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The Colonial Connection - Week of September 7, 2026

Posted Date: 09/06/26 (06:00 PM)


The Colonial High School logo features a crest and school name.
An illustration depicts a colonial soldier holding a rifle, with a line of soldiers in the background.
 

Principal's Message

Colonial High School Families,
 
As we move into the halfway point of Quarter 1, I continue to be inspired by the pride, dedication, and sense of community that make Colonial High School such a special place. Whether in our classrooms, on our athletic fields, through clubs and organizations, or in service to others, our Grenadiers are demonstrating what it means to excel.
 
On a personal note, I am deeply honored to have been named a finalist for OCPS Principal of the Year. This recognition reflects the incredible work of our teachers, support staff, students, families, and community partners who make Colonial High School a place of excellence and opportunity. This achievement would not have been possible without our phenomenal team and the support of our students and community. I am truly grateful and proud to serve as your principal.
 
This month offers several exciting opportunities for students and families to get involved. I encourage you to join us for our first School Advisory Council (SAC) meeting on Wednesday, September 9, at our Ninth Grade Center. SAC provides an important opportunity for parents, students, staff, and community members to share ideas, stay informed, and help shape decisions that support student success and school improvement. Your voice matters, and we hope you will join the conversation.
 
Our students also have access to many exciting opportunities this month, including after-school tutoring, Senior Night, the U.S. Senate Youth Program, and the Service Academy Information Session hosted by Congressman Maxwell Frost. These experiences help students explore their interests, prepare for the future, and connect with valuable resources that can open doors beyond high school.
 
Thank you for your continued partnership, support, and belief in our students. Together, we are building a school culture where every student is known, valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed.
 
It's Great to Be a Grenadier!
 
Betzabeth Reussow
Principal
 
Students enjoying meals in a cafeteria with text overlay: ALL STUDENTS ALL MEALS NO CHARGE.
A smiling young boy with a backpack stands in front of a school bus, with text "FIND MY BUS" and "FINDABUS.OCPS.NET".
Visit Our Website
Happy Labor Day graphic with text announcing schools and district offices closed on Monday, Sept. 7.
 

FFA

A collage of photos shows students participating in Orlando Colonial FFA activities, with the text 'Orlando Colonial FFA welcomes you back!'.
 

School Advisory Council

A spiral notepad on a wooden desk displays details for the Colonial High School Advisory Council meeting on September 9, 2026.
Colonial High School SAC Agenda for Wednesday, September 9, 2026, listing meeting topics and a notes section.
You are warmly invited to join our School Advisory Council (SAC)—a collaborative group of dedicated stakeholders who work together to support the success of our school. The SAC brings together parents, community members, teachers, school staff, and students to share ideas, provide input, and help guide key decisions that shape our school’s vision, priorities, and continuous improvement efforts. 

This is a wonderful opportunity to: 

  • Stay informed about school initiatives and student achievement 
  • Share your voice and perspectives 
  • Collaborate on meaningful solutions that benefit all students 
  • Strengthen partnerships between home, school, and community 

Your input matters. We value diverse perspectives and encourage all who care about our school to participate. 

Join us and be a part of the conversation—together, we can make a difference for our students and school community! 
 

Join Our PTSA and Make a Difference!

Colonial High PTSA 2026-2027 Membership Drive poster with student illustration.
We invite all students, parents, families, staff, and community members to become part of our PTSA! By joining, you help support programs, activities, and opportunities that enrich the educational experience for every student while strengthening the connection between our school and community. 

Whether you have time to volunteer, ideas to share, or simply want to support our school, your membership matters. Together, we can create a positive, welcoming environment where all students thrive. Join today and help us make this school year our best yet! 

One School. One Community. Endless Possibilities. Join the PTSA today! 🎉💙💛 
 

Radon Awareness Contest

2027 Radon Awareness Video Contest for grades 9-12, ages 14-18.
Think your video skills can make an impact? Create a short, attention-grabbing video about radon awareness and compete with students from across Florida and the nation. This is your chance to showcase your talent, build your portfolio, and potentially win $1,000 while helping save lives through education. Deadline: November 1!  

