School News - 09/15/11 Cont'd

Hunter’s Creek Middle sixth-grader and Scholastic News Kid Reporter Topanga Sena had the opportunity of a lifetime when she interviewed President Barack Obama at the White House. The interview can be viewed at www.scholastic.com/kidspress on the Web. As a member of the 2011 Scholastic Press Corps, Topanga also interviewed Orlando Magic player Dwight Howard, Stetson University students who were in Japan during the March 11 earthquake, and others.

Orange Tree resident and Dr. Phillips High student Nicole Schneiter was selected by the High School Diplomats program from among 250 U.S. finalists to participate in a 10-day cultural exchange program at Princeton University. Eighty student representatives — 40 from the U.S. and 40 from Japan — exchanged ideas, prepared presentations and engaged in discussions about a range of topics, including religion, politics, education, history and environmental issues. As an HSD program participant, Nicole is able to apply for a full scholarship to visit Japan for 21 days during the summer of 2012. Nicole is a senior in DPHS’s Center for International Studies magnet program.

Congratulations to Dr. Phillips High 2011 graduate Nicole Kliewer, who was awarded a $1,500 college scholarship from the Scholarships for Military Children Program. More than 5,000 students applied for the scholarships at commissary locations worldwide, with only 670 being selected. Nicole, a 2010-11 high school valedictorian, currently is majoring in political science and international affairs at Florida State University. Her proud parents are Kyle and Cynthia Kliewer of Southwest.

Cypress Creek High School 2010-11 senior Cima Pius completed the school’s International Baccalaureate program and was named a 2010-11 valedictorian. Cima excelled in her studies, earning a high GPA and achieving a perfect score on two sections of the SAT. She placed in state and national dance competitions; was captain of the debate team; and served as president of the Spanish Honor Society, vice president of the World Math Club, publicist of the National Honor Society, president of the Indian Student Association, president of the Operation Smile Club, and more. She was offered admission and full scholarships to several notable universities, including the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Cima is enrolled in UM’s Honors Program in Medicine, which allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine in seven to eight years. Her proud parents are Pius Maliakal, Ph.D., and Geeta Pius of Westover Club.

Bishop Moore Catholic High School students John Pisan of Windermere and Erin Petrie of Southwest Orlando received the 2011 Saint Michael’s College Book Award for Academic Achievement with a Social Conscience. The award, presented to high school juniors who are inductees of the National Honor Society, recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to leadership in volunteer service and academic achievement.