“After more than 35 years of serving students, educators, and families, I have decided to retire at the end of this upcoming school year,” Kornegay wrote in an email to staff. “Deciding to retire has been one of the most difficult decisions of my career. While I know this is the right time for me personally, it is bittersweet to step away from a profession and a community that mean so much to me.

“Serving as Superintendent of Lake County Schools has been the honor of a lifetime,” she continued. “I have been blessed to work alongside exceptional teachers, dedicated staff, outstanding school leaders, supportive families, and committed community partners who have always put students first. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to serve with an extraordinary School Board that, through even the most challenging of times, has remained united by a shared vision, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for every student in Lake County.”

Kornegay was appointed Superintendent of Lake County Schools in 2017 after serving in several leadership roles in Clay County Schools, including Deputy Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Director of School Improvement and Teaching Training, as well as school principal.

Under Kornegay’s leadership, the district has made significant strides in academic performance and program offerings. It achieved an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education in 2025 and again in 2026, the first consecutive A grades in the district’s history. LCS implemented several alternative education programs to meet the varied needs and interests of students, including a high school technical education program offering workforce dual enrollment onsite in partnership with Lake Technical College.

Also, LCS has expanded access to high-demand Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs across all middle and high schools, and all high schools now provide accelerated diploma tracks, including AICE, Advanced Placement, and IB programs.

Additionally, when Kornegay stepped into the chief leadership role at the district, the graduation rate was 77.8 percent. She set a goal to get the district to at least 90 percent. Since then, the graduation rate has soared to 96 percent for district-operated schools – the highest in the district’s recorded history.

In recognition of her transformational leadership, Kornegay was selected as Florida’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents (FADSS) in December 2025.

“Effective May 28, 2027, I will retire with immense pride in all we have accomplished together and complete confidence in the bright future ahead for Lake County Schools,” Kornegay wrote. “With another school year still ahead, I remain fully committed to serving the students, employees, and community throughout the 2026-27 school year while ensuring a smooth leadership transition. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving this incredible community. I will always cherish the relationships, the memories, and the remarkable work we have and will continue to accomplish together.”

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“I am so pleased that Tripp was recognized by the FCSAA to be the recipient of this award. He put in the time and effort to grow as an individual, as a golfer, and as a leader on our team,” said head coach Meredith Yaun.

After a successful freshman season, Watkins returned as a strong leader to a team of sophomores. He achieved his first individual win in a one round match against Eastern Florida State College in October.

He carded a two-under score on the front nine following with a +1 on the back nine to post a career-best 71 (-1). His leadership on the course also helped the Lakehawks to the program’s first win.

Watkins’ individual win came with regional recognition. He was named the FCSAA October Golfer of the Month, another first for the program.

Watkins’ next standout performance came at the 2026 Lakehawk Invitational where he tied for first in individual standing with a +3 two-round score. He narrowly missed the individual champion title after a sudden death playoff which stretched three extra holes.

The FCSAA named Watkins the March Golfer of the Month after his performance at the Lakehawk Invite and a third place finish at the Pioneer Invitational in Gaffney, S.C.

Executive Director of Athletics Jay Miller says, “Tripp played a pivotal role in establishing our men’s golf program the last two years. He helped set the standard for future Lakehawk golfers.”

“He is a fierce competitor whose commitment to excellence has elevated everyone around him. Earning FCSAA Golfer of the Year is a well-deserved honor and further solidifies the legacy he leaves both on and off the course.”

Watkins’ Lakehawk career came to an end in Oxford, Ala. at the 2026 NJCAA South District Championship. He took fifth overall in the tournament with a +12 after three rounds of competition.

In addition to regional recognition and induvial success, Watkins was voted the 2025-26 Lakehawk Athletics Male Player of the Year, an award dedicated to honoring the most talented student-athlete in the department.

“We are incredibly proud of Tripp Watkins and all he has accomplished on the course and in the classroom,” said John Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College. “As one of the first student-athletes to take a chance on joining our College’s new men’s golf program, Tripp has helped lay a strong foundation for future Lakehawk success. We look forward to the bright future ahead for Tripp.” 

Watkins has etched his name into the Lakehawk Golf history books as a player, but he also brought value to the program as a person and a student.

This year, Watkins volunteered at the Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) Athletics Golf Classic and the LSSC Foundation Gala, as well as at home baseball and softball games assisting in the concession stand.

Watkins finished the 2026 championship season ranked no. 25 nationally. He will continue his education and collegiate golf career at New College of Florida in Sarasota, Fla.

