Special Operations Forces Warrior Outdoor Leadership for the Future, a nonprofit organization based in Tampa, Florida, offering college and career outdoor leadership opportunities for teenagers of fallen members of the Special Operations Forces community, announced today its partnership with Admiral Farragut Academy to offer a full-year scholarship valued at $48,800 to a SOFWOLF student with outstanding academic, personal and leadership qualifications.

“This is a remarkable opportunity to support a SOFWOLF student in a way that could change their life for the better,” said Sara Moola, co-founder of SOFWOLF. “This partnership with AFA is proof of what is possible when a community comes together.”  

AFA is a college-prep military academy based in St. Petersburg, Florida, serving students in grades pre-K-12. With a math and science core curriculum, AFA emphasizes outdoor leadership skills, including sailing, aviation, team sports and more. Its upper school, which starts in eighth grade, is also known worldwide for its boarding program and its naval science program’s military structure. Recent graduates of AFA have continued their educational studies at prestigious private universities, including Stanford, Princeton and Duke.

“We’re excited to be partnering with SOFWOLF on this initiative,” said Tony Sloan, chief development officer for AFA. “We admire the work they’ve done to help teens of Special Operations Forces warriors whom we have lost, and we look forward to welcoming a deserving student to AFA.”

To learn more about SOFWOLF, visit www.sofwolf.org.

About SOFWOLF

SOFWOLF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that offers a college and career outdoor leadership program for the teenagers of the fallen Special Operations Forces community, which includes Air Force Commandos, Green Berets, Navy SEALS and Marine Special Operators. The mission expands beyond being a summer camp. SOFWOLF provides the opportunity for these teens to participate in outdoor leadership, team-building activities, career mentoring, resume-building, community outreach and networking for internships. For more information, visit us at www.sofwolf.org.

View pictures of all of the exciting 2017-18 end-of-year events including academic awards, final parade, graduation and more!

 Final Parade & Change of Command Ceremony | Read Full Article

Senior Award Ceremony Pictures | View Award Winners

Upperclassmen Award Ceremony | View Award Winners

Graduation | Congratulations to the Class of 2018! To view photos and buy prints, visit proofs.VernonPhoto.com/gallery/6726106 and enter the password admi2018.

Admiral Farragut Academy has been offering Aviation courses since 1987. What began as an elective, became a full Aviation Program in 2007 with Private Pilot license training for students in 9th-12th grade at an additional cost. This year, Farragut continues to advance its Aviation Program by joining 69 other schools and adding the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Associations (AOPA) high school aviation science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum in the 2018-2019 school year.

“We have used AOPA’s online educational resources for years both in our Aviation Academy and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Dual Enrollment course,” said Rob Ewing, Director of the Aviation Program at Farragut. “I am always striving to improve the overall course offerings to our students, and by adding this coursework we join a larger aviation community driven to provide the best possible Aviation/STEM education for students that attend Admiral Farragut Academy.”

AOPA’s aviation STEM curriculum is the first-of-its-kind and will offer students comprehensive, four-year aviation study options aligned with rigorous math and science standards used in many states nationwide. The program aims to provide students with the skills they need to learn about aviation-related career and educational opportunities.

AOPA is developing these courses as part of three career and technical education (CTE) pathways: pilot, unmanned aircraft systems (drones), and aerospace engineering.

Each year, AOPA will release subsequent courses until all four high school grade levels of the curriculum are complete. The curriculum will be provided to schools at no cost. Donors to the AOPA Foundation fund development and distribution of the curriculum, as well as other initiatives of the You Can Fly program.

According to a 2017 Boeing study, there’s a growing demand for aviation industry jobs, and it’s not slowing down. 637,000 commercial aircraft pilots; 648,000 technicians; and 839,000 cabin crew members are needed globally within the next 20 years. “With an unprecedented demand for careers in aviation, we are thrilled that so many high schools are utilizing our STEM curriculum to inspire students and give them the skills to pursue future careers in aerospace,” said AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker. “Planting the seeds for the future workforce of our industry is part of AOPA’s mission to keep aviation vibrant. We are grateful to the AOPA Foundation donors who make such programs possible. Their generosity is helping us make a difference in the lives of thousands of youth and to spur interest in aviation.”

Over the past 12 months, AOPA tested the ninth-grade curriculum in nearly 30 schools with more than 700 students, before unveiling the program. The courses are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and includes all the resources teachers will need. Lesson plans, presentations, assessments, and other learning opportunities will be taught as rigorous, engaging, and fun student activities.

