Development News for Lake Butler, Florida

Orange County School Board Honors Students and Staff for Numerous Achievements

The school board recognized outstanding members of school board services, Rebecca Hernandez and Dilset Zas Martinez, for their professionalism and dedication. Both have earned statewide designations as certified support professionals through the Florida Schoolboard Association, a rare achievement that highlights their commitment to public education and support for each other. Their efforts are seen as a vital asset to the daily operations of board functions. The entire school board services team is also certified. \n\nAdditionally, the board celebrated Oliver Lond from Olympia High School for earning third place in the state for the Commissioner's Academic Challenge and being selected for Team Florida. He received a trophy and a $1,000 award for his academic achievements. \n\nStudents Cy Orham and Aaliyah Matano were honored for winning first place at the Florida 4H public speaking contest. Cy, a sixth grader, spoke about the inequity of compensation for women in sports, while Aaliyah, a fourth grader, discussed the power women have to create change. The contest is designed to help students build confidence, communication, and leadership skills. \n\nPrincipal Timothy Schuler of Magnolia School was recognized for his extraordinary leadership, creating a campus grounded in safety, dignity, compassion, and trust. Under his leadership, Magnolia School has become an example for other districts and has drawn international interest. The school has made significant progress in developing its staff and future leaders. \n\nRaven Clark and Emilyn Troy were recognized for their achievements in the Dr. Nelson Ying Orange County Science Exposition, both placing second in environmental engineering. Emilyn from Lake Nona High placed second in the senior division, and Raven from Maitland Middle placed second in the junior division. Clara Martin del Deis, also from Horizon High, placed second in physics and astronomy at the county level and went on to win first place at the State Science and Engineering Fair of Florida. \n\nThe Horizon High Symphonic Orchestra was named the 2026 High School Orchestra of Distinction by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, earning this honor through exceptional musicianship and performance quality. They performed at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. \n\nThe Southwest Middle String Symphony was named the 2026 Middle School Orchestra in the Wings by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, recognized for their musicianship, artistry, and overall excellence. The program has grown significantly under director Jennifer Ericson. \n\nRebecca Doro Giorgio, a seventh grader at Chain of Lakes Middle, was honored for her accomplishments as a player on the Orlando Magic Dreamers wheelchair basketball team, earning female MVP honors in two tournaments and qualifying for national competitions in track and field. She is also a member of the Junior National Honor Society and Junior Thespian Society. \n\nSpring sports athletes and teams were also recognized. The Windermere boys volleyball team was named the state 3A academic champions with a team GPA of 3.92. The Lake Nona girls tennis team won the FHSAA state 4A championship, completing an undefeated 23-0 season and also winning the team, doubles, and singles state championships. Arabella Duffel from Lake Nona High School was the 3200 meter FHSA state champion in girls track. Jaden Manning from Ocoee High School is the 110 meter hurdles FHSA state 4A champion and holds two school records, becoming the first male state champion in Ocoee High School history. Devin Matthews is the 400 meter FHSA state 4A champion and holds four school records. Mason Euing from Boone High School was the 183 pound FHSA 3A state champion in boys weightlifting, finishing first at every meet and earning a 655 lb total. The board expressed pride in the students' achievements and their positive impact on the school district and the community.