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Freedom HS Newsletter 2026 #7

Posted Date: 09/27/26 (10:30 AM)


Students gather in the courtyard of Freedom High School in Orange County Public Schools on a sunny day.

The Patriot Pride Weekly

Freedom High School Newsletter #7

September 27, 2026
Dear Freedom High School Families,

Each week, I remain proud of the meaningful learning taking place across our campus. Our students are engaging in rigorous lessons, collaborating with their peers, thinking critically, and demonstrating that learning goes far beyond preparing for a test.
At the same time, our Patriots are preparing with purpose for upcoming PMA assessments, the SAT, and the PSAT. Teachers are reviewing essential skills and using data to provide targeted support, while our student organizations and student leaders are stepping up to help their peers through tutoring and test-preparation opportunities. Seeing Patriots supporting Patriots is a powerful reflection of the leadership and community we strive to build at Freedom High School.
As these assessments approach, I encourage every student to take advantage of available resources, attend tutoring sessions, ask questions, and continue giving their best effort each day. Preparation is not about one test or one score. It is about developing the knowledge, confidence, perseverance, and skills that will open doors to future opportunities.
Thank you to our teachers, staff, student leaders, and families for continuing to encourage and support our students. Together, we are helping our Patriots learn today, prepare for tomorrow, and pursue excellence every step of the way.

With Patriot Pride,

Charles M. France
Principal

The Freedom Timeline

Upcoming Events, Bell Schedules & Deadlines

A banner with a solid brown background displaying the white text 'TWO WEEKS AT A GLANCE'.
A school calendar for the week of September 27 to October 3, 2026, displaying various academic tests, sports events, and student activities.
A school calendar for October 4 to October 10, 2026, displaying various tests and sports events.
A group of friends stands on a grassy lawn in front of a school building, waving and smiling.

Student Patriots in the Spotlight

Honoring Excellence On Campus and in the Community

Science in Action: Testing Island Biogeography

Mr. Lang’s students brought the Theory of Island Biogeography to life through a hands-on investigation. By testing how island size and distance from the mainland affected where four different species landed, students discovered that the larger island closest to the mainland had the greatest biodiversity, successfully demonstrating the theory in action. Science is always better when students get to test it themselves!
A collage shows a school courtyard with students gathering outdoors, alongside watercolor illustrations of a sea turtle and an island.
 

Making Waves in Marine Science!

Students in Ms. McClish’s Marine Science classes brought oceanography concepts to life through an engaging, hands-on wave-making lab! Students explored wave concepts while learning through experimentation and observation. A special shoutout to Ms. McClish for creating meaningful learning experiences and guiding students in developing detailed, high-quality interactive notebooks that showcase their learning and understanding. 
Students work together at a wooden table on a science project involving laptops and a metal tray filled with sand and water.
A science notebook is open on a wooden desk, showing handwritten notes and diagrams about weather and waves.
 

Forensic Science: Uncovering the Evidence!

Students in Ms. DeJesus’ Forensic Science class put their investigative skills to work as they learned about hair and fingerprint analysis. Throughout the lesson, Ms. DeJesus used intentional, high-level questioning to challenge students to analyze evidence, make connections, and think critically. A great example of engaging instruction that keeps our Patriots thinking, questioning, and learning!
A teacher in a sports jersey stands at the front of a classroom, presenting a lesson about hair as evidence on a projector screen to attentive students.
A top-down view of a dark table holding two worksheets titled 'Hair Evidence' and a pink drink in a cup with a lid.
 

Biology Prep Powered by Student Leaders

Our Science National Honor Society stepped up to support students preparing for Biology PMA1 by creating a variety of review stations focused on key concepts and skills. Through peer-to-peer learning, our Patriots had another opportunity to review, ask questions, and prepare with confidence.
Thank you to our Science National Honor Society members for turning their knowledge into service and supporting the success of their fellow Patriots! 
A collage of students and teachers participating in a school science fair or project presentation in a large common area.

