Leading with Excellence: Celebrating the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026

There are moments in a school year that feel routine, and then there are moments that remind you exactly why schools matter so deeply. The Lecanto High School IB Diploma Candidate Banquet honoring the Class of 2026 was unmistakably the latter. It was an evening filled with pride, gratitude, laughter, and reflection, a celebration not only of academic achievement, but of growth, resilience, and community.

As the evening unfolded, it became clear that no student reaches this level of accomplishment alone. The recognition of parents, guardians, and families highlighted the steady support systems behind each student’s success. These are the individuals who encouraged late nights, supported early mornings, and believed in their students through every challenge. This partnership between school and home, though often unseen, is essential to every achievement celebrated that evening.

Equally important was the collective impact of educators and leadership. The IB program is demanding by design, but it is teachers who bring it to life by challenging, guiding, and inspiring students beyond the curriculum. Their influence shapes not only academic success, but also personal growth. At the same time, strong leadership at both the school and district levels ensures that programs like this continue to thrive.

And then, there was the Class of 2026.

The International Baccalaureate program cultivates critical thinking through two specialized pathways: the Diploma Programme, which offers a rigorous, multidisciplinary academic foundation, and the Career-related Programme, which pairs IB’s high standards with practical, industry-focused training. Both tracks move beyond rote memorization, challenging students to analyze complex global issues and apply inquiry-based learning to real-world situations. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are not only prepared for college, but also equipped with the adaptable, leadership-oriented mindset needed in today’s workforce.

When discussing college and career readiness, this class provides clear and compelling evidence. The outcomes shared during the evening were extraordinary. At the University of Florida, where the general acceptance rate is approximately 19 percent, an impressive 55 percent of Lecanto’s IB seniors were accepted. At Florida State University, where the statewide average is around 25 percent, this class achieved a remarkable 65 percent acceptance rate. These figures reflect a level of preparation, discipline, and academic excellence that sets this group apart.

Beyond these flagship universities, the success of this class extends across a wide range of postsecondary opportunities. Students have earned admission to the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida, the University of Miami, and the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Notably, members of this class also received appointments to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Coast Guard Academy, along with an Ivy League acceptance. These accomplishments demonstrate that this group does more than meet expectations; they consistently exceed them.

The accomplishments of this class are, quite simply, remarkable. From National Merit recognition to acceptance into highly selective institutions, these students have established a standard of excellence. Their college acceptance rates far exceed state averages, and their representation across top universities is both broad and impressive.

This year also marked a historic milestone for Lecanto High School. For the first time, the school celebrated graduates from both the IB Diploma Programme and the IB Career-related Programme. This achievement reflects a commitment to expanding opportunities and meeting students where they are, providing pathways that align with their individual goals and aspirations.

What makes their success even more meaningful is the diversity of paths they have chosen. Some are pursuing traditional academic routes, others are entering specialized programs such as the Culinary Institute of America, and some have committed to serving their country through military enlistment or academy appointments. Each path reflects purpose, and each deserves recognition.

Throughout the evening, the tone shifted from formal to lighthearted during the student and teacher superlative awards. These moments brought laughter and personality into the celebration, highlighting the relationships and shared experiences that define the high school journey. Each award reflected not only individual traits, but also the strong sense of community within the program.

The teacher awards were equally meaningful, offering insight into how students view the educators who have influenced them most. Selected by students, these recognitions honored not only teaching ability, but also character, humor, and authenticity. They served as a powerful reminder that the most impactful educators leave lasting impressions far beyond the classroom.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the presentation of the Lecanto High IB Award for Educational Excellence to founding IB Director Mr. Darrick Buettner. His vision and leadership established the foundation for everything being celebrated. The program’s success is rooted in his belief that Lecanto students were capable of more, and in his determination to turn that belief into reality. Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert was also recognized for his continued support of the IB program and its students.

The keynote address was delivered by Kaileigh Moran, a member of the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2025, who is currently pursuing a pre-med track at the University of South Florida. Her message was both practical and inspiring, offering meaningful guidance and encouragement to the Class of 2026 as they prepare for the next chapter of their journey.

In closing, Principal Troy LaBarbara challenged students to remain focused and committed as they move forward. He also recognized the exceptional leadership of IB Coordinator Dr. Ashley Shidner, whose work, alongside the entire IB team, recently guided the program through a comprehensive Programme Evaluation. This rigorous, year-long process ensures alignment with the highest International Baccalaureate standards. Its successful completion reaffirms Lecanto High School’s commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and student success.

As the evening came to a close, there was a strong sense of both celebration and reflection. Moments like this are not just about marking the end of a journey, but about recognizing the effort it took to get there and the opportunities that lie ahead. The Class of 2026 has proven they are ready, leaving Lecanto High School not only with impressive accomplishments, but with the skills, mindset, and character to make a meaningful impact. No matter where their paths lead, they carry with them the pride and support of a community that will continue to cheer them on.

