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Freedom HS Newsletter 2026 #13

Posted Date: 11/08/26 (05:30 PM)

A high school marching band walks across a grassy field near a building, carrying instruments and equipment.

The Patriot Pride Weekly

Freedom High School Newsletter #13

November 8, 2026
Dear Patriot Family:

As we move further into the second quarter, I continue to be amazed by the dedication, talent, and perseverance displayed by our students and staff each day. This week’s highlights are a perfect reflection of what makes Freedom High School such a special place.
Our student-athletes continue to make us proud. Congratulations to our football team, which has earned a spot in the playoffs for the first time in 17 years! Our girls soccer team also opened their season with two impressive victories, and Carlos Lujan brought home a top-three finish at the FHSAA State Diving Championships, an incredible accomplishment that places him among the best divers in Florida.
Our performing arts programs continue to shine as well. The Pride of the Patriots Marching Band earned a Superior rating, the highest possible score, from every adjudicator in every category at the FBA District 8 Marching Band MPA. This outstanding achievement is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and excellence of our students, directors, and supportive band families.
Academic success remains a priority at Freedom. Our counselors have been meeting with students to review academic progress and prepare them for future success. These important conversations help ensure that every student remains on track toward graduation and their college and career goals. Speaking of future planning, we are excited to celebrate College and Career Week, where more than 35 colleges, universities, and career programs will visit our campus to help students explore opportunities beyond high school.
As always, thank you for your partnership and support. Whether cheering from the stands, volunteering behind the scenes, attending events, or encouraging your student at home, your involvement plays an important role in our success. Together, we continue building a school community where every student can learn, lead, and thrive.

With Patriot Pride,

Charles M. France
 Principal

 Freedom High School
 Honor • Excellence • Tradition 💙❤️

The Freedom Timeline

Upcoming Events, Bell Schedules & Deadlines

A banner with the white text 'TWO WEEKS AT A GLANCE' on a solid brown background.
A November 2026 school calendar featuring College Week themes, sports games, and special events like Veterans Day.
A weekly school calendar from November 15 to November 21, 2026, featuring various events like meetings, sports games, and festivals with corresponding icons.
A patriotic graphic for Veterans Day features silhouettes of service members and an American flag.
A grid of six posters outlining College Spirit Week events, including Medical Monday, Travel the World, Wrong Occasion, Mathletes vs Athletes, and Military Branch Day.

Student Patriots in the Spotlight

Honoring Excellence On Campus and in the Community

Unlocking the Power of Persuasion

Students in Ms. Angel's class put their knowledge to the test through an engaging lockbox challenge focused on rhetorical appeals. Working collaboratively, students solved puzzles and opened locks by reviewing ethos, pathos, and logos before applying those concepts to Abraham Lincoln's historic Gettysburg Address. Each group played a critical role in determining the final lock combination, demonstrating that every student's contribution was essential to the team's success. The excitement built as classes worked together to unlock the final box and claim their prize! This hands-on activity supports the work taking place across all 9th Grade English classes, where students are exploring rhetorical appeals and analyzing how authors and speakers use persuasive techniques to communicate powerful messages.
A collage of students working collaboratively on interactive learning activities in a bright classroom.
 

Rigorous Discussion and Literary Analysis in English II

Students in Ms. Kraher’s English II classes engaged in meaningful collaboration and rigorous academic discussions as they prepared for an upcoming quiz. Through thoughtful analysis of tone, characterization, and other key literary elements, students worked together to deepen their understanding of the novel being studied. By sharing perspectives, supporting their ideas with evidence, and engaging in purposeful dialogue, students strengthened both their critical thinking and communication skills while building confidence in their literary analysis.
Students are seated at desks in a bright classroom, reading books and studying.
Students sit at desks in a brightly lit classroom, facing a digital display and whiteboard with lesson prompts.

Patriot Innovation: Leading the Future with AI

Learn. Innovate. Create. Lead.