AP Patriots in Action: Critical Thinking at the Next Level

A student holds a reference sheet detailing a five-sentence structure on a wooden classroom desk.

From Guided Practice to Independent Analysis

Scaffolding for success in Mr. Wall’s AP Language & Composition class! Students worked through a structured rhetorical analysis activity that transitioned from whole-class learning to independent application. By the end, students were confidently identifying and analyzing rhetorical devices on their own. Great teaching builds the bridge, and our Patriots do the thinking!
A SMART Board displays classroom bellwork with instructions about Romanticism alongside the painting 'Wanderer above the Sea of Fog'.

College-Level Conversations in AP Literature

Students in Ms. Thompson’s AP Literature & Composition class led an engaging whole-group discussion on Romanticism, demonstrating thoughtful analysis, strong communication, and high-level academic discourse. Shoutout to Ms. Thompson for creating an intellectually rich environment where students confidently share ideas, challenge their thinking, and take ownership of their learning!
 
A student works on a laptop in a classroom, with a smartboard displaying procedures in the background.

History on Trial in AP World History!

Students in Mr. Kennedy’s AP World History class brought history to life through the Trial of the Mongols! Taking on the roles of lawyers and witnesses, students used historical primary sources as evidence to develop arguments, defend their positions, and build their cases. Kudos to Mr. Kennedy for creating an engaging experience that challenged students to analyze evidence, think critically, and bring history to life!
 

Culinary Arts Celebrates Hispanic Heritage!

Our Culinary Arts students joined Freedom’s Hispanic Heritage celebration by researching and preparing delicious dishes inspired by Hispanic cultures! Students put their culinary skills into action while learning about the traditions and flavors behind the foods they prepared.
In Ms. Rose and Mr. Reid’s classes, students are doing much more than mastering knife skills and culinary cuts. They are also building the knowledge and skills needed for their industry certification exams. Congratulations to Ms. Rose and her eight students who recently earned their ServSafe certification! 
From exploring culture through cuisine to earning industry credentials, our Culinary Patriots are learning, creating, and preparing for their futures!
A smiling young woman wearing a flower lei and a lanyard stands behind a desk in an office.
Five smiling young people stand inside an office or classroom holding takeout food containers and bags.
 

Patriots Helping Patriots: PSAT Prep

A special shoutout to our Patriot students, Sakshi, Colt, and Jose, for giving their Saturday to help fellow Patriots prepare for the PSAT on October 6! These student leaders worked with a small group of students, sharing strategies and tips to strengthen their Math and ELA skills and build confidence for test day.
Taking her leadership even further, Sakshi created the SAT/PSAT preparation tool used during the session, designed to support any Patriot interested in improving their PSAT skills. 
We are incredibly proud to see our students sharing their knowledge, creating resources, serving others, and demonstrating leadership in action. Patriots helping Patriots succeed! 
A student stands and presents near a large digital screen while other students sit at round tables in a classroom.
A teacher writes on a smart board in a classroom while students sit at their desks, taking notes.
 

Marine Science Comes to Life at the Titanic Museum

40 students from Mrs. McClish’s Marine Science class took their learning beyond the classroom with an exciting field trip to the Titanic Artifact Museum. Students engaged in ocean exploration and viewed authentic artifacts related to the Titanic and the Atlantic Ocean.
The experience became even more immersive as students felt the frigid temperature from the night the Titanic sank, touched an iceberg, and even had the opportunity to touch a piece of the Titanic.
What an incredible way for our Patriots to connect classroom learning with history, science, and real-world exploration!
A collage of photos shows people visiting a Titanic museum exhibition, exploring artifacts and exhibits.

Patriot Innovation: Leading the Future with AI

Learn. Innovate. Create. Lead.

A paper titled ONE-ON-ONE ELA READING ASSIGNMENT rests on a wooden desk.

Ms. Kline is putting AI to work for our students!