Before implementing the curriculum, Farragut’s Aviation Instructors are required and will participate in a three-day professional development workshop at AOPA headquarters in Frederick, MD to gain a deeper understanding of the materials, learn about available resources, and network with other aviation educators.

About AOPA

Since 1939, AOPA has protected the freedom to fly for thousands of pilots, aircraft owners and aviation enthusiasts. AOPA is the world’s largest aviation member association. With representatives based in Frederick, Md., Washington, D.C., and seven regions across the United States, AOPA provides member services that range from advocacy at the federal, state, and local levels to legal services, flight planning products, safety programs and award-winning media. To learn more, visit www.aopa.org.

An Interview with Jeri Williar, Director of College Placement and Counseling at Admiral Farragut Academy. Williar earned her bachelor’s in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University and her master’s in Counselor Education from the University of North Florida. She has over thirty years of experience in college admissions, college registration, high school college placement, and guidance counseling.

Often times I am asked, “what type of program should I find for my child? Should they be in an IB program? Should they be in an AP program? Should they be in a Dual Enrollment program? What should I do?” And I respond that it’s an individual decision and you have to look at your child.

For example, parents have heard of and frequently inquire about the IB program. It is a prestigious program but I tell parents there is a place for it and there are students that belong in that program. See, with IB you have to be good at every academic area to do well and you can’t pick and choose your subject areas. A lot of students will apply to IB programs at high schools, but the first two years are pre-IB, not IB. I always tell parents to ask the high school about how many students are accepted as freshmen and how many students stay in the program as juniors. There’s usually a large difference in the numbers because in the first two years the students start to realize, “okay, I’m strong in math and science, but I’m not strong in English so I am struggling in the program” or vice versa. You have to be strong in all areas to be competitive in regard to earning the IB Diploma.

But what Farragut is doing is offering the AP Capstone Diploma, which is, in essence, similar – yet different. You get to pick and choose what AP courses you want to take so if the student’s strength isn’t in math, then the student can take AP Psychology or AP History. It gives students the ability to pick the courses that they are strong in.

Anytime parents are looking at these types of courses, they have to look at their student and they have to make sure that the student is ready for the courses they are enrolled in. The worst thing that can happen is that you’ve put your student in courses that they’re not ready for and they don’t do well, and it ultimately hurts the student’s self-esteem, their transcript, and their course progression. I guide all of our students to think about themselves and what they like. When students enjoy the coursework they will often succeed.

The office of the Commandant has had a lot happening since the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year.

Residential Life

We have 1stSgt David Worthy in the dorms this year. This move was made to bring a more structured environment and military presence in the dorms.

Our boarders have had lots of opportunities to go on trips such as deep-sea fishing, paintball, amusement parks, and shopping at various local malls. On January 15, 2018, over 90 boarders loaded two charter buses and went to the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Trips to Disney, the Tampa Zoo, and a major water park are also coming up.

Kim and I hosted the Boarder Holiday Party at the Commandant’s Quarters with over 130 students in attendance. We had lots of food, a blazing bonfire, and played games. It was a great opportunity to share time together and further build relationships with these awesome young men and women.

Naval Science

1stSgt Mark Sanchez is our newest addition to our Naval Science staff. He recently retired from the United States Marine Corps after 20 years of service. He joins CDR Rick Schock, Senior Naval Science Instructor, and 1stSgt Worthy.

The annual NJROTC Area 7 Managers Inspection was conducted in early November by CDR Dirk P. Hebert, who retired December 1, 2017. I am happy and proud of our cadets who received an overall rating of outstanding! CDR Hebert stated in his 15 years as Area 7 manager, this was the best our cadets had performed in personnel inspection and AMI parade.

Our cadets did a great job supporting the Alumni Homecoming events as well as in the Homecoming parade. It was nice to see and visit with our alumni during the tailgate party hosted at our home. Kim and I also enjoyed attending the Annual Alumni Homecoming Dinner.

Our exemplary AFA Color Guard has been performing at several events in our community. They performed at the Bay Pines V.A. (Massing of the Colors), the St. Pete Ribfest, and the opening of the Tampa Bay Rays/Boston Red Sox game, to name a few.

Under the direction of CDR Rick Schock, we competed in our first ever Orienteering Competition and our cadets placed third at the Lake Louise meet. We look forward to future competitions.

Our Drill Teams have competed at several local meets, including the Lake Howell 07 Sanctioned Meet, Gaither High School 07 Sanctioned Meet, and will be attending the Winter Park 07 Field Meet.

