I am incredibly proud of the meaningful connections our students built during our third Connectivity Day. It was inspiring to see students engaging with one another through the wide variety of activities our teachers thoughtfully prepared. Whether collaborating in classrooms or participating in outdoor events, our students demonstrated the spirit of community that makes Freedom High School such a special place.
We were also thrilled to welcome so many new families and future Patriots to our campus during Taste of Freedom. Their excitement was clear as they explored our programs, met our teachers and students, and experienced the energy of our school firsthand. We look forward to seeing them again soon as they begin their journey with us.
As we continue into this busy season, I want to recognize the outstanding achievements happening across campus—both in athletics and within our career and academy programs. Our students are excelling in competitions, performing at high levels, and representing Freedom with pride. We are equally grateful for the dedication of the teachers and coaches who guide, support, and prepare them for success.
This week, we also pause to honor our Student Services Team during Counselor Week. We are deeply thankful for the compassion, expertise, and advocacy our counselors provide each day as they support students’ academic planning, social‑emotional growth, and postsecondary goals. Their work makes a powerful difference in the lives of our Patriots.
Thank you for being part of our Patriot community. We look forward to even more accomplishments and celebrations in the weeks ahead.
Our AP Seminar students have been deeply engaged in developing their inquiry projects and strengthening their skills as independent researchers. Over the past several weeks, they have been researching their inquiry questions, exploring multiple perspectives, gathering credible evidence, and preparing to present their questions and initial findings to their classmates. As part of this process, students are also practicing how to respond to follow‑up questions and defend their claims—an essential component of the AP Seminar performance tasks.
A major part of their growth this year is thanks to Ms. Hjelm, who has been guiding students toward becoming confident, independent thinkers and researchers. Her support has helped them learn how to evaluate sources, build strong arguments, collaborate effectively, and communicate their ideas clearly through writing and speaking.
AP Seminar’s goals extend beyond the classroom, preparing students to:
Develop research‑based arguments
Analyze and evaluate multiple perspectives
Communicate effectively in presentations and written work
Work collaboratively to solve real‑world problems
Build the foundation for success in AP Research and future college coursework
Freedom FFA Visits the Florida Capitol
Our Freedom FFA Senior Officers recently traveled to Tallahassee to participate in Florida Farm Bureau Day at the Capitol, gaining valuable experiences in agriculture education and leadership.
On Day 1, students toured the FAMU campus, where they met with students from each of the university’s agriculture programs and learned more about college pathways in the field.
On Day 2, they met with local representatives to share highlights of Freedom’s Agriculture Education program. Students expressed their appreciation and shared examples of how support for CTE programs, CAPE appropriations, and FDACS appropriations has strengthened opportunities back home.
During the visit, students met with Representative Harris and Representative Booth, and had the chance to briefly speak with President Smith of the Florida Farm Bureau and Commissioner Simpson, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture.
We are proud of our FFA leaders for representing Freedom High School with professionalism and passion!
AVID College Exploration Day
Our AVID scholars spent an inspiring day exploring college pathways with visits to both UCF and Full Sail University. At UCF, students toured the campus, learned about academic programs, and experienced the vibrant atmosphere of a major research institution. Their visit to Full Sail offered a creative, hands‑on look at industry‑focused programs, giving students a powerful glimpse into diverse career opportunities.
This experience strengthened their college‑going motivation and helped them envision the many postsecondary options ahead.
Celebrating Literacy Week at Freedom High School
Freedom High School enjoyed a fun‑filled Literacy Week, packed with activities that sparked creativity and celebrated a love for reading across campus. Students and teachers participated in themed dress‑up days—showing off their favorite book characters, representing different genres, and even enjoying a cozy day in pajamas.
Each day included opportunities for students to participate in literacy‑themed challenges and enter for a chance to win exciting prizes, adding enthusiasm and friendly competition to the week.
A special thank‑you goes to our amazing Media Specialist, Ms. Schmidt, whose creativity, dedication, and wonderful prizes helped make Literacy Week engaging, memorable, and fun for all. Thank you for continuing to inspire our Patriots to read, imagine, and explore new stories!
