12th-Grade Student at Orlando Science High School Wins 4-Year College Scholarship 

Orlando Science High School is a Member of the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools (FCPCS) 

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 27, 2026) – A 12th-grade student at Orlando Science High School has won a 4-year Florida College Plan Scholarship as part of the America250FL essay and art contests to celebrate the founding of America.  Orlando Science High School is part of Orlando Science Schools and a member of the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools (FCPCS). Orlando Science High School is one of Florida’s tuition-free public charter schools, which are open to all students at no cost.

Tomas Garcia of Orlando Science High School is one of eight essay contest winners who submitted original essays and artwork based on the theme, “Celebrating Florida’s Contributions to America.”  Garcia’s winning essay is titled, “Henry Flagler’s Contribution to Florida History.” 

Winning students were named at a recent reception at the Florida Governor’s Mansion in Tallahassee.  Six students in grades K-5 and eight middle and high school students in grades 6-12 won college scholarships provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. 

“Congratulations to Tomas Garcia and to Orlando Science High School for this meaningful recognition in connection with the celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary,” said Robert Haag, President of the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools.  “We applaud the State of Florida’s support for this year’s 250^th Anniversary Celebration, and for including many of Florida’s most outstanding students.” 

In announcing the winning entries, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said, “The creativity and thoughtfulness of these entries embodies the very best of Florida’s students, and these students have shown a deep appreciation for our state’s heritage and history that I am sure they will carry on in the future.”

“America’s 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence is a time to honor and celebrate all that our country has accomplished,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoustas.  “I commend the students who participated in the America250FL art and essay contests.  Their submissions thoughtfully captured the ideals and vision of America’s Founding Fathers. I am proud to congratulate the winners on their outstanding work.” 

“I commend the creativity and intellectual rigor displayed by these students,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd.  “By honoring and respecting our history, these winners have shown a profound understanding of the true greatness of our nation.” 

“Volunteer Florida is proud to recognize these talented student winners as part of America’s 250th Anniversary commemoration,” said Josie Tamayo, CEO of Volunteer Florida.  “Through their creativity and thoughtful reflections, these students are helping tell the story of Florida’s contributions to our nation while inspiring pride, service and civic engagement in communities across our state.  We congratulate each of the winners and look forward to celebrating their achievements as we honor this historic milestone together.” 

The essay and art competitions are among many events organized by the State of Florida to commemorate the nation’s founding.  For more information about Florida’s contributions to America, visit www.America250FL.com. 

About the Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools   

The Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools (FCPCS) is the leading charter school membership association in the state.  Since its inception in 1999, FCPCS has been dedicated to creating a national model of high quality, accredited public charter schools that are student-centered and performance-driven. FCPCS provides a wide array of technical support, mentoring, training, networking, and purchasing services to its membership, as well as serving as an advocate for all Florida public charter schools.