Finally, our cadets have competed in the Association of Military Colleges and Schools in both drill and physical fitness competitions.

It has been a busy and fast-paced school year so far. It is rewarding to see the improvements in the corps of cadets and the direction in which we continue to go. Every day, we are reinforcing the great traditions of Admiral Farragut Academy!

In June of 2017, Farragut Board Member and Alumnus of the Class of 1975N, Rear Admiral Mark H. Buzby was nominated for the position of the head of the Department of Transportation’s MARAD. These are the stages of his career leading to this position.

Stage One:

Admiral Farragut Academy

1971-1975

A review of the Admiral Farragut Academy (Pine Beach) Yearbook from 1975 shows the many accomplishments of Mark Buzby. Under his class picture lists that he is from Linwood, New Jersey; his nickname is “Buz”; his activities are numerous including Football, Softball, Volleyball, and Track. He was active at the waterfront racing the sailboats and whaleboats. He received ribbons for almost all awards available. Under Favorites, he listed Ships, The Sea, My Country. Under Ambition—United States Naval Officer. His Quote was “Clear the decks for action, men!!”

In the Who’s Who? section, Mark was chosen as “Most Dignified,” “Best Sailor,” “Most Respected,” and “Best Leader.” Under the title Water Under the Bridge where the yearbook editors write about their previous years at Farragut, at the beginning of the year 1974 they write: “Upon returning to school in September, we were not surprised to find Mark Buzby our Battalion Commander. Consequently, we knew we would have a great year.”

In the Class Prophesy it reads: “BUZBY – Mark has graduated from Annapolis, and, after 25 years of active duty, has become Chief of Naval Operations for the United States Navy.” In ‘75 Class Will, Mark says: “I leave my patience and leadership abilities to the next B.C.; my seamanship abilities to the ablest seaman; and a bit of advice to all Cadets I leave behind —don’t give up the ship!”

In one of the final pages of the yearbook, Mark took out the following personal advertisement: “A Word of Thanks—I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all my friends of the staff, faculty, and Corps of Cadets; too numerous to name, but have contributed in some way to make these last four years of my life. I will not soon forget the great things you have done for me. May you have calm seas always. Signed, Mark H. Buzby, Battalion Commander, Admiral Farragut Academy, 7 June 1975.”

Stage Two:

Naval Rear Admiral

1975-2013

A 1979 graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Buzby earned his Bachelor of Science in Nautical Science and U.S. Coast Guard Third Mate License. He was commissioned in June 1979, is a graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College and holds master’s degrees from the U.S. Naval War College and Salve Regina University in Strategic Studies and International Relations.

As a surface warfare officer, Buzby made numerous deployments aboard cruisers and destroyers to include: USS Connole (FF 1056), USS Aries (PHM 5), USS Yorktown (CG 48) and USS Shiloh (CG 67). Buzby commanded the destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) which included the ship’s first Mediterranean/Persian Gulf deployment.

Following this tour, Buzby returned to sea as U.S. 6th Fleet assistant operations officer participating in combat operations as part of NATO’s Operation Allied Force in Kosovo. He then assumed command of Destroyer Squadron 31 as the sea combat commander for the Abraham Lincoln Battle Group during two deployments in support of Operations Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan, respectively.

Ashore, Buzby has served on the Navy staff as the Point Defense Anti-Air Warfare section head for Surface Warfare Division and as Aegis Combat System development officer. Early joint experience was on the Joint Staff, Joint Operations Division as an operations officer and chairman’s briefer. He was the 16th commanding officer of Surface Warfare Officers School command.

As a flag officer, Buzby has served on the Navy staff as deputy for Surface Ships, deputy for Surface Warfare and deputy for Expeditionary Warfare. He has also served as commander, Joint Task Force Guantanamo, and most recently as deputy chief of Staff for Global Force Management and Joint Operations, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Buzby served as the commander of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command from October 2009 to March 2013.

Buzby’s personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (four awards), Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (five awards) and various other unit and campaign awards.

Stage Three:

2013  to  Present

After retiring from the Navy in 2013, Mark became the president and CEO of the National Defense Transportation Association, a group of transportation, logistics and passenger travel professionals in industry and government. He also sat on the boards of several maritime corporations and became a member of the Board of Directors for Admiral Farragut Academy. In June of 2017, President Donald trump nominated him to become the head of the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD). After Congressional Approval, Mark was sworn in as the new Administrator in August.

