The Academy's high school proudly hosted a special "Step Out" event on September 18 to honor the outstanding achievements of our students. Students who were named National Merit Semifinalists and Commended Scholars, received accolades from the College Board National Recognition Program, and participated in the prestigious Girls State program were celebrated by the school community.
The event included students and faculty lining the halls from the fourth floor down to the first floor, cheering on these exceptional young women as they "stepped out" to be recognized. The energy and spirit of the Academy were on full display as we celebrated their hard work and dedication.
Parents joined in the event, adding to the surprise and excitement of the day. Following the "Step Out," many parents stayed to enjoy a special lunch with their daughters, creating a memorable moment for everyone.
National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and Commended Scholars
Two students, Lilly Leach and Gabrielle Marquez, earned the prestigious title of National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. Their outstanding performance on the 2023 PSAT/NMSQT placed them among the top 1% of U.S. high school seniors. These students are now competing for National Merit Scholarships by submitting detailed applications highlighting their academic achievements, leadership roles, and extracurricular involvement. Additionally, four students—Kenzie Cappy, Sofia Genco, Haynes Melchoir, and Elizabeth Williamson—received the honor of being named National Merit Commended Scholars, placing them among the top performers nationwide on the PSAT/NMSQT.
College Board National Recognition Program
Seventeen students from the Academy were recognized by the College Board National Recognition Program for their outstanding academic performance. This program, which highlights the achievements of underrepresented students—including first-generation college students, Black, Indigenous, Hispanic/Latino, and those from rural and small-town areas—provides opportunities for these scholars to gain exposure to college recruiters across the country. The honorees from the Academy are Mia Bento, Eden Jennings, Nicole Bianchi, Ava Keiser, Bela Browning, Siena Ramirez, Carolina Cubillos, Rafaella Rodriguez, Sofia Genco, Haley Spletzer, Isabella Guzman, Riley Tobon, Marta Haile, Kaikara Varmah, Jennon Hassoun, Isabella Zerrate, and Gabrielle Infante.
Girls State
Three students—Isabelle Donaldson, Brooke Fechtel, and Brooke Brindise—represented the Academy at Florida Girls State, a week-long, hands-on educational workshop sponsored by the Florida American Legion Auxiliary. This nonpartisan program is designed to teach young women about citizenship and the democratic process by creating a mythical state. The girls participated in activities such as political campaigns, debates, and crafting bills, learning firsthand the responsibilities of leadership in a democratic society. Girls State, which has been running since 1937, has offered more than 1 million young women the chance to experience government in action.