BK News

Bishop Kenny High School is proud to announce seniors Lorelei Carlton and Alberto Diaz-Reyes as the January Students of the Month. These exemplary Crusaders were selected by their peers for their outstanding achievements in academics, initiative, and commitment.

Lorelei Carlton exemplifies academic excellence and dedication. She has embraced a rigorous academic schedule while actively participating in a wide array of extracurricular activities. Lorelei is a member of several prestigious honor societies, including the English, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science, Latin, Quill and Scroll, and National Honor Societies. Additionally, she contributes her talents to the History, Interact, Latin, and Science Clubs and is an integral member of Bishop Kenny’s elite dance team.

Her love for math and science fuels her academic aspirations. Lorelei will attend the University of Tennessee and she would like to pursue a career in dentistry, combining her passion for academics with her commitment to making a difference in others’ lives. Reflecting on her experience at Bishop Kenny, Lorelei shared, “My academic career has only prospered through the communities in which Bishop Kenny has provided for me. I have been a member of the BK Dance Team for all four years of high school and my teammates have been the ones to build me up when I feel like giving up. Aside from dance, I am involved in many clubs, mostly service-oriented, that have further developed my mission to do well inside and outside of school. Most importantly, my balance in extracurriculars and academics is only made possible through my commitment to God’s plan for my life in high school and thereafter.”

Alberto Diaz-Reyes is another shining example of hard work and dedication. Balancing a rigorous academic schedule, Alberto is actively involved in multiple honor societies, including the English, Mu Alpha Theta, Science, Spanish, and National Honor Societies. He is also a dedicated athlete, contributing to Bishop Kenny’s cross country and track & field teams.

Alberto plans to attend the University of Central Florida to major in biochemistry with the goal of becoming an oncologist. Reflecting on his time at Bishop Kenny, Alberto emphasized the importance of community, saying, “What makes life worth living are the people I share it with. When I graduate, I won’t remember the 62% I got on an AP Biology test, but I will remember the good times I spent with the people I love most.”

Bishop Kenny is proud to celebrate Lorelei Carlton and Alberto Diaz-Reyes for their remarkable achievements and contributions to our school community. Their commitment to academics, leadership, and service exemplifies the spirit of the Crusader community. Congratulations to both students for their well-deserved recognition as January’s Students of the Month!

A ceremony was held on Friday, December 13, to announce the court at the John A. Baldwin Athletic Center will now bear the name of Coach Joe Pichardo, honoring his 37-year legacy at Bishop Kenny.

Coach Pichardo had 560 wins, 8 district championships, and a trip to the state tournament. More than the victories, his lasting impact is felt in his role as a coach, mentor, and leader. This lasting tribute ensures his legacy of tradition, excellence and faith that will inspire Crusaders for generations to come.

Congratulations to Lauren Bramlett ’27 for achieving an outstanding milestone in the 2024 United States District Court Constitution Essay Contest! Lauren’s essay placed her in the top 10 among all participants, a remarkable accomplishment.

This year’s contest, sponsored by the Middle District Bench Bar Fund and the Jacksonville Federal Court Bar Association, invited high school students across 12 counties in Northeast Florida to explore a critical and timely topic: How has technology in schools affected students’ understanding of the First Amendment? Participants were challenged to analyze the interplay between technology and constitutional freedoms, a subject that resonates deeply with the experiences of today’s youth.

Lauren’s success not only highlights her exceptional writing and critical thinking abilities but also reflects the strong educational foundation provided by Bishop Kenny High School. She credits Vice Principal and her AP Seminar teacher, Mr. Michael Broach ‘99, for inspiring her to engage thoughtfully with complex issues and refine her communication skills.

Lauren was honored at a special recognition ceremony, where she was pictured alongside Mr. Broach ’99 and U.S. District Judge Timothy Corrigan, a proud alumnus of Bishop Kenny’s Class of ’74. Judge Corrigan commended Lauren and her peers for their insightful contributions, emphasizing the importance of civic education in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

BK is proud to celebrate Lauren’s achievement and her commitment to academic excellence. Her recognition in this prestigious contest reflects the school’s mission to nurture critical thinkers and compassionate leaders who make meaningful contributions to society.