By using AI to develop differentiated reading comprehension assessments, she can more efficiently gather MTSS data while providing students with support tailored to their instructional levels. A great example of how our Freedom teachers are using innovative tools to work smarter, personalize learning, and help every Patriot grow! 
 

AI Team in Action: Supporting Innovation at Freedom

Our Freedom High School AI Team came together for its monthly meeting to continue exploring meaningful ways to support our teachers and students through innovation. This month, the team focused on professional learning opportunities, developing practical AI tutorials for teachers, and finalizing plans to showcase our AI Learning & Innovation Academy at the Academy/Magnet Showcase at Lake Buena Vista High School on October 17.
Our goal remains simple: provide our staff with useful tools and resources that enhance teaching, support learning, and keep our Patriots prepared for the future!
A smiling woman takes a group selfie in a classroom with seven colleagues standing behind her.

AI Transparency:

Our newsletter is built from the stories, accomplishments, photos, experiences, and voices of Freedom High School students, teachers, coaches, staff, and school leaders. AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot, Canva, and ChatGPT, may assist with editing, organization, and presentation. AI simply supports the process. Our Patriots provide the stories, creativity, experiences, and heart that make our newsletter uniquely Freedom.

Building School Spirit, Creating Memories, and Making Connections

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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage, Patriot Style!

Hispanic Heritage Week was a tremendous success at Freedom High School! Organized by our Spanish National Honor Society and Leaders in Action, the week brought students and staff together to celebrate the rich cultures and traditions of the Hispanic community.
Our Patriots showed their spirit by dressing up for each themed day and enjoying activities throughout the week, including face painting, sports, soda tasting, karaoke, and more! The celebration also included a Hispanic Heritage Showcase during both lunches, where students shared interesting facts about countries across Latin America. 
A special thank you to Ms. Febles and Ms. King for supporting and empowering our students to become strong leaders. Most importantly, congratulations to our student leaders for creating a week filled with culture, learning, pride, and Patriot spirit! 
A collage of students celebrating cultural diversity with flags, traditional clothing, and booths outdoors.
A collage of students presenting culture and geography projects about various Latin American countries.
A collage of eight photos shows students proudly presenting informational project boards about different countries, including Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, Spain, Costa Rica, Cuba, and Chile.
A collage of photos shows students and teachers participating in school events, dressed in matching uniforms and traditional attire.
 
A promotional flyer for 'Cups of Kindness' by SGA Citizenship Development, featuring yellow stripes and illustrations of a lemon and strawberry.

Cups of Kindness: Spreading Sweetness at Freedom

Our SGA students turned simple cups into powerful acts of kindness with their Cups of Kindness activity! Students decorated cups with encouraging messages, filled them with a sweet lemonade treat, and passed them along to brighten someone’s day. A simple reminder that a few kind words and a little Patriot spirit can make a big difference!
Five young people stand around a table, drawing on white paper cups with markers.
Students gather around a table covered in a yellow cloth, serving drinks from a large glass dispenser.
 

💃🕺 Homecoming 2026: Mamma Mia!

Get ready, Patriots!
Homecoming Week 2026 is coming October 13-17, and this year's theme is Mamma Mia! Join us for a week filled with school spirit, exciting activities, and unforgettable memories as we celebrate Patriot Pride together.
🎟️ Homecoming Ticket Sales are happening NOW!
Tickets are available for purchase through teachtix.com

📋 Important Homecoming Information
Parent Permission Slips and Guest Applications are now available outside Rooms 608, 611, and 612.
If your student number does not appear in TeachTix when attempting to purchase a ticket, one or more of the following requirements may need to be completed:
✅ Parent Permission Form must be submitted to Rooms 608, 611, or 612
✅ 2.0 GPA Requirement must be met, or receive Guidance Counselor clearance
✅ Graduation Testing Requirement must be met, or receive Guidance Counselor clearance for missing concordant scores
✅ Media Center Obligations must be cleared after any outstanding fees have been paid

Don't wait until the last minute! Be sure to complete all requirements early, so you're ready to purchase your ticket and join us for an unforgettable Mamma Mia! Homecoming Week celebration.