AI-Powered Creativity and Communication

Students in Mr. Macon's Principles of Entrepreneurship class are developing essential public speaking and communication skills through a creative, technology-infused project. Students began by writing original haiku and then used artificial intelligence tools to design professional-looking flyers showcasing their work. By combining creativity, communication, and emerging technology, students are learning how AI can serve as a valuable partner in the design process while strengthening the public speaking and presentation skills critical to future entrepreneurial success. 
A teacher gestures toward a large digital display showing an informational poster about hurricanes and their impacts.
A teacher points to a digital screen displaying weather maps in a bright, modern classroom filled with students using laptops.
 
A teacher points to a digital screen displaying a red-lit video in a classroom while students watch from their desks.

Superheroes, AI, and How Machines Learn

Students in Mr. Key’s AI class are exploring how artificial intelligence learns by connecting complex concepts to something familiar: superheroes! Through engaging discussions and activities, students examined how AI identifies patterns, makes predictions, and improves over time, much like superheroes develop their skills. By making learning relatable and interactive, students gained a deeper understanding of the technology shaping our world while building critical-thinking skills for the responsible use of AI.
A computer monitor displays a "Laptop Troubleshooting Guide" on its screen in a library or media center.

Student Tech Support at Their Fingertips

Our TSR, Mr. Shaeffer, is developing a resource to help students troubleshoot common laptop issues when technical support is not immediately available. By using Gemini Notebook resources, students can independently identify solutions, build problem-solving skills, and minimize disruptions to their learning.
 

AI Transparency Statement:

Each edition of our Freedom High School newsletter highlights the people, programs, and achievements that make our Patriot community extraordinary. Every story, photo, and celebration featured reflects the authentic experiences, accomplishments, and contributions of our students, teachers, coaches, staff, and families.
To support the creation of the newsletter, we may use AI-powered tools such as Microsoft Copilot, Canva, and ChatGPT to assist with editing, organizing, formatting, and refining content. These tools help enhance the presentation of our stories, but the information shared always comes from real events and the genuine successes of our Freedom High School community.
Technology helps us tell the story more effectively, but the heart of every story remains our Freedom Patriots.

Building School Spirit, Creating Memories, and Making Connections

Freedom Fridays: Building Patriot Connections

Our traditional Freedom Fridays continue to be a highlight of the week as students come together during A and B lunches to enjoy a variety of fun, interactive games hosted by our dedicated student clubs and volunteers. Beyond the friendly competition and excitement, these activities provide valuable opportunities for students to meet new peers, strengthen friendships, and build meaningful connections across campus. Freedom Fridays help foster a strong sense of belonging and school spirit, reminding our Patriots that being connected to their school community is an important part of the high school experience.
A collage of six photos showing students engaged in various outdoor campus activities and games.

Patriot Fine Arts & Stage

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

Pride of the Patriots Earns Superior Ratings at Marching Band MPA!

Congratulations to the Freedom High School Pride of the Patriots Marching Band for an outstanding performance at the FBA District 8 Marching Band Music Performance Assessment (MPA) held at Boone High School. The band earned a Superior rating, the highest possible score, from every adjudicator in every category. This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication, talent, and countless hours of hard work of our student musicians, directors, and band families. We are incredibly proud of this exceptional accomplishment!
A large high school marching band and color guard stand together in formation outside a modern school building.
A large group of marching band members in blue, white, and red uniforms stand together outdoors at night.

Marching Band Excellence: A Season Worth Celebrating

Last night, our Freedom Patriot Marching Band demonstrated the incredible results that come from dedication, perseverance, and teamwork, earning Superior ratings across the board at MPA. This outstanding achievement reflects months of hard work, commitment, and passion from every member of our band family.
We proudly honor and thank each of our band students for the countless hours spent practicing after school, late into the evenings, and on weekends. Your dedication, discipline, and determination paid off in a remarkable performance that made our school community proud.
A special thank you goes to Dr. Antmann, Ms. Davis, and our dedicated band assistants, whose leadership, expertise, and unwavering support helped guide our students toward excellence throughout the season. We are also deeply grateful to our incredible parent volunteers who generously gave their time behind the scenes, helping with uniforms, equipment, transportation, fundraising, and countless other needs that make a successful marching band program possible.
This achievement is truly the result of an entire village working together. Congratulations to our Freedom Patriot Marching Band on an unforgettable season and an outstanding performance at MPA. 
A composite image shows various scenes from a night marching band event, including performers on the field, staff members watching, and hanging uniforms.
A collage of a marching band performing on a football field during a nighttime event, along with photos of members practicing and staff standing by a truck.

