HCSD: Challenger K-8 8th Grade Ticket to High School Ceremony May 28, 2026

Added: 2026-05-31

[00:04:21]Heat.

[00:04:36]Heat.

[00:08:53]Heat.

[00:09:08]Heat.

[00:16:07]Goodbye.

[00:21:56]Heat. Heat.

[00:28:15]Heat. Heat.

[00:30:00]You want to stand on this side?

[00:30:23]Good evening everyone and welcome to the eighth grade high school ceremony for Challenger K8 School of Science and Mathematics. I am Carly Nichols and Walker and we have the privilege of serving as the eighth grade leaders this year and tonight we're honored to celebrate the accomplishments of the remarkable class of 2026.

[00:30:45]This group of students has demonstrated resilience, curiosity, and growth through every challenge and success they have encountered. They have not only achieved academically, but they've also shown kindness, determination, and leadership throughout their middle school journey. This year, our school also began an important journey of its own. As we work towards becoming a leadership school through the principles of the seven habits of highly effective people, our students rose to the challenge in meaningful ways, embracing opportunities to lead, serve, and make a positive impact on our campus community.

[00:31:20]One outstanding example of this leadership came from some of our student lighthouse members whom you will meet in just a moment. This group of students took the initiative to approach our principal requesting to lead the morning announcements this year. Their willingness to step forward with confidence, serve their school community and set a positive example for their peers reflects the leadership qualities we hope all of our students will continue to develop as they move forward into high school and beyond.

[00:31:48]As we honor our students achievements tonight, we also look ahead with excitement and pride for all they will accomplish in the future. At this time, please remove your hats and join us in welcoming the lovely Lighthouse Lady members to the stage as they lead us in the pledge of allegiance.

[00:32:22]to the flag of America to the standy for all.

[00:32:50]Dear challenger family and friends, I want to thank take a moment to thank everyone for all the support and kindness you've shown me over the past few years.

[00:33:04]Anyways, uh dear Challenger family and friends, I want to take a moment to thank everyone for all the support and kindness you've shown me over the past few years. It's truly been special being a part of this community and I can't believe we're already at the end of this chapter. I started here in third grade during co and at first being a digital student it was a bit different but when I came in person the next year I felt so welcomed and knew I was a part of the challenger family. I've made so many wonderful friends along the way like Kar Rodriguez, Dante Mason, Christian Sacket Kamora Sherman and so many others. I'm grateful to God, my mom, my dad, my mom India, my dad Steve, my siblings, and everyone who has supported me on this journey. Your encouragement means the world to me, and I couldn't have done it without you. I also want to thank my principal, which is the greatest principal of all time, Miss Marion, and my and my assistant principles, Mr. Finch, Miss Grant, and Miss Schumacher for always being there. Oh, yep.

[00:34:12]For always being there when I needed your help. Your support has shaped who I am today. Thank you to my teachers, Miss Gvicki, my sixth and seventh grade English teacher. Mr. Gomez, elementary music, Miss Soros, algebra, Miss Dia, fourth grade English, and Miss Jen, our sec Miss Jen, our secretary, and so many more. I appreciate everything you've taught me and all the ways you've helped make school a fun and positive experience.

[00:34:33]To my coaches, Coach Barrett, Coach Satar, Coach Mike, Coach McFale, Coach Steve, Coach Emes, and the gym coaches.

[00:34:40]Thank you for gu for guiding me and helping me improve in sports. I remember not making the football and basketball teams in sixth grade, but thanks to your support, I was able to come back stronger and better for eighth grade. A big thank you to the cheer team for always being there to cheer us on, win or lose. Also, thank you to the band for making our games more fun. Thanks to my football teammates for lifting me up during practice and celebrating me.

[00:35:02]after touchdowns and big hits. I'm grateful to the boys basketball team for sticking with me these past two years. I love you guys. Congrat Congratulations to the cheer team for placing eighth in the nation.

[00:35:23]Also, congratulations to our flag football and volleyball teams on your successes and the girls basketball team for winning back-to-back championships.

[00:35:38]>> And of course, both our boys and girls track team for their championship wins this year.

[00:35:49]I love cheering you all on and playing with you at every game or meet I could.

[00:35:53]As we head into high school, I know we will go our separate ways, but the memories we've made at Challenger will stay with us. I wish you all the best of luck in your next adventures. And always remember to chomp, stay strong, and no matter what or what where you go or what you face, stick together and support each other. Go Gators.

