As students continue selecting classes for next year, we are excited to highlight one of our most dynamic and career‑focused pathways—Biomedical Science!

Our Biomedical Science Program offers a rigorous, hands‑on exploration of the medical and research fields. Students progress through engaging courses that build real‑world skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, problem‑solving, and scientific inquiry. Whether students dream of working in a hospital, a crime lab, or a biotechnology research facility, this program opens doors to meaningful, high‑growth careers.

A major feature of the program is the opportunity for students in Biomedical Science Level 3 or Medical Interventions to earn the Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE) certification. This industry‑recognized credential validates students’ laboratory skills and prepares them for competitive roles such as:

Earning the BACE gives students a strong advantage as they pursue college majors in biomedical or health sciences—or even step directly into biotech workforce pathways after graduation.

None of this would be possible without our incredible Biomedical Science team. Ms. Budnik, Ms. Jarmusch, and Ms. DeJesus bring unmatched expertise, passion, and creativity to the classroom. Their commitment to our students ensures a learning environment that is challenging, supportive, and inspiring.

As students begin choosing their classes for next year, we are thrilled to spotlight one of our most forward‑thinking and opportunity‑rich offerings—our Engineering Pathways Program!

This program provides students with a comprehensive, hands‑on introduction to the world of engineering and design. Across three progressive years, students learn to think like engineers—solving real‑world problems, designing professional‑level projects, and applying technical skills used in today’s engineering and manufacturing industries.

A key feature of our Engineering Pathways is the opportunity for students to earn industry-recognized certifications in:

These certifications can be earned across Year 1, Year 2, and Year 3, allowing students to build their credentials over time. Mastery of these tools gives students a competitive edge as they pursue STEM majors or enter skilled‑trade and technical fields.

The Engineering Pathways Program prepares students for a wide variety of exciting and high‑demand careers, including:

Behind the success of this program are our outstanding instructors, Mr. Correa and Mr. Hellmund. Their expertise, creativity, and commitment empower students to excel both in the classroom and in the lab. They bring engineering concepts to life—encouraging innovation, curiosity, and confidence in every student.

Here’s what you need to know about Xello and your course requests:

9th grade: through World History.

Xello is not giving credit for your current classes yet, so don’t submit your Xello course requests until we tell you the issue is fixed.

We’ll send updates as issues are corrected.

The Library Media Center recently partnered with our Early Childhood Development classes as part of the RealCare Baby project. Students brought their RealCare Babies to the Literacy for Littles area, where they read aloud and discussed the importance of early literacy.

💡 Why Early Reading Matters

Research shows that reading to babies:

Our students enjoyed practicing these skills and learning how meaningful early reading can be.

Our most recent Freedom Friday on February 6th was a great success! Students enjoyed an afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and connection as they played a variety of games and spent time building relationships with friends and teachers. The energy across campus was positive and joyful as students took a well‑deserved break to unwind and recharge.

We’re already looking forward to our next Freedom Friday in March—another chance to celebrate community, connection, and student engagement!

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!

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? 

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:

 Check out all the options this year! https://www.ocps.net/dual-enrollment 

 

For more information, see Ms. Dye in Room 805 or Email at dwana.dye@ocps.net .

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.

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

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:

Thank you for partnering with us to support a successful and well‑organized testing season for all of our Patriots!

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!

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:

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!

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!

ThOur students, families, and staff showed incredible school spirit at this year’s OCPS Spirit Run! We are so proud of the amazing turnout and the positive energy our community brought to the event. From volunteers to runners, everyone represented our school with enthusiasm, teamwork, and pride.

A special shout‑out to our mascot Patrick, who brought home his second medal for Best Mascot! His school spirit was unmatched and definitely a crowd favorite.

We also want to celebrate our student runner, Jackson, who placed 5th overall—an impressive achievement in a highly competitive field! And of course, congratulations to all of our runners, who showed determination, sportsmanship, and most importantly… had tons of fun.

Thank you to our incredible student volunteers, parents, students, and staff for making this event such a success. Your support and participation helped make the Spirit Run a memorable celebration of health, community, and school pride.

We’re grateful for this amazing community—thank you for continuing to show what makes our school truly special!

Feb 16–27 | Grad Nite Ticket Sales (online only)

       Tickets are $130 each, FHS seniors only, no guests allowed, and must not have any obligations.

 

March 2, 4, 6 | Grad Nite Ticket Sales (cash sales only)

       Tickets are $130 each; FHS seniors only; no guests allowed; and must not have any obligations.

 

May 1 | 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

 

May 1 | Grad Nite 2026 @ Busch Gardens, Tampa, FL

 

May 9 | Cap and Gown distribution/pick-up

 

May 9 | Prom "Once upon a Time"

 

May 14 | SENIORS' LAST DAY/Senior Walkout

 

May 15 | Senior Closeout in Media Center

 

May 15 | Senior Awards Night

 

May 29 | CLASS OF 2026 COMMENCEMENT

       7:30 pm at Addition Financial (UCF) Arena

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!