Taste of Freedom: A Night of Talent, Community, and Future Patriots
Our annual Taste of Freedom event was a wonderful success! We were thrilled to welcome so many of our future Patriots and their families as they explored the halls of Freedom High School. Guests had the opportunity to visit classrooms, meet teachers, and learn about the incredible programs our students proudly showcased.
The evening began with outstanding performances from our Chorus, Jazz Band, Musical Theater, Guitar, Sea Cadets, and Orchestra. Their talent set the tone for an inspiring night and gave our incoming students a glimpse of the vibrant arts community awaiting them at Freedom.
Throughout the event, future Patriots engaged with current students, asked questions, and discovered exciting pathways as they look forward to starting their high school journey. The excitement and curiosity in the building made it clear that many students are ready and eager for their next chapter.
We are already looking forward to our Extracurricular and Clubs Showcase coming up in April, where students will have another chance to explore the many opportunities available at Freedom High School.
Here’s what you need to know about Xello and your course requests:
You completed Xello training this week. Xello helps you explore careers, colleges, and plan for your future. Click HERE for the presentation
There are some errors in Xello right now, especially in past classes. Don’t stress — Skyward is correct.
You will meet with your counselor individually:
9th grade: through World History.
February 2 - Mr. Jamison
February 3 - Mr. Saragusa and Mr. DurginÂ
February 5 - Mr. Ingram
February 6 - Mr. Kennedy
February 24 - Mr. Gordon and Ms. Ayala
10th & 11th grade: through English
January 27 - Mr. Mendoza
January 29 - Mr. Pennington
January 30 - Ms. Munoz
February 12 - 13 - Ms. Hjelm
February 17 & 19 - Ms. CaminosÂ
February 20 - Mr. Daniels
February 23 & March 9 - Ms. Stitt
February 26 & March 6 - Ms. Jahan
February 27 & March 2 - Mr. Hazel
March 5 - Ms. Christian
No English or World History class? Your counselor will email you.
These meetings are where you’ll fix errors and talk through course requests.
You must fill out your grade‑level Google Form and update it if you change your mind about classes. The Google Form will close on January 26th at noon.
United as Patriots: Celebrating Spirit, Building Connections!
Students and teachers unite weekly for fun activities that build pride and a strong sense of belonging
Connectivity Day #3: A Successful Day of Choice, Engagement & Community
Our third Connectivity Day was a tremendous success! Students enjoyed the opportunity to choose from more than 100 different activities, allowing them to spend the afternoon connecting through shared interests and exploring new hobbies. Whether playing outdoors, joining activities in classrooms, or bonding with peers and teachers over common passions, our Patriots made the most of the day.
Connectivity Days continue to strengthen our school community by giving students voice, choice, and a chance to build relationships beyond the traditional classroom setting.
We are already looking forward to Connectivity Day #4 in March—another chance for our Patriots to learn, connect, and have fun together!
Spotlight on the Arts: Where Patriot Talent Shines
🎶 Interested in Chorus? Now’s the Time to Join!
As you finalize your schedule for the 2026–2027 school year, consider adding a class that builds confidence, creativity, and community—Freedom High School Chorus!
Whether you’re a seasoned singer or someone who has never taken a music class before, Chorus is the perfect place to learn, grow, and express yourself. No experience is required—just a willingness to try something new and be part of an amazing musical team.
Students in Chorus have opportunities to perform, build friendships, strengthen musical skills, and represent Freedom with pride throughout the year. If you’ve ever thought about singing, exploring music, or just joining a supportive and fun class, this is your chance!
All are welcome—come make your schedule sing! 🎤💙
Patriot Athletics Spotlight
Fueling the Fire, Flying the Flag, Competing with Heart!
Freedom Soccer Advances to the State Playoffs!
Congratulations to our incredible Freedom Soccer Team on an outstanding season! Our Patriots have officially advanced to the State Playoffs as the 5th seed in our region, finishing the season with an impressive 11–4–2 record.
The team will compete in the Regional Quarterfinal on Friday, February 6th, at Lake Nona. We are so proud of their hard work, teamwork, and commitment throughout the season.