[00:36:14]Now I want to introduce the greatest principal I talked about, Miss Marie.

[00:36:31]>> A that was Asa Makook, our student class president.

[00:36:41]Welcome family and friends. It's such a wonderful night to celebrate our eighth graders. Teachers, thank you. Thank you for working hard to create a learning environment that is safe for our students to take risk and push themselves. Eighth graders, this is what you've been waiting for. You will be able to wear Crocs to high school.

[00:37:04]No more CKA dress code.

[00:37:11]I know you will not miss those rules, but I know you will miss this place. You may not believe that right now, but trust me, I hear from former navigators every year about how much they miss CK.

[00:37:23]This place will hold a special place in your heart when you move on to high school. You are going to do great things in high school. Some will excel in the classrooms, others on the field or court, and others in the art room or on stage, theater, or band. I can't wait to see how you share your gifts and talents at your new school over the next four years. There will be some challenges for you and I found a book that could help you as you begin high school. Please listen carefully as I read it to you.

[00:37:50]It's called Be You by Peter Reynolds.

[00:37:54]I was an elementary school teacher, by the way. You know, I like read alouds.

[00:37:58]You were born to be so many things.

[00:38:01]My wish for you, no matter where your journey leads, is for you to always be you.

[00:38:08]Be ready to take that next step toward being an amazing human being.

[00:38:15]Be curious. Turn every stone. Ask every why and keep digging deeply. Discover your own answers.

[00:38:24]Be adventurous. Live a big life. When you are ready, step outside your comfort zone. Bravely explore new paths and see where they lead you. Be connected. Find kindred spirits. Be with those who make you feel like the real you.

[00:38:41]Be persistent. Keep going. Never stop.

[00:38:45]Keep going. Never stop. Keep going.

[00:38:48]Never stop.

[00:38:50]Be different. Be silly. Be quirky. Be odd. Be unique. Be weird. Be colorful.

[00:38:56]Be okay with being different. Be just the way you are.

[00:39:00]Be kind. Be understanding. Help those around you to be themselves. Listen, then listen some more. Learn more about who they are.

[00:39:11]Be brave. Try new things. Take a deep breath and plunge forward into new experiences. It gets easier every time you try.

[00:39:22]Be your own thinker. Think for yourself and set your own unique course. It isn't always easy, but you'll be heading in the direction of you.

[00:39:32]Be okay being alone. Take time to be on your own. Hear your own thoughts, your inner voice. Listen to your heart.

[00:39:43]Be patient. Being more. Being more you takes time. Take a deep breath. Relax.

[00:39:50]Let your future unfold at its own pace.

[00:39:53]It will be worth the wait.

[00:39:56]Be okay reaching out for help when you need a helping hand, a compassionate ear, an encouraging word. Reach out as you voyage out into the world.

[00:40:08]Remember, no matter what, you will always be loved.

[00:40:13]You are ready. So go ahead, be you. Be very, very you. I asked for one thing.

[00:40:20]Always chomp. Make me proud as you begin your high school journey. You got this.

[00:40:26]Be you. Remember, once a navigator, always a navigator. And most importantly, remember we love you.

[00:40:35]Congratulations, eighth grade.

[00:40:49]Next, we present the Oswald Academy of Excellence Awards, recognizing the academic top % of our students. This honor was established in 2010 in memory of John Oswald, a beloved science teacher at Challenger who passed away in 2009 after a courageous battle with cancer. This year's recipients have all earned an average higher than 95.6% in their four core subject areas. We are proud to recognize their hard work and dedication. Here are the students listed in random order. Please stand when your name is called. Chloe Brooks, Alisandre Madiuchi, Troy Clumis, Gan Sleon, Nikolai, Addison Fritton, Brian Castillo, Bailey Larose, Ellis Miserio, Chloe Lzuriaga, Aubrey Davis, Sheay Koreah, Raymond Weber, Carson Danzac, Nell Picunko, Porter Gregson, Abigail Clling, Noah Lopez, Allison Mitchell, >> Evan Shriber, and last but not least, Savannah Buck.

[00:43:42]Next, we present the Oswald Award for Academic Achievement, which recognizes the top male and female students with the highest average across all four subject areas. It is my honor to announce the recipients of the Oswald Award for Academic Achievement. Please come to the stage when we call your name. With an overall average of 96.75%, Porter Gregson with an overall average of 98.75%.

