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Freedom HS Newsletter 2026 #20

Posted Date: 04/12/26 (11:04 AM)


Freedom High School logo with text 'Orange County Public Schools' on a textured background.

The Patriot Report

Freedom High School Newsletter #20

April 11, 2026
Dear Patriot Family,

As we move closer to the end of the school year, I encourage all students to stay focused, engaged, and present each day. The weeks ahead are important, and your commitment to academics, attendance, and personal responsibility will make a meaningful difference as we finish the year strong.
I would also like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to our students who have been recognized for their achievements in academics, athletics, and the performing arts, as well as those who demonstrate outstanding leadership in the classroom every day. Your hard work, dedication, and Patriot pride do not go unnoticed, and we are incredibly proud of you.
Thank you to our families and staff for your continued partnership and support. Together, let’s remain focused, celebrate our successes, and close out the school year with purpose and excellence.

With Patriot Pride,

Charles M. France
Principal, Freedom High School
A modern school building with banners displaying 'HONOR', 'EXCELLENCE', and 'TRADIT' under a bright blue sky.

Academic Excellence at Freedom

Highlighting classroom success and collaboration

Patriot Juniors Reach National Finals in Mission to Mars Competition

Three Patriot juniors—Lucca Schlegel, Sakshi Tripathy, and Gianni Chavannes—have earned national recognition as Top 5 team finalists in the prestigious Lockheed Martin Mission to Mars Competition. Competing under their company name, Ore‑Bit, the team developed an innovative proposal outlining how to successfully and sustainably produce oxygen on Mars. Along the way, they collaborated with mentors from across the country and credit the guidance of their humble teacher for helping them reach this impressive milestone. On April 9, 2026, the team delivered their final presentations, vying for the grand prize, an all‑expenses‑paid trip to Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama. We look forward to hearing the results in two weeks and are incredibly proud of our Patriots! 🚀
Three students sit at a lab table with papers and a laptop, smiling at the camera.

Celebrating Our AP Teachers and Student Preparation

As AP exam season approaches, we want to recognize and celebrate the dedication, commitment, and hard work of our AP teachers who continue to go above and beyond to prepare our students for success. Through after-school review sessions, targeted skill practice, data-driven instruction, and ongoing encouragement, our AP teachers are ensuring students feel confident and well-equipped for exam day.
Several courses, including AP Human Geography, AP Literature, AP Language, and AP Biology, have already completed mock exams, giving students valuable insight into the testing experience and helping them identify areas for growth. These practice opportunities are critical in building stamina, confidence, and exam readiness.
We will continue to encourage our students to stay focused, actively participate in upcoming mock exams, and take advantage of every opportunity to practice and refine their skills. Thank you to our incredible AP teachers for their unwavering support and to our students for their perseverance and hard work. We are proud of everything you are accomplishing!
Students are seated at tables in a school cafeteria, engaged in activities.
Students are seated at tables in a large, brightly lit room, appearing to work on assignments.

STEM Saturday Inspires Future Patriots

Our recent STEM Saturday was a success thanks to an incredible group of Freedom students who stepped up to lead and inspire the next generation of Patriots! These student leaders organized and facilitated a wide range of engaging, hands-on STEM activities for students in grades 5–8, sparking curiosity and excitement across multiple disciplines.
Participants explored topics in engineering, artificial intelligence, science, finance, and mathematics, gaining meaningful exposure to real-world applications of STEM while learning from peers who share their passion. The energy, creativity, and leadership demonstrated by our Freedom students truly embodied collaboration and innovation.
A special shout-out to Mr. Singer for his guidance and support of these students. We are proud of everyone involved for fostering a love of STEM and welcoming our future Patriots with such enthusiasm! 🚀
A collage of images from a high school STEM Day event, featuring students in red shirts, a Spiderman costume, and educational displays.
Two young men proudly display their SkillsUSA medals outdoors.

