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Totem Talk: September 6, 2026

Posted Date: 09/06/26 (05:06 PM)


A graphic celebrating Labor Day with the text 'HAPPY LABOR DAY' and 'Monday, Sept. 7 Schools and District Offices Closed' by Orange County Public Schools.
The words 'TOTEM TALK' are displayed in large white letters on an orange background.

Community Brief

September 6, 2026

A Message From Dr. Maestre

This is a short school week due to Monday's Labor Day holiday. Enjoy your 3-day weekend! Classes resume on Tuesday, September 8.

On Tuesday, we will have FAST PM1 testing for all 9th and 10th grade students.  11th and 12th grade students who have not yet met their reading testing requirement for graduation will also be testing.  Be sure to check your student email for your testing location. Check out the graphic below this message for important testing dates through October 1. If you have any questions about testing, please reach out to our Testing Coordinator, jessica.monheim@ocps.net.

On Wednesday, our entire school community is invited to our 10% Design Community Meeting. Please take a moment to click on the links below to provide feedback for the project. I hope to see a large community turnout as we begin the plans for our new campus!

On Thursday, we have underclassmen picture day! Students will take their picture during their scheduled English class. These pictures will be used for the yearbook and to create student IDs for this school year, so you will want to make sure you look your best for your picture.

Finally, I want to encourage all of our students and parents to monitor academic progress through Skyward. Progress Report 1 will be going home soon! If you have questions about a grade in a class, please reach out directly to the teacher for immediate assistance.
 
As always, thank you for reading!

 
Forever Brave,
 
Hector Maestre, Ed.D.
Principal
A schedule listing testing dates for September and October 2026, featuring a mascot icon and organized by dates and subjects.
 
Invitation to William R. Boone High Comprehensive Renovation 10% Design Community Meeting with School Board Member Alicia Farrant.

Comprehensive Renovation

OCPS is gathering information for what you want to see in the comprehensive renovation we have planned for Boone. To do this, we use a communications engagement platform called Thought Exchange where we include students, staff and the community in a collaborative effort to discover and rank school building needs.

WE ASK THAT YOU PLEASE ANSWER THE QUESTIONS USING THE LINKS PROVIDED BELOW. The Thought Exchange question will stay open until the end of the community meeting about the renovation on September 9. Thank you for your time and consideration.

PLEASE CLICK ON LINKS to participate:
 
A bell schedule infographic for Tuesday, September 8th, featuring a fast testing format with periods, lunch times, and building numbers.

Modified Schedule on September 8

We will be on a modified bell schedule Tuesday, September 8, to ensure students taking FAST PM1 have enough time to complete their assessment.  All students in 9th and 10th grade will be tested, as will students in 11th and 12th grade who have not yet met their reading testing requirement for graduation.  Be sure to get a good night's rest and eat breakfast in the morning to ensure you do your best on FAST PM1.
 
A hand holds a smartphone displaying a list of contacts, with a smartwatch on the wrist.

OCPS Student Cell Phone Policy

To review the OCPS Student Cell Phone Policy visit, https://www.ocps.net/student-cell-phone-policy
Pursuant to the Technology in K-12 Public Schools law (CS/HB 379), which took effect on July 1, 2023, 
section 1006.07(2)(f), Florida Statutes, now provides that "a student may not use a wireless 
communications device during instructional time, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for 
educational purposes. A teacher shall designate an area for wireless communications devices during 
instructional time." The OCPS Code of Student Conduct requires that wireless communications device(s)* 
be silenced and put away (in a backpack or purse) during the school day while on campus, including 
lunchtime and transitioning between classes.
 
*Wireless communication devices include but are not limited to, cell phones and/or auxiliary/ancillary
devices such as watches and ear buds.
 
The following actions will be taken if a student violates OCPS’ cell phone policy:
  • Confiscation (Item returned at the end of the day)
  • Detention
  • Positive Alternative to School Suspension (PASS)
  • Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)
 
At no time shall OCPS be responsible for theft, loss or damage of cell phones or other electronic devices 
brought onto district property.
 
A promotional graphic for Fall Portraits features three framed student photos against a teal wall, an armchair, and the URL https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001398234.