Let’s rally behind our Patriots as they continue their playoff journey—
Go Freedom! ⚽💙❤️
Girls Weightlifting Shines at Regionals
Congratulations to our outstanding Girls Weightlifting athletes for their exceptional performances at the Regional Championship!
Jumana Sunderlin earned the title of Region 4 Champion in the Olympic event and secured 2nd place in the Traditional event. She will advance to the State Championships on February 12th—an incredible achievement!
Sydney Reynolds also represented Freedom proudly, finishing 4th in her weight class in the Traditional event.
We are extremely proud of these athletes for their hard work, determination, and Patriot pride.
Way to go, Freedom! 💙❤️
Spring Sports Tryouts Are Underway!
Spring Sports season is approaching, and several teams have already begun holding tryouts. If you’re interested in participating, be sure to stay informed by regularly checking ParentSquare/StudentSquare, Canvas, and the Freedom Athletics website using the link provided below.
Important:
All student‑athletes must be fully clearedbefore attending any tryout. Please complete all required forms and approvals ahead of time to ensure you can participate without delay.
Stay connected, stay prepared, and let’s gear up for a great spring season at Freedom High!
In order to tryout the following must be completed
Have a current FHSAA sports physical and ECG on file (ECG only needs to be done one time throughout grades 9-12, upload from previous year if already complete).
Create a profile on Athletic Clearance, and upload all documents and certificates to their profile for verification. https://athleticclearance.fhsaahome.org
ALL THE ABOVE MUST BE UPLOADED INTO YOUR ATHLETIC CLEARANCE PROFILE PRIOR TO TRYOUTS!!!
Tryout Dates
Monday, February 2 in the gym @2:30-5:30
Tuesday, February 3 in the gym @2:30-5:30Â
While attending tryouts, please wear the following colored t-shirt:
Want the latest on Winter Sports rosters, schedules, and upcoming events? Visit the Freedom High School Athletics site for all the details you need to cheer on our Patriots!
Access the site by going to the Freedom High School website, clicking on Athletics, or simply use the link below.
Don’t miss out—stay informed and support our student-athletes this season!
Spotlight on Freedom High School’s Culinary Program
Freedom’s Culinary program continues to shine as one of our most dynamic and career‑ready pathways. Led by our exceptional culinary instructors, Ms. Rose and Mr. Reid, students receive high‑quality, hands‑on training that prepares them for success in the culinary and hospitality fields. Through their expert guidance, students learn essential kitchen techniques, explore recipes, and build the professional skills needed to thrive in real‑world culinary environments.
Each year, our talented students represent Freedom at the Annual OCPS Culinary Competition, where they compete against 23 other high schools in categories such as knife skills, gourmet meal preparation, and more. This experience challenges them to apply their knowledge under pressure while showcasing creativity, teamwork, and precision.
Students in the program are also prepared for valuable industry certifications, including:
Certified Food Protection Manager (ServSafe®)
Certified Food Safety Manager (National Registry of Food Safety Professionals)
These certifications give our students a strong competitive advantage as they enter the workforce. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers such as:
Food Preparation Worker
Combined Food Preparation and Serving Worker
Restaurant Cook
Food Service Manager
Beyond career readiness, students gain lifelong skills—responsibility, time management, attention to detail, and the confidence to create with purpose.
We are incredibly proud of our Culinary Patriots and deeply grateful for the dedication of Ms. Rose and Mr. Reid, whose passion and expertise continue to elevate our program and inspire our students every day.
Business and Entrepreneurship
Spotlight on Freedom High School’s Business & Entrepreneurship Program
Freedom’s Business and Entrepreneurship program equips students with the practical knowledge and real‑world skills needed to thrive in today’s business landscape. Through engaging and hands‑on instruction, students explore the principles of business, entrepreneurship, and business law, gaining a strong foundation for future academic and career pursuits.
Under the leadership of our amazing teachers, Mr. Copeland and Mr. Macon, students not only learn how businesses operate—they learn how to build one. Our instructors empower students to understand their own talents, analyze market needs, develop business ideas, and promote their products or services effectively. Their focus goes far beyond textbooks, giving students the confidence to think creatively, lead, and solve problems.