🎶 Take a Chance on Homecoming 2026... It's going to be a night to remember!
Advertisement for 'Mamma Mia Homecoming' with ticket prices and sale dates.
Promotional flyer for Dillard's homecoming event featuring two smiling friends taking a selfie outdoors in party dresses.
Information about Parent Permission Forms and Guest Applications, including pickup and return details.
 

Stay Connected with StudentSquare!

Patriots, don't miss out on important news and updates from Freedom High School! We strongly encourage all students to download the StudentSquare app and activate their accounts to stay connected with everything happening on campus.
StudentSquare is the primary platform for school communications, providing students with quick access to:
  • School announcements and important updates
  • Club meetings and event information
  • Testing reminders and academic deadlines
  • Athletic schedules and activities
  • Direct communication with teachers and staff
  • Classroom and school-wide notifications
By using StudentSquare, you can stay informed, organized, and engaged in all that Freedom High School has to offer. Whether it's an upcoming event, a deadline reminder, or a message from your teacher, StudentSquare helps ensure you never miss important information.

Patriot Fine Arts & Stage

Showcasing Freedom High’s Music, Theater, and Visual Arts

A Night of Jazz: Supporting Our Patriot Band

Join us for A Night of Jazz on October 3rd, a special fundraising event supporting the talented students of the Freedom High School Band as they prepare for their upcoming trip to the prestigious Midwest Clinic in Chicago this December.
Guests will enjoy an evening of outstanding jazz performances while helping our student musicians achieve an incredible educational and performance opportunity. Funds raised during this event will help offset travel expenses and ensure more students can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
🎶 Live Jazz Performances
🎺 Support Student Musicians
✈️ Help Send Our Patriots to Chicago
Come enjoy a memorable evening of music, community, and Patriot pride while investing in the future of our talented band students. Thank you for supporting Freedom High School and helping our musicians reach new heights!
A black-and-white flyer for a 'Night of Jazz' event on October 3, 2026, supporting the Freedom High School Jazz Band.

Patriot Athletics Spotlight

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

🏐 Big Wins for Lady Patriot Volleyball!

Congratulations to our Girls JV Volleyball Team on an outstanding tournament victory this weekend! A huge shoutout to Coach Chery and our Lady Patriots for their hard work and great performance! 
The success was followed by our Varsity Girls Volleyball Team, who earned an impressive 3-0 victory over Windermere last week to become the Metro Orange Bracket Champions! 
Great teams, great performances, and GREAT WINS! Way to represent Freedom, Patriots!
A diverse volleyball team and their coach pose together proudly on a court, holding a trophy.
 

Patriots Make a Splash!

Congratulations to our Boys and Girls Swim & Dive teams on their big wins over Colonial Thursday night! The boys improve to 2–3, while the girls continue their impressive season at 4–1. 
Join us for Senior Night! Thursday, October 1, at 7:00 PM at the Rosen Aquatic Center on International Drive.
Come out and help us celebrate our seniors and cheer on our Patriots! Let’s go, Freedom! 
A swimmer races down a lap lane while teammates cheer from the pool deck.
A diver performs a mid-air tuck over an indoor swimming pool.
Five young women wearing matching blue and red swimsuits stand in a huddle, smiling down at the camera from above.
 

Patriots Racing to New Records!

Our Freedom Cross Country team had an incredible showing at West Orange on Saturday morning, with every Patriot runner who competed setting a new personal record (PR)! 
Leading the way was Co-Team Captain Jackson Butler, who delivered an impressive 17:55 finish! 
The momentum continues as our Patriots prepare for the Metro East Meet on October 3 at University High School. 
Keep pushing, Patriots! Every stride brings us closer to our goals!
Two male track athletes sprint down the track, focusing intently on the finish line.
A young runner wearing jersey number 2150 leads a cross-country race near a chain-link fence.
A high school cross country team poses for a group photo on a grassy sports field at sunset.
 

