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Edgewater High School
Edgewater High School
from Wikipedia

Edgewater High School is a public secondary school located in the College Park section of Orlando, Florida. It is operated by the Orange County Public Schools system. The athletic teams are known as the Fighting Eagles, with colors red and white.

Key Information

History

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In 1950, the School Board of Orange County, Florida, unveiled plans to build two new high schools in Orlando. These two schools were built from the same architectural plans and both were opened on the same day, Tuesday, September 2, 1952. The first was named William R. Boone High School and the second was named Edgewater High School. Boone was named for William R. Boone, a long-serving principal of the original Orlando High School (which is now Howard Middle School, on Robinson Street in downtown Orlando, near Lake Eola). The campuses of Boone and Edgewater contained identical buildings, but their arrangement on each campus was different. Edgewater's first principal was Mr. Orville R. Davis, a veteran of Orange County Public Schools, who was once the principal of the original Memorial Junior High School (now Memorial Middle School), also in Orlando.

Edgewater and Boone were originally to be named North and South High Schools, respectively. However, William R. Boone, who was to be principal of South, died the summer before the schools opened. South High was renamed in his memory. North High was then named for the road it was built beside, Edgewater Drive.

Edgewater High School has recently been renovated into a three-story facility on the land which previously held mobile homes to the North of the old campus, most of which will be destroyed to create a new sports field. The remaining buildings will undergo a refurbishment to house freshmen and will be available by the start of the 2011–2012 school year. The new facility is mostly indoors to allow for overall protection from the elements and a more secure campus, and uses new technology such as new Promethean boards and an all new auditorium. Students were given access to the facility on the first day back to class in 2011 after winter break, and both staff and students are currently working on adjusting to the new facility.

Demographics

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The demographic breakdown of the 2,034 students enrolled in 2016–17 was as follows:

Gender

  • Male – 53.4%
  • Female – 46.6%

Race and Ethnicity

  • Black or African American – 49.5%
  • White – 26.9%
  • Hispanic and Latino – 18.6%
  • Two or More Races – 2.4%
  • Asian – 2.3%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 0.2%
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander – 0.1%

63.4% of the students were eligible for free or reduced price lunch. Edgewater High School is a Title I school.

Athletics

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Edgewater High School has various varsity sports teams, including baseball, basketball, bowling, cheering, cross country, flag football, football, golf, lacrosse, rowing, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, and wrestling.

State Championships

  • Boys' Basketball – 1976, 2004[2]
  • Girls' Basketball – 2007, 2012, 2013, 2014[3]
  • Boys' Cross Country – 1994[4]

Notable alumni

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Edgewater High School is a public high school located in the College Park neighborhood of , serving approximately 2,011 students in grades 9 through 12 as part of the district.
Established in 1952 through the division of Orlando High School, it was founded under the leadership of first principal O.R. Davis, who helped establish its reputation as an academic institution.
The school maintains a diverse student body, with about 51% of students identified as economically disadvantaged and demographics including 48.5% Black, 25.5% White, 20.2% Hispanic, and smaller percentages of Asian, multiracial, and other groups; it operates with a student-teacher ratio of 23:1.
Edgewater offers nationally recognized programs, including the Engineering, Science, and Technology (EST) Magnet Program and the (AP) Academy, alongside a 97% rate and 52% student participation in AP exams.
Ranked 233rd among Florida high schools, it emphasizes academic excellence, with proficiency rates of 44% in reading, 22% in mathematics, and 56% in science, and a College Readiness Index score of 35.5 out of 100.
The school's mascot is , with red as the primary color, and it supports robust programs in arts, athletics, and faculty development through the Edgewater High School Foundation, established in 1990 to fund initiatives beyond public resources.