[00:44:28]Savannah Buck Congratulations to both of these outstanding students.

[00:45:16]I am honored to present the John Oswald Memorial Scholarship established in 2010 in memory of our dear friend and beloved science teacher John Oswald. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from a Hernando County high school who also attended Challenger.

[00:45:31]Recipients reflect the values of Mr. Oswald stood for integrity, determination, strong character, and a positive attitude. This year, we are proud to award two scholarships of $750 each. Our first recipient is graduating from Nature Coast High School with a 4.35 GPA and will also be earning her associates degree from PHSC. During high school, she was a member of the Beta Club, National Honor Society, and DECA, and served as vice president of the student government for two years. She also demonstrated outstanding dedication to athletics, serving as the co- captain of both the weightlifting and cheerleading teams while competing in track and field, basketball, and flag football. In her essay, she wrote, "It was Challenger, where I learned that my differences were not my weaknesses, but my sources of strength. That shift did not happen overnight. It took comparing myself endlessly to others and pushing through moments of doubt to realize that success is not about being the fastest, the strongest, or the smartest. It's about challenging my own limits. Those experiences taught me integrity, resilience, discipline, and the importance of showing up for myself. She plans to attend the University of Florida in the fall and major in advertising. Please welcome to the stage our first recipient, Liliana Norton.

[00:47:01]Our second recipient is graduating from Springstead High School as valid Victorian, earning highest honors with a 4.7 GPA. During her time at Springstead, she served as the president of the Spanish Honor Society, vice president of the Interact Club, and a member of the National Honor Society. She was also class representative for two years, participated in model UN, and competed on the varsity tennis team for all four years. She also completed over 350 volunteer hours through community events. In her essay, she wrote, "Challenger instilled in me the characteristics of a hard worker, building the consistency, drive, and the character necessary to fulfill all my goals. The foundation that I received at Challenger helped me continuously excel in school, ultimately serving as the academic and serviceoriented background needed to be accepted into my dream university. She plans to attend the University of Notre Dame in the fall, majoring in political science. Please welcome to the stage our second recipient of the 2026 John Oswald Memorial Scholarship, Haley Herb.

[00:48:17]Congratulations again to both of these outstanding young women. They truly represent the values and legacy that John Oswald left behind. And to our eighth graders, four years from now, one of you will be up on the stage as the winner of the 2030 John Oswald Memorial Scholarship. Congratulations.

[00:48:49]It is my pleasure to announce tonight's male and female athlete of the year. To be clear, this award is voted upon by all the head coaches here at Challenger.

[00:48:58]This year we did have a unanimous award winner and then we had one where the there were several nominations. I will begin with a unanimous winner and once you see what he has accomplished this year, you'll understand. On the football field, he tied the school record with 18 touchdowns. He led his team with confidence and poise. On the basketball court, he led his team in points and minutes played. He earned his teammates and coaches trust to be on the floor when it mattered most. In track, he made history, breaking two school records, one of which was held for 18 years. But stats only tell part of the story. This young man works. He competes. He listens. And he's determined. This goes for practice, in the classroom, and in in the game. He's made Challenger very proud, and we're so excited to see what the future holds for him. Your male athlete of the year is Dante Mason.

[00:50:17]Stay right there, Dante. We got We got someone that's going to be joining you in a moment.

[00:50:22]Now, before I tell you who the female athlete of the year is, I would love to just pause because this is a super talented group. one probably the most athletic class we've had since I can remember.

[00:50:34]So, I'd like to just share just sitting where you guys are sitting right now. A few years ago, we had a student named Riley Cullum. And Riley was a division one soccer player. He earned a full scholarship to West Point. He still plays football uh soccer there. He would be entering his senior year. He was not an athlete of the year award winner. A few years before Riley was this young man named Trevor Foley. He he left Challenger and he won state not once but twice in the onem run. He went to the University of Florida to run cross country track where he recorded the fifth fastest 5K time in school history at the University of Florida. Today he is ranked in the top 50 in the world as a triathlete. And you guessed it, he was not an athlete of the year, but today he's a professional athlete. Today, I share that story with you because this school is filled with talented athletes, people who work hard, people are great teammates, and today we can only recognize Dante and one more. And there are many people who are deserving. And I just want to remind you guys that this is not your finish line. And there's so much for you guys to achieve from from this day on. Our females athletes recorded the second most successful season in school history. And I can prove it. Volleyball undefeated county champs. Basketball undefeated county champs. Flag football ran out of time.