Winter Sports Are Coming!

Calling all Patriots! Winter sports season is right around the corner! Be on the lookout for upcoming interest meetings and tryout information. Follow our social media channels and check the weekly newsletter for dates, requirements, and important updates.
✅ Be paperwork ready! Don’t wait until tryouts. Make sure all required athletic paperwork, including your physical, is completed and submitted in advance.
Get ready to compete and represent Freedom! 
A vintage-style poster for a Patriot Track and Field interest meeting on October 7th at 1:30 PM in Room 623.
A promotional flyer for soccer tryouts for the 2026-2027 season, scheduled for October 12-16.
 
Freedom Athletics reminders: Tickets for sporting events available at GoFan.co or freedomathletics.com.
Miller's Ale House Hunters Creek hosts a Spirit Night to support Freedom High School Football every Tuesday from 5-9 PM.
 

Athletic Participation Reminder

Interested in participating in a sport this school year? Make sure your paper is ready by completing your sports physical and all required athletic paperwork before attending practice or tryouts.
Completing these requirements now will help ensure a smooth start to your athletic season and prevent delays in participation.
📋 More information and required forms are available in the link below.
Don't wait until the last minute. Get cleared today and be ready to represent Freedom High School during the 2026-2027 school year!

For additional information or assistance, please contact James.Nassar@ocps.net.
Sports Physical Forms LINK
 

Join the School Spirit Run and Help Patrick Cross the Finish Line!

Make plans now to participate in the 2027 School Spirit Run and help bring Patriot Pride to the finish line! Freedom High School has earned special recognition as the Best School Mascot, and our student runners have been recognized for outstanding performances over the past two years.
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to support your school, this is a great opportunity to represent Freedom and join an exciting community event. Let's make this year's School Spirit Run our biggest and best yet!
Take advantage of the special early registration price available through August 31 and secure your spot today. Together, let's help Patrick cross the finish line and show why the Patriots lead the way!
Promotional flyer for the 6th Annual School Spirit Run at SeaWorld Orlando on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027.

Patriot Testing Central

Important Testing Information, Dates, and Resources for Student Success

A mascot in a classroom setting writes in a notebook, with 'OCPS Laptop REQUIRED' text and school mottos visible.

📝 PMA 1 Week: Be Ready, Patriots!

PMA 1 Week is coming this week! All students enrolled in Algebra 1, Geometry, U.S. History, or Biology will participate in PMA 1.
Students, please remember to:
  • 📅 Follow the adjusted testing schedule
  • 💻 Bring your fully charged OCPS-issued device on your testing day
  • ⚠️ Plan ahead! Extra devices will not be available to borrow if you forget yours
While PMA testing is taking place, learning continues! Students will continue instruction in their other classes, including AP mock exams and other important learning activities.

Come prepared, do your best, and show what you know, Patriots!
A four-day school schedule from Monday, Sept. 28th to Thursday, Oct. 1, with class periods, times, and highlighted testing times.
 
A table titled 'Semester 1 Assessments' lists various assessments with their dates and details.

Patriot Standards

Promoting Respect, Responsibility & Readiness

Progress Reports & Quarter 1 Reminder

Progress Reports will be available next week, and Quarter 1 ends on October 12! We encourage all students and families to take time to review current grades, attendance, and assignment completion to ensure a strong finish to the quarter.
Students should continue completing all assignments, preparing for assessments, and communicating with their teachers about any missing work or academic concerns. Families are encouraged to regularly monitor student progress through Skyward and stay informed about important academic deadlines.
Please remember to follow our Amnesty Calendar, which includes:
  • Dates when Progress Reports and Report Cards become available in Skyward
  • Opportunities to attend Saturday School to complete missing assignments and receive academic support
  • Important quarter and grading period deadlines
Now is the perfect time to check in with your student, review their academic progress, and create a plan for success as we approach the end of the first quarter. Together, we can help every Patriot finish strong!
A school schedule for Freedom High School Amnesty Saturdays for the 2026-2027 academic year, showing deadlines and dates organized by quarter.
OCPS Attendance Policy
A young student raises their hand in a classroom, promoting National Attendance Awareness Month.