As Maritime Administrator, Mark leads an agency tasked with promoting the use of waterborne transportation and its seamless integration with other segments of the transportation system; and the development and maintenance of an adequate, well-balanced U.S. Merchant Marine, sufficient to carry a substantial portion of the nation’s waterborne commerce, and capable of service in time of war or national emergency. The Maritime Administration also oversees the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

At his swearing in ceremony, Admiral Buzby stated: “I grew up on the water, piloting vessels from the time I was nine years old, and have a love for the sea. It was one of my great honors of my life to serve as Maritime Administrator, and to start working to grow and revitalize the U. S. Merchant Marine, and ensure our nation continues its maritime leadership.”

Maker:L,Date:2017-8-19,Ver:5,Lens:Kan03,Act:Kan02,E-Y

Admiral Farragut Academy is proud to have students that embody a charitable spirit. Robert Laovoravit, a senior international boarding student from Pak Kret, Thailand, is a prime example of this spirit, as he showed with his Eagle Scout project in February.

Robert with the Activities Coordinator for the retirement home.

Over about a month between late February and the beginning of Spring Break, Robert built two picnic benches and tables for a local retirement community. Admiral Farragut Academy was instrumental in helping the project by donating $400 for materials and supplies. The benches were arranged one per table so that patrons in wheelchairs could access the other side of the table.

Robert wasn’t the only one invested in the project. He had a number of people at Farragut that helped him including faculty, staff, and his peers who all worked for a total of 102 hours. The Farragut students who helped him also gained a total of 75 hours collectively towards their community service.

“It was really nice seeing all of my classmates being so willing to help,” Robert said.

“Most of them didn’t even need the community service hours. They were just doing it out of the goodness of their heart.”

A special thank you to everyone at Farragut that was involved in the project: Jose Lynch, Tobias Klenk, Sara Oi, Mr. Carlos Javier, Mr. Joshua Moore, Madison Moore, Rex Walrond, Ashton Raymer, Cole Raymer, Mr. Derek Raymer, Mr. James Becker, Vladimir Poliak, Mr. Jose Ferrer, Bo Nwoo, Jun Lee, Cadence Smith, Mr. Pete Vaughn, Mrs. Locklear, Mrs. Wallingford, CAPT Fine, and Mr. Marc Spera.

Robert has been in Boy Scouts for 8 years and was a Cub Scout before that. He is also on the Sailing team and in Scuba classes, and he was a member of Junior Statesmen of America. He has been accepted to the University of California Riverside and will major in Psychology. “I want to be in the Coast Guard, and then after that, I’m not sure what I’d like to do,” he said. “Hopefully getting a degree in Psychology will help me find my career.”

We’re so proud of you Robert. Keep up the great work!

With the support of the Farragut Parents’ Group and Farragut families Chris and Jennifer Love (Gator Mechanical) and Lanie and Mark Salebra (Salebra Family Restaurants), six Elkay® ezH2O® filtered-water fountains and bottle refill stations have been installed throughout campus.
The Parents’ Group purchased four water station units that are already installed or being installed in Farragut Hall, the Russell building, the Lower School playground, and the Lower School classroom walkway outside the office. The Salebra family purchased the single unit at the Al Ross Field’s concession stand and the Love family purchased a double unit for the Huntley Gymnasium. With the funds raised from events like the Golf Tournament or Annual Auction, the Parents’ Group was also able to pay for all installation costs.

The electronic counter on the station allows students to see how many 20 oz. plastic disposable water bottles they are saving by using their own refillable bottles.

“This is an opportunity to teach our students the value of reusable goods,” said 2017-18 Parents’ Group President Denise Colangelo. “They are learning at a young age to recycle, reduce, reuse, and to respect the Earth.”

Already the students are drinking more water and staying hydrated during school. On Facebook Kindergarten teacher Marilyn Reynolds wrote, “the kids love using it and are drinking so much water just for the chance to refill their water bottles throughout the day!!! We love our Farragut Family!” Farragut parent Saskia Etter who has two daughters in Lower School at Farragut commented, “My girls all of the sudden refill their bottles a couple of times a day – way to go in making them drink more!!!”

On Tuesday, May 8th, Farragut senior James Sands earned his solo pilot endorsement in a Cessna 172, tail number N5258Z, on runway 7 at Albert Whitted Airport.

“It was really intense,” said James, who is a 7-day boarder from Nassau, Bahamas. “We were just going around the traffic pattern, and Mr. Ewing told me to land and he got out. I was a little nervous. My feet were rattling, but I kept them still so I didn’t mess up the rudders.”