2026 SkillsUSA Florida State Leadership and Skills Conference: “Rising With The Currents”

The 2026 SkillsUSA Florida State Leadership and Skills Conference, themed “Rising With The Currents,” was held March 30–April 2, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida.
SkillsUSA is the nation’s leading workforce development organization for students, representing more than 444,000 career and technical education students and teachers. Through its chapters, SkillsUSA empowers students to become skilled professionals, career‑ready leaders, and responsible community members.
Several Freedom High School seniors competed at the state level through their Orange Technical College Dual Enrollment Programs:
  • Carla Garici Oropeza and Jariel Martinez, Medical Assisting students, competed in the Promotional Bulletin Board event. They described the experience as exciting, challenging, and inspiring: “It was such a great opportunity to learn, compete, and meet new people.”
  • Mariu Matos competed in the Digital Media/Multimedia Design Promotional Bulletin Board competition and earned first place in her group.
  • Giovanny Gutierrez competed in Digital Cinema Production and won 1st place for the second year in a row, an impressive achievement.

Freedom High School Students Advance in the Mott Million Challenge

We are proud to recognize the innovation and determination of our Freedom High School Patriots from our Business classes who competed in the national Mott Million Challenge, where student teams pitch business ideas to solve real‑world social or business challenges.
This year, three Freedom teams participated, and we are excited to share that two teams advanced to the next round, earning a monetary award:
  • Alladin Mba, Jayden Leon, and Joshua Driskill
  • Xavier Peña, Mohammed Islammahin, and Andrew Ghaly
With over 20,000 high schools submitting pitches nationwide, only 1,710 teams advanced, placing our two teams in the top ~7.8% of submissions across the country. We now look ahead to April 20, when we will learn if our students advance to the second round, where only 60 teams nationwide move on and earn an additional $5,000.
Congratulations to our Patriots for this outstanding achievement, we are cheering you on!
Five young men stand in a line in front of a building with a modern facade.
April is School Library Media Month, with students working at tables in a library.

Creative Writing Students Collaborate to Inspire Young Readers

Our Creative Writing students spent nearly two weeks immersed in a special project where they wrote and designed their very own children’s preschool books. Students brought their ideas to life by crafting engaging stories, creating original illustrations, and designing thoughtful book covers, gaining firsthand experience in the writing and publishing process.
Thanks to an amazing collaboration between Ms. Stitt and Ms. Longstaff, this project came full circle when our Patriot Creative Writing students visited the preschool on Tuesday and Thursday to read their books aloud to the preschoolers. This partnership created a meaningful connection between classrooms and gave students the opportunity to share their creativity with an authentic and enthusiastic audience. It was a joyful, enriching experience for everyone involved and a wonderful celebration of literacy, creativity, and collaboration. 📚✨
A group of children and adults are gathered in a classroom, listening to someone read a book.

April Is Full of Literacy Fun!

All throughout the month of April, exciting reading and literacy activities are continuing across campus! Students are encouraged to keep up the great work by logging their reading minutes in Beanstack for the Reading Challenge, remember, every minute counts and helps us build strong reading habits.
Be sure to stop by the Media Center to take part in even more literacy activities, explore new books, and celebrate a love of reading in fun and engaging ways.
A huge shout-out to our incredible Media Center Specialist for creating a welcoming space and planning meaningful activities that inspire our students to read, learn, and grow. Let’s keep the momentum going and make April a month full of reading success! 📚✨

Freedom Fine Arts Showcase

Honoring the dedication and excellence of our Patriot artists

Celebrating Our Incredible Descendants Production

We are thrilled to celebrate the tremendous success of our recent production of Descendants, made possible by the talent, dedication, and teamwork of our amazing school community. Our student performers shined on stage, delivering four outstanding shows filled with energy, creativity, and heart.
Equally important were the many students who worked behind the scenes, supporting stage setup, lighting, sound, and technical production. Their hard work ensured each performance ran smoothly and looked spectacular, showcasing the true spirit of collaboration and professionalism.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to our dedicated teachers, Mr. Nash Brown, Ms. Probst, and Mr. Desmond, whose countless hours of planning, rehearsing, and guiding brought this production to life. Because of their commitment and our students’ passion, audiences were treated to four truly amazing performances. Bravo to everyone involved! 🎭✨
A large cast of performers in colorful costumes stands on a stage with a castle backdrop, raising their hands.
Poster for Freedom High School Chorus presenting 'The Final Bow: Back to the 80's'.