As the men’s golf honoree, Watkins moves forward as a candidate for the FCSAA Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award. The finalists will be announced on Tuesday, June 30 followed by the winner on Thursday, July 2.

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Mitchell spent the 2021-22 season at MVA, helping lead the Eagles to a GEICO High School National Championship and a No. 1 national ranking. The Eagles captured their third consecutive national title that season, finishing atop the national polls after winning GEICO Nationals. Mitchell played a key role throughout the championship run, averaging 13.0 points and 11.3 rebounds during the national tournament.

Mitchell, a Tampa native, arrived at MVA as one of the nation’s premier prospects and quickly established himself as one of the top two-way players in high school basketball. During his lone season with the Eagles, he earned McDonald’s All-American honors, was named a MaxPreps Third Team All-American, earned Naismith Trophy Second Team All-America recognition, and was selected to the National Interscholastic Basketball Conference (NIBC) All-Defensive Team.

Following his graduation from MVA in 2022, Mitchell signed with the University of Texas, where he spent two seasons. He later transferred to the University of Cincinnati before finishing his collegiate career at St. John’s University under Hall of Fame head coach Rick Pitino.

At St. John’s, Mitchell helped lead the Red Storm to Big East regular-season and tournament championships while showcasing the athleticism and defensive versatility that made him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2026 draft class. He averaged 8.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game during his final collegiate season and earned All-Big East Defensive Team honors.

Known for his elite athleticism, rebounding ability, and defensive impact, Mitchell developed into one of the nation’s top defensive forwards during his college career. Those traits ultimately caught the attention of the Celtics, who made him the 40th overall selection.

The entire Montverde Academy community congratulates Dillon on this tremendous accomplishment and wishes him continued success as he begins his professional career with the Boston Celtics.

(Provided by Montverde Academy)

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Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) has been recognized as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education, honoring the College’s comprehensive commitment to supporting military students and their families.

The Collegiate Purple Star Campus program was established by the Florida Legislature to recognize institutions that demonstrate a strong and sustained focus on meeting the unique needs of military-affiliated students.

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, it is especially meaningful to recognize and support those who have served our nation, along with their families,” said John Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College. “The Collegiate Purple Star designation is evidence of our efforts to provide meaningful support for military affiliated students that promote their academic success and workforce readiness.”

For students like Ellis Allums, a retired U.S. Army combat veteran now pursuing a Bachelor of Elementary Education degree at LSSC, those efforts have made a meaningful difference.

Originally from Michigan, and now living in Apopka, Allums served two deployments in the Middle East as a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Operations and Fire Direction Specialist.

After retiring from the Army, Allums chose LSSC for its strong reputation for community engagement and its commitment to providing a supportive pathway for veterans returning to academic life. “Moving from a fast-paced military setting to a college classroom was a big change,” he said. “LSSC provides a structured environment that values my background and helps me use my military discipline to succeed in my studies.”

As a non-traditional student, Allums brings a mission-oriented mindset to his studies.  “The military taught me that structure, discipline, and resilience are key to success,” he said. “I approach every class with a mission-first attitude: adapt to challenges, stay focused under pressure, and always do my best.”

Allums is preparing for a career in education, where he plans to apply his experience and passion in the classroom to guide and inspire the next generation. He currently works as a substitute teacher in Orange County Public Schools. “Earning a degree in Elementary Education feels like a natural next step,” Allums said. “I discovered in the military that I enjoy teaching, mentoring, and helping others succeed. Now I want to use that experience to pay it forward to the next generation.”

As part of its commitment to military students, LSSC offers a range of support services, including a dedicated military liaison, a comprehensive veteran and military services webpage, student-led peer support programs, faculty and staff training, and priority course registration for military-affiliated students, and institutional recognition honoring military service.

“Our support network for veterans and military families is embedded throughout the student experience to ensure that these students have the resources they need to succeed,” said Dr. Joseph Mews, Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs. “Our goal is that these efforts reduce barriers and help them stay focused on their academic and professional goals.” “I would tell any veteran considering LSSC that it’s more than just a place to use your benefits,” Allums added. “It’s a community that truly respects your service. If you bring your military discipline here, the faculty and staff will give you the support and space you need to succeed.”

The Collegiate Purple Star Campus designation is awarded to Florida College System institutions that demonstrate a meaningful commitment to assisting military students in their transition to college and successful completion of their academic goals. The designation remains in effect for three academic years.

To learn more about the resources and benefits available to veterans and military families, visit www.lssc.edu/veterans.

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Lake Technical College is proud to announce it has been awarded First Place in the Technical Excellence category among Florida’s technical colleges in the Florida Department of Education’s Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge, a statewide competition commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary.

