Citrus County School District

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Citrus High School Girls Weightlifting Team Crowned GC8 Champions

By Student Writer Bonnie Bunn

The Citrus High School Girls Weightlifting Team has reached a monumental milestone, claiming the GC8 Championship title. This victory stands as a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and teamwork, marking the payoff of countless hours of hard work and determination.

“Hard Work Pays Off”

For team member Paisley Williamson, the victory is deeply meaningful. “It feels amazing to be crowned GC8 Champions. This victory is very important to my team and me because we have been working so hard to overcome obstacles and push ourselves to become better. Winning that night was just a reminder that hard work does pay off.”

Overcoming Challenges

The season was not without its hurdles. Ashley Colon reflected on the team’s struggles with fatigue and motivation during the rigorous training schedule. “During our hard work and consistently lifting heavy, we were getting tired and less motivated, but our coaches helped us build confidence and believe in ourselves no matter what. GC8 was just another step closer to districts.” Team bonding exercises also played a key role in maintaining focus and determination throughout the season.

Relentless Preparation

The team’s preparation was nothing short of relentless. Madison Freeman, who hit personal records during the championship, shared her experience. “I was at the gym every day working on lifts and focusing on my individual struggles. That preparation paid off at the championship.”

Memorable Performances

The championship was full of standout moments, including Abagail Perkins’ final lift. “When I was doing my last lift, all my friends and coaches were cheering for me, and it helped me get the lift,” she said, capturing the spirit of camaraderie that defined the team.

A Reflection of Growth

For lifter Julia Woodbury, the win reflects the team’s progress over the years. “It shows the positivity and perseverance our girls have had throughout the season and over the years of doing weightlifting.”

The Role of Coaching

The guidance of the coaching staff was instrumental to the team’s success. Sophie Wood praised their approach, explaining, “Our coaches prepared us for GC8 by lifting heavy the week before and then focusing on lighter weights and form closer to the meet. They also supported us mentally by making sure we believed in what we could accomplish.”

Community Support

The team also drew strength from the support of their school and community. “People always wished us good luck before the meet and asked how it went afterward,” said Myrina Reardon. “Everyone was positive, no matter the outcome.”

Inspiration for Future Athletes

Leone Rotondo offered advice for young athletes looking to take up weightlifting. “It’s not that scary, and you don’t have to be strong to start. Just believe in yourself.”

Looking Ahead

Coach Lewis summed up the night perfectly: “It was an exciting night, lots of good lifts, lots of positive energy, and I think it’s a good indication of how the postseason will go.” With regionals on the horizon, the Citrus High School Girls Weightlifting Team is ready to carry their momentum forward.

As the team sets their sights on regionals, they continue to embody the values of dedication, perseverance, and teamwork, proving that anything is possible with hard work and a strong support system.

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Lecanto High School’s International Baccalaureate Program:
A Path to Academic Excellence

By Student Writer Harlan Riley Smith

At Lecanto High School (LHS), the International Baccalaureate (IB) program is designed to push students beyond traditional academic limits, preparing them for higher education and future careers. Pre-Diploma Students (PDP) and IB students from freshman to senior year engage in a rigorous curriculum that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a global perspective. Students who choose to join the IB Program and receive their diploma will qualify for the Bright Futures Scholarship, which covers 100% of their college tuition at a Florida public university.

The IB program is widely recognized for its challenging coursework and holistic approach to education. Students are encouraged to explore complex topics, think independently, and develop a strong work ethic. One defining aspect of the IB curriculum is its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to connect across subjects.

Elise Tyler, a senior, shared her experience: “The interdisciplinary approach of IB helped me learn multiple disciplines simultaneously. It also taught me how to balance which classes I needed to prioritize. Learning in the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) was one of the hardest experiences. One question was, ‘How can knowledge destroy your sense of wonder?’ This question prompted deep reflection, making me think critically rather than just providing an answer. It encourages you to consider how it applies to real life and all subjects, not just TOK.

At LHS, students can tailor their academic experience by choosing between the IB Diploma or Career-Related pathways. The Pre-Diploma program serves as a foundation for the rigorous IB Diploma Program, ensuring students are well-prepared for the academic intensity of their junior and senior years. The flexibility in course selection allows students to focus on their strengths and interests while maintaining a well-rounded education.

Freshman Ethan Seguin expressed, “With the Pre-Diploma program, I can take the classes that I want that are not Advanced Placement or required for the IB program. My more difficult classes will help prepare me for the classes I must take for the IB program.”

The IB Career Program (IBCP) allows students to learn in more career-oriented fields while participating in the IB framework. This differs from the traditional Diploma Program, which allows students to focus on a specific career pathway under the IB umbrella.

Junior Mikael Sasser explained, “The IBCP branches off the standard IB program, allowing for a career-oriented approach. For example, I am involved in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), so I’m pursuing a more career-focused route.”

LHS teachers and administrators are crucial in guiding students through the IB journey. While the program is demanding, the support system helps students manage their coursework while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Ashley Shidner, PhD, IB Coordinator, stated, “The first area of support we offer is the IB inquiry skills class for 9th and 10th graders, which combines the IB curriculum with Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID). This class provides students with essential skills, such as time management and writing, to benefit them in the IB program and their future endeavors. Additionally, they have support through TOK classes in 11th and 12th grades for the Diploma Program or the Personal and Professional Skills class for the Career Program.”