History

Founding and Early Years

Edgewater High School was established in 1952 as part of Orlando's post-World War II educational expansion, driven by rapid population growth that overcrowded the existing Orlando High School. The Orange County School Board decided to divide Orlando High School's students and resources into two new institutions to better serve the expanding community, leading to the creation of Edgewater High School for the northern district and William R. Boone High School for the southern district. This split addressed the need for more capacity, as Orlando High, built in 1927, could no longer accommodate the influx of students from the booming postwar suburbs. The school officially opened on September 2, 1952, initially planned under the name North Orlando High School but renamed Edgewater High School to reflect its location along Edgewater Drive in the College Park neighborhood. Under the leadership of its first principal, Orville R. Davis—a veteran educator previously at Memorial Junior High—Edgewater began operations by drawing students from the northern half of Orlando High's enrollment, establishing a foundational focused on core academics and vocational preparation to meet the needs of the diverse local population. Davis emphasized high standards from the outset, shaping the school's early reputation as an academic powerhouse within the system. From its , Edgewater adopted and as its official colors and the Eagles as its , symbols chosen to inspire and unity among the inaugural student body. These traditions quickly took root, fostering a sense of identity during the school's formative years and contributing to early extracurricular activities. The division from Orlando High also sparked an immediate football with Boone High School, which has persisted as one of Central Florida's most enduring high school competitions.

Renovations and Developments

In the 1970s, Edgewater High School underwent significant changes as part of ' broader desegregation efforts, prompted by federal court orders following the 1970 Supreme Court ruling in Carter v. West Feliciana Parish School Board that mandated the end of dual school systems based on race. These efforts included rezoning attendance boundaries, implementing busing programs, and adjusting school policies to promote , transforming Edgewater from a predominantly white institution into a more diverse environment while addressing inequities in resource allocation and student access. The desegregation initiatives influenced long-term policies, such as the introduction of magnet programs district-wide in 1981 to voluntarily attract a balanced student body and sustain integration without relying solely on mandatory transportation. The Edgewater High School Foundation was established on February 5, 1990, as a by parents, faculty, alumni, and community members to provide supplemental funding for school enhancements beyond state and district budgets. Since its inception, the foundation has supported capital projects, scholarships, and programmatic developments, raising over $500,000 by 2023 to bolster educational opportunities and infrastructure improvements at the school. During the 1990s, Edgewater introduced its Engineering, Science, and Technology (EST) Magnet Program, initiated around 1988 under Principal Bob Williams to leverage the school's academic strengths and offer rigorous coursework in engineering, science, and related fields, earning national recognition for its focus on hands-on learning and industry certifications. This program marked a key development in the school's evolution toward specialized educational pathways, aligning with district efforts to enhance post-desegregation diversity and academic excellence. In the and into the 2010s, additional magnet initiatives expanded these offerings, including the Center for Future Educators launched in 2018, which prepares students for teaching careers through practical experiences and affiliations with the Florida Future Educators of America. A major physical transformation occurred with the comprehensive renovation and expansion project completed in 2011, converting the original 1952 campus into a modern three-story facility spanning 345,000 square feet of new construction and 93,000 square feet of renovated space on a 45-acre site, designed by CT Hsu + Associates for an open layout with enhanced and . The $82.7 million initiative, completed $28 million under due to favorable construction costs, integrated advanced technology such as interactive whiteboards with and touch capabilities in classrooms, alongside dedicated spaces for , TV production studios, and a soundproof band room. Students transitioned to the new buildings on January 3, 2011, increasing capacity to approximately 2,450 while modernizing infrastructure for contemporary learning needs. Throughout the 2010s, further expansions focused on career-oriented facilities, including the addition of specialized labs supporting programs like 3D , agriscience, and pathways, equipped with industry-standard tools to facilitate certifications and opportunities aligned with workforce demands. These developments, funded in part by the Edgewater High School Foundation and district resources, emphasized interdisciplinary labs that integrate , , and vocational training, building on the 2011 renovation to support the school's growing emphasis on STEM and professional preparation.