Congratulations to the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026.

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Leading with Heart: Educators, Healers, and Trailblazers

A Personal Reflection for Women’s History Month on the Legacy of Service

As the month of March comes to a close, I want to take a moment to honor the role of women in history and the vital part they have played in shaping our world as we recognize Women’s History Month. This month is a time to celebrate the incredible women who have inspired generations through their courage, leadership, and determination.

We honor trailblazers like Harriet Tubman, Eleanor Roosevelt, Margaret Thatcher, Rosa Parks, Virginia Woolf, Maya Angelou, Amelia Earhart, and Ada Lovelace, women whose courage, vision, and determination continue to inspire us all. Their stories remind us of what is possible when we lead with strength, creativity, and conviction.

However, I want to take a personal moment to honor some amazing women in my own family and the roles they are playing in this world. They have been inspired by the many great women who came before them, and in turn, they are inspiring those who will follow.

Thomasine Kennedy: A Legacy of Education and Mentorship
Thomasine is my amazing wife of 34 years and a true partner in every sense. For three decades, she dedicated herself to the classroom as an ELA teacher at both the middle and high school levels. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Education with a Bachelor’s in English and a Master’s in Secondary Education, Thomasine has a unique passion for literature. She finds great joy in breaking down complex stories and teaching her students the value of critical thinking. She brought literature to life and demonstrated its impact on our world, showing students the power words have to inspire, influence, and empower. It is truly meaningful to hear from her former students who, years later, still remember her introducing them to great authors and influential stories. Since her retirement, she continues this mission of service as a mentor for the Citrus College and Career Coalition and the Citrus Education Foundation, while also serving our church.

Clarine Elizabeth Kennedy: The Matriarch and Trailblazer
My mother, Clarine, was a commanding figure and a model leader. She rose from a Licensed Practical Nurse to become the Director of Risk Management, Quality Assurance, and Patient Relations, one of the first women to hold such positions at New England Memorial Hospital outside of Boston. She was a professional conflict resolver and a trusted resource in complex situations, known for her high ethical standards and deep spiritual devotion. Mom taught me invaluable lessons in self advocacy and education advocacy that continue to guide my work on the school board today. Her protective and determined approach for students with learning disabilities was legendary. My former high school English teacher and principal, Joelle Andrea, another remarkable woman I look forward to sharing more about in the future, once shared that my mother never grew weary of helping the world see the potential and accomplishments of her children and students. She was the foundational influence for five generations of women in our family who followed her into the medical profession.

Clarine Nordell: Healing the Heart and Body
My cousin and my mother’s namesake, Clarine Nordell, BSN, RN, has served as a nurse in Ocala for over three decades, specializing in women’s and children’s health. Within our family, she is a trusted professional we often turn to for guidance and care. Beyond her clinical expertise, she carries a unique gift inspired by her minister father, the ability to speak not only to the mind, but directly to the heart, reflecting faith and compassion in all she does. She is a powerful example of how professional skill and spiritual depth can come together to bring healing.

Dr. Kimberly Silver Dunker: Empowering Future Educators
My niece, Kim, has dedicated more than 25 years to serving patients, students, and fellow educators, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to the nursing profession. She holds both a PhD and a DNP and serves as a full professor with dual certifications as a Nurse Educator and Clinical Nurse Educator. In her current role as Director of Graduate Nursing Programs at Loma Linda University, she leads the development of future advanced practice nurses across our nation. Her academic achievements include a PhD in Leadership and Higher Education from Andrews University, a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Regis University, and a Master’s in Nursing Leadership and Business. A published Sigma author, her research, including her work on the empowerment of nursing faculty and student preceptor relationships, addresses critical challenges in healthcare education today. Through her leadership and mentorship, she is helping shape a future generation of nurses who are supported, empowered, and grounded in strong ethical values. We are incredibly proud of the impact she is making on a national level.

Genevieve Kennedy: A Fifth Generation of Service
My daughter, Genevieve, represents the fifth generation of this calling in nursing. Her journey began at Crystal River High School, where she earned her National EMT certification. She continued on to Florida Southern College, where she competed as an NCAA Division II swimmer while earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and working as an EMT and nursing intern at Tampa General Hospital in Crystal River. Graduating magna cum laude, she now serves as a Registered Nurse in Winter Haven. She carries forward our family’s legacy with the same discipline, compassion, and commitment she has shown since she was a young student.

Savannah Brennan: Excellence in Athletics and Medicine
I am also proud to honor Savannah, my soon to be daughter in law, whose achievements reflect a rare combination of athletic and academic excellence. A former NCAA Division II national qualifier and top finisher, she was recognized as a Top 30 NCAA Woman of the Year in 2023 and the Sunshine State Conference Woman of the Year in 2022. Her success as a CSCAA Division II All American First Team athlete carried into her academic accomplishments. Savannah earned a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Genetics and Biomedical Science and a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the Florida Institute of Technology, followed by a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She now practices as a Physician Assistant at UF Health in Jacksonville, representing the highest standards of professionalism, dedication, and care. We are grateful to have her in our family and proud to see her continue forward in a career that reflects her commitment to excellence.

