submitte by Nichole Smith, Montverde Academy
Montverde Academy’s Class of 2026 kicked off their senior year with a retreat filled with tradition, celebration, and community-building activities. Over the course of several days, students came together to bond, reflect on their journey, and look ahead to their final year of high school.
The retreat began on Thursday with a festive senior breakfast featuring a waffle bar, pancakes, and more. Afterward, students gathered in the auditorium where they heard from school leadership, including a warm welcome from Mr. David Bernatavitz, Associate Head of School and Dean of the Upper School, and an address from Head of School, Mr. Jon Hopman, who shared the significance of leaving behind a legacy one can be proud of. Senior Class President Lyder Reksten also shared remarks with her peers, focusing on the importance of kindness defining “who we want to be”, setting the tone for a memorable weekend.
Students then voted on their class T-shirt design and prom theme before learning about yearbook traditions and senior superlatives. Guest speaker Jessica Villegas, CEO of Hi-Lite Youth Programs, delivered an engaging presentation about responsibility and making choices, followed by a spirited human wheelbarrow race and the sticky note pick-up class competitions.
The afternoon brought one of the highlights of the retreat: a trip to Island H2O water park. Seniors enjoyed the lazy river, wave pool and water rides.
“The first day of senior retreat was amazing,” said senior Kaylia Ramcheran. “We started off the day listening to a handful of inspiring speakers. One of my biggest take-aways was from Jessica Villegas, the CEO of Hi-Lite, who reminded us how important making one great choice can be. Later, we headed to Island H2O Waterpark! I had an amazing time with my friends hanging out in the lazy river, riding water slides, and enjoying some food. I can’t wait to experience the rest of these activities that come with senior year.”
The next morning began with the tradition of Senior Sunrise, followed by a Chick-fil-A breakfast. Seniors received their commemorative “Celebrating Senior Year” T-shirts and spent time with College Counseling to focus on the path ahead.
One of the most meaningful parts of the retreat was the Build-a-Bike service project. Students assembled bicycles, which were later donated through the Lake County Sheriff’s Office to children in need. The tradition concluded with exciting bike races in the Tower Loop, filling campus with laughter and school spirit.
The morning wrapped up with important information about graduation, followed by information on senior speeches, and reflections from Mr. Bernatavitz.
The retreat extended into the weekend as seniors gathered on Saturday and Sunday to paint their personalized parking spaces, a beloved tradition that lets each student leave a creative mark on campus.
From the first breakfast to the final brushstroke, the senior retreat was filled with moments of unity, joy, and tradition. The Class of 2026 left the weekend with stronger bonds, lasting memories, and a shared sense of excitement for the year ahead.
