PCHS Bulletin – Aliza Vitoritt
Published Date – October 13, 2025
The countdown is on for the Class of 2026. But are they ready? With helpful staff like College and Career advisor Victoria Hedgepeth, Media Specialist Mercedes Wildman and senior class advisors Heather Dietz and Stefanie Springer, the class of 2026 can make senior year the best year.
PCHS Seniors like Rylee Vitoritt are excited for this year as she states, “as a senior I’m looking forward to graduating and spending this last year with my friends.”
Senior year goes by fast. Seniors are encouraged to mark important dates on their calendars.
The FAFSA and Bright Futures window opened on October 1. Both are essential opportunities for financial aid for those considering the college route.
PCHS will host a FAFSA night on October 15 in the media center at 6:00pm. This meeting will give seniors and their families extra information about FASFA including application assistance. Additionally, seniors can visit the FAFSA website for additional resources: studentaid.gov
Additionally, Hedgepeth has arranged field trips to both the Manatee Technical College (MTC) and the State College of Florida (SCF). Both are viable options for graduating seniors looking for either a cheaper college option or looking to enter the workforce quicker. Information for both field trip opportunities was shared via the senior Schoology page.
It is also important for students considering the college path after high school to watch for early action due dates. Many of those dates are fast approaching including:
FSU, UCF, and FAU on October 15
UF, USF, and FGCU on November 1
Hedgepeth regularly updates the Scholarship Schoology page. Students are encouraged to follow this page for those opportunities.
There is also a career fair scheduled for November 14 during third period. Seniors will have the opportunity to explore numerous booths to see a variety of options available to them after graduation.
Staff at Parrish Community High School are hopeful for the class of 2026. Hedgepeth states, “I want to see as many members of the class of 2026 walk across that field as possible. It is such an exciting time, I hope everyone gets to experience it.”
Many staff members are working to add extra resources to support their students. Wildman created “University Drive” in the media center. A row of books dedicated to seniors with testing prep books in addition to other college and career resources.
Senior class advisors Dietz and Springer also work diligently all year to make sure the senior class stays updated on all important dates and requirements leading to their upcoming graduation on May 20, 2026, at LECOM Park.
Seniors are encouraged to speak to Hedgepeth, their guidance counselors, and reference the senior handbook to help address any questions or concerns they have as soon as possible.