Page 12 - JSF Annual 2024 final

Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind
Building Confidence One Student at a Time
Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB) senior Annabelle Abenchuchan is excelling at school—balancing academics,
athletics, and a vibrant social life.
The Jacksonville, Florida student started at FSDB in its early learning center and transferred to Maryland School for the Deaf in fourth grade. In 2022, she returned to FSDB after her family moved back to Florida. Since then, she’s been hard at work—demonstrating strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Abenchuchan made FSDB’s honor roll in 2022, 2023, and 2024 and has served as a class officer.
Located in St. Augustine, Florida, FSDB is a fully accredited, tuition-free state school for pre-K and K-12 students who are Deaf/hard of hearing, blind/ visually impaired, or deaf-blind. JSF helps support projects that enhance the educational experience of FSDB students, such as recreation, therapy, and health programs.
Abenchuchan has also participated in various extracurriculars, including the school’s dance troupe, volleyball and basketball (where she participated in and won various championships), cheerleading, flag football, and track and field. She’s also volunteered with the Junior National Association of the Deaf over the past three years.
Outside of the FSDB Deaf High School, Abenchuchan volunteers often—serving Thanksgiving dinner to elementary and middle school students, participating in a youth leadership camp, and much more.
“I’ve learned a lot about gaining confidence and how to grow with that,” she says. “It was exciting to learn and grow at the same time. I felt I was opening up; it was the start of this whole journey.”
She recalls the excitement of being invited to sign the U.S. national anthem at a Jacksonville Jaguars football game in 2023.
“I was able to open up a little and become more social as I got older,” she recalls. Abenchuchan’s teachers and others at FSDB agree.
“Annabelle’s dedication and enthusiasm shine brightly in everything she does, inspiring those around her with her unwavering commitment to growth and learning,” writes Traci Anderson, FSDB’s executive director of advancement. “Her positive
spirit and determination make her a joy to be around and a true example of perseverance.”
Having developed a love for school and meaningful relationships with teachers, Abenchuchan wants to pass that love for school along to others. After graduating from FSDB in 2025, she hopes to attend Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. and pursue a degree in early childhood education and Deaf education.
“With my experiences, I feel like I’ve grown in confidence, and my mind has grown. As time goes on, I am feeling more comfortable and success is coming to me,” she says, encouraging others with similar stories: “Follow your dreams, take every chance you get, and don’t be shy.”
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