🎤 THE FINAL BOW: BACK TO THE ‘80s! 🎶

Get Ready to Turn Back Time, Patriots!
Grab your hairspray and your brightest neon because we’re taking a totally rad trip straight to the 1980s! 📼✨ Our amazing students are hitting the stage for The Final Bow: Back to the ‘80s!—a night packed with iconic hits, bold pop‑culture throwbacks, and all the high‑energy fun of the ultimate ‘80s concert experience.
This show is going to be fresh, fierce, and full of electric nostalgia. So pull out your best ‘80s gear (if you’ve got it!), grab your crew, and get ready to rock with us. Be there or be square! 🟧
📍 WHERE
Freedom High School Performing Arts Center (PAC)
🗓️ WHEN
Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
⏰ TIME
7:00 PM
🎟️ TICKETS
Tickets will be selling faster than a New Wave mixtape!
Sales open Thursday, April 9th at 5 PM.
Visit FHSBOXOFFICE.COM or teachtix.com/fhs to snag yours! 🔥
We can’t wait to rock out with you—Patriot style! 🤘🌴🕶️

Support Our Musical Theatre Patriots! 🎭

Freedom High School is proud to have a 13‑student ensemble performing an exciting musical and dance scene titled “A Wild, Wild Party.” Our talented students have worked hard to bring this performance to life, and we invite our community to show their support!
You can vote for Freedom High School in the Fan Favorite & People’s Choice competition—each $1 vote goes directly to the OCPS Foundation, supporting teacher grants, student projects, clinics, and other important programs.
🗳 Voting is open through Saturday, April 25
📱 Text FFSTAGE to 41444
🎶 Entry: 403 – “A Wild, Wild Party” (Freedom HS)
Please help spread the word and encourage friends, family, and social media followers to support our amazing musical theatre students!
Orange County Public Schools Top Talent Live 2026 event poster with contestants and voting information.

Patriot Athletics Spotlight

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

A cheerleading team poses with medals and a banner proclaiming them National Champions.
A group of young football players in uniform stand on a field, with the text 'SPRING FOOTBALL' above them.
Sports Physical Forms LINK
Athletics Highlights/Dates Link

Patriot Pride: Student Connections

Learning, leading, and serving with Patriot pride

Poster announcing 'FREEDOM FRIDAYS' on the 1st Friday of each month, featuring a Club & Organization Showcase during A & B lunches with schoolwide games, music, and activities.

Freedom Fridays Build Patriot Pride and Community

Our monthly Freedom Fridays continue to be a highlight on campus! During the most recent event, grade‑level student representatives brought energy and excitement to the courtyard by leading fun games during both lunches, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
We are incredibly grateful for our student leaders who work hard to make Freedom Fridays engaging, inclusive, and memorable. Their dedication helps strengthen student and staff connections while fostering school spirit and Patriot pride.
A group of students and an adult interact outdoors, with a large Connect Four game visible.
Students gather around a table with colorful cups and a game setup outside a school building.
Students gather outside a building with a large mural on the ground, playing games like cornhole.
Students gather in a school courtyard with banners displaying 'HONOR', 'EXCELLENCE', and 'TRADITION'.

Biomedical Patriots Support Emergency Training

Our Biomedical program students were selected to participate in Central Florida’s annual disaster drill, a one‑of‑a‑kind experience where students volunteered as mock victims in a mass‑casualty scenario to help train medical professionals throughout our region. This powerful hands‑on opportunity allowed our Patriots to contribute in a meaningful way to real‑world emergency preparedness.
Our students did an outstanding job portraying their roles with professionalism and realism, helping ensure an effective training experience for emergency responders and medical teams. This year, 83 Freedom High School students participated in the drill at AdventHealth Children’s Hospital. A heartfelt thank‑you goes to our chaperone parents and staff whose support and supervision made this incredible experience possible. We are proud of our Patriots for serving and representing Freedom High School so well!
Students participate in a mass casualty exercise named 'Operation Skyfall' in Central Florida.

