These courts provide an exciting way to stay active, learn new skills, and enjoy a sport that’s growing in popularity nationwide.
We’re thrilled to see so much energy and enthusiasm on the courts and look forward to even more pickleball fun in the months ahead!
People play pickleball on multiple courts under a clear, blue sky.

Patriot Pathways: Building Careers Through CTE

CTE Opportunities for Seniors and Future Patriots

Seniors interested in continuing their education at Orange Technical College after graduation are attending campus visits on the following dates:
  • East Campus: December 1
  • West & South Campuses: December 5
  • Main Campus: December 12
If you missed the trip, don’t worry! Seniors are encouraged to visit Orange Technical College on their own. For more information, see Ms. Dye in Room 805.
Looking Ahead:
Applications for Orange Technical College Dual Enrollment for the 2026–27 school year are now open! Interested students should attend an informational session held every Friday in December in Room 709.
Parents who would like to learn more about dual enrollment opportunities are invited to attend an upcoming parent session—details will be shared soon!
Informational graphic about Valencia College's Career Pathways program.
Orange Technical College dual enrollment information flyer with details on requirements and benefits.

Preparing with Patriot Pride: Your Guide to Upcoming Testing

Upcoming PM2 FAST ELA Testing – December 2

Attention 9th and 10th grade families: On Tuesday, December 2, students will take the Progress Monitoring 2 (PM2) FAST ELA assessment. This important checkpoint helps students and teachers understand learning growth and identify areas where additional support is needed before the final FAST in May.
How parents can help:
  • Encourage students to practice reading and complete tasks provided by their English teachers.
  • Support daily reading and vocabulary practice using Khan Academy to strengthen skills.
Testing locations will be shared via email by your student’s English teacher and Ms. Tarantino. For any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your student’s English teacher directly.
Let’s work together to help our Patriots succeed!
A school schedule for December 2nd, showing class periods and times.
Students in a classroom are taking a PM2 ELA Fast Assessment.

CTE Certifications: Students Continue to Shine

This semester, students enrolled in Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses are continuing their journey toward earning industry-recognized certifications as they complete their first round of testing. These certifications are a powerful asset, opening doors to future careers and post-secondary opportunities.
Congratulations to our achievers! So far, 52 students have successfully passed their assessments—a fantastic accomplishment! Testing will continue throughout the semester, and teachers, along with Ms. Dye, will share specific dates and locations for each program. We encourage all students to prepare and make the most of this valuable opportunity!

A table lists CTE Industry Certification Exam details for Semester 1, 2025-2026.

📅 Mark Your Calendars: AICE Testing Info

All students enrolled in AICE courses will be required to attend Part 1 and Part 2 of their exams to receive a complete AICE score. Families, please mark your calendars and plan accordingly. More details, including specific dates and times, will be shared as we get closer to the testing window. Thank you for supporting your student’s success!
AICE Testing Calendar for 2025-2026, listing exam dates and times.

Patriot Standards: Promoting Respect, Responsibility & Readiness

Be Present, Be Ready, Be a Patriot!

Consistent, on-time attendance is the single most important factor in your student's academic achievement. Every day at school offers crucial learning and social opportunities that cannot be fully replicated, and missing even a few days can significantly impact progress. We ask all families to prioritize regular attendance to ensure your student is present and engaged. Please familiarize yourself with our Attendance Policy for guidelines regarding excused absences and tardiness. Your partnership in making every school day count is key to a successful year!
OCPS Attendance Policy

Patriot Expectations: Stay Focused, Stay Ready!

Patriots, let’s keep our learning environment strong! Please remember:
  • Be inside your classroom by the bell—every minute counts!
  • Follow Freedom High School’s dress code policy to represent our school with pride.
  • No electronic devices during the school day—this includes phones, earbuds, tablets, or personal laptops.
  • Focus on learning and make the most of every opportunity to grow!
Together, we can create a positive and distraction-free environment for success!
A poster titled 'Freedom High School Classroom Basics' lists classroom rules.

Patriot Staff Vibes

Celebrating the Heart of Freedom High—Our Amazing Team!

