CFK Academy honors two outstanding graduates at 2026 commencement

CFK Academy’s newest graduates celebrated for their achievements at commencement.

KEY WEST, FL, June 2, 2026— CFK Academy, the A-rated public charter high school of The College of the Florida Keys (CFK), held its Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 28 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on CFK’s Key West Campus. The ceremony honored two exceptional graduates: Jarrett Miller and Emily Nolasco-Ferrufino.

Jarrett Miller distinguished himself through his contributions to the school’s journalism department, nearly 100 hours of work experience in the local hospitality industry, and community service ranging from beach clean-ups to correspondence with overseas military personnel. The recipient of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society Kermit “Shine” Forbes Scholarship, Miller will enter the Welding program at CFK this fall.

Emily Nolasco-Ferrufino graduates a year early after earning her Associate in Arts degree at age 17 while maintaining the Principal’s List, leading the school’s Interact Club as president, competing in wrestling, and participating in an international studies program across Europe. A first-generation, bilingual college student, she is the recipient of the Key West Women’s Club scholarship and the Take Stock in Children scholarship, which will cover her tuition, housing, and books as she pursues a Psychology degree at Florida International University with the goal of earning a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology.

“These graduates have shown us what’s possible when determination meets opportunity,” said Dr. Ja-Ronika Veldheer, Principal of CFK Academy and CFK Vice President of Secondary Education. “We couldn’t be prouder of Jarrett and Emily and we can’t wait to see where their journeys take them.”

The ceremony was attended by CFK President and CEO Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, Monroe County School District Superintendent Ed Tierney, School Board Member Yvette Mira-Talbott, and other College and district leaders.
​
CFK Academy serves students in Monroe County as a tuition-free public charter high school offering a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with dual enrollment opportunities at The College of the Florida Keys.
For more information about CFK Academy, visit: https://www.cfk.edu/cfkacademy/