Jean Ribault HS –– Former student credits dean with her success

Proud Graduate Layla Nelson says she nearly gave up on school—until the encouragement and belief of Jean Ribault High School Dean Sherrilla Simmons helped change her path. Through constant support and guidance, Simmons helped Layla rebuild her confidence, improve her grades and attendance, and ultimately cross the graduation stage with pride. Today, Layla is a freshman at Florida State College at Jacksonville and a substitute teacher in Team Duval, hoping to one day inspire students the same way she was inspired.

Paxon School for Advanced Studies –– Graduate named to TIME Magazine’s Influential in AI List

Shared by Dr. Mai Keisling, AP Art History teacher: This shoutout celebrates Paxon graduate Dr. Heidy Khlaaf, who has been named to TIME Magazine’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential People in Artificial Intelligence! This incredible achievement recognizes her work as Chief Scientist at the AI Now Institute. Dr. Khlaaf credits Paxon’s rigorous, interdisciplinary education—including AP Art History and AP Literature—with shaping her ability to think critically about technology and its impact. She also praised Dr. Keisling, her former AP Art History teacher, as a role model whose encouragement left a lasting impression. Way to go!

Jean Ribault HS – School Graduate becomes Miss Florida, competes in Miss America Pageant

Congratulations to Paris Richardson, a 2020 graduate of Jean Ribault High School, who recently earned the title of Second Runner-Up at the 2026 Miss America Pageant after being crowned Miss Florida 2025. Paris credits Ribault’s supportive teachers, coaches, and mentors with helping her build the confidence and skills that led to success in pageants, college, and her career. During her time at Ribault, she was a varsity cheerleader, Miss Ribault, and a co-founder of the Get RAW health club. Now a University of Florida graduate with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Paris continues to give back by advocating for health and wellness and inspiring the next generation.

San Jose ES – Team Duval graduate credits success to school’s Dual Language Program

Shared by Dr. Jasmin Gomez, principal: Congratulations to Alex Monteagudo, a proud Team Duval graduate who is now a senior at Yale University, double-majoring in economics and political science and serving in the Navy ROTC. Alex credits San Jose Elementary School’s Dual Language program with helping him become fully bilingual after entering kindergarten speaking little English. That strong foundation led him to success at Darnell-Cookman, Stanton College Preparatory, and now the Ivy League. As he prepares to graduate and commission into the U.S. Navy, Alex continues to give back by returning to San Jose to support teachers each summer.