Patriot Athletics Spotlight

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

Patriot Diver Earns a Spot Among Florida's Best

Congratulations to Carlos Lujan on an outstanding performance at the state diving competition! Carlos showcased incredible skill, determination, and composure as he competed against the top divers in Florida, earning a Top 3 finish in the state. This remarkable achievement is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence both in and out of the pool. The entire Freedom community is proud of Carlos for representing our Patriots at the highest level and achieving such an impressive accomplishment. Go Patriots!
A young swimmer wearing a bronze medal and smiling proudly while standing on a stage.
 

17 Years in the Making: Patriots Punch Their Ticket to the Playoffs!

For the first time in 17 years, our Freedom High School football team has earned a spot in the playoffs, making this season one for the history books! Our Patriots have achieved a milestone that our school and community can be proud of.
Now, the journey continues as the Patriots take on Innovation High School in the first round of the playoffs Thursday, November 12. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, families, and supporters who have cheered them on every step of the way.
Let's pack the stands and show our Patriot pride! We encourage our students, families, alumni, and community members to come out and support our team as they continue this historic run. Together, let's make some noise and show our Patriots that Freedom stands behind them.
A promotional graphic for a playoff football game with bold white and red text, a patriot mascot logo, and a football illustration.
A football team stands in a line with arms around each other on a field at night.
 

Patriot Girls Soccer Starts Season Strong with Two Big Wins!

Our Freedom High School girls soccer team opened the season in impressive fashion, earning two decisive victories and showcasing outstanding teamwork on both ends of the field.
In their season opener, the Patriots dominated Colonial High School 8-0. Goal scorers included Lara Skaf with an incredible four goals, Kayce Fitts, Gabriela Sarmiento, Hanna Galindo, and Luz Quintero, who each added a goal. Defensively, Nour Beshara secured the shutout in goal to complete the commanding victory.
The Patriots followed up with another strong performance, defeating Dr. Phillips High School 5-1. Goals were scored by Annabelle Galleguillos, Helena Motta, Luz Quintero, Gabriela Sarmiento, and Lara Skaf. In goal, Nour Beshara was outstanding once again, recording seven saves to help preserve the win.
A girls' soccer team poses on a lit football field at night, holding up hand signs in front of a Freedom Patriots scoreboard.
A girls' soccer team poses for a group photo on a lit field at night, making hand gestures.
 

Freedom Cross Country: A Season of Growth and Success!

Our Cross Country season came to a close on Saturday, and we could not be more proud of our Patriot runners. Throughout the season, our athletes demonstrated determination, resilience, and a commitment to improvement, achieving personal records, reaching goals, and creating lasting memories along the way.
The coaching staff celebrates all that this team accomplished and the tremendous growth shown both on and off the course. While the season may be over, the foundation has been set for an even brighter future.
A diverse high school cross-country team poses together outdoors in uniform shirts reading Freedom Cross Country.
Two smiling track athletes in matching maroon and white Freedom Patriots singlets stand on a grassy field, wearing bib numbers 330 and 329.
 
A table displaying the Freedom Soccer boys soccer schedule for the 2026-2027 season, including dates, times, opponents, and locations.
 
Freedom Athletics reminders: Tickets for sporting events available at GoFan.co or freedomathletics.com.
 

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!
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.
A schedule chart titled 'Semester 1 Assessments' details PM2 ELA retakes on Dec 1, 2026, and CFE common final exams from Dec 7-10, 2026.

Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Building Skills, Earning Certifications, Creating Futures

A table detailing CTE Industry Certification Exams for Semester 1 2026-2027, listing programs, teachers, tests, dates, and locations.
 