Submission Forms are attached to the newsletter.
 

After School Tutoring

A promotional flyer for CHS After School Tutoring, held Tuesday and Thursday from 2:45 PM to 5:00 PM, with snacks and transportation provided.
 

Senior Night

Poster announcing "Senior Night" for parents and students on September 17 from 5:30-7:30 PM at PAC.
🎓 Class of 2027 Senior Night! 🎓 

Get ready to make your senior year your best year yet! Join us for Senior Night and learn how to make the most of your final year of high school while exploring exciting opportunities for life after graduation. 

Meet representatives from local colleges and universities, including UCF, Rollins College, Valencia College, and Orange Technical College (OTC). You'll also have the chance to connect with community partners and learn about volunteer and service opportunities that can help you build your future. 

Bring your parents and come enjoy free pizza and light refreshments while getting valuable information, tips, and resources to help you start senior year strong. 

We can't wait to celebrate the beginning of this exciting journey with you and your family! 🎉🎓✨
 

Colonial Clubs

A document titled 'COLONIAL CLUBS' lists various school clubs with their sponsors and meeting schedules.
A list of school clubs and honor societies with their sponsors and meeting schedules.
🌟 Find Your People. Discover Your Passion. Join a Club! 🌟 

High school is more than just classes, it's about creating memories, building friendships, and exploring your interests! Whether you're into leadership, arts, service, academics, gaming, culture, athletics, or making a difference in your community, there's a club waiting for you. Get involved, meet new people, develop new skills, and make your high school experience unforgettable. Don't just attend school, be part of it!

Art Club

A promotional poster for the CHS Arts and Crafts Club meeting on Tuesdays from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM in Room 4-114.
 
A graphic with the text 'Scholarship Corner' and '*More information is available in student services', next to a laptop on a neutral-toned surface.

Service Academy

Service Academy Information Session flyer for Central Florida high school students and families.
Join Congressman Maxwell Frost for a Service Academy Information Session on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM at Colonial High School! To attend the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, or U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, prospective students must secure a Congressional nomination. (Note: The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination). These prestigious federal institutions provide a world-class, tuition-free undergraduate education combined with rigorous leadership and military training. Upon graduation, officers earn a Bachelor of Science degree and commission directly into active duty or military service. Representatives from the academies will be on-site to walk students and families through the application and nomination process and answer questions.   

Event Details:  
What: Service Academy Information Session  
When: Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM-7:30 PM  
Where: Colonial High School Media Center (6100 Oleander Dr, Orlando, FL 32807)  
RSVP: repfrost.us/serviceacademy  

For nomination guidelines and applications, visit Frost.house.gov or contact Congressman Frost's office directly.

Jobs Partnership

Advertisement for the Free LifeWorks Program for Career Seekers, offering training and resources for job seekers.
Ready to unlock your future? Join the LifeWorks Program and gain real-world career skills, resume support, interview coaching, professional attire, and connections to employers who are hiring. This free 8-week program can help you take the next step toward a successful career and brighter future. Students are encouraged to learn more and take advantage of this incredible opportunity!

Senate Youth Program

Promotional graphic for the United States Senate Youth Program, featuring a $12,500 college scholarship and Washington Week from March 6–13, 2027.

NACAC

An event flyer for the NACAC National College Fair in Orlando, scheduled for October 4, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center.
 

Speech and Debate Team

A graphic promoting a Speech & Debate event with a podium and microphones.
Are you interested in joining our nationally recognized Speech and Debate Team? Join us after school on Wednesdays from 1:30 PM-2:30 PM.
 

School Spirit

A school fundraiser flyer promoting $1 shout outs for home games, decorated with illustrations of various sports equipment.
 

Colonial High School Administration

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
Chelsea Johnson, Assistant Principal – Chelsea.Johnson@ocps.net
Krystin Roviaro, Assistant Principal - Krystin.Roviaro@ocps.net
Adrian Thomas – Senior Manager, UPI Community School - Adrian.Thomas@ocps.net
Colonial_High_logo

6100 Oleander Dr. Orlando, FL 32807-3437

Phone: +1 407-482-6300 / Email: colonial_hs@ocps.net

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