Florida Virtual School Student Wins Statewide America250FL Essay Contest

June 25, 2026

Reid Monge stands with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis after receiving first place in the middle school division of the America250FL essay contest and a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship at the Governor’s Mansion in Tallahassee.

Reid Monge, a homeschooled student who takes classes through Florida Virtual School (FLVS), earned first place in the America250FL middle school essay contest. The recognition comes as the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary.

The statewide contest, part of Florida’s America250 programming, challenged students to explore the theme “Celebrating Florida’s Contributions to America” by researching individuals whose impact helped shape the country.

Monge’s award‑winning essay focused on John Gorrie, a Florida physician credited with early innovations in refrigeration and air conditioning. The assignment required students to connect historical contributions to their broader impact.

As a winner, Monge received a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.

“When I read about the invention of AC, I knew he was who I wanted to focus on,” he said, referring to his essay on John Gorrie.

Winners were recognized at the Governor’s Mansion in Tallahassee, where students attended a ceremony, viewed submissions, and visited the Florida Historic Capitol Museum.

“We have to know history to move forward,” Monge said. “You can’t learn from mistakes if you don't know what they are, and you can't build on innovations if you don't know how they work or where they came from.”