Dear Colonial High School Students, Families, and Staff,
As we close out another dynamic week, the halls of Colonial High School continue to be filled with incredible energy and success. I want to highlight the tremendous accomplishments of our students and prepare everyone for an important week ahead.
Grenadier Success Highlights
Our students are not just learning; they are actively building their futures. We are immensely proud of the recent activities that showcase the talent and engagement of our student body:
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Engineering and Innovation: Students successfully completed the high-octane Build a Guitar Workshop, sponsored by Tech Sassy Girlz, where they applied engineering principles to assemble fully functional electric guitars and used AI to design album art.
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Empowerment and Wellness: Our ELEVATE Orlando participants experienced a powerful Girls Day, focusing on self-development, mental health, and emotional wellness, creating a truly safe space for sisterhood to thrive.
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Career and College Awareness: Our LifeWorks students gained vital college awareness during their inspiring field trip to Valencia College’s East Campus, exploring diverse career pathways in Arts & Entertainment and AST programs. Separately, ELEVATE Orlando students toured the OTC College Fair, gaining exposure to valuable hands-on career fields like welding, construction, and HVAC.
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Recognition: We proudly celebrated our 2nd Quarter Successes and recognized our outstanding Super Scholars on their acceptances to prestigious universities across the nation.
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Community Engagement: We appreciate the League of Women Voters for visiting our campus last week to speak with students about civic engagement and the importance of an informed electorate.
Crucial Information: PMA and SAT Day Schedules Next Week
Next week is a critical testing period for our students, and we need everyone to be prepared to excel. We will be operating on special schedules for SAT Day and PMA testing. We urge all students to get a good night’s sleep this weekend and throughout the week, arrive on time, and put forth their best effort on every assessment.
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PMA Testing: Students currently enrolled in Algebra 1, Geometry, US History Honors, and Biology Honors will be taking the Progress Monitoring Assessment (PMA). This data is essential for guiding our instruction and ensuring student growth.
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SAT Day: Our dedicated SAT takers should also ensure they are fully rested and ready to show what they know.
Your preparation matters! Let's demonstrate Colonial High School's academic excellence.
Prom Alert: Get Geared Up!
Finally, our Juniors and Seniors should be gearing up for Colonial High School Prom 2026: "A Night In The Garden Of The Gods". Please check the eligibility requirements (including maintaining a 2.0 GPA or higher and 90% attendance) and secure your tickets. We look forward to celebrating with you!
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Thank you for your continued support in making Colonial High School a place where every Grenadier thrives.
It’s Great To Be A Grenadier!
Betzabeth Reussow
Principal
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On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the halls of Colonial High School hummed with a different kind of energy as a select group of students traded textbooks for hand tools and hex keys. In a high-octane Build a Guitar Workshop sponsored by Tech Sassy Girlz, students didn't just learn about engineering—they built it, tuned it, and rocked the end results.
This wasn’t your average workshop. Students formed collaborative "Build Teams," diving headfirst into the mechanics of sound. The workshop challenged them to apply core engineering and construction principles to assemble fully functional electric guitars from the ground up. By bridging the gap between technical precision and creative expression, the event showcased how "Sassy" tech skills are the backbone of the modern music industry.
The Workshop Highlights
- Precision Engineering: Teams navigated the complexities of bridge alignment, pickup installation, and neck calibration.
- The Mastery of Sound: Once the last strings were tightened, students moved from builders to players, mastering foundational chords and deconstructing the DNA of legendary riffs like Smoke on the Water and All Along the Watchtower.
- AI-Powered Branding: In a nod to the future of the creative economy, teams used AI image generators to design high-concept album art, giving their fictional bands a visual identity to match their new sound.
"Watching these students realize that an electric guitar is essentially a beautiful, vibrating machine was incredible," said a workshop representative. "They aren't just consumers of technology anymore; they are the creators."
About Tech Sassy Girlz
Tech Sassy Girlz is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of female makers, engineers, and innovators. By providing hands-on access to STEM education, they bridge the diversity gap in tech, one "riff" at a time.
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ELEVATE Orlando recently hosted our annual Girls Day, a special event dedicated to celebrating the strength, beauty, and uniqueness of being a young woman. Throughout the day, participants engaged in self-development seminars, interactive dancing lessons, and a meaningful mental health session. These workshops provided tools for growth, confidence-building, and emotional wellness.