Campus and Facilities

Location and Grounds

Edgewater High School is situated at 3100 Edgewater Drive in the College Park neighborhood of , within the district. The campus spans an urban setting bordered by residential neighborhoods, offering proximity to just a few miles south, which enhances accessibility for students commuting via major thoroughfares like Edgewater Drive and Interstate 4. This strategic location along Edgewater Drive, a historically significant roadway that has served as a key connector in the city's growth since the early , influenced the school's naming upon its establishment. The site was selected in 1952 amid Orlando's northward expansion to accommodate the division of the former Orlando High School into two separate institutions. Environmental features on the grounds include green spaces that blend with the surrounding urban landscape, supporting outdoor activities and efforts such as those led by the school's Environmental and Sustainability Club. These areas provide opportunities for student engagement in nature-based learning and recreation, contributing to the campus's role as a hub. The College Park location strengthens ties with the local , including partnerships with nearby businesses that sponsor school programs and events, such as the Edgewater High School Foundation's collaborations with Orlando Watch Company and participation in neighborhood initiatives like the Taste of College Park.

Buildings and Infrastructure

The main academic building at Edgewater High School is a three-story structure featuring classroom wings organized along a central axis, connected by a day-lit three-storey atrium that serves as an internalized academic spine. This facility, completed as part of the 2011 renovation and expansion project, houses core academic spaces including , administrative offices, and collaborative areas, spanning approximately 323,000 square feet of new construction integrated with renovated sections. Specialized facilities within the campus include dedicated spaces for and , such as labs equipped for technology testing, CAD design, animation, and to support the school's programs. The Agricultural Education Center, established in the late , features a greenhouse, outdoor educational spaces, and demonstration food cultivation areas for science programs. The performing arts infrastructure features a 650-seat with LED theater lighting, sound systems, and projection capabilities, designed as a state-of-the-art venue for theatrical productions. Athletic infrastructure is integrated across the 48-acre campus, which expanded from 29 acres through adjacent property acquisitions during the renovation. Key elements include the for football and track, a separate soccer stadium, and fields, a , the main gymnasium known as "The Nest" for indoor sports, and courts. Technology infrastructure supports district-wide connectivity with comprehensive coverage, multiple computer labs outfitted with interactive smartboards, and advanced systems like video surveillance and audio enhancements throughout the buildings. As a Title I school, the campus incorporates features aligned with federal guidelines, including compliant pathways and facilities to ensure equitable access for all students. Sustainability efforts from the 2011 project emphasize energy efficiency through features such as sensor-activated lighting, a centrally controlled HVAC system with ice storage for cooling, and overall design elements that contributed to the school's recognitions in the Green Schools Recognition Program from 2023 to 2025. These updates help reduce operational costs and promote on campus.

Academics

Curriculum and Programs

Edgewater High School's core curriculum aligns with the Department of Education's standards, requiring students to complete courses in English Language Arts, , , and . English requirements include four credits covering English I through IV, emphasizing reading, writing, and communication skills. Mathematics mandates four credits, starting with Algebra I and , while requires three credits, including Biology I and two additional lab-based courses. Social studies comprises three credits, encompassing U.S. History, World History, and American /Economics. The school offers specialized magnet programs to cater to diverse interests and abilities. The Center for Future Educators magnet provides hands-on training for students pursuing careers, including classroom observations, lesson planning, and certification preparation to explore educational pathways. The Engineering, Science, and Technology (EST) magnet focuses on emerging technologies and simulations, integrating concepts developed in partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The Gifted Academy serves advanced learners through a tailored that accelerates core subjects and incorporates enrichment activities to challenge intellectual potential. Advanced academic options expand beyond the core, including (AP) courses in subjects like , , and U.S. history, allowing students to earn college credit upon exam success. opportunities with Orange Technical College enable high school students to take postsecondary courses in vocational fields. emphasize practical skills in areas such as business management, assistance, and engineering design, often culminating in industry certifications. To graduate, students must earn 24 credits, including the core subjects, one credit in , one in fine or , and eight electives to support individualized interests. As a Title I school, Edgewater receives federal funding that supports equitable access to these programs and resources. The curriculum integrates (PLTW) in the EST magnet, offering a sequence of courses that build skills in design, robotics, and problem-solving through hands-on projects.