Faculty Fun: Undercover Spirit Week

Our teachers and staff brought the spirit in a creative twist with Undercover Spirit Week! Each day, they dressed according to a secret theme and challenged students to guess what it was. From color-coordinated outfits by location to all-denim day, Holiday Havoc, Socks, Sandals & Stash, and even Anything But a Cup Day, the week was full of surprises and laughter. This playful tradition not only kept students guessing but also strengthened the sense of community and fun across campus!
A group of people in festive attire pose with fingers to their lips.
A group of people in red shirts pose with fingers to their lips, smiling.
Three women pose with fake mustaches, holding fingers to their lips.
Five people in pajamas hold items and gesture for silence in a classroom.
Four people in festive attire pose with fingers to their lips in a school hallway.
Two women in a hallway pose with fake mustaches, holding fingers to their lips.
Three smiling people pose for a photo outdoors, near a school building.
Four women in denim outfits pose with fingers to their lips, signaling silence.

🏃‍♂️ Join Us for the Patriot Spirit Run!

Freedom High School families—don’t miss out on this exciting event! Lace up your sneakers and be part of the School Spirit Fun Run while supporting a great cause. Take advantage of a special discount:
✅ Visit https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Orlando/SchoolSpiritFunRunKidsRun for race details and FAQs.
✅ Use discount code JOY15 by Monday, Dec. 1 to receive 15% off your registration.
Let’s show our Freedom pride and make this a day to remember!
Promotional poster for the 5th Annual School Spirit Run at SeaWorld Orlando.

Freedom High School SAFE

Spread Holiday Cheer with SAFE!

The Freedom High School SAFE Office is collecting donations to bring extra holiday cheer to our Patriot students in need. Your generosity can help make this season brighter for those who could use a little extra support. Whether it’s gift cards, festive treats, or small items, every contribution makes a difference!
Together, we can ensure every Patriot feels the joy of the season!

Poster for Freedom High SAFE Office donation drive, with hands reaching out.
A holiday wish list graphic with snowflakes and a red and white tree.

Upcoming Events

November 25- December 8, 2025

A school calendar lists events including athletics, testing, and performing arts activities.
Promotional poster for senior portraits, featuring four photo scene examples.
A collage of senior portraits with fall foliage and text encouraging photo bookings.

Patriot Connections: Stay in the Know

🔔 Ways to Stay Updated with Freedom High

Thank you for staying connected with us through our weekly newsletter. At Freedom High School, we are committed to creating a vibrant, supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed—academically, socially, and personally. From classroom achievements to extracurricular milestones, there’s always something exciting happening on campus. We encourage our families and community members to stay engaged, celebrate our students’ growth, and continue partnering with us to ensure every Patriot thrives.
To stay updated with all our events, please connect with us through Skyward, Parent Square, Canvas, and our School Website. These platforms provide timely information and keep you informed about everything happening at Freedom High School. Let’s keep the momentum going!
OCPS Parent Portal login screen with email entry field and 'Next' button.
Image promoting the ParentSquare app, showing a phone with an event notification.
Instructions on how to become a Canvas observer, with steps for students and parents.
School website
Visit Our School Website

Partnering with Patriots

Join SAC & PTSA

Get Involved: Join SAC & PTSA!

At Freedom High School, we believe that strong schools are built through strong partnerships. Parents and families, your voice matters! We invite you to join our School Advisory Council (SAC) and Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) to help shape the future of our school.
These groups play a vital role in supporting academic programs, planning events, and ensuring that student and family perspectives are heard. Whether you’re new to Freedom or a longtime Patriot, your involvement makes a difference.
Come be part of the conversation and the community.
Together, we can make Freedom High School the best it can be for every Patriot!
A poster announces SAC & PTSA meeting dates for Freedom High School.
Freedom High School PTSA recruitment poster with a QR code.
Freedom H.S. Patriots school emblem featuring an eagle and a shield.

Freedom High School

2500 W Taft Vineland Rd. Orlando, Fl. 32837 (407) 816-5600