Over the past several weeks, middle school students at DME Academy have been actively engaged in hands-on learning through the Gaetz Aerospace Career Academy program, an academic offering designed to introduce students to foundational concepts in aeronautics, robotics, and STEM.
Students began the term by reviewing and reinforcing key concepts from last semester, ensuring a strong foundation as they transitioned into more advanced, project-based activities. This structured approach helps students build confidence while developing problem-solving and critical-thinking skills essential for success in future STEM coursework.
Recently, students began designing their “ideal” robot, an interactive project that encouraged creativity, collaboration, and introductory coding concepts. Through the design process, students explored how ideas are transformed into functional designs, gaining early exposure to engineering principles in an age-appropriate and engaging environment.
In addition to robotics design, students participated in collaborative building projects using K’NEX, applying basic engineering and design concepts while working as teams. These activities emphasized communication, creativity, and hands-on exploration, reinforcing DME Academy’s commitment to experiential learning.
The Gaetz Aerospace Career Academy program at DME Academy is affiliated with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and offers dual-enrollment aviation and aerospace coursework for high school students, along with an exploratory STEM experience for middle school students. The program is designed to spark early interest in aviation, aerospace, engineering, and technology while supporting DME Academy’s broader academic mission.
By integrating the Gaetz Aerospace Career Academy program into its academic offerings, DME Academy continues to expand opportunities for students to explore diverse career pathways while developing the skills, curiosity, and confidence needed for long-term academic and personal success.
About DME Academy
DME Academy, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a nationally recognized sports academy dedicated to developing the next generation of student-athletes through elite training, competition, and academic support. Ready to elevate your game? Explore our program or schedule a call with our team today.
For many families, choosing a sports academy comes with an important question: What happens when the game ends? At DME Academy, the answer is clear. Athletics may open doors, but education, discipline, and life skills ensure students walk through them prepared.
DME Academy is built on the belief that student-athletes must be ready for success well beyond competition. Through a structured academic environment, personalized support, and real-world preparation, DME develops young people who are equipped for college, careers, and life after sports.
While meeting NCAA academic requirements is essential, DME Academy’s academic mission extends far beyond eligibility checklists. Students are challenged with coursework designed to prepare them for the demands of college classrooms and professional environments.
Small class sizes, guided instruction, and consistent accountability ensure students do not simply complete assignments but truly understand the material. This academic foundation helps graduates transition smoothly into higher education, regardless of whether they continue competing athletically.
Success after sports requires more than talent. It requires discipline, time management, responsibility, and communication skills. DME Academy’s structured daily schedule mirrors the expectations students will face in college and professional life.
By balancing academics, training, and personal responsibilities, students learn how to manage their time effectively, meet deadlines, and remain accountable. These habits often become the difference between short-term athletic success and long-term personal achievement.
DME Academy places strong emphasis on character development. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their growth, support teammates, and represent themselves with integrity on and off campus.
Through leadership opportunities, mentorship, and community engagement, student-athletes learn how to communicate effectively, lead by example, and navigate challenges with confidence. These traits are essential in college classrooms, workplaces, and communities alike.
DME Academy is not simply a place to train. It is a place to grow. By combining elite athletics with rigorous academics and personal development, DME ensures students are prepared not just to compete, but to thrive.
From the classroom to college campuses to careers beyond athletics, DME Academy equips student-athletes with the tools they need to succeed wherever life takes them.
DME Academy, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a nationally recognized sports academy dedicated to developing the next generation of student-athletes through elite training, competition, and academic support. Ready to elevate your game? Explore our program or schedule a call with our team today.
DME Academy blends elite training, individualized education, and character-building experiences to shape well-rounded young competitors.
At DME, student-athletes don’t have to choose between school and sport. The Academy’s flexible academic model allows athletes to pursue challenging coursework while maintaining a demanding training schedule. Small class sizes and personalized support help students stay on track academically, even during travel and competition seasons.