Anti‑Vaping Awareness During Lunch

During lunch this week, our campus hosted a student signing event focused on anti‑vaping awareness. District and school staff, deans, and administrators came together at an informational table to engage students in conversations about making healthy choices and committing to a vape‑free lifestyle. Thank you to everyone involved for supporting our students and promoting a positive, healthy school community.
A group of adults holds signs promoting an anti-vaping message with the slogan 'Vaping Clouds Your Future. Choose Clear Skies.'

Patriot Standards

Promoting Respect, Responsibility & Readiness

Patriots—Stay Strong, Stay Present, Finish Proud

As we enter the final quarter of the 2025–2026 school year, this is your moment to stay focused and finish strong. Every day matters, and your commitment now will shape your success for the year.
Graphic with tips for students to succeed in Quarter 4 of the 2025-2026 school year, featuring icons and text.
OCPS Attendance Policy
Poster for 'The Perfect Attendance Challenge' with details about an April drawing and VIP lunch.

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 Pathways: Building Careers Through CTE

Career & Technical Education Parent Survey

Every two years, the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department completes a Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) to help determine program needs and remain eligible for grant funding that supports CTE programs across our schools.
An important part of this process is gathering feedback from key stakeholders, including parents and guardians. We invite you to participate by completing a brief survey, which will be available through April 17. Your input is valuable and helps guide future CTE program development.
Thank you for taking the time to support our students and CTE programs!
A graphic displays "CTE Industry Certification Exams Semester 2 2025-2026" with a table of programs and results.

Preparing with Patriot Pride

Your Guide to Upcoming Testing

Upcoming Testing

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!
A table displays 'Semester 2 Assessments' with columns for Assessment, Date, and Details.

📅 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.

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.
AP Testing Calendar 2025-2026 showing exams, dates, sessions, and teachers.
A table displays AP exam schedules with subjects, dates, times, and instructors.

Class of 2026 Countdown

Senior Key Events & Deadlines

College Acceptances LINK
Freedom High School announces OCPS Super Scholars program, recognizing top graduating seniors.

Senior Class of 2026 Dates and Events

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
        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.
 
May 9 | Cap and Gown distribution/pick-up
       9:00 am – 1:00 pm in the FHS Gymnasium.
 
May 9 | Prom "Once upon a Time"
        Prom questions should be directed to Ms. Flores. Jamie.Schroeder@ocps.net
 
May 14 | SENIORS' LAST DAY/Senior Walkout
 
May 15 | Senior Closeout in Media Center
      Device/Textbook return, clear obligations & graduation ticket pick-up (10 tickets).
 
May 15 | Senior Awards Night
       7:00 pm in the PAC. Seniors receiving recognition will receive an invitation.
 
May 29 | CLASS OF 2026 COMMENCEMENT
       7:30 pm at Addition Financial (UCF) Arena

Questions Contact our SENIOR Sponsor at Charles.Youtz@ocps.net
Cap and Gown order link
Invitation to Freedom High School's 'Once Upon A Time' Prom on May 9th, 7-11 PM at 9700 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819.
A decorative background with text about requirements for prom tickets.
A flyer advertises Freedom High School Class of 2026 graduate yard signs for $15.00.
The 25-26 yearbook theme is FREEDOM: WRAPPED, with a graphic of the yearbook cover.
Two flyers announce Senior Walk events for the Class of 2026 at West Creek Elementary (Wildcats) and Hunter's Creek Elementary (Panthers).
Three event announcements: a Senior Walk Out for '26 Navigators on May 21, 2026, a Senior Walk for Class of 2026 on May 13th, and a Middle School Reunion for HCMS Class of 2022 and High School Class of 2026 on May 13th, 2026.