Students in the program also prepare for the Entrepreneurship & Small Business (ESB) industry certification, giving them a valuable credential that supports college applications, resumes, and future employment opportunities.
This program opens the door to a variety of career paths, including:
General and Operations Manager
Human Resource Manager
Management Analyst
…and equips students with skills that benefit them in every aspect of life.
Freedom’s Business & Entrepreneurship program is also unique in offering students a chance to explore creative and technical skills connected to real‑world business needs—such as photography, sewing, and Microsoft Office tools. These hands‑on experiences help students see how diverse skills can be used to start or enhance a business of their own.
We are incredibly proud of our Business Patriots and grateful to Mr. Copeland and Mr. Macon for inspiring our students to think like innovators and future leaders.
CTE Opportunities for 10th & 11th grade students
Applications for Orange Technical College Dual Enrollment for the 2026–27 school year are coming to a close.
Considering a career in a technical field?Â
Did you know you can start your training DURING HIGH SCHOOL for NO COST!
Orange Technical Dual Enrollment has programs in a wide range of fields including:
For more information, see Ms. Dye in Room 805 or Email at dwana.dye@ocps.net .
Preparing with Patriot Pride: Your Guide to Upcoming Testing
Attention JUNIORS: SAT Day Is Approaching!
All 11th‑grade students will be taking the SAT on Tuesday, March 3rd, and we strongly encourage every Junior to take advantage of this FREE SAT Virtual Bootcamp to prepare.
🎓 Free SAT Bootcamp by Schoolhouse.world
Schoolhouse.world—created by Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy—is a nonprofit offering free peer tutoring over Zoom. Their 4‑week SAT Bootcamp pairs students with a trained peer tutor who has a verified SAT score in the 95th percentile, making it a powerful resource to build skills and confidence before test day.
👉 Juniors can sign up at:schoolhouse.world/sat-bootcamp
We are happy to share that the Reading, Listening, and Writing portions of the WIDA assessment have now been completed.
If you still need to make up any WIDA tests, please monitor your email for a message from Ms. Tarantino with your assigned make‑up date and location.
All students who need to complete the Speaking portion will be notified and should report to Room 427 at their scheduled time.
Thank you for your cooperation and for staying on top of your testing responsibilities!
Semester 2 Calendar Update
As we begin Semester 2, we want to ensure all students and families are well‑prepared for upcoming exams. Please monitor your email regularly for important testing updates from Ms. Tarantino, including specific test dates, times, and testing locations.
To help testing run smoothly, please remember:
Students should use their OCPS device every day.
Daily use ensures the device receives necessary updates and minimizes technical issues on testing days.
Arrive to school and testing locations on time.
Prompt arrival supports a calm, smooth testing environment for all students.
Bring your school ID.
IDs are required for verification and entry into testing rooms.
Thank you for partnering with us to support a successful and well‑organized testing season for all of our Patriots!
đź“… 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!
Mark Your Calendars for AP Testing
AP testing is approaching, and we encourage all students and families to mark their calendars now. It is extremely important that students carefully follow all instructions provided by their AP teachers and regularly check their emails for updates from Ms. Tarantino, who will share important details about test dates, times, and locations.
Staying informed will help ensure a smooth and successful testing experience for everyone.
To help us maintain a safe and secure campus, all students are required to carry their school ID at all times while on campus. IDs are also essential for major testing days, so please make sure you have yours with you every day.
If you do not have your school ID:
Ask your English teacher to receive it.
Or stop by Room 522 during Lunch A or Lunch B (or in the courtyard if we are stationed there).
If you missed picture day, you can stop by the Media Center to pick up your ID.
If you need a replacement ID, it can be issued in the Media Center for $5, payable through SchoolCash by logging into your SchoolCash Online account. https://www.ocps.net/schoolcash
Thank you for helping us keep Freedom High safe, organized, and ready for every learning opportunity!
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!
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!
Step In, Stand Out—Join Us!
