International Baccalaureate and the Health Careers Class of 2025 Awards

Celebrating Excellence: Honoring the Achievements of Our Students

This time of year is truly one of the most rewarding for anyone who has the privilege of working with or supporting students. It is a season filled with awards ceremonies, celebrations, and heartfelt reflections on the incredible journeys these young people have undertaken. Two standout events this year were the Lecanto High School International Baccalaureate (IB) Class of 2025 Awards and the Academy of Health Careers (AHC) Awards at Crystal River High School. Both events showcased the extraordinary accomplishments of students who represent the very best of Citrus County Schools.

At the Lecanto High School IB Awards, IB Coordinator Dr. Ashlyn Shidner took the stage to highlight the many successes of the Class of 2025. Dr. Shidner’s remarks celebrated not only the academic rigor the students have embraced but also the personal growth they have achieved through the demanding IB curriculum. A cherished tradition at the IB Awards is the presentation of fun and heartfelt student and teacher superlatives, a lighthearted highlight that never fails to bring laughter and smiles to both students and staff alike.

An especially meaningful part of the IB Awards ceremony is the return of a senior from the previous class to offer insight and encouragement to the rising seniors. This year, Natalia Hollohan, a proud member of the Class of 2024, returned to share her experiences and wisdom. Natalia spoke about the importance of embracing new opportunities and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone, offering inspiration and reassurance to those preparing for their final year of the IB program. Her words were a reminder that while challenges lie ahead, so do limitless possibilities.

Equally inspiring was the Academy of Health Careers Awards at Crystal River High School. AHC Coordinator Danielle Doherty-Koch led the celebration, highlighting the remarkable achievements of students across the program’s multiple pathways. The Academy of Health Careers prepares students for vital professions in health care, and this event shone a spotlight on their hard work, resilience, and dedication.

The Outstanding Senior Awards were a centerpiece of the evening, recognizing the top students in each pathway: Biomedical Science, Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and Dental Assistant. Each award was presented by the students’ pathway instructors, who spoke with pride about the accomplishments and character of their awardees.

A particularly special moment came when School Board Member Doug Dodd, representing the Phil Royal Legacy Board of Directors, honored the EMT certification students. These students completed their training through the Phil Royal EMT Program, a unique partnership with the College of Central Florida. Dodd spoke passionately about the importance of this opportunity and how it empowers students to step into life-saving careers right out of high school—a testament to the real-world impact of the Academy of Health Careers.

The evening also featured moving speeches from students Madison Rose, representing the Biomedical Science pathway, and Jonalyn Kin, President of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and an EMT pathway student. Both young women eloquently shared their experiences, gratitude, and aspirations, leaving no doubt that the future of health care is bright in their capable hands.

The senior students honored at both the IB Awards and the Academy of Health Careers Awards embody the very finest qualities of our schools and communities. Their commitment to excellence, their pursuit of knowledge, and their dedication to making a difference stand as a powerful reminder of what is possible when students are supported, challenged, and believed in.

None of this success would be possible without the dedicated administration teams at Lecanto High School IB and Crystal River High School’s Academy of Health Careers. Their leadership and steadfast support make it possible for students to flourish. Special thanks must also go to the incredible teachers who serve not only as educators but as mentors and role models. Their passion and expertise ignite a love of learning and a drive for success in their students.

We are also deeply grateful to the community partners who continue to invest in these programs, creating opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom walls. Their belief in our students strengthens the bridge between education and the broader world they are preparing to enter.

Finally, we must recognize the families, friends, and mentors who stand beside these students every step of the way. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and unwavering support are the foundation on which these achievements are built.

As we celebrate the successes of this season, we are reminded once again that the future is in good hands. These students are not only ready to take on the challenges ahead—they are ready to lead, to heal, and to inspire.

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