[00:52:14]Needed about 30 more seconds. They got runner up. Tennis, we featured the number one county, the number one player in the county and the number two team overall. Softball secured the number two seed and track and field completed their ninth consecutive undefeated county champions.

[00:52:33]There are so many deserving athletes, so many positive leaders in just this class, but there can only be one. So the young lady that gets this award, she demon she dominated in every sport. In basketball, she was a leading scorer with 110 points. In flag football, she scored a record 15 touchdowns. And she's the only player in the county to score one touchdown in every game. A remarkable accomplishment that speaks of both her consistency and her determination. In track and field, she proved once again to be among the county's best in the high jump and the long jump.

[00:53:14]Her enthusiasm is contagious. She celebrates others. She brings energy, positivity, and passion every day. She leads by example, competes with her heart, and she pushes her teammates to be better no matter what sport or what moment. And that female athlete of the year is Davey Flores.

[00:54:20]To honor students who truly reflect the spirit and character of a challenger navigator, I am proud to present a special award to two outstanding eighth graders.

[00:54:33]the Sue Stoops Chomp Champ Award. Our first principal was Mrs. Sue Stoops. Her legacy lives on at Challenger and tonight we continue to honor her vision by recognizing two students selected by their teachers and school counselors as shining examples of what it means to live out CHOP each day.

[00:54:56]These students are consistently positive, polite, hard-working, and honest. They go above and beyond in all they do, and they are truly exceptional individuals.

[00:55:10]Our first recipient of the Sue Stoops Chomp Champ Award is Alyssa O'haleran.

[00:55:21]Congratulations.

[00:55:40]>> All right, the next recipient of the Sue Stoops Chomp Champ Award is Chase Man.

[00:56:22]So, eighth graders, no matter what high school you will be attending, remember you will always be a navigator. And as always, remember to chomp.

[00:56:41]As our first row of students stands to make their way to the side of the stage, let me share with you what you can expect in in tonight's Ticket to High School ceremony. When each student's name is called, they will come up to the stage to be greeted by our principal, Miss Mayorini. Behind them, you will see a slideshow highlighting the achievements they've earned this school year. Each student will pause at the center of the stage with Miss Mayorini and give you a brief moment to take a brief opportunity to take photos. Let's go ahead and get started. Mr. Smith, Xavier Alvarez, Mason Ant, William Armen, III, Alex Arades, >> Raison Ayash, Faith Babino, Gianna Ba Carter Barton, Molly Bes, Ava Bjorgar, Briella Beerkercher, Vincent Barrett, Gabrien Benson >> Dylan Bernard Noah Bettincor Bella Blue Betterly Zoe Burkinberger Tinsley Bourman, Isabella Bros, Bella Boutwell, Victoria Bradley, Colton Brennan, Ayla Brewer, Chloe Brooks, Savannah Buck, Louis Kao, Chloe Cordillo, Zoe Carter, Addison Casy, Brian Castillo, Ronnie Curridge, Noah Cordova, Shay Korea, Jordan Coward, Carson Danzac, Addison Davis, Aubrey Davis, Helena Deluca, Belle Duza, Paval Diaz Legos, Julian Dixon, Tyon Dubos, Cameron Eaves, Taylor Ear, McKenna Edwards, Anna Ellis, VA Elyn, >> Gabrielle Pharaoh, Andrew Faulner, Brandon Figureroa, Dave Flores, Avery Floyd, >> Sophia Fontes, Travis Foster, Willard Fox IV, >> Jeffrey Frasier, The third, Justin Fry, Addison Fritton, Angelina Fetta, >> Evan Garrett, Selen Gasket, Giovana Gonzalez, Harrison Grieve, Porter Gregson, Christian Guerrero, Maya G, >> Drew Hagen, Leila Hammerly, Ally Hamilton, Trip R, Bentley Healey, Natalie Hendrickson, Fernando Hernandez, BEJORN HOWELL, Deborah Hughes, Fallon jennai, Maddox Jones, Josie Key, Abigail Lee, Troy, Clumus, Gans, Leah, Nicole, Jordan Langel, Shayen Langworthy, Bailey Laose, Kayen Lazenby, >> Quinton Little, Jacob Law, Noah Lopez, Brandon Lorenz, Vivian Levelvel, Chloe Luzer, Baker, Alexander Ly, Kevin Maliscoco, Shane May Raphael Martin Jr.