The award-winning sculpture, titled Wings on Overwatch, was designed and fabricated through a collaborative effort between students and instructors from Lake Technical College’s Welding Technology and Advanced Manufacturing programs. The piece will serve as a permanent installation on the Lake Tech campus, honoring the nation’s founding and the skilled trades that continue to build America’s future.

The Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge invited students from Florida’s public secondary and postsecondary institutions to design and create original metalwork inspired by the 250th anniversary of the United States. Projects were evaluated on craftsmanship, creativity, technical skill, and overall execution.

“Earning First Place in Technical Excellence is an incredible honor for Lake Technical College because it reflects exactly who we are and what we do,” said Melissa Stephan, Vice President of Curriculum and Instruction at Lake Technical College. “Every day, our students learn by creating, building, solving problems, and developing skills that directly translate to the workforce. This award recognizes their talent, dedication, and craftsmanship.”

The sculpture features a soaring eagle standing watch over a globe, symbolizing freedom, strength, vigilance, and the enduring spirit of the United States. The title, Wings on Overwatch, reflects the eagle’s role as a guardian and honors the generations of Americans who have protected and advanced the ideals established in 1776.

“When I look at Wings on Overwatch, I don’t just see a sculpture—I see hundreds of hours of learning, teamwork, creativity, and craftsmanship,” said, DeAnna Thomas, President Lake Technical College. “This project perfectly showcases what career and technical education is all about: giving students the opportunity to create something meaningful while developing skills that will serve them throughout their careers.”

The project was a true interdisciplinary effort, bringing together welding, fabrication, machining, design, and manufacturing skills. Students participated in every phase of development, from concept refinement and material preparation to fabrication, assembly, welding, and finishing.

The Florida Department of Education announced the winners on June 23, recognizing institutions across the state for outstanding student craftsmanship and creativity. Lake Technical College was named the Technical Excellence winner among Florida’s technical colleges, joining Martin County High School and Indian River State College as winners in their respective categories.

The recognition highlights the quality of workforce education programs offered at Lake Technical College and reinforces the institution’s commitment to preparing students for success in high-demand careers through hands-on, industry-driven training.

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 Lane Park Cutoff, Tavares. Visit the website www.laketech.org, or call (352) 589-2250 for more information.

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For the high school baseball world within Lake County, it is hard to say “play ball” without thinking about Coach Kerry Whetro and his lifetime of dedication to America’s favorite pastime and hundreds of high school athletes that he has had the opportunity to not only coach, but also mentor in a way that only a hometown-style coach can do.

Coach Whetro officially wrapped up a 42-year career at the closure of this school year. A career that would include a move to Florida from Ohio and 600+ total baseball game wins. Coach Whetro speaks with fondness regarding his childhood memories that would eventually lead to his lifetime of commitment to youth baseball coaching. “My dad, Hal, was a big influence on my life and my interest in baseball. My dad was a referee, umpire, and Little League coach for 50 years in our small and very rural hometown of Edgerton, Ohio,” says Coach Whetro.

The Coach recalls family vacations every year that included traveling to the Little League World Series. “I was playing little league myself then, so the trips were very exciting. We had the opportunity to meet baseball greats such as Tommy John (also known as the Bionic Man), Pete Rose, and Cal Ripken (also known as the Iron Man), while at the World Series,” says Coach Whetro.

Credit was also given to Coach Whetro’s school math teacher and baseball coach when he was growing up. Coach Peverly was not only a coach but a man who took the extra step in helping his players and his students. “He taught me a lot, about a lot of things. Mr. Peverly’s math skills taught me how to use protractors and calculate dimensions such as square footage and yards,” says Coach Whetro. Those skills would eventually help Coach Whetro to lay out the brand new and first baseball field at East Ridge High School in 2003.

From the early days of volunteering at the local recreation department in Edgerton during his early teen years, Coach Whetro would go on to play high school baseball before graduating high school and then earn his first degree in physical education at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio. He would later earn his master’s degree in education leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University, where he also helped coach a local Little League team. “Edgerton was a small farm town with little to offer long term – the only way out for kids graduating high school was sports or college,” says Coach Whetro.

When asked about memorable moments, Coach Whetro credited his hometown environment for his determination and unwillingness to give up on things that seemed impossible. “I was raised in a small community with a single small school, kindergarten through 12^th grade, and the small towns in Ohio were very judgmental about their local sports,” says Whetro. The coach recalls one such time when a rumor reached him outlining the opinion of a few parents that the team he was coaching at the time would never win a game due to the team’s size and small selection of talent to choose from within the town. Coach Whetro recalls, with a spirited smile, that the team not only won a majority of its games that year, but also advanced to the state finals that season. “We were only one pitch away from advancing to the final 4 that season – a little disappointed but the team, and parents were very pleased with the season,” says Coach Whetro.