Underclassmen Fall Portraits

It’s time to polish those smiles! Underclassmen Picture Day is scheduled for Thursday, September 10.

All 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students will have their portraits taken during their regularly scheduled English class. 

Key Details to Know:
  • Purpose: These photos will be featured in the 2026–2027 school yearbook and used to generate student ID cards. Every student needs to have their picture taken, even if you do not plan on purchasing a package.
  • Ordering Information: Picture packages can be purchased online in advance at https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001398234 by entering our school access code: 3807.
  • Dress Code: Please ensure your student’s outfit adheres to the school's standard dress code. Tops with solid colors or simple patterns generally turn out best in school portraits!

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our yearbook advisor at william.mayes@ocps.net. Thank you for helping us make this year’s picture day a success!
 
Boone High School Homecoming Dance: A Night in the City on October 3rd. Tickets on sale at teachtix.com.

Homecoming 2026

The biggest event of the fall is almost here, and you won’t want to miss it! Mark your calendars for October 3, because our SGA is thrilled to present this year’s Homecoming dance: A Night in the City.
Get ready to step into a dazzling urban oasis as we transform the cafeteria and courtyard into a glowing skyline filled with bright lights, great music, and unforgettable memories. It will be an incredible evening!
 
Purchase your ticket today for $45 at https://teachtix.com/bhs.
 
Boone Outfitters event flyer announcing free clothes shopping and homecoming attire on Saturday, September 12 from 9-11 AM.

FREE BOONE OUTFITTERS SHOPPING DAY

Boone Outfitters, our FREE clothing closet, will be open to all Boone students and their families:
Saturday, September 12
9:00 AM–11:00 AM
 
We’ll have everyday clothing AND Homecoming attire available and all completely free! Enter through the car loop on Kaley near the front office.
 

Academic Spotlight

A bulletin board with a blue background displays two name cards, James Clifford and Mr. Cain, connected to paper plates with handwritten notes.
A classroom smartboard displays a video of a smiling musician playing a bass guitar on a stage with a drum set.

Ms. Monaco - ELA

The students in Ms. Monaco's class were working on a lesson during Access English 1, 2, and 3, when they noticed that the main character of the story had many similarities with the life of our very own Mr. Ashton Cain. So, the “Dream Team” (this is how Ms. Monaco refers to her 1oth and 11th grade students) completed a double bubble to compare and contrast between the two, and, as an extension, Mr. Cain visited the class, where he explained to the class his passion for both making and playing music with his local band and helping our students to learn and grow.  He then shared a video with the class of him performing with his band, Urban Groove.
 

Where is Fergus Jr.?

To celebrate the arrival of Fergus, our staffulty is passing around Fergus Jr. to the person of their choice on campus. That person will proudly display Fergus Jr. in their classroom or office for a week before  presenting him to someone new. Stay tuned to Totem Talk to see where Fergus Jr. goes next.
A smiling man and woman pose for a selfie in a brightly lit school cafeteria, with the man holding up a fluffy stuffed animal.

Coach Trimble presents Fergus Jr. to Mr. Reynolds

Fergus Jr. will be spending next week with Nick Reynolds, our Amazing Food and Nutrition Manager. Mr. Reynolds goes above and beyond to feed all of our students from breakfast, lunch, to the end-of-the-day meals. He goes above and beyond to consider students' tastes, preferences, and dietary needs. He is a genuine colleague and always a friendly face to see!
 

Need a Boost in Science? SNHS Has You Covered!

Are you working hard to master your biology concepts, tackle tricky physics equations, or balance chemistry equations? Don't stress, the Science National Honor Society (SNHS) can help!

The SNHS is offering free science tutoring for all students. Whether you need help reviewing for an upcoming test, working through homework problems, or clarifying a tough unit, our student tutors are here to support you.

Science tutoring takes place every Monday after school in 500-560 from 2:30 pm - 3:15 pm.  Take advantage of this great resource to keep your grades high and your confidence up.
A teacher stands in front of a classroom next to a large digital screen displaying an image of a starfish.
Students sit at desks in a brightly lit classroom, facing a teacher and a projected screen.
 

