ORLANDO – An Alachua student has been recognized among the top academic performers in Florida Virtual High School’s Class of 2026, earning one of the highest rankings in the school’s largest graduating class in history.
Lillian White of Alachua was one of four seniors statewide recognized for earning the highest grade point averages in the graduating class. Her academic path combined healthcare interests with artistic pursuits, reflecting the flexibility many online students use to pursue interests beyond the traditional classroom.
White, who has attended Florida Virtual High School since eighth grade, volunteered in hospice care and spent four years working alongside a cardiac sonographer while also continuing advanced acrobatic training.
The online learning format allowed her to pursue those opportunities, including relocating to Vermont for additional training while maintaining her coursework.
White plans to attend the University of California, Berkeley, where she will study molecular environmental biology before pursuing medical school and a career in emergency medicine.
Florida Virtual High School, part of Florida Virtual School, serves students statewide through a full-time online program that allows students to complete coursework while participating in dual enrollment programs, extracurricular activities and community involvement.
This year’s class includes 1,499 graduates from 57 counties, making it the largest graduating class in school history.
Three additional students from around the state also earned top academic rankings. Suhayb Samara of Pembroke Pines balanced his studies with dual enrollment coursework and operated a business while participating in community service activities. Luca Voros of Sarasota paired his studies with computer science and biological research opportunities and plans to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. D’Liyah Lubin of Miramar combined leadership roles, volunteer work and dual enrollment studies while preparing for a future legal career.
School officials said the class posted notable achievements beyond its top-ranked graduates.
Among this year’s graduates, 50 students earned the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education Diploma and 18 completed associate degrees through dual enrollment programs.
Students also collectively completed 1,454 Advanced Placement courses over four years, while 357 graduated summa cum laude.
“This year’s top graduates exemplify what’s possible when students are empowered to pursue their passions alongside their academics,” Florida Virtual High School Principal Suzanna Pacheco said. “Their achievements reflect not only academic excellence, but the dedication, creativity, and resilience that define the FVHS Class of 2026.”
Florida Virtual Full Time Public Schools will hold an in-person commencement ceremony for graduating seniors on May 29, bringing together students and families from across the state.
This version reads more like a localized A-1 feature with White as the centerpiece and the remaining students serving as supporting statewide context rather than competing storylines.
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