One of the most powerful moments of the day was witnessing our Colonial girls openly express themselves and create a safe space where vulnerability, encouragement, and sisterhood thrived.
We concluded the celebration with thoughtfully prepared gift bags and homemade fresh tropical juice, ending the day on a joyful and refreshing note. It was a day filled with empowerment, connection, and unforgettable memories.
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Yesterday, our LifeWorks participants and chaperones had an inspiring and energizing field trip to Valencia College’s East Campus. The tour was exceptionally well-executed, clear, engaging, and thoughtfully detailed, making it easy for our students to connect with the information shared.
Students were excited to explore the wide range of career pathways available in Arts & Entertainment, AST programs, and many other fields. The visit not only broadened their awareness of post-secondary options but also sparked meaningful conversations about their future goals.
We are deeply grateful to the Valencia College team for creating such a welcoming, informative, and impactful experience for our students. Their professionalism, passion, and care made the day truly memorable.
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ELEVATE Orlando had the opportunity to partner with Miss Nelson to attend the Orange Technical College (OTC) College Fair, where 30 ELEVATE students were exposed to valuable post-secondary pathways.
Students engaged with a wide range of colleges and technical programs, learning about career opportunities that extend beyond traditional four-year institutions. During the tour, they were introduced to hands-on career fields such as welding, construction, and HVAC, gaining insight into high-demand industries that offer strong career potential.
This experience provided our students with meaningful exposure to real-world career options and practical skill pathways, helping prepare them for their next steps after high school.
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Get ready, Colonial Juniors and Seniors! Prom 2026 is just around the corner, and we can't wait to celebrate "A Night In The Garden of the Gods" with you.
Eligibility Requirements:
To ensure a great night for everyone, please check the requirements to attend:
● Be a Junior or Senior at Colonial High School.
● Maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher.
● Have no level 3 or 4 referrals from this school year. For discipline appeals, contact Mr. King (William.King2@ocps.net).
● Maintain a 90% attendance rate. For attendance questions, please direct them to Mr. Maldonado (Paul.Maldonado@ocps.net).
Note: If you exceeded your days and are ineligible, you would have received a Parent Square Notification or Email with more information.
Ticket Sales:
Mark your calendars! Prices will increase, so buy early!
● February 2 - 18: $85
● February 19 - 28: $100
● March 1 - 3: $120
Bringing a Guest?
If you wish to bring ONE guest who is not a CHS Junior or Senior, a guest application form is required.
● Available: Starting January 21, pick up a form in room 4-121 or the Front Office (it will also be available on the school website and Canvas).
● Due: February 25 to Ms. Stapleton's office, 4-121.
● Guest Tickets: Start at $100.
Prom Court Applications (Seniors Only):
Seniors who meet the qualifications can apply for Prom Court starting January 21 (a link will be sent via Canvas). Teachers, please encourage deserving students to apply!
● Applications Close: February 9.
● Prom Court Voting (Top 5): February 11.
● King & Queen Voting: Will occur the week of Prom.
● Reminder: Only Seniors can be nominated, and only Seniors vote.
Questions? Email Ms. Stapleton at regan.stapleton@ocps.net.
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All student-athletes MUST have a completed physical on AthleticClearance.com prior to participating in any tryouts. The physical process includes an EL2 (physical), an EL3 (student and parent signature section), and an ECG. All of the necessary forms can be found on AthleticClearance.com. Please note that the EL2 physical form is different than the school physical, and a school physical will not satisfy the requirements for athletics.
All athletes must maintain a cumulative unweighted GPA of 2.0 or higher to be eligible for athletics. Freshmen are exempt from this requirement for the first semester only since they do not have a high school GPA. Cumulative GPAs are only updated at the conclusion of a semester, so an ineligible athlete cannot become eligible until the following semester begins. Below is the list of our Fall Sports contacts.
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The FFA, a premier youth organization for agricultural education, leadership development, and career preparation, concluded its annual celebration of National FFA Week last week. Members participated in a highly successful schedule of service, education, and community engagement activities across the area:
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Saturday, February 14: Fifteen members volunteered at the Second Harvest Food Bank. They packaged food, sorted items, and organized the area. In four hours, the team packed 4,500 pounds of food, which provided meals for 4,000 people.