“James is becoming a very competent pilot,” said Aviation instructor Rob Ewing. “Over the past 2 weeks, he showed a true commitment to becoming solo endorsed and his hard work paid off.”

“I love flying,” James added. “I love the risk that comes with it. There are always different challenges, for example when you’re coming down low and there’s a strong cross breeze. It’s really exciting.”

“It also helps you learn to focus on what you need to do,” James continued. “It shows you how to focus on what’s important as a pilot in command.”

James grew up around planes. “My dad is a pilot. He flies seaplanes in the Bahamas. Even as a kid I would be in the cockpit as his co-pilot. I couldn’t wait until he could give me the controls.”

In the fall, James will be attending SUNY Maritime with the goal of becoming a merchant marine. “Farragut makes sure you have the tools you need to go to college. Mrs. Williar [Director of Counseling and College Placement] is a rock star. She helped me with all of my applications and with housing and everything. I couldn’t thank her enough for what she’s done.”

“That’s my career goal,” he continued, “but I’m going to keep flying too. I want to get my private pilot’s license and my seaplane rating so I can fly seaplanes back home.”

Final results and recap for athletic teams that ended in the Spring season of the 2017-18 school year.

Baseball: Overall we had a great year, a lot of fun, and grew a lot as individuals, teammates, and competitors. While the record did not reflect success with one win in the win column, the production on the field became more and more apparent as the year moved along. With our returning seven underclassmen and four seniors for next year, the future looks bright.

Basketball: The Boys Basketball team finished the season 18-8, placing them 2nd in their division. They also traveled out of state for games and put on a great showing against a nationally recognized program. They are continuing to take strides to become recognized as one of the best programs in the area.

Lacrosse: The Lacrosse team had their first winning season in the program’s short history. The BlueJacket’s came into the season as an underdog, ranking outside the top 200 in the state of Florida. However, they opened the season with two wins. The BlueJackets also regained the Military Cup from the Sarasota Military Academy. The BlueJackets moved into the top 25 in the state and ended the season with an overall record of 11-4-1.

Soccer: The Boys and Girls Varsity Soccer teams both had outstanding seasons this year. The Girls team started and finished strong, ending the season with a 7-1-2 record, their first winning record in several years. Sydni Bostick led the team in scoring and was the team MVP. The Boys team improved with each game, finishing with a 5-1-7 record and with 4 straight wins to end the season. Victor Cruz played outstanding in the goal to help spark the turnaround. This year both the boys and girls showed a commitment to becoming better soccer players and a desire to make the program more competitive.

Softball: Softball finished the 2018 season making school history by winning the Class 3A State title for the first time. Leading up to the historical finish the team accomplished many things: 1. Qualified for the postseason for the 5th straight year. 2. District 5 Class 3A champions for the third straight year. 3. Regional Champions. 4. Ranked in the top five in State Academics. Many individual awards were earned as well. Congratulations to the team for their outstanding season.

Tennis: This season, the Tennis team was able to host practice on campus thanks to the resurfacing of the courts. This helped increase team participation to 17 players, which was the highest participation rate to date.

Track & Field: The Boys and Girls Track team had a great year. The girls came in first in the Mustang Invitational and came in second at the Warrior Invitational, St Petersburg Championship, and at Districts. The boys came in fourth at the St. Petersburg Championship and at Districts. 97% of the girls and many of the boys qualified to go to the State Championship for the first time. The girls set two new school records and most of the athletes broke personal records. We are proud of all the accomplishments the team made this year.

Wrestling: The Wrestling team had an outstanding year, placing 2nd place at the District Championships with 7 individual district medalists and 2 state qualifiers. We also had the first women’s state championship medalist in school history, Angela LoRusso ‘19, who placed 6th and the first ever men’s state medalist in school history, Caleb Lemmons ‘20, who placed 4th. First-year wrestler Guillaume Chevrier ‘19 also performed very well but lost two highly competitive matches 6-4 and 9-3, losing to an eventual medalist. The team succeeded in the classroom as well with 11 wrestlers on the Headmaster’s Honor Roll or higher.

Pictured is Liam Carney

College Signings for 2017-2018

• Sam Baker: University of Toledo, Football
• Liam Carney: Missouri Valley, Lacrosse
• Andreas Fuller: UCF, Basketball
• Zion Roland: USF, Football
• Khalan Tolson: University of Illinois, Football
• John Waller: USF, Football

Throughout 2015-2018 the Admiral’s Athletics Club (AAC) raised up to $155,000 through gate admission fees, concession sales, banner sales, and by hosting a wine raffle and Poker Run.