Class of 2027! Preparing Our Juniors for Senior Year Success

Class of 2027, it is time to start thinking about your senior portrait. This is the first step to ensure your senior information is correct and that you receive important updates from CADY, our official school photographer. Complete Senior Registration today.
A collage of senior photos featuring three diverse students and a large "Senior Photos" title.
Become a Cady Ambassador. Deadline to Apply is May 1st. Visit cady.com/ambassador.

Excellence in Education

Freedom Teacher Highlights

Celebrating Patriot Connections

We are grateful for the strong sense of community and connection among our staff! Recently, teachers came together to celebrate the soon‑to‑be arrival of Mr. Correa’s baby. The Science Department surprised him with a baby shower, and another group of colleagues he collaborates with after school also joined in with a special celebration. These thoughtful moments highlight the supportive, family‑oriented culture that makes our Patriot community so special. 💙🎉
A man stands at a baby shower, with a banner reading 'A Sweet Baby Girl is on her way' behind him.
A group of people stand behind a pink-draped table laden with snacks and a cake, celebrating a "Sweet Baby Girl" event.

Upcoming Events

April 12th to April 25th, 2026

A calendar titled 'TWO WEEKS AT A GLANCE' displays events from April 12-18, 2026.
A weekly calendar from April 19-25, 2026, detailing school events and activities.

Celebrate Culture, Community, and Connection!

We invite our students, parents, teachers, and the entire Freedom community to join us for our traditional Multicultural Festival on April 15th from 5:00–7:00 PM! Our school clubs have been hard at work preparing a variety of exciting surprises that will allow everyone to enjoy delicious foods, student performances, and the opportunity to learn about a wide range of countries and cultures represented in our community.
Admission is free, and food and activities will be very affordable. Please come prepared with cash only and small bills.
Bring your family and friends and experience an evening filled with discovery, entertainment, and Patriot pride. We look forward to celebrating with you!
Poster for Freedom High School's Patriot Preview event, featuring images of students, sports, and activities.

🎉 Welcome, Future Patriots! Join Us for Patriot Preview on April 27th!

We’re excited to invite all of our rising freshmen and their families to Patriot Preview, a special event designed to give you a closer look at what makes Freedom High School such an incredible place to learn, grow, and belong.
At Patriot Preview, you’ll get to explore our wide range of extracurricular programs, meet the staff and students who make our campus shine, and discover the many ways you can get connected from day one. Building relationships and finding your place in our Patriot community is what we’re all about.
📍 Where: Freedom High School Gym
🗓️ When: April 27th
Time: 5:30–7:00 PM
We can’t wait to welcome you, show you what Freedom is all about, and help you start your Patriot journey with confidence and excitement. See you here! 💙❤️

Freedom Family Resources

Helping our Freedom community stay informed, engaged, and prepared for excellence.

Patriot Voices Wanted: Join PTSA and SAC!

Join Our 2026–2027 SAC & PTSA Teams!

As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 school year, we invite our Patriot families to take an active role in shaping the future of Freedom High School. Elections for next year’s School Advisory Council (SAC) and Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) are coming soon, and we would love to see more parents involved.
SAC and PTSA are essential partners in supporting our academic programs, planning meaningful events, and ensuring that family voices help guide school decisions. Whether you are new to Freedom or a longtime member of our community, your perspective and participation truly matter.
There are only two more SAC and one PTSA meetings left this school year, making this the perfect time to join in, learn more, and see how you can contribute.
Come be part of the conversation.
Come be part of the Patriot community.
Together, we can make Freedom High School even stronger for every student.
Announcement for PTSA Elections on May 4, 2026, at Freedom High School Media Center.
Freedom High School's School Advisory Council (SAC) is seeking parents and guardians for the 2026-2027 school year.
The School Advisory Council (SAC) is a team of parents, teachers, students, and community members who work together to support school improvement and ensure that family voices help guide key decisions at Freedom High School. We will be holding elections for the new 2026–2027 SAC board at our May 18th meeting, and we encourage parents to get involved and make a meaningful impact on our school community.
Poster for Freedom High School SAC Meeting Dates, featuring stars and stripes design.

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
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