Volusia County's Academic Top Scholar Is University High Student

Posted

gary-gurlaskie-1-2

DeLand, FL—Gary Gurlaskie, a University High School 2016 graduate, has been chosen as Volusia County Schools’ Academic Top Scholar (photo attached).  The award is granted by the Florida Department of Education Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) to one 2016 high school graduate from each county in Florida.  The award comes with a financial bonus of $44 per semester hour in addition to the scholarship monies awarded through the Bright Futures Florida Academic Scholars program.

“There is no doubt that Gary deserves this recognition.  He always represented his family, University High School, our community and himself in a way that has and will continue to make us proud,” stated Laura Marracino, guidance director at University High.  “What is extra special about Gary is that he excels in so many areas.  He participated in our award winning Jazz Ensemble, our STEM Academy as a member of our Robotics Team, was recognized as an AP Scholar by the College Board, and was selected as a National Merit Scholar.  We wish him continued success, and expect to continue to hear great things about this young man.”

Only the Florida Academic Scholars who receive funding at an eligible Florida postsecondary institution during the fall term following high school graduation are considered for the bonus award.  Students are ranked based on the product of their highest Bright Futures GPA and their best SAT/ACT composite score as reported for their Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) award eligibility. These rankings yield an Academic Top Scholar.

"We are very proud of Gary's academic performance and honored that he was chosen to represent Volusia County Schools as a Florida Academic Top Scholar,” stated Gary’s parents, Emilie and George Gurlaskie.  “He is now attending the University of Florida as an honor student studying physics, mathematics and computer science.”