Academic Performance

Edgewater High School is ranked 233rd among high schools in by , placing it in the top half of the state's public institutions based on factors including state assessment performance, graduation rates, and college readiness metrics. The school received an "A" grade from the for the 2024-2025 school year, its first since 2011, reflecting improvements in overall accountability measures including learning gains, despite ongoing challenges in student achievement. On state assessments under the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST), in the 2023-24 school year, Edgewater students demonstrated proficiency rates below state averages, with 44% proficient in reading, 22% in , and 56% in science. These figures indicated particular gaps in math performance, where proficiency lagged significantly behind the statewide average of approximately 52%. For the 2024-25 school year, proficiency rates improved, with reading below 60%, (algebra and geometry) below 50% (including 41% in Algebra 1), and these gains contributing to the A grade, though still below state averages such as 60% for Algebra 1 statewide. The school's (AP) program shows moderate engagement, with 52% of students participating in at least one AP exam and 30% passing at least one, contributing to a readiness index of 35.5 out of 100 as measured by . This participation rate supports the school's emphasis on advanced coursework, including through its magnet programs, which help boost AP enrollment among qualified students. Graduation rates at Edgewater have remained strong and stable, reaching 97% in the most recent cohort, which exceeds the state average of 89.7%. Historical trends show rates fluctuating between 88% and 96.7% over the past several years, with consistent performance across subgroups. As a Title I school serving a body where 51% are economically , Edgewater exhibits performance disparities tied to socioeconomic factors, with overall proficiency rates reflecting broader challenges faced by underserved subgroups. For instance, while graduation rates are high across economic categories (95.4% for economically students versus 96.7% overall), assessment proficiency tends to be lower among these groups compared to their more affluent peers, underscoring the impact of resource inequities.

Student Body

Edgewater High School's enrollment has grown substantially since its establishment in 1952, when it absorbed students from the former Orlando High School to serve the expanding College Park area and surrounding communities. By the 2000s, the student body had increased to over 2,000, reflecting broader population growth in Orange County, before stabilizing in recent years. In the 2023-2024 school year, the enrolled approximately 2,011 students in grades 9 through 12. Enrollment has remained relatively flat over the past five years, with minor fluctuations amid district-wide challenges such as rezoning adjustments and increased competition from programs. The grade distribution is roughly even, supporting a balanced progression through high school, and includes structured orientation processes for incoming freshmen to facilitate smooth transitions.
GradeNumber of Students (2023-2024)
9520
10552
11486
12453
The school's capacity supports an average aligned with a 23:1 student-teacher ratio, maintained by 87 teachers. Expansions in the , Science, and Technology magnet program have contributed to selective enrollment growth by drawing high-achieving students from beyond the local zone, enhancing overall numbers despite post-2010 district rezoning that redistributed some boundaries.

Demographics

Edgewater High School's student population is characterized by significant racial and ethnic diversity. As of the 2023-2024 school year, the demographic breakdown consisted of 48.5% students, 25.5% students, 20.2% students, 3.5% multiracial students, 1.9% Asian students, and smaller percentages for other groups, based on an enrollment of 2,011 students. The distribution showed a slight majority of males at 52.5%, with females comprising 47.5%. Socioeconomic indicators highlight the school's role in serving underserved communities. In 2023-2024, 51.4% of students were eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, a metric that underscores economic challenges faced by many families and qualifies Edgewater as a Title I school under federal guidelines. This status enables additional resources for academic support and equity initiatives. Linguistic diversity is evident in the student body, with programs supporting learners (ELL) and students with needs integrated into the school's framework to address varied learning requirements. The school's demographics have evolved considerably since desegregation in the 1970s, when it transitioned from an all-white institution to one where minority students now form the majority, fostering a more inclusive environment over the decades.