Your involvement makes Freedom stronger—be part of the action today!
Patriot Staff Vibes
Celebrating the Heart of Freedom High—Our Amazing Team!
Celebrating Our Student Services Team for Counselor Week
This week, we proudly honor our Freedom High School Student Services Team—a group of dedicated professionals who go above and beyond to support every Patriot. Our counselors work tirelessly to guide students through their postsecondary planning, assist them in building schedules for the upcoming school year, and provide day‑to‑day academic, social, and emotional support. Their commitment ensures that all students feel seen, supported, and prepared for every step of their journey.
Please join us in celebrating our exceptional counselor team: Ms. Pichardo, Mrs. Porter, Mrs. Henderson, Mr. Harkins, Ms. Bulled, and Mr. Johnson, Mrs. Dotson, our College and Career Specialist; and Mrs. Gargano, our Student Services Support.
Thank you for your compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication to the success of every Freedom Patriot. We are grateful for all you do—this week and every week! ❤️💙
Join the OCPS Spirit Run – Let’s Keep Freedom #1!
There’s still time for students, families, and staff to sign up for the upcoming OCPS Spirit Run! Whether you choose to walk it, jog it, or sprint it, you’re guaranteed to have a great time while representing Freedom High School with pride.
Freedom High is currently holding strong as the #1 high school in total registrations, and we want to keep it that way! Your participation helps showcase our incredible school spirit and community support.
And don’t forget—our very own Patrick will be running right alongside Freedom Staff, students, and families the entire way, cheering on students, families, and staff!
Feb 16–27 | Grad Nite Ticket Sales (online only)
       Online ticket sales on SchoolCash for Grad Nite.
       Tickets are $130 each, FHS seniors only, no guests allowed, and must not have any obligations.
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March 2, 4, 6 |Â Grad Nite Ticket Sales (cash sales only)
       Cash ticket sales for Grad Nite. (After school in the media center)
       Tickets are $130 each; FHS seniors only; no guests allowed; and must not have any obligations.
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May 1 |Â Senior Signing Day
       9:00 am in the FHS Performing Arts Center (PAC). Seniors and Parents will be invited to Senior Signing Day only if the Senior completes this form by April 22nd: Link to Senior Signing Day sign-up
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May 1 |Â Grad Nite 2026 @ Busch Gardens, Tampa, FL
        Attendees (FHS seniors only) will meet in the cafeteria at 4:00 pm to board buses (you must ride the bus; no student driving), then return to FHS by 2:30 am. Attendees must ride the bus to and from Busch Gardens. No exceptions.
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May 9 |Â Cap and Gown distribution/pick-up
       9:00 am – 1:00 pm in the FHS Gymnasium.
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May 9 |Â Prom
        Prom questions should be directed to Ms. Flores. Jamie.Schroeder@ocps.net
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May 14 |Â SENIORS' LAST DAY/Senior Walkout
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May 15 |Â Senior Closeout in Media Center
      Device/Textbook return, clear obligations & graduation ticket pick-up (10 tickets).
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May 15 |Â Senior Awards Night
       7:00 pm in the PAC. Seniors receiving recognition will receive an invitation.
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May 29 |Â CLASS OF 2026 COMMENCEMENT
       7:30 pm at Addition Financial (UCF) Arena
Questions Contact our SENIOR Sponsor at Charles.Youtz@ocps.net
Freedom High School warmly invites all School Advisory Council (SAC) members from our feeder schools—Hunters Creek Elementary, Hunters Creek Middle, Waterbridge Elementary, John Young Elementary, Freedom Middle, Westridge Middle, and West Creek Elementary—to join us for our Annual Community SAC Meeting on February 9.
This important gathering brings together SAC teams across our feeder pattern to share updates, strengthen collaboration, and continue building a unified vision for student success.
To help us prepare, please RSVP by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.
We look forward to welcoming you and working together to support our students and community.
Thank you for your continued partnership!
Patriot Connections: Stay in the Know
đź”” 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!
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!
Freedom High School
2500 W Taft Vineland Rd. Orlando, Fl. 32837 (407) 816-5600
