Results of the Florida State Spanish Conference 2023

Only in its second attendance, SES students participated in three events which led to a second victory in the school’s history. Students received the highest marks in 17 of 23 entries. The team is formed of students from grades 9-12. These students are ninth grade -  Larissa Peterson (2 Honors), Carrie Jane Fykes (3 Honors), William Kourakis (4 Honors); 10th grade - Sadie Howarth (4 Honors), Dylan Orzechowski (4 Honors), Sommer Soderman (4 Honors), Conor Powell (4 Honors), Addison Logemann (4 Honors), Matthew Burris (4 Honors), Isa Argote (AP Spanish Language); and 11th grade - Grace Haller (AP Spanish Language), Elliotte Kahler (AP Spanish Language), Caroline Zoltak (AP Spanish Language), Mary Kathryn Watson (AP Spanish Language), Selma Memet (AP Spanish Language) and Dhanika Pérez (team captain - AP Spanish Literature). Alternate ninth grader Khlieo Pérez (AP Spanish Language) was in attendance as well and was essential support to students who prepared impromptu speeches, declamations, and dramatic presentations. Perfect scores were achieved by Larissa Peterson in declamations and Dhanika Pérez in the impromptu speech. Conor Powell, Caroline Zoltak and Mary Kathryn Watson also earned a perfect score in the dramatic version of El hombre que se conviritió en perro by Osvaldo Dragún. In its 67th year, the FSSC offers Spanish language students an amicable and fun way to compete and socialize. The students attend a beautiful banquet on the last night where the entertainment is presented by the most talented students of the conference. Our very own Addison Logemann took second place (Divisions 1A - 7A) in the voice talent competition by rendering a beautiful version of La Llorona, a classic from Chavela Vargas, México. Students are then celebrated with a dance party and it was one of the best ways to say goodbye to new friends. On the last day, Saturday morning, schools are presented with overall and individual trophies. I am thankful to our chaperones, Sra. Lisa Theriault and Ms. Moyer for making the experience memorable with their laughter, encouragement and support! Thank you also to Mr. and Mrs. Baker for facilitating props, time and advice. I am very proud of all of the work done by the team members, and for making my own experience as a sponsor a richer and unforgettable one. ¡Bravo PIRATAS y hasta el 2024!