Industry Certifications: Unlocking Opportunities for Patriots

Our students have exciting opportunities ahead as they work toward earning valuable industry certifications! Over the coming weeks, Ms. Dye will be visiting our CTE classrooms to share the many benefits of earning an industry certification, including enhanced career readiness, college and employment opportunities, and the ability to showcase in-demand skills to future employers.
We encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities and learn how industry certifications can help them stand out as they prepare for life after high school.
For more information, please visit the link below.
CTE Industry Benefits
An informational flyer from Orange Technical College and Freedom High School about apprenticeships and career certificate programs for seniors.
A promotional flyer for an AdventHealth Healthcare Exploring open house for ages 16-20, featuring a smiling young woman with braided hair.
A promotional flyer for an AdventHealth Healthcare Exploring open house for ages 16-20, featuring a smiling young woman and event details.
A promotional flyer for a healthcare exploring program for ages 16-20, featuring a smiling young woman with a stethoscope.
A promotional flyer for an AdventHealth Healthcare Exploring open house for ages 16-20, featuring a smiling young woman with a stethoscope.

Patriot Standards

Promoting Respect, Responsibility & Readiness

Counselors Supporting Student Success

Our school counselors have already met with all 9th-grade students and are currently meeting with 10th-grade students to review academic progress, discuss graduation requirements, and identify any support students may need to stay on track for success.
In December, counselors will begin meeting with 11th-grade students and will continue working with 9th- and 10th-grade students to help them select courses and plan for the upcoming school year. These meetings ensure students make informed decisions that align with their academic, college, and career goals.
A contact directory for the Freedom High School Student Services Department for 2026-2027, featuring Mrs. Maria Caliari as Assistant Principal.
An informational graphic from Orange County Public Schools detailing four high school diploma designations and seals.
 

Amnesty Saturdays: Time to Get Caught Up!

Need extra time to complete assignments before the end of the marking period? Amnesty Saturdays provide students with a valuable opportunity to make up missing assignments, receive academic support, and improve their grades before report cards are finalized.
Join us in the Media Center from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to take advantage of this dedicated work time and stay on track for success.
Next Amnesty Saturday: October 31st
Students are encouraged to bring their school-issued device and any assignments they need to complete. Take advantage of this opportunity to finish strong and set yourself up for success!
See the calendar below for additional Amnesty Saturday dates throughout the year.
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

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.
A cartoon mascot for Freedom High School holds a laptop with OCPS logo text, alongside a rhyming poem about device usage.

Patriot College & Career and Senior Connection

 

College & Career Week is Here!

Join us during A and B Lunch for an exciting College & Career Week! More than 35 colleges, universities, and career programs will be on campus, providing students with valuable opportunities to explore their future options and connect with representatives.
Students are encouraged to participate in our lunch activities and show their school spirit by joining our daily dress-up themes:

  • Medical Monday 🩺
  • Travel the World Tuesday 🌎
  • Wild Card Wednesday 🎲
  • Techno Thursday đź’»
  • Freedom Friday ❤️💙

A schedule for College Week at Freedom High School, detailing spirit days and visiting programs from November 9-13.
A flyer for a Valencia College Application Workshop for seniors, scheduled for November 18, 2026, in the cafeteria.
An informational flyer detailing the 2027-28 FAFSA application, including what it is, who should apply, and the 5 steps to apply.
A promotional flyer for "Destination FAMU" on November 20, detailing a student event with schedules, learning points, and approval requirements.
A promotional poster for the 4th Annual HBCU College Fair hosted by VCAHA at Valencia College, scheduled for Thursday, November 19th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
What's Your Plan LINK
Getting started with XELLO
XELLO Family Resources
An infographic detailing early application deadlines and requirements for Florida's state university system.
 

Senior Updates

Capture the Memories. Celebrate the Moments. Order Your 2026-2027 Freedom High School Yearbook Today!

Don't miss your chance to own this year's Freedom High School Yearbook and relive the memories, friendships, events, achievements, and Patriot Pride that make this year unforgettable!
Order now at yearbookordercenter.com
 School Code: 21835
Yearbook Price: $75 through January 2027
 Price increases to $85 after January.

