Participating schools included East Ridge High School, Eustis High School, Leesburg High School, Montverde Academy, Mount Dora Christian Academy, Mount Dora High School, Pinecrest Lake Prep, South Lake High School, South Sumter High School, Tavares High School, The Villages High School, Umatilla High School, and Wildwood Middle High School.

Each team tackled 40 complex math problems within a 60-minute time frame, covering topics ranging from college-level algebra to advanced concepts in pre-calculus and trigonometry. The competition tested not only accuracy but also speed, as teams earned bonus points for being the first to submit correct answers—adding a strategic element to the challenge.

“Mathlympics is an opportunity for students to engage deeply with mathematics in a way that is both rigorous and inspiring,” said Dr. Megan Cavanah, Dean of Mathematics. “Our faculty take great pride in every aspect of this event, from crafting challenging problems and designing an engaging theme to creating a welcoming environment and recognizing students with meaningful awards. The event is a true reflection of LSSC’s commitment to student learning, collaboration, and excellence in mathematics.”

After an intense round of competition, Montverde Academy’s Team B claimed first place.

The top four teams were:

• Montverde Academy (Team B)
• Eustis High School (Team A)
• East Ridge High School (Team B)
• South Sumter High School (Team A)

An honorable mention was awarded to Montverde Academy Team A, which would have placed in the top four but was ineligible under competition rules limiting final rankings to one team per school.

Rounding out the top 10 were teams from Pinecrest Lake Prep, East Ridge High School, The Villages High School, Mount Dora Christian Academy, and South Sumter High School. Notably, two teams finished with identical scores, with final placement determined by a tiebreaker based on performance on the most challenging 20-point questions.

LSSC’s math faculty take pride in crafting a unique and engaging problem set each year—one that emphasizes curiosity, logic, and creativity alongside technical skill. This thoughtful approach has helped establish Mathlympics as a respected and highly anticipated academic event in the region.

“Events like Mathlympics reflect our commitment to academic excellence and community partnership,” said Karen Hogans, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “We are proud to provide a space where students can challenge themselves, connect with peers, and experience the excitement of higher-level learning. We look forward to celebrating 40 years of Mathlympics next year.”

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Holland delivered a perfect showing, capturing first place in all three events she entered. She won the 100-meter hurdles in 14.27 seconds, the 400-meter hurdles in a personal-best time of 1:01.16, and the triple jump with a mark of 11.59 meters. Her trio of victories marks the first time in her career that she has claimed district titles in any state series event.

The senior’s breakthrough performances represent a culmination of steady progress throughout her MVA career. Last year, Holland recorded second-place finishes in both the long jump and triple jump at the district meet. Two years ago, she finished as the district runner-up in the 100-meter hurdles, 400-meter hurdles, and triple jump.

Now in her third year with the program, Holland has firmly established herself among the elite competitors while continuing to elevate her performances on biggest stages.

Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Holland is a leader on campus, serving as a Prefect at MVA. A native of Portsmouth, Virginia, she cites Piano Theory as her favorite class and values the school’s culture of dedication to both its academics and athletics programs.

Looking ahead, Holland aspires to become a leader in the engineering or finance field.

Holland also continues a strong family legacy in MVA track & field. She is the younger sister of Micayah Holland ’23, a decorated former Eagle who was named the Florida Dairy Farmers Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year in 2022. Micayah was a state champion in the 100 and 200 meters and claimed the Adidas Indoor National title in the 60 meters that year as well.

With her recent district championship performance, Jizelle Holland has added her own chapter to that legacy—one defined by perseverance, growth, and championship success.

Holland and the rest of her qualifying teammates return to the track on Friday May 1 for the FHSAA Regional Championships at Wildwood High School in Wildwood.

**The Montverde Academy Student-Athlete of the Week award is sponsored by the 2025-26 Montverde Academy Booster Club.

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Jasmine Gaines of East Ridge High School has distinguished herself as an outstanding scholar, maintaining an impressive 5.2 GPA while earning numerous prestigious honors. She has been a three-time finalist at both the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the State Science and Engineering Fair of Florida. At the Lake County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, she earned Best in Show and First Place for three consecutive years. Her academic accomplishments also include earning the AP Capstone Diploma, being named an AP Scholar with Honor, and receiving recognition from Oracle Academy and NASA Deep Space Logistics for her work in systems software and robotics.

Beyond the classroom, Jasmine has proven to be an exceptional leader. She has been actively involved in Student Government since 2022 and has served as Student Body President since her sophomore year. She is the founder and president of the East Ridge High School STEAM Club, where her leadership helped the school earn the Lake County Schools Gold STEAM School Award for two consecutive years. In addition, she serves as Vice President of the National Honor Society and is a member of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee.