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Monday, February 16: Forty-five members visited the Sea Life Aquarium by ICON park. They toured the aquarium and explored the surrounding area.
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Tuesday, February 17 (Find Your Future Career Fair): The chapter hosted a career fair that welcomed several guests: - Representatives from Top Shelf Aquatics discussed marine life and marine biology. - A reptile breeder spoke about his work and how he sold his reptiles. - A USDA representative described the lab they worked in to test horses for diseases.
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Wednesday, February 18 (Animal Trivia): Animal trivia was held during A and B lunch. Students walked up to the table, spun a wheel to determine their question, and won a prize if they answered correctly.
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Thursday, February 19: Two of Florida's FFA State Officers visited the agriculture classes during the school day and taught students about problem-solving and critical thinking. The day concluded with the chapter meeting, which was AgOlympics themed. Following the games, an officer and an advisor kissed a pig!
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Friday, February 20 (Petting Zoo): During lunches, members hosted a petting zoo. Members who raised animals brought them to the back of 3-110, allowing students to pet them and learn about the animals and the members’ work.
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Saturday, February 21: The week wrapped up at Pine Castle Pioneer where members hosted a petting zoo and a craft table. Members of the community made plant cups to grow their own flowers.
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Colonial High School students and staff extend a huge thank you to the League of Women Voters for visiting our campus last week. The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to educating voters and encouraging civic participation, spent time with our students, sharing valuable information about civic engagement and the importance of an informed electorate.
We appreciate the League of Women Voters taking the time to speak with our students, helping them to develop into active and responsible citizens. This visit was an excellent opportunity for our students to learn firsthand about the impact they can have in their communities.
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It’s time to celebrate the outstanding efforts and achievements of our students for the 2nd Quarter! We are incredibly proud of the hard work, focus, and dedication demonstrated by so many Grenadiers over the past few months.
Whether you earned a spot on the Honor Roll, achieved perfect attendance, demonstrated significant academic growth, or exhibited exceptional leadership in our school activities, your commitment to excellence truly shines. Your success is a reflection of your perseverance and the strong support of your families and teachers.
Please join us in celebrating all the students who performed exceptionally well in the second quarter. Keep up the great work as we continue to strive for success and make it "Great To Be A Grenadier!"
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We are incredibly proud to celebrate our Super Scholars for their outstanding academic achievements and their acceptance into several prestigious colleges and universities. Through hard work, perseverance, and dedication to excellence, these students have demonstrated what it truly means to strive for success.
Their accomplishments reflect not only their individual commitment but also the strong support of their families, teachers, counselors, and school community. As they prepare to take the next exciting step in their educational journeys, we know they will continue to represent our school with pride, integrity, and determination.
Please join us in congratulating our Super Scholars on this remarkable milestone. We look forward to seeing all that they will achieve in the future!
Well done, and congratulations!
- Mauvy Ramirez Ledesma-Boston College
- Nathon Bush-MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
- Dakota Campos August-FAMU (Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University)
- Cadarian Russell-Morehouse College
- Thomas Summers-MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
- Brya Hall-Howard University
- Lourde-Mya Metelus-Howard University
- Te'Nique Samuel-Howard University
- Thomas Sanchez Rodriguez-Wake Forest University
- Sean Elliott-University of Florida
- Pedro Hernandez-University of Florida
- Mia Abreu-University of Michigan
- Camile Valdez Angustia-University of Wisconsin-Madison
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What Are Community Schools?
Community schools are more than places for academics—they serve as hubs for learning and support. These schools connect students and families to essential services like health care, mental health support, after-school programs, and community resources. The goal is to remove barriers such as poverty, housing challenges, and lack of healthcare so every child can thrive.
How Do They Work?
Community schools operate on four key pillars:
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Student Supports – Counseling, health services, and wellness programs.
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Expanded Learning Opportunities – After-school activities and programs during breaks.
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Family & Community Engagement – Building strong partnerships between families, educators, and local organizations.
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Shared Leadership – Families, educators, and community members collaborate to make decisions.
A Community School Coordinator helps organize these services. Success is measured not just by test scores, but by attendance, engagement, health, and family stability.
A Growing Movement
What began as a grassroots effort has grown nationwide. Today, community schools are embraced by urban, suburban, and rural districts. This movement promotes equity and democracy and makes schools the heart of strong communities.
