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The Colonial Connection - Week of September 14, 2026

Posted Date: 09/13/26 (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 of the Year Finalist!

🎉 A Moment of Pride for Our School Community 🎉

Please join us in celebrating an extraordinary achievement! We are thrilled to announce that our principal, Betzabeth Reussow, has been selected as a Principal of the Year Finalist for OCPS.

This recognition reflects an unwavering commitment to student success, a passion for educational excellence, and a dedication to creating a school culture where every student and staff member feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Through visionary leadership, high expectations, and a genuine belief in the potential of others, Mrs. Reussow has helped inspire growth, innovation, and achievement throughout our school community.

While this honor recognizes one individual, it is also a celebration of the collective efforts of our students, staff, families, and community partners who work together each day to make our school an exceptional place to learn and grow.

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! We are incredibly proud to be led by such an outstanding educator and leader, and we look forward to cheering you on throughout this exciting journey. Your leadership continues to inspire us all! Mrs. Reussow exemplifies what we mean when we say, 

It’s Great to be a Grenadier!
Four people smiling proudly while holding a Stellar Awards 'Principal of the Year Finalist' sign, a gift box, and flowers.
A woman in a patterned dress presents a bouquet and a finalist sign to another joyful woman in an office setting.
 
Visit Our Website
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".
A graphic promoting National Attendance Awareness Month in September, featuring white text on a blue and purple background with raised hands at the bottom.
A blue graphic for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month featuring yellow silhouettes of children and an awareness ribbon.
 

TOY and SPOY

A digital flyer celebrating Colonial High School's 2026-2027 Teacher and Support Staff of the Year, featuring photos of staff members holding awards.
Celebrating Excellence at Our School!
Please join us in congratulating our Teacher of the Year and Support Person of the Year on this well-deserved recognition!

These outstanding individuals exemplify dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the success of our students and school community. Through their hard work, positive influence, and passion for serving others, they inspire those around them every day.

Our Teacher of the Year demonstrates excellence in the classroom, fostering meaningful learning experiences and empowering students to reach their full potential. Our Support Person of the Year consistently goes above and beyond, providing invaluable support that helps our school thrive.
We are proud to celebrate their achievements and grateful for the impact they make on the lives of students, staff, and families. Congratulations on this incredible honor and thank you for all you do to make our school a place of excellence!

Congratulations, Teacher of the Year and Support Person of the Year! Your dedication, heart, and commitment make a difference every day.
 

Staff Shout Outs

A smiling woman holds a certificate that reads "Grenadier Shout Outs! Taylor Boyer" in an office setting.
A woman smiles while holding two "Grenadier Shout Outs!" certificates outside a school building.
A smiling woman sits at an office desk, proudly holding up a certificate that reads "Grenadier Shout Outs! Diosamarra Rivera."
A smiling woman holds a certificate that reads "Grenadier Shout Outs! Melissa Witham" in an office with a red wall.
🌟 Going the Extra Mile, the Grenadier Way! 🌟

We celebrate the staff members who consistently go above and beyond to support our teachers and students. Your dedication, kindness, and willingness to help make a lasting difference in our school community.

Thank you for leading with heart, serving with purpose, and demonstrating excellence every day. We are grateful for all you do and proud to recognize your impact.

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, and remember... It's Great to Be a Grenadier!
A smiling man in a bright pink polo shirt holds up a certificate that reads "Grenadier Shout Outs! Dan Caliari."
A woman with vibrant red hair smiles while holding two award certificates in an office with bright red walls.
A woman wearing glasses and a geometric-patterned dress proudly holds up a paper that reads "GRENADIER SHOUT OUTS! Betzabeth Reussow."
A smiling sheriff named Master Deputy Lappas holds a paper that reads "GRENADIER SHOUT OUTS!" outdoors.
A smiling woman with curly hair holds up a certificate that reads "GRENADIER SHOUT OUTS! Samantha Robinson" on an outdoor school campus.
A smiling woman wearing a beige UCF t-shirt holds up two "Grenadier Shout Outs!" certificates in an office.
 

Construction Update

A turquoise bicycle and several electric bikes are parked in outdoor metal racks against a brick wall.
Bikes and scooters parked neatly in racks along a red brick wall outside.
🚧 Construction Update 🚧

Exciting improvements are underway on our campus! As construction continues, we appreciate everyone's patience and flexibility as we work to enhance our learning environment. These updates represent an investment in our students, staff, and future, and we look forward to sharing the finished results along the way with our Grenadier community. Check out some of our the recently completed projects. 
 

SAC Committee Members

A flyer for the School Advisory Council (SAC) with bold red text, a QR code, and a photo of a diverse group in a meeting.
Be the Voice of Our School!
We invite students, parents, and teachers to nominate themselves or someone they believe would be a great representative on our School Advisory Council (SAC). SAC members help shape important decisions, support school improvement efforts, and ensure all stakeholder voices are heard.

Make a difference. Share your perspective. Inspire positive change. Nominate yourself or someone today and help us build an even stronger school community.

