Today was the second of two Charger Chats, in person gatherings over coffee, hosted by me and the Board members of the Shorecrest Community Association (SCA). SCA is Shorecrest's version of a Parents' Association and these morning events were a chance for parents, new and returning, to learn more about SCA, Shorecrest volunteer opportunities, and how to take an active role in the Shorecrest community.

Since joining the community in 2002, Lisa Peck - Upper School science teacher, alumni parent and Shorecrest grandparent - has created a lasting legacy at Shorecrest. In 2016, Mrs. Peck and her husband John were instrumental in establishing Medical Sciences as a signature Upper School program at Shorecrest. In honor of the Peck family's dedication to the program, The Center for Medical Sciences has been renamed the Peck Center for Medical Sciences.

Shorecrest seniors Christian Bepler '22 and Emily Forney '22 have been named 2022 National Merit Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The two Shorecrest seniors earned their semifinalist status with their exceptional scores on the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Semifinalists, representing less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors, include the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

A delegation of Argentinian students arrived at Shorecrest this week to visit fourth, fifth and sixth grades, with their teacher Julieta Correas, who has brought Argentinian students to Shorecrest since 2004. Eight Middle School Chargers are acting as ambassadors for the visitors.

Now in its fifth year, Jack and Jill and its partners host the Tampa Bay Area's only HBCU College Fair. During the virtual college fair, attendees will have the opportunity to speak to alumni and admissions reps from colleges and universities, as well as to talk with dedicated experts about general college-related topics including the college admissions process, financial aid, scholarships, Greek life, and more.

All members of the Shorecrest community are invited to join Latinos en Shorecrest on September 25, 10am - 2pm for an outdoor family fun day on campus to recognize and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. The September 25th event is the first of a number of SAGA events this school year, each one hosted by a different affinity group on campus. All members of the Shorecrest community are welcome at all SAGA events.