For the next 14 years, Coach Whetro would teach elementary physical education and middle school math, as well as coach high school baseball at his hometown school in Edgerton. During that time, Coach Whetro was named coach of the All-Ohio Baseball Team in 1997. “I really enjoyed teaching just as much as I did coaching, especially when I got to see a kid go to college and make their dreams come true – a sentiment that continued through my entire career,” says Coach Whetro.

Life would lead to a brand-new opportunity for Coach Whetro and his wife, Paula, when the couple made the move to Florida in 1999. The family was truly travelling to Florida on spiritual faith, as the future was not certain, but the feeling of “a calling” was. Coach Whetro’s wife was working on a plan to create what would later become Building Blocks Ministries, an assistance program for adults with disabilities in south Lake County. This dream became a success and is still in operation today. Coach Whetro, at the same time, had been interviewed by phone with success and acceptance for a teaching position at the brand-new Windy Hill Middle School in Clermont. He began his Florida baseball coaching career at South Lake High School.

In 2003, Coach Whetro was asked to take on the Varsity Coaching position and set up the new baseball field at East Ridge High School. Coach Whetro led the school’s first baseball team to an 18-14 season. The team, which had no senior class that year, played in the regional final, making it to the final 8 in the state. The team was also the district runner-up that year.

The next year, Coach Whetro transferred to South Lake High School, where he enjoyed 9 continuous years of coaching with an impressive record of 175 wins against 92 losses, including one regional appearance in the final 16 and 1 district championship.

In 2019, Coach Whetro would make his final move to Lake Minneola High School, where records would be set, and young lives would receive opportunities that could make dreams come true. With a compilation of 169 wins vs 60 losses and one district runner-up, Coach Whetro also led the hard-working team to 7 district championships and 7 regional appearances. The team also finished in the Sweet-16 three times – a school record. One regional finals appearance also set a school record for the team advancing to the state playoffs.

Coach Whetro maintains an impressive career history, but he is quick to acknowledge the successes of students off the field as well as on. Sixty team players from Lake Minneola High School went on to attend college after graduating high school during Coach Whetro’s watch of 22 seasons. “It is harder for students/team players in Florida because there are so many kids here that are really good at playing baseball. Their work ethic is strong, and they are determined. I saw many half-day students attend workouts hours before ball practice began. Kids here care about their future and their present,” says Coach Whetro.

To many who know Coach Whetro, that determination and desire reflect not only his coaching abilities but his personality as well. Former Lake Minneola High School Principal Linda Shephard Miller – Mama Hawk, is quoted as saying in a 2021 Daily Commercialinterview honoring Coach Kerry Whetro’s 500^th win, “that she considered hiring Coach Kerry Whetro as one of the best decisions that she’s ever made for the school’s athletic program.”

One of Coach Whetro’s traits was his ability to communicate the word of God to students and players when they approached him with spiritual questions. “I couldn’t approach them, but if they approached me, I could share the word of God without preaching scripture. There are ways to do that without causing problems – referring to the public-school policies of church and state,” says Coach Whetro. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes would often hold pregame devotions and post-game prayer for those who wanted to participate.

Coach Whetro attributes his success to family, especially his wife Paula, who has remained at his side from the beginning of their marriage. His other coaching assistants include daughter Lora, son Bryan, daughter-in-law Veronica, and three grandchildren, Sophia, Wyatt, and Savannah.

What’s next for Coach Whetro, one might ask. It likely is not a couch and remote control as Coach Whetro and his wife continue their ministry of preaching the gospel in the Clermont area. The coach enjoys helping and watching his grandson Wyatt’s baseball team in Eustis. The couple enjoys vegetable gardening and is researching fun ways to grow food. The couple is also active members of the Kiwanis Club of Clermont, and Paula remains an active founding board member of the Building Blocks, the organization that she founded.

The staff at South Lake Tablet sincerely thanks you, Coach, for your many years of service to youth and community. We wish you and your family the best in your next chapter of life.

(Photos obtained from Coach Whetro)

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Spend the summer at Montverde Academy! Our day camp for ages 4 – 12 features themed adventures, daily pool time, weekly field trips, and hands-on fun. We also offer exciting athletic and specialty camps for kids to stay active and explore new interests—all in a safe, welcoming environment open to the community.

For a complete listing of available camps, visit our website at https://www.montverde.org/summer-programs

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