Extracurricular Activities

Athletics

Edgewater High School offers a comprehensive athletics program through the (FHSAA), with over 500 student-athletes participating annually in approximately 30 varsity and junior varsity teams across various sports. These include football, boys' and girls' , , cross country, bowling, , soccer, , , wrestling, , , , , and , among others. The programs emphasize competitive development, with teams competing in multiple FHSAA classifications, including Class 5A for football and Class 6A for in recent seasons. The school's athletic teams have achieved notable success in state competitions, particularly in and cross country. The boys' team won FHSAA state championships in 1976 (Class 4A) and 2004 (Class 6A), finishing the latter season with a 30-2 record after defeating a nationally ranked schedule. The girls' program secured four state titles under coach Malcolm Lewis: in 2007 (Class 6A), 2012 (Class 6A), 2013 (Class 6A), and 2014 (Class 6A). Additionally, the boys' cross country team claimed the 1994 FHSAA Class 6A state championship. A highlight of the athletics program is the longstanding football with Boone High School, known as the "Battle for the Barrel," which dates back to 1952 and is one of Florida's oldest rivalries; Edgewater leads the series 52-20-2 as of 2025, including eight consecutive victories, with a 28-7 win on October 30, 2025. Home games are primarily hosted at on-campus facilities, including Frank Lough Stadium for football, track, soccer, and , and the gymnasium (known as The Nest) for , , and indoor sports, supporting a range of competitive events. The coaching staff, led by figures such as football Patrick Browning (since 2025) and boys' coach Jon Mason, has guided recent successes, including the boys' team's fourth consecutive district championship in 2025 (Class 6A) and football's undefeated 10-0 regular season and advancement to the FHSAA 5A Region 2 semifinals after a 33-0 quarterfinal win over Lake Gibson on November 14, 2025.

Clubs and Other Activities

Edgewater High School provides a diverse array of non-athletic extracurricular activities that emphasize intellectual growth, artistic expression, and community involvement. These programs complement the school's academic offerings by encouraging voluntary participation in clubs, performances, and competitions. Academic clubs at the school include the , which honors students excelling in scholarship, leadership, character, and service through induction and service initiatives. Best Buddies promotes friendships and inclusion for students with and without intellectual disabilities via paired mentoring activities. The Book Club facilitates discussions on literature to enhance reading and analytical skills, while the Dungeons and Dragons club supports creative storytelling and strategic thinking in a collaborative gaming environment. The performing arts programs feature a robust theater department, designated as International Thespian Society Troupe 557, which stages productions such as The Revolutionists and to develop acting, directing, and technical skills. The choral program encompasses seven ensembles serving over 270 students, offering training in various vocal styles and culminating in performances like the annual Fall Concert. These initiatives have produced notable alumni, including Tony Award-nominated Broadway performer (class of 1981) and Davis Gaines, known for originating the role of the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. Magnet-specific activities for the Engineering, Science, and Technology (EST) program involve student participation in local, state, and national competitions focused on engineering simulations, fostering skills in , , and problem-solving. The Center for Future Educators Magnet engages students in educator workshops, service projects aligned with educational themes, and affiliation with the Future Educators of America to explore teaching careers. Community service and leadership opportunities are available through Student Government, which organizes school-wide initiatives via leadership skills development courses, and , emphasizing volunteerism and ethical leadership. Internships, particularly in and fields, allow magnet students to gain professional experience and enhance college applications. Annual events such as theater productions, choral concerts, and cultural activities hosted by groups like the Asian Student Association celebrate diversity through performances and festivals that build .

Notable People

Alumni

Edgewater High School has produced numerous notable alumni who have achieved prominence in , , , , , and education. These graduates exemplify the school's legacy of fostering talent that contributes significantly to their respective fields post-graduation.

Athletics

Several alumni have excelled in professional and collegiate sports, particularly football. , a 2012 graduate, was selected in the first round of the by the as a safety and played seven seasons in the league, including stints with the Las Vegas Raiders and . CJ Baxter, class of 2023, emerged as a top prospect, rushing for 3,826 yards and 57 touchdowns during his high school career before committing to the University of , where he continued as a key player despite a 2024 knee . Other recent standouts include RJ Harvey (class of 2019), who transferred to the and became a leading rusher in before being selected in the second round of the by the . Earlier athletes like Mike Brewster (class of 2008), an offensive lineman, played in the for the and before becoming the assistant offensive line coach at the (as of 2025).

