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Freedom HS Newsletter 2026 #8

Posted Date: 10/04/26 (01:54 PM)


A crowded indoor gym displays tables at a school event, overlaid with the Freedom High School logo and text.

The Patriot Pride Weekly

Freedom High School Newsletter #8

October 4, 2026
Dear Freedom High School Families,

What an incredible week to be a Patriot! Across our campus, our students and staff continue to demonstrate the excellence, leadership, talent, and school spirit that make Freedom High School such a special place.
From our students engaging with colleges and universities at our College Fair, to our students diving into hands-on learning, developing their leadership skills and expanding their skills through unique career and service opportunities, learning continues to extend far beyond the classroom.
Our Patriots are also shining in athletics, as they continue to represent Freedom with determination and pride.
This week also gave us the opportunity to celebrate the people who make all of this possible, our incredible custodial team, our members of our classified staff, and to continue to see our teachers and staff create meaningful experiences for students every day.
As we prepare for PSAT and SAT testing on Tuesday and look ahead to an exciting Homecoming Week, I encourage our students to stay focused, get involved, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn, connect, and create memories.
To our students, staff, families, and community, thank you for continuing to make Freedom a place where Honor, Excellence, and Tradition come to life.
Patriot Pride is strong, and there is so much more to come!

With Patriot Pride,

Charles M. France
Principal

The Freedom Timeline

Upcoming Events, Bell Schedules & Deadlines

A banner with dark red background featuring bold white text that reads 'TWO WEEKS AT A GLANCE'.
A school calendar for October 4 through October 10, 2026, displaying various sports and academic events for each day of the week.
A school calendar for Homecoming Week from October 11 to October 17, 2026, detailing daily events and spirit days.
A schedule for Homecoming Spirit Days with a Mamma Mia theme, featuring daily dress-up prompts over a Greek island background.

Student Patriots in the Spotlight

Honoring Excellence On Campus and in the Community

Culinary Students Explore Opportunities Beyond the Kitchen

Our Culinary Arts students recently heard from a U.S. Marine who shared how military service can open doors to careers, education, financial literacy, and long-term success.
At just 25 years old, our guest speaker shared his personal journey of enlisting in the military at 17, earning his bachelor’s degree with military education benefits, and now pursuing his master’s degree. He also discussed how access to financial planning resources helped him make informed financial decisions, including investing in real estate.
For our culinary students, the visit provided a valuable look at how their skills and interests can connect to opportunities beyond high school, including culinary careers within the military. Most importantly, students heard firsthand how planning, discipline, education, and making the most of available resources can help build a strong future.
A Marine in dress uniform presents to a high school class in a brightly lit classroom.
A speaker in a military uniform presents to a diverse classroom of high school students.
 

Learning Beyond the Kitchen: Culinary Students in Action

Our Culinary Arts students are gaining valuable real-world experience by taking their skills beyond the classroom and supporting events throughout Freedom High School. From preparing meals for athletic teams and club events to serving our staff, students are learning firsthand the teamwork, planning, preparation, and service that go into successful banquet and catering operations.
This week, our culinary students prepared a delicious chicken and rice meal to celebrate our amazing classified staff, putting both their culinary skills and Patriot hospitality into action.
Next up, they are preparing for one of our biggest events of the year, Homecoming! Students will help prepare an amazing meal and volunteer their time serving during the dance.
Two people stand on either side of a long table laden with catered food, smiling at the camera.
 

Growing Leaders at COLT 2026!

Our Agriscience students represented Freedom High School at COLT (Chapter Officer Leadership Training) 2026 in Tampa! 
Students from Ms. Dodge and Ms. Westgate’s Agriscience classes had the opportunity to strengthen their leadership, teamwork, and communication skills while connecting with other student leaders.
We are proud to see our Patriots growing their leadership skills beyond the classroom and bringing those experiences back to Freedom! 
A group of students in matching blue and gold jackets gather around a table in a large, brightly lit hall.
Three smiling women stand side-by-side against a plain wall.
A group of nine students stands together wearing blue corduroy jackets in front of blue and yellow FFA banners.
 

AICE Marine Science Takes a Dive into Biodiversity!