How Families Can Get Involved
● Join school committees or advisory groups.
● Volunteer for events or after-school activities.
● Share feedback with teachers and the Community School Coordinator.
● Connect with other families to build a support network.
● Advocate for resources that benefit all students.
Community schools thrive when families are active partners. Together, we can create a school that supports every child and strengthens our community.
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Why Daily Attendance Matters
Attending school every day is crucial. Excessive absences can lead to a suspended driver's license. Punctuality is also key, as five tardies will result in one day of absence.
New Extracurricular Activity Requirement
This year, a 90% attendance rate is mandatory for all students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities.
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The Freshman Campus Grenadier Closet is now open every Tuesday during A and B lunches for all your school supply and wardrobe needs! |
In today's connected world, digital literacy and safety are as critical as traditional academic skills. We encourage all families to engage in ongoing conversations about responsible technology use.
Setting Healthy Screen-Time Limits
Establishing clear, consistent boundaries around technology use is key to balancing academic success, physical health, and social development.
● Create a Family Media Plan: Decide together on limits for non-academic screen time, especially during school nights.
● Tech-Free Zones: Designate areas and times, such as the dinner table and bedrooms after a certain hour, as tech-free zones to prioritize face-to-face interaction and sleep.
● Prioritize Sleep: Ensure all devices are put away at least one hour before bedtime to support the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep for teens.
How to Talk with Your Child About Online Behavior
Approaching online safety as an open dialogue, rather than a lecture, fosters trust and cooperation.
● Be Curious, Not Critical: Ask open-ended questions about what they enjoy online and what they are learning.
● Discuss Digital Citizenship: Talk about the permanence of their digital footprint and the importance of being kind, respectful, and safe online. Remind them to think before they post.
● Focus on Problem-Solving: If they encounter something uncomfortable or risky, ensure they know they can come to you without fear of immediate punishment.
Recommended Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools
Many tools are available to help parents manage device use and monitor online activity.
● Built-in Device Controls: Utilize the parental control features available on iOS (Screen Time) and Android (Digital Wellbeing) to set limits on app usage and content.
● Router-Level Filters: Consider using smart Wi-Fi routers or third-party apps to manage internet access across all devices in the home.
● Discussion Over Surveillance: While monitoring tools can be helpful, we encourage parents to prioritize open communication with their teens about online safety as the primary strategy.
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SWEet College Day is an engineering outreach event geared towards high school girls. It is taking place on Saturday, March 28th at the University of Central Florida. It will run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and admission is FREE of cost.
UCF will be hosting three workshops. There will be a tour of the campus for the students and a panel with industry professionals who will discuss what it’s like to be an engineer. Lunch will also be provided at this event.
Please contact swe.ucf.outreach@gmail.com if you have any questions about the SWE Outreach program or the event.
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Want to improve your SAT/ACT score for college admissions and/or the Bright Futures Scholarship?
Every Wednesday in October and November, visit the College & Career Center from 1:30 PM-2:30 PM for SAT/ACT test prep! The College & Career Center (CCC) is located upstairs in Student Services in the Administration Building.
SAT/ACT test prep is provided by Elevation Scholars in partnership with UCF and will be held on Wednesdays in October & November!
Sign up to attend! Space is limited!
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Parents, your voice is crucial to our school community! We encourage all Colonial High School families to get involved by joining our School Advisory Council (SAC) and Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA). These groups play a vital role in shaping our school's future, providing valuable input on everything from academic programs to school events. Your participation ensures that the needs and perspectives of our students and families are heard and addressed. Come be a part of the conversation and help us make Colonial High School the best it can be for every Grenadier! |
Betzabeth Reussow, Principal - Betzabeth.Reussow@ocps.net
Tayler Boyer, Assistant Principal - Tayler.Boyer@ops.net
Daniel Caliari, Assistant Principal - Daniel.Caliari@ocps.net
William King, Assistant Principal - William.King2@ocps.net
Paul Maldonado, Assistant Principal - Paul.Maldonado@ocps.net
Krystin Roviaro, Assistant Principal - Krystin.Roviaro@ocps.net
Adrian Thomas – Senior Manager, UPI Community School - Adrian.Thomas@ocps.net
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