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Statewide Cybersecurity Competition

On the days of April 3rd and 4th, 12 iPrep students alongside Mr.
Monzote and Ms. Moreno travelled to Orlando in order to compete in a statewide cybersecurity competition. This event involved using complex systems such as Kali Linux and Telnet, as well as hacking into databases to answer difficult trivia questions. The students were treated to 1 day at the Caribe Royale Resort, and received gifts for participating. Out of 123
teams, all groups placed in the top 30th percentile and one even placed third. This group was led by three inspirational girls: Ariadna Monzón, Raiya Cohen, and Brianna Loussaint

It exposed me to a new field of knowledge that in school you wouldn’t usually be exposed to. – Ariadna Monzón

Being able to join the command line battle…left a strong yearning in everyone to face another challenge. – Ethan Garcia

SeaPerch Challenge & Underwater Robotics

On April 5th, 10 students from the Underwater Robotics club
travelled to MAST Academy with Mr. Saint-Louis in order to
compete in a SeaPerch competition. When participating in this
innovative robotics program, the students were encouraged to build their own underwater robot and complete different missions to earn points. The team of high-schoolers won third place, and consisted of four admirable students: Matthew Yastrebenetsky, Nicholas Vasquez, Emmanuel Pina, and Johnathan Hack.

Prolongued Testing

On the first day of the month, a state-wide writing test was put into place. Other than 11th and 12th graders, all students were required to participate in this standardized testing. Other than state testing, AICE exams has also been introduced. Throughout the months of April, May, and even June, numerous AICE classes will initiate testing. For some, passing these tests may be the variable in getting their Cambridge Diploma or not. Those who are also taking dual enrollment classes during the Spring of 2025 may need to participate in other final exams as well. The burden of these tests alongside extra classwork can be overwhelming for some, and it often takes a toll on mental health.

I felt irritated that I had to come back from spring break and immediately write an essay. – Layla Cooper

They expect us to remember topics that we barely ever reviewed. – Alexandra Bularga

Macbooks are Implemented (Again)

After being declared an Apple Distinguished school, our staff have prepped almost all students with a Macbook Air for the incoming 2025-2026 school year. At first glance, it seems that this advancement comes with more efficiency and better productivity for those taking technology-related courses. Although this does apply for most people, others have had issues with web filtering and wifi. On April 1st, when most students took their writing F.A.S.T., many Macbooks did not have the proper apps installed in order to operate the program. Faculty and staff have also made a statement about essential learning apps (like CK-12) being restricted on these devices, which stunts learning. Despite this, many students still
appreciate these new laptops since they’re lightweight and faster to use. Ultimately, the Macbooks will likely have beneficial updates in the future that will solve any issues that continue to arise.

Around the World

iPrep’s 3rd annual Around the World food festival celebrates the
cuisine from multiple different countries. From April 1st to the
11th, tickets are sold at a discount. There’s free admission for all, with food, drinks, auctions, raffles, and a talent show included. Each grade is assigned a different country to represent:

People of all ages are welcomed to attend this event, and there are activities that are fun for the whole family. Tickets for general admission cost $25 ($30 after April 11th) while tickets for VIP access are $40. While tickets can be purchased in advance,
students and their families are also able to buy them on the day of.