Senior Recognition Ads Available! Celebrate your senior with a personalized ad in the yearbook. Space is limited, so reserve yours today!
Full Page: $300
 Half Page: $160
 Quarter Page: $85
 1/8 Page (Business Card Size): $55
Senior Ad Deadline: January 31, 2027

Give your senior a surprise they'll cherish forever and make sure your family is part of this year's Patriot history!
A promotional poster for the Freedom Yearbook, featuring a patriotic red, white, and blue theme with stars.
A flyer for the FHS Senior Picture Roadshow #3 on December 3rd at Freedom High School's Media Center, featuring two graduation portraits and booking instructions.

Dear Senior Class of 2027

Your senior year is in full swing! This page will be your go-to hub for all things related to the senior class. Check back often, as I will post updates and information about senior-year events. Your Class of 2027 T-Shirt is now available for purchase. You may purchase it for $10.00 cash by seeing me in the cafeteria during your lunch. Please see the calendar below for dates and information regarding future events. Let me know if you have any questions.

Senior Class of 2027 Dates and Events

Dec 3 Senior Class of 2027 Panoramic Photo
  • 2nd period in the Gym. 
  • Wear senior T-shirt if you have one. Shirt not mandatory for photo.

Jan 12 Senior Cap/Gown & Announcement Assembly in FHS Cafeteria
  • 3rd period: A – L 
  • 4th period: M – Z

Jan 20 Jostens on campus during both lunch shifts for Cap/Gown & Announcement orders

Jan 23 Jostens on campus in front of school for Cap/Gown & Announcement orders
  • Jostens on campus from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Feb 1 -13 Grad Nite Ticket Sales (online only)
  • Online ticket sales on SchoolCash for Grad Nite. 
  • Tickets are $130 each. FHS seniors only; no guests allowed; must not have any obligations.

Feb 22, 24, 26 Grad Nite Ticket Sales (cash only)
  • Cash ticket sales for Grad Nite after school in the media center. 
  • Tickets are $130 each.
  • FHS seniors only; no guests allowed; must not have any obligations.

April 30 Senior Signing Day
  • 9:00 am in the FHS Gymnasium. 
  • Parents are invited to attend your college signing day ceremony. 
  • Be sure to send/give your acceptance letter to your guidance counselor.

Grad Nite 2027 @ Busch Gardens in Tampa
  • Attendees (FHS seniors only) will meet in the cafeteria at 4:30 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 8 Cap and Gown distribution/pick-up
  • 9:00 am – 1:00 pm in the FHS Gymnasium.

Prom
  • Prom questions should be directed to Ms. Flores. Jamie.Schroeder@ocps.net

May 13 SENIORS LAST DAY/Senior Walkout

May 14 Senior Closeout in Media Center
  • Device/Textbook return, clear obligations & graduation ticket pick-up.

Senior Awards Night
  • 7:00 pm in the PAC. 
  • Seniors receiving recognition will be invited.

TBD CLASS OF 2027 COMMENCEMENT

Freedom Family Resources

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

Inspire the Next Generation: Join Freedom High School's Teach-In Day!

Do you have a story to share, a career to showcase, or life experiences that could inspire the next generation? Freedom High School invites parents, community members, business professionals, military personnel, first responders, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders to participate in our annual Teach-In Day and make a lasting impact on our students.
Teach-In Day provides a unique opportunity for volunteers to connect with students by sharing their educational journey, career experiences, skills, and advice for future success. Whether you work in healthcare, technology, finance, engineering, education, public service, the trades, or another profession, your experiences can help students see the many pathways available after high school.
This tradition brings learning to life by allowing students to hear directly from professionals and community leaders, helping them make meaningful connections between classroom learning and future careers. Through these conversations, our Patriots gain valuable insight, motivation, and inspiration as they begin planning for their futures.
Scan the QR code on the flyer below to sign up!
Promotional flyer for Freedom High School Teach-In on November 19, 2026, featuring classroom photos, a signup QR code, and a volunteer link.
A colorful graphic with text reading 'November is Florida Family Engagement Month' against a gradient background.

Patriot Voices Wanted: Join PTSA and SAC!

Flyer for Freedom High School SAC & PTSA meeting dates with a blue and red design and white background.
A promotional flyer for the Freedom High School PTSA October Membership Drive, featuring a $10 registration fee and a mascot pointing forward.

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
A promotional graphic for the PTA features three value areas and a school mascot with two adults.
 

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