Patriot Expectations: Start Strong, Finish Strong

As we begin the 2026-2027 school year, we encourage all Patriots to commit to Honor, Excellence, and Tradition by following Freedom High School's expectations each day. Success starts with being present, on time, prepared, and ready to learn. Every class, every lesson, and every opportunity matters.
Regular attendance and arriving on time help students build strong habits, stay connected to learning, and achieve their academic and personal goals. By showing respect for themselves, others, and our school community, Patriots can help create a positive environment where everyone can thrive.
Let's make this a year filled with growth, achievement, and Patriot Pride. Together, we can make 2026-2027 our best year yet!
Freedom High School Classroom Basics list including Tardy Policy, Bell Work, 10/10 Rule, Attendance, and Dress Code.
A list of school rules numbered 6 through 12, covering topics like electronic devices, work areas, and personal belongings.

Patriot College & Career Connection

Senior Spotlight: The Next Chapter Begins!

It’s time to celebrate the Class of 2027! As our seniors begin receiving college and university acceptances, we will be showcasing their accomplishments and future plans throughout the year.
We can’t wait to recognize our Patriots as they take the next step toward their dreams. Seniors, let us celebrate YOU and your acceptance! 
A graphic celebrating students Khloe Diaz, Livia Guarnieri, and Jashaliz Rosado-Gomez applying to the University of North Florida (UNF).
College & Career News This Week
A flyer for the Freedom High School College Fair on October 1st, listing dates, times, and participating colleges.

🎓 College Fair -October 1!

Juniors and Seniors: Get ready to explore your future! Freedom High School will host a College Fair on October 1, giving students an opportunity to connect with colleges and learn more about post-graduation options.

⚠️ Important: Students may attend only if a parent/guardian has signed and acknowledged the Activity Parental Consent Form in Parent Square https://www.parentsquare.com/feeds/83251253

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore your options and start planning your next steps. Patriots, your future is waiting! 
What's Your Plan LINK
Welcome to Xello, an online program for high school parents and guardians, with smiling students in the background.
Poster for a College & Career Fair open to juniors and seniors on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
Getting started with XELLO
XELLO Family Resources
An infographic detailing early application deadlines and requirements for Florida's state university system.

Freedom Family Resources

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

Stay Connected with ParentSquare

Parents and guardians, be sure to download the ParentSquare app and set up your account preferences to stay connected with Freedom High School. By visiting Settings, you can select your preferred communication method, including email, text message, or app notifications.
ParentSquare is the primary way to receive important school and teacher updates, event information, reminders, and announcements. It also provides an easy way to communicate directly with school staff throughout the year.
Don't miss out on important information. Download the app today and stay connected to all things Freedom!
A smiling family looks at a smartphone, with "ConnectOrange IS POWERED BY ParentSquare" text and cloud icons in the background.

Patriot Voices Wanted: Join PTSA and SAC!

Join the Freedom High School PTSA!

We invite all students, parents, and staff to become members of the Freedom High School PTSA! Your membership helps support programs that make a positive impact on our school community, including student scholarships, teacher appreciation initiatives, classroom support, and special events throughout the year.
By joining PTSA, you are investing in opportunities that help our students succeed while supporting the dedicated staff who make a difference every day. Membership is open to everyone, and every member helps strengthen the partnership between home, school, and community.
Join today and help us continue creating opportunities for our students and supporting our amazing teachers! Together, we can make Freedom even stronger. 💙🖤💛
Membership Link
Join Freedom High School PTSA for 2026-2027! Everyone is welcome, including parents, students, families, alumni, community members, and local businesses.
September is PTA Membership Month, with volunteers serving food to children.
 

🔔 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.
A diverse family smiles warmly in front of a blurred natural background, with website navigation visible above.
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