Jasmine’s dedication to her community is equally impressive. She has completed more than 500 hours of community service, volunteering with organizations such as Hands of Hope Scouts America, Thrive Clermont, and her church’s summer camp. She has also given her time as a science fair judge for a local elementary school and contributed 183 hours at a neuroscience clinic, assisting elderly, disabled, and vulnerable patients.

Looking ahead, Jasmine plans to pursue a degree in neuroscience with the goal of becoming a neurologist. She hopes to combine innovation and technology to help advance treatments and ultimately find a cure for neurodegenerative diseases.

In recognition of her remarkable achievements and commitment to service, Jasmine Gaines of East Ridge High School has been awarded the $1,000 Ray Goodgame Outstanding Student Leader Scholarship.

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Lake Technical College recently welcomed students from South Lake High School and Umatilla High School for an immersive field trip designed to connect classroom instruction with real-world career pathways in advanced manufacturing and engineering. The initiative provided students with hands-on exposure to technical training programs, as well as industry site visits with local manufacturing partners. Please find the attached press release titled “Lake Technical College Hosts First-Ever Manufacturing & Engineering Field Trip for High School Students.”

This event highlights Lake Technical College’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and strengthening partnerships between education and industry, while preparing students for high-demand, high-skill careers.

We invite you to review the attached release for full details. For additional information, interview requests, or media inquiries, please contact Kimberly Frazier at (352) 589-2250 Ext. 1842 or FrazierK@lake.k12.fl.us.

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 From February 11–15, the Montverde Academy Model United Nations (EagleMUN) team competed at the North American Invitational Model United Nations conference (NAIMUN), hosted by Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. NAIMUN is one of the largest student-led conferences in the world. Over 250 Georgetown students interact directly with more than 3,500 upper school delegates from over 20 countries.   

Model United Nations is an academically competitive speech and debate simulation of the United Nations. Students compete as “delegates,” representing countries and individuals on specific topics assigned in a committee. Conferences are hosted by collegiate teams and private organizations around the world.  

In addition to the conference, students visited the office and met with Congressman Daniel Webster, who serves Florida’s 11th Congressional District. Students were also given a private tour of the Capitol Building by members of the congressman’s staff.  

 Additionally, students participated in a tour of Georgetown University guided by our very own Secretary General of EagleMUN, Jacob Novis.  Some even managed to find time for a snowball fight, something new for a few Florida students!  

 Sophomore Isabella Salgado earned a “Verbal Commendation” at the conference, an award recognizing her high-quality performance, active participation, and strong debate skills.  

 Here is a breakdown of students and their delegations at NAIMUN:  

Representing India:  

• Arctic Council: Humza Bajwa and Adam Hymore  

• Commission on the Status of Women: Carington Helms and Noor Cheema  

• Group of 77: Jesiah Howard and Jeevan Mahal  

• High Level Political Forum: Zara Liles-Henry and Raquel Teixeira E Silva  

• Pacific Environmental Program: Emily Nguyen and Krisha Patel  

• Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia: Jacob Novis and Eisha Cheema  

• Disarmament and Security: Camelia Berrada Allam and Islay Smith  

Specialized and Crisis Committees:  

• Historical Crisis: Incan Succession 1529: Laura Menossi  

• National Diet of Japan: Émilie Lapouble  

• Ad-Hoc: Andrew Bourne  

• Supreme Court: Isabella Salgado  

• White House Situation Room: Elissa Ghanem  

NAIMUN marks the end of the traveling season for the EagleMUN team. As a program, EagleMUN had its largest year yet, with 50 different students participating in KnightMUN (UCF), GatorMUN (UF), and NAIMUN (D.C.).  

The season is not completely over! Over Spring Break, students Camelia Berrada Allam and Islay Smith will be teaming up to represent MVA at the National High School Model United Nations conference in New York City. Good luck Camelia and Islay in New York!  

On April 4, EAGLEMUN IV hosted on the MVA campus from 8 a.m. –  4 p.m. Last year, 20 eighth grade students participated. This year, we expect nearly 80 students across five committees, including delegates from five visiting schools. 

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Lake Technical College, the region’s premier provider of workforce education and career training, is inviting the community to explore their future at the Spring 2026 Career TechXpo Open Houses. 

These dynamic events give prospective students the opportunity to step inside Lake Tech’s industry-driven training programs, meet expert instructors, tour cutting-edge facilities, and experience firsthand how Lake Tech prepares students for high-wage, high-demand careers. 

Attendees will explore more than 30 workforce programs designed to launch a career quickly—many in as little as one year. Guests will also have the chance to interact with current students, see industry equipment in action, and speak directly with faculty and staff about career pathways 

Lake Technical College, the region’s premier provider of workforce education and career training, is inviting the community to explore their future at the Spring 2026 Career TechXpo Open Houses. 

These dynamic events give prospective students the opportunity to step inside Lake Tech’s industry-driven training programs, meet expert instructors, tour cutting-edge facilities, and experience firsthand how Lake Tech prepares students for high-wage, high-demand careers. 