DME’s athletic programs are built around professional-level coaching and year-round development. Athletes benefit from strength and conditioning programs, sport-specific technical training, and a campus equipped with pro-grade facilities
This high-performance atmosphere prepares students for the intensity of collegiate and professional competition.
Beyond the gym and classroom, DME focuses on teaching responsibility, teamwork, and character. Workshops, mentorship opportunities, and community involvement help students learn to lead with confidence and skills that matter long after graduation.
From college recruiting guidance to highlight reel development and academic advising, DME supports athletes through every step of their journey. The Academy’s strong relationships with college programs give students the exposure they need to compete at the next level.
Speak with a Student Advisor today and discover how DME Academy can guide you toward success. Click here to get started!
Daytona Beach, FL. At DME Academy, student-athletes train for more than just victories on the court or field. They prepare for success in every aspect of life. While DME athletes consistently compete at the highest levels, the Academy’s mission extends well beyond athletic achievement. By providing rigorous academics, leadership development, and personal growth opportunities, DME equips students with the tools to thrive in college, their careers, and life after sports.
Academic Excellence with a Competitive Edge
DME’s academic program challenges students with coursework designed to prepare them for the nation’s top universities. Through innovative partnerships, such as dual-credit science classes offered in collaboration with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, students gain access to advanced curriculum that few high schools can offer. This combination of elite athletics and academic strength ensures that DME graduates are prepared both for the next level of competition and the classroom challenges ahead.
Building Leaders Beyond Sports
Character and leadership development are at the core of the DME experience. Student-athletes learn the discipline required to succeed in competition while also building responsibility, time management, problem-solving, and accountability skills. These lessons prepare them to become leaders in their chosen fields, whether on a team, in a career, or within their communities.
A Global Learning Environment
With students representing countries from around the world, DME provides a uniquely international environment. Living and learning alongside peers from diverse backgrounds enhances communication, adaptability, and global awareness. These are qualities that will serve students well as they step into college athletics and an increasingly interconnected world.
Preparing for Life Beyond the Game
The mission of DME Academy is to shape well-rounded individuals who excel not only as athletes but as scholars and leaders. Students graduate with a strong foundation built on academic achievement, athletic performance, and character development. They are prepared to succeed in college, in their professional careers, and in life beyond athletics.
About DME Academy
DME Academy, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a nationally recognized sports academy dedicated to developing the next generation of student-athletes through elite training, competition, and academic support. Ready to elevate your game? Explore our program or schedule a call with our team today.
Daytona Beach, Fla. – As the DME Academy Girls Indoor Volleyball team approaches the midway point of the 2025 season, the team sets its sights on a challenging remaining schedule, but is armed with the confidence and early-season growth to face it head-on.
Led by Head Coach Alvaro Sanchez, the team has worked to blend together athletes from diverse backgrounds. With players hailing from a variety of countries and training systems, the season began with the task of building a single, unified style of play. “The girls are working to get better every day,” said Coach Sanchez. “While we have talented individuals, it was a challenge to get them all to play one way as they’re all coming from different countries, different training styles, and schools of thought.”
Despite those early challenges, DME has shown grit and determination, competing against top-tier talent, including several All-Americans. The team has logged countless miles traveling across Florida and beyond, taking on one of the toughest schedules in the region. With a record just above .500, Sanchez remains focused on the big picture but sees the potential in his squad to finish the season on a high note.
Recognizing Leadership and Player Development
This year’s progress has been fueled by the steady leadership of team captains Juanita Hernandez and Mariana Castaño, as well as libero Keri Petro, who operates as an extra coach on the court for the team. Giovana Menegazzo and Carley Kenefick will be crucial in the late-season push as both athletes have significantly elevated their play throughout the season.
“These athletes represent what DME is all about — discipline, teamwork, and a relentless competitive spirit,” Sanchez said.