Our AICE Marine Science students went for a “swim” in the Freedom courtyard this week as they collected data on the biodiversity of our very own Freedom Coral Reef! 
Through this hands-on learning experience, students put marine science concepts into action while exploring, observing, and analyzing the variety of life within their simulated reef ecosystem.
Who says you need to leave campus to dive into marine science?
A high-angle shot shows students standing around a large mural on a school courtyard floor that reads "FREEDOM" and "Honor . Excellence . Tradition."
 

Take the Florida Teens Read Challenge!

Calling all Patriot readers! Our Media Center is challenging students to dive into the 2026–2027 Florida Teens Read book list and discover a new favorite. Whether you enjoy mystery, adventure, fantasy, romance, or stories that make you think, there’s something for everyone!
Our Media Center has every book on the list ready for checkout! Stop by, grab your first title, and start the challenge.
Not sure what to read next? Check out our AI Selection, too! Explore a little bit of everything and find a book that matches your interests and reading preferences.
Don’t wait. Check out your favorites before they’re gone! Let’s see how many Patriots take on the reading challenge this year!
Promotional graphic for Florida Teens Read 2026-2027 by FAME, displaying ten recommended book covers arranged in two rows.
Florida Teens Read Descriptions
A wooden bookshelf filled with young adult fiction novels, decorated with red, white, and blue tinsel.
A library display board features various books about artificial intelligence arranged neatly on green slats.

Building School Spirit, Creating Memories, and Making Connections

Freedom Fest: Fun, Connections & Patriot Spirit!

Our first Freedom Fest was a huge success! Students had the opportunity to choose from more than 76 activities designed to help them have fun, explore their interests, and build connections with fellow students and staff across campus.
From trying something new to simply spending time with other Patriots, Freedom Fest was all about strengthening our school community and making memories beyond the classroom.
And we’re not done yet! Freedom Fest #2 is coming this December. Students, keep an eye on your student email for information on how to sign up and select your next Freedom Fest experience!
Four students in a classroom bring their fists together over wooden desks, wearing colorful bracelets.
Students sit at wooden desks in a classroom, using colorful markers to decorate small wooden rounds.
A collection of colorful paintings on round wooden slices displayed on small table easels on the floor.
Four young men proudly pose with soccer balls and medals inside a classroom.
People play a friendly game of soccer on a green grass field.
Two smiling students sit at a classroom desk, posing for the camera with a board game nearby.
Three students gather around a desk to play a game with a wooden block tower in a classroom.
A young woman with long dark hair sits at a wooden table in a classroom, playfully sticking out her tongue while holding a craft project.
Students gather around a wooden table in a brightly lit classroom, cutting paper and decorating shells.
 

Homecoming Week October 13th-October 17th

Club Takeover & Skit Night!

Homecoming excitement is taking over Freedom! Don’t miss these special events as we celebrate our “Mamma Mia” Homecoming Theme! 

Skit Night | Tuesday, October 13
  • Virtual on YouTube at 6:00 PM
  • Meet the 2026 Homecoming Court
  • Watch creative skits featuring our Senior Class King & Queen candidates
  • King & Queen voting opens immediately following the final skit via Google Form
  • Voting is open only to FHS students

Club Takeover | Thursday, October 15
  • FHS Courtyard | All Day
  • Our clubs and organizations will take over the courtyard to showcase their interests with a fun Mamma Mia-inspired twist!
  • Stop by throughout the day to see the creativity and school spirit of our Patriot clubs and organizations.

Get ready for a week filled with Patriot Pride, creativity, and Homecoming fun!
 

Homecoming Pep Rally | Friday, October 16

Let’s close out Homecoming Week with Patriot Pride at our 2026 Homecoming Pep Rally! 

  • Friday, October 16
  • Wednesday Bell Schedule with the Pep Rally held during an extended 7th-period block
  • Parent permission is required for students to attend the Pep Rally.
  • Parents must complete the Parent Consent Form through ParentSquare.
  • Already completed it? If a parent submitted the Parent Consent Form earlier this school year, there is no need to complete it again.

Get ready to bring the energy, celebrate our Patriots, and show your Homecoming spirit! 
 