These women are just a few of the many who have impacted and continue to shape our world. I am honored and proud to have them in my life and to witness the difference they make each and every day. Their stories are not told often enough, and their impact on our world and on future generations of women is truly profound.

God bless the women of this world. They care for their families, raise future generations, and strengthen communities in ways that bless us all. I am deeply grateful for their presence and their work.

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Reaching Beyond the Stars: Lecanto IB Students Explore NASA’s Frontiers

Today, seniors from the Lecanto High School (LHS) International Baccalaureate (IB) program had the opportunity to experience something few classrooms can replicate: a firsthand look at the future of space exploration. Through a special trip to NASA and the Kennedy Space Center, these students stepped beyond textbooks and into a world where science, innovation, and ambition converge.

Participants represented both pathways within the IB program, the Diploma Programme (DP) and the Career-related Programme (CP), reflecting the breadth of opportunity available to students in Citrus County. While each pathway offers a unique approach to learning, both share a commitment to critical thinking, global awareness, and real-world application. This trip exemplified those values in action.

During their visit, students explored the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, but the experience went far beyond a typical tour. They were given up-close views of the launch infrastructure supporting the upcoming Artemis program missions. Seeing a launch site prepared and waiting on the pad brought a new level of immediacy to their understanding of space exploration. It transformed abstract concepts into tangible realities and allowed students to grasp the scale, complexity, and precision required to push the boundaries of human achievement.

Equally impactful was the opportunity to engage directly with those who have lived that mission. Students met and learned from veteran astronaut Charles “Sam” Gemar, a decorated NASA astronaut and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army who completed three Space Shuttle missions, logging over 580 hours in orbit and contributing significantly to satellite deployment and life sciences research. Through this experience, students gained insight into the discipline, resilience, and curiosity that define a career in space. Conversations like these leave lasting impressions, often inspiring students to see themselves in roles they may not have previously considered.

This experience was made possible through the leadership and dedication of LHS educators, including IB Coordinator Dr. Ashley Shidner, along with IB teachers Mrs. Jacqueline Benoist, Mrs. Stephanie Smith, and Mrs. Victoria Wyka. Their commitment to creating meaningful, real-world learning opportunities continues to elevate what education can and should look like.

Dr. Shidner brings a unique perspective to this work. Last summer, she joined fellow Citrus County STEM educators at the 2025 SPACE Conference, held at the Kennedy Space Center and the Center for Space Education. There, she participated in immersive workshops and gained behind-the-scenes access to some of NASA’s most iconic facilities. Experiences like these not only deepen educators’ knowledge but also strengthen their ability to bring cutting-edge learning back to their students.

Reflecting on the recent trip, Dr. Shidner shared, “Taking our IB DP and CP seniors to Kennedy Space Center opens their eyes to the vast world of careers driven by innovation and curiosity, reminding them that exploration is not just history. It’s their future.”

This visit is not an isolated event but part of a broader, intentional effort by Citrus County Schools to expand access to aerospace and aviation pathways. Across the district, programs are being aligned to connect classroom learning with high-demand, real-world careers. High school Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are increasingly tied to industry needs, ensuring students graduate with both knowledge and applicable skills.

Partnerships have played a critical role in this progress. Collaborations with organizations like Space Florida have helped introduce students to emerging opportunities within the aerospace sector. The Space Florida Space Academy initiative integrates with existing high school CTE programs, offering co-branded credentials, exposure to workforce trends, and new learning opportunities.

At the same time, the district is expanding hands-on training opportunities. The introduction of Welding Technology Fundamentals courses at schools such as Lecanto High School and Citrus High School is equipping students with practical, in-demand skills that are directly applicable to aerospace, manufacturing, and other technical fields. These programs are not only preparing students for immediate employment but also laying the groundwork for long-term career growth.

Further strengthening this pipeline, Withlacoochee Technical College has announced plans for a new aviation maintenance and training program. This initiative represents a significant step forward for workforce development in our community, creating a seamless pathway from high school programs to specialized technical training and, ultimately, to careers in high-demand industries.

None of this progress happens without strong community support. This experience at Kennedy Space Center was made possible through a grant from the Citrus County Education Foundation, whose continued partnership has been instrumental in expanding opportunities for both students and educators. Their investment reflects a shared belief in the potential of our students and the importance of preparing them for the future.

Moments like this remind us that education is at its best when it connects learning to possibility. For these IB students, the trip to Kennedy Space Center was more than a field experience. It was a glimpse into what lies ahead and a powerful affirmation that their future can reach as far as they are willing to imagine.

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