Looking Ahead
With nine matches left in the regular season, the team is determined to finish strong. Highlights ahead include the Senior Night/Pink Game against New Smyrna Beach, a meaningful matchup for Sanchez against his former program.
About DME Academy
DME Academy, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a nationally recognized sports academy dedicated to developing the next generation of student-athletes through elite training, competition, and academic support. Ready to elevate your game? Explore our program or schedule a call with our team today.
Daytona Beach, FL —Families searching for schools in Daytona now have a powerful new option at DME Academy. Known for elite athletics and academics, DME is launching a partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the global leader in aviation and STEM education. Backed by a Gaetz Grant, this initiative expands access to STEM opportunities for students across Florida.
Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, DME middle school students will join Embry-Riddle’s BUILD program. This pathway introduces key concepts such as aerodynamics, aerospace, and the Magnus Effect through hands-on projects. Students will design and program machines using robotics kits, Python, JavaScript, and block coding. High school students will build on that foundation by applying Newton’s Laws to real-world scenarios.
“Students will have the opportunity to step into the batting cages and see their lessons in action,” said Stacy Atkinson, Principal at DME Academy. “Even more, the program opens doors to careers in aerospace, from engineering and programming to marketing and operations.”
Amanda Silva, Central Florida Regional Director at Embry-Riddle, added: “Try as many things as you can. The worst outcome is you don’t like it. That’s how you find what truly excites you.”
Access to Campus, Credentials, and College Credit
DME students will visit Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus, touring departments like A&P and Mechanical Engineering. Teachers will receive specialized training and certifications, while guest lectures from Embry-Riddle faculty and a retired Air Force veteran will enrich the program.
As students progress, they can earn FAA certifications, including the small unmanned aircraft certification, and may qualify for dual-credit courses and potential college scholarships.
This partnership allows DME to provide a competitive edge for students, whether they pursue athletics, STEM careers, or both. With hands-on experience, real credentials, and new exposure to future opportunities, DME Academy continues to lead in student development on and off the field.
Explore how DME Academy is shaping the future of student-athletes on the field and in the classroom.
DME Academy is proud to welcome Lance Morgan as our new Director of Student Life. This role is key to shaping the student experience beyond the classroom and court. With a heart for mentorship and a global perspective, Lance is already making an impact across campus.
Lance’s journey spans continents. He grew up in both Papua New Guinea and South Florida before attending college in Arkansas. “That mix of cultures, experiences, and community really shaped who I am,” he shared. This background now fuels his passion for building connections among DME’s diverse student body.
As Director of Student Life, Lance leads all aspects of student culture outside the classroom. His responsibilities include dorm life, student events, community standards, mentorship, and personal development programs. He works closely with RAs, coaches, and academic staff to ensure students are supported, challenged, and guided toward leadership.
He values integrity, self-discipline, curiosity, community, and work ethic. The same pillars that define DME’s mission.
“I also believe in grace and accountability,” he said. “Students need support, but they also need clear expectations and the tools to rise to them.”
Lance is already bringing new energy and structure to student life at DME. His plans include expanding initiatives like IGNITE, The Bridge (connecting international students with local families), and Championing Champions (a volunteer program for adult mentors).
His goal is to foster stronger bonds between dorm houses, build unity among local and boarding students, and help every student take ownership of their personal growth.
“What drew me to this role,” Lance said, “was the opportunity to walk alongside students from all over the world during a transformative time in their lives.” A longtime mentor and advocate for student-athletes, he’s passionate about helping young people discover their influence and potential.
“I love seeing the lightbulb go on — when students begin to realize the kind of impact they can have on others. It’s powerful to witness, and I’m honored to be part of that process.”
If you’re exploring options for your child’s education, discover how DME Academy’s Day School combines rigorous academics, elite athletics, and a vibrant student life. Learn more about our Daytona Beach private school programs and see how we help students excel on and off the field.