“We had three great years and I could not be more thankful for the volunteers and executive board members,” said Jon Covington, who was president of the AAC from 2015-2018. “None of this would be possible without the efforts of our parents and volunteers who collected gate admission and worked the concession stands. Special thanks to parent volunteer and AFA athletics staff member, Mary Rice, for beginning this initiative and making sure every event was staffed with volunteers. We have over 80 on-campus events every year and we have seen a tremendous increase in volunteerism and parent participation that is the key to generating revenue that provides our student-athletes with the equipment and facilities they deserve.”

The AAC finished the 2017-18 school year with a remaining $13,000 budget for the incoming board. Over the past three years the AAC spent $142,000 towards items needed in the concession stands such as supplies, fryers, warmers and more; athletic needs such as a utility vehicle for field prep, gym resurfacing, new clay and crushed brick at both the baseball and softball fields, air conditioning for the wrestling room and field house storage, a new practice field with irrigation, a cross cable machine for the weight room, the lacrosse team’s uniforms and equipment.

We thank our past board members and volunteers and are pleased to introduce and welcome the incoming board.

2015-18 Executive Board

• President: Jon Covington
• Vice President: Pete Kirtland (2016-18) and John Lescarbeau (2015)
• Treasurer: Chris Kip
• Secretary: Lisa Brody (2017-18) and Samantha Lewis (2015-17)

2018-19 Executive Board

• President: Patti Magenheimer
• Vice President: Jeff Ulevich
• Treasurer: Katie Everlove-Stone
• Secretary: Derek Raymer

“We would like to extend our appreciation to Jon, Pete, Chris, and Lisa for their past service and extraordinary accomplishments,” said current AAC President Patti Magenheimer. “We are looking forward to working together with the AFA staff, students, families, Parents’ Group and our local community in the upcoming year. We have large shoes to fill, but we will work very hard to maximize student participation in AFA athletics and enhance school spirit through increased attendance to all home events. It is also a top priority to help provide our teams with the athletic equipment that they need to be successful. We welcome any support, ideas, and suggestions that can help us take AFA athletics to an even higher level. Please feel free to reach out to any of us. Thank you for your support.”

If you would like to get involved with the AAC, please email AAC@farragut.org.

Every year we collect data on our graduates to show an overview of the by the numbers. Every year, we boast 100% college acceptance.

56 students

100% acceptance to a college or university  

• 33% – attending in Florida
• 59% – attending out of state
• 4% – attending out of the country
• 4% – serving in the U.S. Military

Total amount of scholarships earned – Over $3.4 million

1 appointment to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

22% of our Florida graduates earned the Bright Futures Scholarship

6,100 community service hours earned

6 members will play on a collegiate team their freshman year          

• 4 – Football
• 1 – Basketball
• 1 – Lacrosse

4 students graduated with Honors

3.25 average GPA

Top acceptances and matriculation:

• University of Rochester
• University of Illinois – Champaign
• Georgia Institute of Technology
• Catholic University
• University of Massachusetts-Amherst
• Rutgers University
• Pennsylvania State University
• University of California-Davis
• University of California-Santa Cruz
• Drexel University
• Hofstra University
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Other great acceptances:

• Boston University
• Indiana University-Bloomington
• Ohio State University
• University of California-Santa Barbara
• University of Maine
• University of Alabama
• Loyola University-Chicago
• Northeastern University
• University of Washington-Seattle
• Bard College
• Savannah College of Art and Design  
• Fordham University
• George Washington University
• University of Oklahoma
• Pace University
• Rochester Institute of Technology
• University of South Florida
• University of Central Florida
• Stetson University
• University of Denver

“One of the worst-best feelings in life is getting doused with gatorade,” Softball Coach Linda Derk said with a laugh. “You know you’re getting doused because you’re a champion, but wow it’s a sticky, gross feeling. It’s so worth it though. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Champion is just the right word for the softball team, who knocked out Orlando’s Cornerstone Charter Academy to win the first Class 3A state softball championship in Farragut history.

“Everything was a record,” Coach Derk said. “First time our team won states, player of the year (Krystina Hartley ‘21), and pitcher of the year (Brielle Benefield ‘20).”