[01:06:50]Emma Martinez Dante Mason Jr.

[01:07:04]Owen Mason, Ellis Miserio, Valentina Masamino, Alisandre Mattuchi, Chase McCabe, here.

[01:07:35]Asa Mcook, Breantia Mcgrath, Ryland McKini, Brandon Mmore, Logan McFale, Serenity Marino, Evelyn Milber, Athena Milwis, Allison Mitchell, Kiana Mo, Ashley Molina, Aubrey Monsan, Trayden Montgomery, Trinity Montgomery, Preston Moore, Amari Moreno, Alexis Moscato, Benjamin Newman, Braden Noble, Jude Nennis, Connor Nes, Alyssa O'Halerin, Ethan Ohio, >> Aviana Osborne, Mike Oalt, Isabella Pommyo, Satirz Papadopoulos, Gage Parish, Tenley Pascarello, Gregory Paulo Jr. Jr.

[01:10:35]Aiden Peele, Carara Pella, Natalie Pel, Miles Pereira, Amy Peters, Kendall Peters, Nell Picunko, Avery Picor, Shane Pina, Ava Plumeador, Madison Picornney, Dustin Rider, Jennifer Rev, Jackson Renie, Jonah Reynolds, Jacqueline Richards >> Jordan Rivera, Bianca Rockwell, Kiora Rodriguez, Anthony Rosado, Madison Rasher, >> Aubrey Sandon, Audriana Sanders, Jacob Sawyer, Noah Schmid, Casey Shraider, Lola Shred, Evan Shriber, Liam Schultz, McKenna Shoemaker, Alexander Scott Ronin, Mila Serrano, Olivia Seymour, KIMORA SHERMAN, Tavan Shu, ARD CHRISTOPHER Simpson Anthony Smith Jr.

[01:14:11]Nicholas S, >> Bella Sours, Finn Spina, >> Owen Spina, Le Leila Stalzer, Zia Stewart, Shelby Sto, Sailor Sorz, AUTUMN SWERZY, Christian Tacket, >> Brandon Tam, Elliot Taylor, Emma Taylor, Logan Tedeski, Ariana Tada, Ashley Thoi, Matteline Van Nostrid, Jaden Vaugh, >> Janati Vitoz, Joshua Waten, Raymond Weber Jr., Kenley Wheeler, LILY White House, Tenley Wogan, and Kaden Ziggler, your eighth grade graduates.

[01:17:04]Can we give a shout out to Mr. Smith?

[01:17:07]That was not an easy job and he rocked it.

[01:17:21]>> So, Mr. Jay was up here taking pictures.

[01:17:23]So, when he gets them all situated, I'll either send a link.

[01:17:28]>> Hello.

[01:17:30]>> It's on.

[01:17:31]>> All right. I'll send a link on Skyward and Parent Square. you can see pictures for tonight. Okay. So, he take individual shots. So, thank you, Mr. Jay.

[01:17:45]As we bring this evening to a close, we want to thank each of you, families, friends, teachers, and staff for being an important part of this milestone in our students lives. Your encouragement, support, and guidance have helped shape these students into the young leaders they are becoming today. To the challenger K8 e 8th grade class of 2026, we are so proud of you. Throughout your time here, you have worked hard, grown in countless ways, and shown us what it truly means to rise to the occasion.

[01:18:17]This year, as we began our journey to becoming a leadership school with the seven habits of highly effective people, many of you embraced the challenge to lead with responsibility, kindness, teamwork, and integrity. You discovered that you dis on there we go. You discovered that leadership is not about a title. It's about your actions, your choices, and the positive impact you make on those around you each day. As you head into high school, take with you the lessons you have learned, the friendships you have built, and the confidence that you are capable of achieving great things.

[01:18:56]Be proactive. Begin with the end in mind.

[01:19:00]Work hard, support one another, and never stop striving to becoming the best version of yourselves. Keep asking questions, keep showing kindness, and most importantly, keep believing in yourselves and your ability to make a difference. We cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish in the years.

[01:19:20]Remember, once a navigator, always a navigator. And as always, we love you.

[01:19:26]Congratulations, class of 2026.

[01:19:38]Thank you everyone for coming tonight.

[01:19:40]We really appreciate you. So, congratulations eighth graders.

[01:19:56]Heat. Heat.