Scan the QR code to complete your nomination.
 

Connectivity Day

A promotional flyer for Colonial High School Connectivity Day on October 2, 2026, featuring event details and bell schedules for both campuses.
Save the date! Both campuses will run on a modified bell schedule, giving everyone an extended lunch Connectivity Period packed with fun activities. Don't miss out!
 

ELEVATE Orlando UCF vs BCU Game

A group of people pose for a photo in front of a white bus labeled "ELEVATE ORLANDO" outdoors on the grass.
A group of people pose in front of a giant inflatable UCF mascot holding a Coca-Cola bottle outside a stadium.
ELEVATE had an amazing week! We were fortunate to bring some of our students out to the first UCF game of the season, where the Knights took down BCU. Our students had the opportunity to tailgate before the game, walk around campus, experience the game-day atmosphere, and truly take advantage of everything the fan experience had to offer. They thoroughly enjoyed every moment! What makes experiences like this even more special is that a couple of our students are now interested in attending UCF because of the exposure they received. This is why we love creating these opportunities for our students. Giving them experiences, exposing them to college campuses, and allowing them to envision themselves in these spaces is what it’s all about. It was an amazing experience, and we can’t wait for the next one! IT’S GREAT TO BE A GRENADIER!
 

Hispanic Honor Society

A colorful poster for the Colonial High School Hispanic Honor Society announcing a Grand Parade for Hispanic Heritage Month.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, you are cordially invited to participate in our spectacular Grand Parade. The parade will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, during both Lunch A and Lunch B at the main campus. Come out to celebrate, enjoy the vibrant culture, and show your spirit.
 

Football Events Update

A schedule update graphic for Grenadiers Football lists a September 18 game versus Nova Lakes and an October 9 homecoming game versus Innovation.
September 18 vs Nova Lakes will be Senior Night for the football team and student trainers while we will celebrate out cheer and band seniors on October 9 against Innovation. The Innovation game will also be HOMECOMING! Festivities for senior night will begin promptly at 6:15 PM on both nights.
 

This Week in Athletics

A schedule graphic for Grenadiers Athletics, displaying sports events for the week of September 14.
 

AG Science

A light tan cow and a black cow graze on grass inside a metal-fenced enclosure outdoors.
🐮 Moo-ve over, everyone! Our Agricultural Science Department is excited to welcome our steer back to campus! This special addition provides students with hands-on learning experiences and showcases the dedication, responsibility, and passion that make our agriculture program so unique. 
 
A graphic with the text 'Scholarship Corner' next to a laptop resting on a neutral-toned fabric surface.

Air Force ROTC Scholarship-First Round Deadline: September 15!

An informational flyer for the Air Force ROTC High School Scholarship Program for 2027-2028, outlining application deadlines, eligibility criteria, and benefits.
The Air Force ROTC High School Scholarship Program offers competitive four-year scholarships for students interested in earning a college degree while preparing to serve as an officer in the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force. Scholarship benefits may include full tuition or up to $18,000 or $36,000 per year toward tuition, a textbook allowance, and a monthly stipend. 

An eligible housing option may also provide up to $10,000 per academic year. Applicants must have a minimum 3.3 unweighted GPA and earn at least a 1310 SAT, 28 ACT, or 93 CLT score. Students must also complete a physical fitness assessment and interview. Additional eligibility requirements apply. 

Important deadlines: 
  • Board 1 application: September 15, 2026 
  • Board 1 eligibility documents: September 25, 2026 
  • Final application deadline: December 11, 2026 
  • Final eligibility documents: December 22, 2026 

Because official test scores, counselor forms, and transcripts must be submitted by the deadlines, students should begin the process as soon as possible. Visit www.afrotc.com and select “Apply Now” to get started!

United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP)

Promotional graphic for the United States Senate Youth Program, featuring scholarship details and Washington Week dates for 2027.
Interested in a career in public service? Apply for the U.S. Senate Youth Program! 

Are you a junior or senior currently serving in an elected or appointed student leadership position? The United States Senate Youth Program offers outstanding student leaders the opportunity to experience the federal government in action during Washington Week, March 6–13, 2027. Two students from Florida will be selected to attend, and each will receive a $12,500 undergraduate college scholarship. Deadline: September 29!

NACAC National College Fair

An event flyer for the Fall 2026 NACAC National College Fair in Orlando on Sunday, October 4, at the Orange County Convention Center.
NACAC National College Fair October 4, 2026 from 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Orange County Convention Center Register at: https://www.nacacattend.org/26Orlando
 

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!
 

Jobs Partnership

An informational flyer promoting the free LifeWorks Program for career seekers, starting in September at Colonial High School.
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!
 

School Spirit

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

PTSA

A flyer for Colonial High PTSA 2026-2027 membership drive, featuring an illustrated student with a graduation cap raising their hand.
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

A poster for the 2027 Radon Awareness Video Contest for students in grades 9-12, with a $1,000 prize.
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! 
 

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
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6100 Oleander Dr. Orlando, FL 32807-3437

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

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