Class of 2027

Poster announcing Senior Ad Nights with dates, times, and locations.

Senior Yearbook Ads

Buy your senior ad NOW to ensure a spot in the yearbook! Pages are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

All information is available on the senior ads sign-up form and in the contract.
 

Class of 2028

Advertisement for Junior Class Rings from Boone High School, featuring two class rings and the school's mascot.

Junior Class Rings

Attention Juniors: Are you interested in purchasing a Boone High School class ring?  If so, go to 
herffjones.com to design and order your ring today!
 
Announcement for Brave Connections Parent-Teacher Conference on Wednesday, September 16th at 1:20pm.

Brave Connections - Parent - Teacher Conference

Our first parent/teacher conference date of the school year will occur on Wednesday, September 16th.  Brave Connections will begin at 1:20pm in the cafeteria. During this time, your student's teachers will be available to discuss academic progress, offer recommendations for support, and provide opportunities for families to ask questions about their student's coursework. Brave Connections will only occur once a quarter and there is no RSVP. To attend, please arrive at Boone by 1pm and check in at the front office. We can't wait to see you there!

Weekly Academic Progress Notifications

Boone High School has launched weekly academic progress notifications on Fridays, providing families with timely updates on student performance and encouraging regular grade monitoring throughout the school year. Each Friday, families will receive a message based on a snapshot of their student's current grades; however, because teachers may continue to update grades after the snapshot is taken, Skyward Parent Portal should always be considered the most accurate source for current academic information. Families are encouraged to contact their child's teachers with any questions regarding academic performance, as teachers are the first line of support in helping students succeed. Brave Connections (parent-teacher conferences) are scheduled throughout the school year on September 16, 2026, November 18, 2026, February 10, 2027, and April 28, 2027, providing families with dedicated opportunities to connect with teachers and discuss student progress.
 

College and Career Information

College & Career News

🎓 College Visits Are Coming to Campus!
Juniors & Seniors: Take advantage of the opportunity to meet directly with college admissions representatives right here at school!
College visits give you the chance to:
  • 🎓 Hear directly from the college reps who read applications
  • 💬 Ask questions about admissions, programs, scholarships, and campus life
  • 📋 Learn what colleges are looking for in applicants
  • 🌟 Show your interest and explore your options
Juniors & Seniors Only
Students must sign up in advance to attend a college visit.
Space may be limited, so be sure to register for the colleges you want to meet!
Questions?
Email Mrs. Gurley for more information.

Spring Dual Enrollment Applicants Should Prepare for Upcoming P.E.R.T. Registration

Boone High School students interested in participating in Valencia College Dual Enrollment for the Spring semester should review upcoming eligibility and testing requirements. Students in grades 9 through 11 must have a minimum 3.0 unweighted cumulative high school GPA to be eligible to apply. Seniors must have a minimum 3.0 weighted cumulative high school GPA. Students who meet these requirements may continue the application process by completing the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test, commonly known as the P.E.R.T.
 
Registration for the P.E.R.T. is open now through September 15, 2026, at 2:20 p.m. The registration link is available through the Brave Hub. Students must take and pass the P.E.R.T. in order to apply for Spring Dual Enrollment. Students with questions regarding testing should review the information posted in the Brave Hub, while questions about Dual Enrollment opportunities and requirements may be directed to Ms. Gurley. Dual Enrollment offers students the opportunity to earn college credit while still enrolled at Boone High School and can be an excellent pathway toward future academic success. Forever Brave!

New Canvas Course Helps Students and Families Understand High School Transcripts

Boone High School students now have access to a new Canvas resource titled "HS Hub - How to Read Your Transcript." The self-paced course was created to help students and families better understand the information contained within a high school transcript, including GPA calculations, credits earned, course history, and academic progress toward graduation. All students have been automatically enrolled and can access the course through Canvas.
 
The resource consists of six short instructional videos with embedded quizzes and can typically be completed in 15 to 20 minutes. While participation is not required, the course serves as a valuable tool for students and families as they prepare for course selection, college admissions, scholarships, Dual Enrollment opportunities, and graduation planning. Boone counselors have also been enrolled in the course and are available to support students as they navigate their academic records. 

