Breakfast Point Academy Students Shine at Florida History Day; Four Projects Rank Top in State
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL – Students from Breakfast Point Academy (BPA) made history of their own this week, returning home with top honors from the Florida History Day state contest. After months of intensive research, primary source analysis, and creative design, several BPA students secured podium finishes, with one group advancing to the National History Day competition in College Park, Maryland.
Headed to Nationals
Leading the charge for the Stingrays were Irene Garcia, Mia Dountz, and Jenna Patel. The trio earned 2nd Place in the Junior Group Performance category. Their captivating dramatization of historical events impressed the judges enough to earn them a spot as official Florida representatives at the National History Fair this June.
"Watching these girls bring history to life on stage was a highlight of the competition," said Mrs. Daniel, who was in attendance to cheer on the team. "Their dedication to the craft and their historical accuracy truly set them apart from the field."
Exceptional Individual Achievement
Mikayla Jones delivered a powerhouse performance in the Individual Performance category, earning 3rd Place statewide. Because of her high ranking, Jones serves as the First Alternate for the National History Fair. In addition to her podium finish, Mikayla was honored with the prestigious World War II Heritage Award.
Mr. Pocernich, who accompanied the students to the state competition, noted the significance of the win: "Mikayla’s research into the World War II era was meticulous. To win a specialized heritage award on top of a state ranking is a phenomenal achievement that reflects her passion for the subject."
Excellence in Exhibits and Digital Media
BPA’s visual and digital historians also saw great success, showcasing their ability to distill complex history into museum-quality displays and modern media.
Delaney Chafin took home 3rd Place in Individual Exhibit, serving as the First Alternate for the national circuit.
Natalie Xiao and Violet West secured 3rd Place in Group Exhibit, also earning First Alternate status.
Tucker Wicks and Hampton Kelley represented the school with distinction in the Junior Group Website category, navigating the complexities of digital historical archiving.
Cammie Campbell showcased her filmmaking and narrative skills, competing in the Junior Individual Documentary category.
Assistant Principal Mr. Long, who traveled with the delegation, praised the students' professionalism: "Walking through the competition and attending the awards ceremony and hearing 'Breakfast Point Academy' with so many high-caliber projects was a proud moment for our administration. These students represented our school with incredible poise and intellect."
A Community of Scholars
While she couldn't be at the state competition in person, Mrs. Sermons watched the results closely from home. "I am beaming with pride," she shared. "Seeing the growth in these students from their initial bibliographies to the state stage is why we do what we do. They have proven that BPA students can compete with the best in Florida."
The success of these students highlights the rigorous academic environment at Breakfast Point Academy. To reach the state level, these participants first had to win at the school and district levels, refining their projects through multiple rounds of judging.
As Irene, Mia, and Jenna prepare for their trip to the University of Maryland for the national finals, the entire Panama City Beach community stands behind them. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for representing Breakfast Point Academy and Bay District Schools with such distinction!