Learn More About DME Day School
Daytona Beach, FL –DME Academy Basketball continues to expand under the leadership of Matt and Michael Panaggio. As head coaches of the boys and girls programs, they bring a player-focused approach built on structure, development, and college exposure.
Matt and Michael Panaggio grew up surrounded by basketball. Their experience as coaches and former players helps guide how they develop athletes. At DME, they’ve created a training environment focused on accountability, consistency, and long-term growth.
“We grew up in a family that loved basketball,” said Matt Panaggio. “Mike had his dad pushing him. I had our grandfather. That structure helped us grow as athletes and as people.”
The program now includes post-grad options and stronger relationships with college programs. These efforts give athletes a better chance to get recruited and compete beyond high school.
“My biggest role is to mentor, lead, and push student-athletes to reach their full potential,” said Michael Panaggio.
Every training session at DME Academy Basketball reinforces effort, focus, and discipline. Athletes are expected to show up ready to compete and improve. These habits shape players and prepare them for what comes next.
The results speak for themselves. The program continues to attract talent and attention nationwide.
If you’re ready for high-level coaching and a path to the next level, the DME Academy Basketball program offers the support and structure to help you grow.
Explore the basketball program
Daytona Beach, FL — DME Academy, known for elite athletics and academic excellence, is proud to announce a new partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. As a global leader in aviation and STEM education—and recently ranked No. 1 in innovation—Embry-Riddle brings unmatched opportunity to DME through a Gaetz Grant-funded initiative. This partnership expands access to STEM programs across Florida.
Starting in the 2025–26 school year, DME middle school students will take part in Embry-Riddle’s BUILD program. This aviation pathway introduces students to aerodynamics, aerospace, and the Magnus Effect through hands-on learning. For example, students will build and program machines using robotics kits, Python, JavaScript, and block coding.
In high school, students will go deeper. They’ll explore scientific concepts like Newton’s Laws and apply them to real-world situations—bridging classroom learning with active exploration.
“Students will have the opportunity to go into the batting cages and see what they’ve learned in motion,” said Stacy Atkinson, Principal at DME Academy. “More importantly, the program introduces students to careers in aerospace, from engineering and programming to marketing and operations.”
“Try as many things as you can,” said Amanda Silva, Central Florida Regional Director at Embry-Riddle. “The worst thing that happens is you don’t like it. That’s how you find what you actually want to do.”
DME students will visit Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach campus, touring departments like A&P and Mechanical Engineering. Teachers will receive specialized training and certifications, while guest lectures from Embry-Riddle faculty and a retired Air Force veteran will enrich the program.
As students progress, they can earn FAA certifications, including the small unmanned aircraft certification, and may qualify for dual-credit courses and potential college scholarships.
This partnership allows DME to provide a competitive edge for students, whether they pursue athletics, STEM careers, or both. With hands-on experience, real credentials, and new exposure to future opportunities, DME Academy continues to lead in student development on and off the field.
Explore how DME Academy is shaping the future of student-athletes on the field and in the classroom.
Daytona, FL. Choosing the right middle school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child. At DME Academy, we offer a private middle school program in Daytona Beach, Florida, designed to guide students through this key stage with structure, challenge, and support.
At DME Academy, students benefit from small class sizes and dedicated teachers. The curriculum focuses on core subjects like math, science, reading, and writing. At the same time, students build life skills such as time management, organization, and critical thinking.
As a private school in Daytona Florida, DME Academy also gives students a global perspective. With classmates from more than 40 countries, students learn cultural awareness and strong communication skills. This diverse environment helps them prepare for a connected, modern world.
DME Academy proudly accepts the Step Up for Students scholarship, making our private middle school program more accessible for Florida residents. Our admissions team is ready to help families explore financial aid options and start the enrollment process.
If you’re looking for a private middle school in Daytona Beach that values academic excellence, global citizenship, and character-driven education, DME Academy is ready to welcome you.
Schedule a tour or start your application today to see what sets DME apart.