2026 Homecoming Court Presentation & King/Queen Crowning

Join us for the presentation of the 2026 Homecoming Court and the crowning of our Homecoming King and Queen on Friday, October 16, 2026, during halftime of our Varsity Football Game vs. Colonial High School. 
Come celebrate and cheer on our Homecoming Court as we crown this year's royalty!

Friday, October 16, 2026
 Halftime | Freedom vs. Colonial
 👑 Who will take the crown?
Three chalkboard-style posters announce the 2026 Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior court members, decorated with gold crowns and banners.
A chalkboard-style flyer announcing the 2026 Court Presentation and King-Queen Crowning at Freedom Field on Friday 10/16, featuring a gold crown and candidate names.
 

PowderPuff: Seniors vs. Juniors!

Get ready for some friendly class competition! Our 2026 PowderPuff Game is happening on Wednesday, October 14, on the Freedom High School football field.

*Admission: $5 cash only
 *Matchup: Seniors vs. Juniors
 *Seniors: Wear Pink
 *Juniors: Wear Black
 *Concessions: Hosted by the Freshman Class

Want to represent your team? Seniors and Juniors can purchase a team shirt for $16 from Ms. Read in Room 611. Your shirt also serves as your admission to the game for FREE!
📢 SchoolCash shirt link coming soon!
Come out, support your class, and see whether the Seniors or Juniors claim the PowderPuff bragging rights! 
A promotional poster for a Powderpuff Football Game featuring Seniors versus Juniors on a glowing stadium field.
 
Advertisement for 'Mamma Mia Homecoming' with ticket prices and sale dates.
 

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 to Remember!

What an amazing night! Our Night of Jazz was an incredible success, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members for an evening of outstanding music and support for our talented Patriots.
A special thank you to Representative Rita Harris for supporting our students and to Don Zentz, liaison from The Midwest Clinic Board, for making the trip to Orlando to join us for this special event.

Next stop: Chicago! 🎶 Freedom High School is proud and excited to represent Florida, Orange County Public Schools, and Freedom High School at the 80th Annual Midwest Clinic this December!
Thank you to everyone who helped make the evening a success and continues to support our students on this incredible journey. Patriot Pride is heading to Chicago!
A collage of a school jazz band, including students in suits posing backstage, playing instruments on stage, and smiling teachers with a dessert display.
A large jazz band poses on a stage beneath screens that read 'Night of Jazz', holding various instruments.
A montage shows young musicians performing on stage with 'FREEDOM JAZZ' podiums and instruments.
 

Patriot Athletics Spotlight

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

Patriots Race Strong at Metro East Meet!

Freedom Cross Country delivered another strong performance at the Metro East Meet, earning an impressive 5th-place finish overall!
Junior co-captain Jackson Butler led the Patriots with an outstanding 6th-place individual finish, continuing to set the pace through his leadership, consistency, and hard work.
Week after week, this team continues to grow, compete, and demonstrate what Patriot determination looks like. The coaching staff is incredibly proud of the effort these athletes bring to every race.
The future is bright for Freedom Cross Country!
A group of young men in blue and red 'Freedom Cross Country' uniforms huddle together outside, smiling.
Two young female runners in matching maroon and white Freedom Patriots track uniforms stand smiling on a grassy field.
A smiling cross country runner holding up his 6th place ribbon at an outdoor track event.
 

Patriots Finish the Regular Season Strong!

The Freedom Swim & Dive Team wrapped up its regular season with its final meet and Senior Night, celebrating our seniors and a season full of hard work and accomplishments. 
The girls finish with a 4-2 record, while the boys close out the season at 3-3.
The journey isn’t over yet! Our Patriot swimmers now turn their attention to the Metro Conference Meet next week. Congratulations to our athletes and coaches on a great regular season, and good luck at Metros!
Spectators sit on bleachers holding handmade signs, including one that reads "Eat Kenya's Bubbles."
Seven people smile together indoors, wrapped in colorful towels near a banner that reads LAKERS.
Five swimmers pose by a large indoor pool, with a '27' sign in the foreground.
A swimmer runs through a tunnel formed by teammates raising and touching their hands together.
 

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 schedule table titled Sport listing start dates, practice locations, times, coaches, and general requirements for various school sports.
 

Support Our Lady Patriots Soccer!