Poster for a Service Academy Information Session on 9/8 from 6-8 PM at Colonial High School, Orlando, FL.

Service Academy Information Session

Congressman Frost is hosting a Service Academy Info Session in Orange County to provide local students and their families with essential information about the opportunities and benefits of attending a U.S. Service Academy. Congressman Frost aims to help interested candidates understand the application process, eligibility requirements, and the commitment involved in serving in the military. The session is an opportunity to ensure that Orange County residents are well-informed about these prestigious and challenging educational paths.

The session will be held at Colonial High School on September 8, from 6-8 PM. If you are interested in attending, please complete the RSVP via this link.
 

Athletics

Fall Sports

Our fall athletics season is underway! There is still plenty of time to take in the action for football, golf, bowling, girls' volleyball, swimming and diving, and cross country.  Take a moment to check out the schedules below and make a plan to come out and support your Braves!  Game tickets can be purchased at gofan.co. You should consider purchasing an "All Sports Pass" to give you access to all regular season home games the entire school year. 
The 2026 varsity football schedule for William R. Boone High School lists dates, opponents, locations, and game times.
The 2026 JV football schedule for William R. Boone High School, detailing dates, opponents, and game locations.
The 2026 boys golf schedule for William R. Boone High School, detailing dates, opponents, locations, and match times.
Boone High School 2026 Girls Varsity Golf Schedule listing dates, opponents, locations, and times.
William R. Boone High School 2026 Varsity Bowling Schedule, listing dates, opponents, locations, and times.
The 2026 girls volleyball schedule for William R. Boone High School displays dates, days, opponents, locations, and times.
The 2026 swimming and diving schedule for William R. Boone High School, listing dates, opponents, locations, and times.
Boone High School Cross Country 2026 schedule with dates, events, locations, and times, plus school staff names.
Poster for Boone High School Athletic Association's 'All Sports Pass' with pricing for student, adult, family, and grandparent passes.
 
A flyer for 'Braves Rowing Spirit Night' at Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream in Orlando, on Wednesday, September 9th from 3pm-6pm.

Braves Rowing

Grab your family and friends and head over to Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream for a sweet way to support our student-athletes. A portion of all sales during the event will directly benefit the Braves Rowing Team to help fund equipment, regatta entries, and travel expenses for the upcoming season.

Whether you're grabbing an after-school snack, a post-practice treat, or an early evening dessert, every single scoop makes a difference for our rowers. Put on your school colors, bring your appetite, and join us in showing our Braves spirit. See you there!
 

PTSO Information

Boone PTSO Linktree

Looking for a Boone link and can’t remember where you saw it? We’re making it easier by keeping important Boone High School, PTSO ordering and volunteering, events, and parent resources all in one place!
 
Our Linktree currently includes quick access to donations and volunteer sign ups, Homecoming Dance tickets, Yearbook purchases, Senior Yard Signs, Senior Ad sign ups, Braves Bash tickets; PTSO partnerships and student partnerships, Boone Bounty & Outfitters, volunteer registration, and Boone PTSO social media.
 
You’ll also find links for each class Facebook group (2027 -2030), ParentSquare, Skyward, School Cash, student schedule help, Boone Athletics, athletic clearance, GoFan tickets, the Trading Post, and the Boone High School website.
 
Save it to your favorites—you’ll probably need it again! https://linktr.ee/booneptso.
 
We’ll continue updating the Linktree throughout the school year as new events, tickets, volunteer  opportunities and important links become available. One link = everything Boone PTSO!
 
Save the Date for Prom at Boone High School on 5/1/27. Features a white rose and baby's breath.

Prom 2027

SAVE THE DATE! More information will be coming soon...
 
The Boone High School logo is also referred to as the Brave Head. An orange and white graphic of a profile with a feathered headdress.

Contact info

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Administration
  • Principal: Dr. Hector Maestre - 60998@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Mr. Daniel Abalo - 34823@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Ms. Denine Brown - 54177@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Dr. Timothy Flynn - 100795@ocps.net
  • Assistant Principal: Ms. Kristen Gillespie - 105208@ocps.net

General Contact