This is a win that the softball team has been building up to for some time, with five straight playoff appearances, including four straight trips to the region final and two state semifinal berths. Leading up to the historical finish the team qualified for the postseason for the fifth straight year; were District 5 Class 3A champions for the third straight year; became Regional Champions; and ranked in the top five in State Academics, with a team average GPA of 3.4. The team’s accomplishments are made all the more impressive by how young the team is. Not only were there no seniors on the team this year, but many of the student-athletes were as young as 6th grade.

“Every position was important,” Coach Derk said. “From the every-day starters to the 6th graders, who set up the field for practice daily, practiced hard, and helped manage the dugout. Every single player was essential to the team.”

“There was just a sense of calm with this team,” Coach Derk continued. “We were so prepared and this team showed so much grit and determination you wouldn’t even know how young they are.”

“When we got to semifinals the first time we were more in awe,” outfielder Alyssa Rano ‘20 said. “This time we were more hungry. We wanted it and it showed.” Alyssa started in 8th grade on second base, and this year her sister, 6th grader Codi Rano, joined her. The Rano sisters are just one of several sets of siblings who are on the team, including the Hernandezes (Gabriella ‘21 and Alexis ‘20), the Brunos (Gabriela ‘24 and Sophia ‘22), and the Deitches (Sylvia ‘21 and Sophia ‘24). Kalynn Miner ‘22, sister of softball alum Corynn Miner ‘16 (who over a 4-year career as starting pitcher compiled an impressive 60 career wins and 953 strikeouts) is also on the team.

“It’s a family affair,” Coach Derk said. “Something that I think helped the players this year was committing to live stream each game on Facebook, so families all over the world could watch their daughters play. We have a village of support. I think that’s really important because it does take our mental awareness, preparation, and our pride to another level when you can share this all over the place with a live stream.”

The team has no plans of slowing down.

Coach Derk is planning to have a ring ceremony in September (more information will be released closer to the date). “Once the girls have that taste of success and that feeling of the Farragut community lifting them up and congratulating them, they’re going to be hungry for more,” she says. “We had a team GPA of 3.4, and we did some major community service projects, including the Stand Down for Homeless Veterans Event held at the C.W. Bill Young V.A. Medical Center and the Nina Harris Exceptional Student Education Center, so it’s not just about the championship medal, it’s about being a championship team all the way around. That’s most important to me and I think our kids do get it. When you have young women who commit to the process of working hard and practicing hard, anything can happen.”

2018 SOFTBALL AWARDS

MIRACLE SPORTS ALL STATE AWARDS CLASS 3A
BRIELLE BENEFIELD – PITCHER
KRYSTINA HARTLEY – INFIELD
HALEY SAYLOR – OUTFIELD
ALYSSA RANO – OUTFIELD
PITCHER OF THE YEAR – BRIELLE BENEFIELD
PLAYER OF THE YEAR – KRYSTINA HARTLEY
COACH OF THE YEAR – LINDA DERK

FLORIDA DAIRY FARMERS AWARD CLASS 3A
COACH OF THE YEAR – LINDA DERK

FACA ALL-STATE ACADEMIC AWARDS CLASS 3A
BRIELLE BENEFIELD
KRYSTINA HARTLEY
SHYANN LAPORTE
ALYSSA RANO

FACA ALL-STATE ATHLETIC AWARDS 3A
BRIELLE BENEFIELD
MELISSA DIAZ
KATYA FE
KRYSTINA HARTLEY
ALEXIS HERNANDEZ
SHYANN LAPORTE
ALYSSA RANO
HALEY SAYLOR

First Day of School: Wednesday, August 22nd

Lower School: Friday, August 17th

• 9:30-10:00 am – NEW 5th-7th Grade Families – Informational Meeting in the West Lounge
• 10:00-12:00 pm – NEW & RETURNING Students – Visit the Roy M. Speer Student Center & Visit with Teachers in Their Classrooms
  • Meet Athletic Coaches, Parents’ Group Rep, Admiral’s Athletic Club Rep, Naval Pride and Tradition Director, School Nurse.
  • Get locker assignments.
  • Update & turn in paperwork if not already turned in.
  • Visit classrooms to meet your teachers.

Upper School: Tuesday, August 21

• 4:00-6:00 p.m. – Stop by classrooms to meet your child’s teachers. Your child’s schedule and the classroom map will be provided prior to the event.

During the previous school year, the Parents’ Group (PG) raised up to $96,000 through fundraiser events including the Golf Tournament and the Annual Auction.