Help our Freedom Girls Soccer Team kick off a great season by supporting their upcoming fundraiser!
Your participation helps provide opportunities and resources for our student-athletes while showing them some Patriot Pride.
Want to help? Check out the attached flyer for all the fundraiser details and information on how you can participate. Or click on this link https://vraise.org/lBtISq
A fundraising flyer for the 2026 Freedom High School Girls Soccer team featuring a QR code.
A flyer for girls soccer conditioning and mandatory tryouts, featuring event details, dates, and gear requirements.
 
Flyer for Patriots Boys Volleyball interest meeting on October 1, 2026, at 2:30 PM in the gym, featuring a photo of a volleyball team in a huddle.
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.
đź“‹ 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.

PSAT & SAT Testing | Tuesday, October 6

Testing Day is almost here, Patriots! 

On Tuesday, October 6:
  • 9th, 10th & 11th grade students will take the PSAT
  • 12th-grade students will take the SAT
  • Read Ms. Tarantino’s email carefully for important testing information and your assigned testing location
  • Bring your laptop fully charged and ready for testing
  • Report directly to the testing location listed in Ms. Tarantino’s email

Be prepared, arrive ready, and do your best, Patriots! Good luck to all of our students!
A schedule table titled Standard Time Rooms, detailing periods, times, and minutes for a school day.
A schedule table titled "Extended Time Rooms" with columns for Period, Time, Minutes, and Notes, detailing testing periods and breaks.
 
A schedule table titled 'Semester 1 Assessments' detailing dates and details for SAT, PSAT, ACTNCR, PM2 ELA, and CFE Common Final Exams.

Academies in Action Explore Your Future

Career Pathways, Academy Highlights & OTC Opportunities

An informational flyer for Orange Technical College dual enrollment for 2027-2028, detailing requirements, benefits, and contact information.

College, Career & Senior Central

Class of 2027:Everything seniors need to plan, prepare, celebrate, and take the next step beyond Freedom.

Freedom Students Shine at College Fair!

Our recent College Fair was a tremendous success, welcoming representatives from 76 colleges and universities to connect with our Patriots and help them explore opportunities for life after high school.
Even better, our students made an incredible impression! College representatives shared wonderful feedback about their interactions with Freedom students:
“Students are kind and very interested in our programs.”
 “Great engagement.”
 “Students were great and asked a lot of questions.”
 “Students were very smart and engaging.”
 “Amazing students!”
We are Patriot Proud of the curiosity, professionalism, and enthusiasm our students demonstrated.
A college fair taking place inside a large gymnasium with students visiting tables and speaking with representatives.
A four-part college fair image shows students gathering around various tables in a gymnasium with red and blue bleachers.
 

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! 
An informational flyer announces that the FAFSA application is open, featuring details about Pell Grant money and October workshop schedules.
An informational graphic about FAFSA, outlining steps to apply, eligibility details, and workshop schedules.
What's Your Plan LINK
College & Career News This Week
An infographic detailing early application deadlines and requirements for Florida's state university system.
XELLO Family Resources
Getting started with XELLO

Our People, Our Pride

Recognizing the Staff Who Make Freedom Exceptional

Celebrating Our Classified Staff

Our classified staff took a well-deserved moment to come together and celebrate our August and September birthdays! 
We appreciate all that our classified team does each day to support our students, staff, and school community.
A group of people gather in a break room, smiling and chatting near a table with food.
A smiling woman in blue scrubs gestures to a busy breakroom where a group gathers around a food table.
A group of adults participate in a movement activity or line dancing in a brightly lit room.
A group of adults gather in a well-lit room, with two women dancing together in the foreground while others stand near a food table.
 

Congratulations to Our Outstanding Custodial Team!

A big congratulations to our incredible custodial team as we celebrate National Custodian Day! 
Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to keeping Freedom clean, safe, and welcoming do not go unnoticed. You take care of our campus and our Patriot family every single day, and we are grateful for all that you do.
A group of adults in matching blue, white, and red athletic shirts pose together indoors in a gymnasium.
A diverse group of six adults stands smiling together inside a room decorated with colorful balloons, confetti, and festive bunting.

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.

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. 💙🖤💛

Next SAC-PTSA Meeting October 19th

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.
 

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!
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