Entertainment and Arts

Alumni in the have gained acclaim on Broadway and beyond. (class of 1972), inducted into the Edgewater Hall of Fame in 2011, portrayed the Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera over 2,000 times, earning the Bay Area Critics’ Award for Best Actor, and originated the lead role in Whistle Down the Wind. (class of 1981), a 2014 Hall of Fame inductee, received a Tony nomination for his role as Porgy in and has starred in productions like , , and The Colour Purple, alongside television appearances on .

Business, Law, Politics, and Education

In business and professional fields, alumni have led major organizations and initiatives. Bob Swoszowski (class of 1957), a 2014 inductee, became one of the youngest franchise owners and operated outlets for over 40 years, contributing to the chain's expansion in . Roy "Chip" Lilley (class of 1976), also from the 2014 class, co-founded CNL Commercial Real Estate and held executive roles at Company and Flagler Development Company, shaping Orlando's commercial landscape. Mark NeJame (class of 1972), another 2014 honoree, established NeJame Law in 1995 as a prominent criminal defense firm and founded the Runway to Hope foundation, raising millions for pediatric . In politics and public service, (class of 1977) made history as the first woman to direct the , appointed by President in 2013. She resigned in 2014 following security lapses. Cindy Zellner Mackinnon (class of 1960), a 2014 inductee, served as a on Florida's Ninth Circuit Court from 1993 to 2010 and was the first paid of a hospice. In education and community leadership, Scott George (class of 1979) has served as senior pastor of Pinecastle [United Methodist Church](/page/United_Methodist Church) since 1993 and co-founded the Community Food & Outreach Center, addressing food insecurity in Orlando. The Edgewater High School Foundation, established in 1995, plays a key role in the network by awarding scholarships—such as the 15 granted in 2025—to support graduating seniors in pursuing higher education and career success, while also organizing Hall of Fame events to connect alumni and celebrate achievements.

Faculty and Staff

Edgewater High School employs approximately 87 teachers, supplemented by administrative and support staff, to serve its student body. The faculty includes specialists in various disciplines, with administration led by Principal Dr. Alex Jackson, Assistant Principal of Instruction Maria Schmidt-Sutton, and Assistant Principals Scott Berkes and others. Notable educators at Edgewater have made significant contributions to athletics, particularly in basketball programs. Long-term coach Travis Jones guided the boys' team to a state championship during his tenure, elevating the program's national profile before departing in 2005. More recently, Coach Jon Mason led the boys' to the 6A District Title in 2025, continuing the tradition of competitive success. In the Engineering, Science, and Technology (EST) Magnet program, Magnet Administrator Corey Maguire and Coordinator Denise Hinds Cruz oversee specialized curricula aimed at preparing students for STEM postsecondary pathways. Several faculty members have received awards and recognitions from (OCPS). Agriculture Susan Peoski was named an OCPS Teacher of the Year finalist in 2025 for her innovative and dedicated instruction. English Jackie Steward-Garcia was selected as the school's Teacher of the Year in 2024, while support staff member Valerie Lopez earned Support Person of the Year for her contributions to school operations. Additionally, AP Math teachers Ryan Lemon and Michelle Bettger achieved record-breaking student success rates in Pre-Calculus, with a 24% increase in proficiency in 2025. Dr. Rachel Smith received the 2020 REEL Award from the Council on Economic Education for excellence in economic teaching. As a Title I school, Edgewater's staff engages in initiatives through OCPS, including training focused on targeted instructional support, family engagement, and enriched learning opportunities to address diverse student needs. These programs emphasize ongoing skill enhancement to improve academic outcomes. Historically, Orville R. Davis served as Edgewater's first principal from 1952 to 1962, establishing the school's foundational academic policies and reputation for excellence; during his tenure, the became a central hub for pep rallies, plays, and community events that shaped early school culture. Faculty like Dennis Kamrad, a teacher from 1962 to 1969, contributed by founding the school's first rowing team, expanding extracurricular options. Staff at Edgewater also provide brief to participating in extracurricular activities, fostering ongoing school connections.

References

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