In the past year the PG has funded the installation of Elkay® ezH2O® filtered-water fountains and bottle refill stations, a security camera at the Lower School car circle, assistance with the pool refurbishment, sunscreen dispensers throughout campus, sun shades at the Lower School playground, the digital marquee at the Lower School, and welcome goody bags for Boarding Life. Upcoming projects that have funds reserved include Lower and Upper School STEM enhancements, Upper School classroom enhancements, and a new fence and gate on Country Club Blvd.

Throughout the year the Parents’ Group also funds, plans, and hosts events such as the Lower School’s Daddy Daughter Dance and Mother Son Event, the Parent Welcome Back to School Social, and Faculty and Staff Appreciation Day.

“I am so grateful for all of the amazing parents, executive board members, and staff who have made the past two years phenomenally successful in the Parents’ Group,” said Denise Colangelo. “We set out to improve communication with our Facebook page and email recaps to reach parents who wanted to be involved but couldn’t attend the monthly meetings. This gave parents the opportunity to give feedback, suggestions, and volunteer their time or resources. I am immensely proud of all the improvements that we have embarked on. Without the dedication and support from our parent and staff volunteers, none of this would have been possible.”

We thank our past board members and volunteers and are pleased to introduce and welcome the incoming board.

2017-18 Executive Board

• President: Denise Colangelo
• Vice President: Saskia Etter
• Treasurer: July Bonilla
• Secretary: Samantha Lewis

2018-19 Executive Board

• President: Marjorie Deskovich
• Vice President: Vickie Cuesta
• Treasurer: July Bonilla
• Secretary: Samantha Lewis
• Outgoing President: Denise Colangelo

“We are so fortunate to have the experience and dedication of our board and past president continuing on for another year,” said incoming president Marjorie Deskovich. “I am very excited to incorporate innovative ideas to continue to build a network that will encourage parents to get to know and support one another and continue to raise funds that will be used to enhance AFA’s quality educational and recreational programs. I look forward to working with AFA Families, Staff, and the Admiral’s Athletic Club in the upcoming year. Please contact us with any ideas, suggestions, or questions. It is going to be a fantastic AFA year!”

Poker Run by the Admiral’s Athletics Club

Saturday, September 29, 2018, starting at 4:00 PM

Downtown St. Petersburg

• Open to the public (21+). Invite your friends and family to this fun event!
• Cost: $100 and includes a t-shirt and a chance to win $500 if you end with the best hand! Double your odds and fun by purchasing 2 hands of poker for $175.
• How to Play: We will visit five downtown bars to ultimately collect your 5 card poker hand. Prizes awarded at the last stop for best hand, second to best hand, and worst hand. Note: There is one rule, you cannot open the envelopes or you will be disqualified!
• Drink specials will be offered at each location.
• Locations and Stops:
  • TBA
• 50/50 cash raffle with the winner announced at the last stop.
• Proceeds benefit the Admiral’s Athletics Club.
• The event will end at approximately 8:00 p.m.

Register Now!

Are you joining us? Let us know, and share it with your friends!

Dates for the first practice, try-out period, and parent meetings, along with coach information.

Students can participate in sports starting in 6th grade. Middle School teams represent students in grades 6-8.

(Change Sport with Bottom Tabs of Spreadsheet)

Everyone here at Farragut is excited to start the 2018-19 school year! We do have a few important safety and traffic news items to share with you as we gear up for the first day of school on Wednesday, August 22 with class starting at 8:00 a.m.

Campus construction is still in progress so some foot traffic patterns will still be altered. The good news is that the Farragut Hall circular drive at the corner of Park St. N. and 5th Ave. N. is operational and has been improved tremendously. What to expect:

• Increased parking and a two-way traffic pattern.
• If you are dropping off or picking up your child, please use the 5th Ave. N. entrance. We ask this for safety reasons. We would like the cars to be next to the sidewalks when students are being dropped off or picked up. This will limit students walking through active traffic.
• The entrance/exit off of Park St. N. is also limited. You can only enter off of Park St. N. if you are traveling northbound, and you can only exit by turning right (turning north). The County and City have insisted on this due to the high volume of traffic on this road.

The Lower School parking lot along Country Club Rd. N. has remained the same, but has added a sidewalk along its pick up/drop off drive that is lined with bollards. This will further ensure your children’s safety as they get in and out of cars. Please be aware of the bollards when opening doors.

The Upper School parking lot near the Russell Building on 5th Ave. N. has remained the same.

The School will be installing a Thor Guard Lightning Prediction System. With the purchase of this warning system, it will assist in ensuring the safety of our students, faculty and staff campus-wide when inclement weather/lightning is in the area.