Attendees will explore more than 30 workforce programs designed to launch a career quickly—many in as little as one year. Guests will also have the chance to interact with current students, see industry equipment in action, and speak directly with faculty and staff about career pathways. 

Lake Tech’s Admissions, Financial Aid, and Business Office teams will also be on-site to guide visitors through the application and enrollment process. 

As an added bonus, attendees will be entered for a chance to win a $500 tuition scholarship toward their training. 

Three opportunities to explore your future: 

• Monday, April 6, 2026 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM o Main Campus – 2001 Kurt Street, Eustis, FL 32726. Explore a wide variety of career programs including healthcare, construction trades, culinary arts, information technology, and more. 

• Monday, April 13, 2026 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM o Institute of Public Safety – 1565 Ken Bragg Way, Tavares (formerly Lane Park Cut Off Road). Experience Lake Tech’s renowned public safety programs including the Firefighter/EMT Combination Program, Florida Law Enforcement Academy, and Corrections Officer Training. 

o Transportation Innovation Hub – 950 Captain Haynes Rd, Tavares. Tour Lake Tech’s newest workforce training center featuring cutting-edge programs such as Diesel Systems Technician and Master Automotive Service Technology, preparing the next generation of transportation and fleet technicians. 

Executive Director DeAnna Thomas shared the excitement surrounding the event: “Career TechXpo is one of my favorite events because it allows future students to see what is truly possible. At Lake Tech, we don’t just train students—we prepare them to enter the workforce with confidence and real skills. Visitors will experience our programs in action, meet the incredible instructors who lead them, and see the state-of-the-art equipment our students train on every day. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a meaningful career, this is the place to start.” 

Don’t just imagine your future—experience it! The event is FREE, but we encourage guests to register through Eventbrite to secure your spot! Register here for our Main Campus Open House or our Institute of Public Safety and Transportation Innovation Hub Open House. 

Lake Technical College is a public, post-secondary institution that offers high quality training for over 30 career and technical programs, as well as, adult education classes for GED and ESOL. The main campus is located at 2001 Kurt St., Eustis. The Institute of Public Safety is located at 1565 Ken Bragg Way, Tavares. Visit the website www.laketech.org, or call (352) 589-2250 for more information. 

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All-Area First Team

Montverde Academy had two players on the All-Area First Team: Briana Burkhalter and Kendall Seays. Burkhalter finished the season with six goals and a team-high 23 assists, serving as a key playmaker throughout the year, while Seays added three goals and four assists, contributing across the midfield in a well-balanced attack.

All-Area Second Team

Four Eagles earned Second Team honors: Taylor Heaton, Vienna Morgan, Joy Palacios and Alyssa Strasbaugh. Heaton anchored a dominant defensive unit that held opponents scoreless in 19 of the team’s 23 matches. Morgan totaled eight goals and 12 assists during the season, while Palacios contributed two goals and three assists. Goalkeeper Alyssa Strasbaugh was a steady presence, recording all 21 wins while posting 18 shutouts and a 0.261 goals allowed average in nearly 1,700 minutes of action.

Honorable Mentions

Two additional players received Honorable Mention recognition. Caroline Ritchey finished second on the team in scoring with 11 goals to go along with seven assists, and Veronica Solano added three goals and eight assists.

Montverde Academy completed the season with a 21-1-1 overall record and an impressive 93-6 goal differential, culminating in the program’s state championship.

The All-Area selections reflect the depth, talent, and consistency that defined the Eagles’ season, as Montverde Academy established itself as one of the top programs in the state.

The Orlando Sentinel is a leading Central Florida daily newspaper that annually recognizes the top high school athletes in the region through its All-Area teams.

About Montverde Academy:

Montverde Academy is a private, independent college preparatory school for grades Pre-K3 through post-graduate studies, with a boarding program serving grades 7-12 representing 70+ nationalities. Our mission is to inspire students to become knowledgeable leaders with global vision and passion for learning, in a disciplined and diverse community that nurtures character development. For more information, visit us online at Montverde.org and at MVASports.com.

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 We’re taking learning to new heights in Aerospace Engineering! 

 In Ms. Chris Burrell’s Aerospace Engineering class, students are stepping into the role of real pilots, using Logitech flight joysticks and the GeoFS flight simulator to bring aviation concepts to life. 

After studying radio navigation, airport operations, flight planning, headings, airspeed, altitude, and instrument scanning, students designed a cross-country route between Central Florida airports and then executed their plan in a live simulation environment. From realistic takeoffs and smooth cruising to precise landings, they monitored instruments, followed programmed waypoints, and made in-flight corrections just like professional aviators. 

This hands-on experience transforms abstract concepts into real-world skills by building confidence, precision, and a deeper understanding of how modern air travel works. 

 The future of flight is in good hands! 

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