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, 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. Earlier this month, the DME Academy Blue and Gold High School basketball teams brought their energy, leadership, and passion off the court and into the community. The destination? Palm Terrace Elementary School in Daytona Beach—where Field Day became a showcase of teamwork, mentorship, and fun.
For over four hours, DME athletes supported young students across activity stations—from relay races to obstacle courses. They didn’t just supervise—they led by example, running alongside the kids, demonstrating games, and hyping up every station.
“The DME players were so supportive and did a fantastic job of interacting with our kids,” said Colby Carden, Palm Terrace’s New Teacher of the Year and DME assistant coach. “It was just a fun time had by all.”
The event wasn’t just a school day activity—it was a valuable moment of community connection. Each DME player earned service hours, a core requirement of the DME Academy experience. More importantly, they made a positive impact on the Daytona community that supports them.
At DME, community involvement is a core value. Our athletes train to win—but they’re also being shaped into well-rounded leaders who understand the importance of giving back.
Bass Sylla
Mattia Orlandi
Lio Toscanini
Oliver Puzzi
Malik Oppon
John Conrad
Marcelo Chagris
Dmitri Davis
Justin Lanos
Miguel Fernandez
Ndiaga Sylla
Liam Ford-Ramoon
Guided by Coaches Allen Carden (Blue team) and Pete Munch (Gold team), these players continue to embody the spirit of DME—hardworking, humble, and community-driven. As a proud part of the Daytona Beach community, DME Academy sees moments like this not just as service, but as a reflection of who we are. It’s never just about basketball—it’s about character, connection, and committing to something bigger than ourselves
Daytona, FL –DME Academy’s 9th and 10th-grade students recently embarked on an exciting educational journey at SeaWorld Orlando’s STEM Day, an immersive experience connecting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to real-world applications. This hands-on STEM event reinforced DME Academy’s commitment to fostering STEM education through real-world learning experiences.
At SeaWorld Orlando, students witnessed STEM in action as they explored hydrodynamics in marine habitats, animal behavioral science, and the technology behind animal care and conservation. The experience showcased how engineers, biologists, and animal care specialists use science and technology daily to create sustainable environments for marine life.
Through interactive workshops and live demonstrations led by SeaWorld experts, students gained a deeper understanding of the connection between STEM education and career pathways. From understanding the physics of roller coasters to seeing how advanced filtration systems maintain aquatic ecosystems, they discovered how STEM drives innovation and problem-solving in diverse fields.
DME Academy prioritizes experiential learning opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom instruction. Principal Stacy Atkinson, who accompanied students on the trip, emphasized the importance of real-world learning experiences:
“Our goal at DME Academy is to provide students with enriching opportunities beyond the classroom, and SeaWorld’s STEM Day was the perfect setting. It was inspiring to see them engage with hands-on learning and critically think about how STEM impacts industries they may not have previously considered.”
By bridging education and entertainment, the field trip encouraged students to think about future careers in STEM-related fields while enjoying a fun and dynamic learning environment. Seeing STEM integrated into marine science, engineering, and conservation efforts allowed students to connect their studies to real-world careers and develop a deeper appreciation for the role technology plays in shaping the world.
DME Academy remains dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning experiences to equip students with the skills they need for success in STEM-focused careers.
DME Academy continues to seek innovative ways to enhance student learning experiences through STEM-focused programs and real-world educational opportunities. To learn more about our programs book a call with one of our advisors HERE
Daytona, FL – The mornings in Daytona Beach start with salt in the air and the steady sound of determination—barbells hitting the floor, deep breaths between reps, and the relentless push to be better than yesterday. In a city built on speed, where engines scream down the track and waves pound the shore, Samantha Reagan is proving that DME Academy isn’t just a school—it’s a launchpad for elite competitors.
At just 14 years old, Samantha is making her mark in one of the toughest sports in the world. Competing in the 2025 CrossFit Open, she has climbed the ranks, securing 84th place worldwide in the Girls (14-15) division. In North America East, she stands at 21st, and in the United States, she holds the 26th spot—a testament to the grit, discipline, and relentless work ethic she brings to every training session.
CrossFit isn’t just a workout—it’s a test of strength, endurance, and mental toughness. Every day, Samantha puts in the work, pushing herself through grueling strength training, endurance challenges, and skill work while balancing her academic life at DME Academy.
From the start, Alex Richard, DME Academy’s Sports Performance Director, saw something special.
“Samantha doesn’t just show up—she attacks every workout with a purpose,” says Richard. “CrossFit is one of the hardest sports out there. It’s year-round, it’s brutal, and it requires a mindset most people don’t have. She has it.”
At DME Academy, students aren’t just preparing for college—they’re preparing for life. Whether it’s on the field, in the weight room, or in the classroom, DME gives student-athletes the resources, structure, and support to chase big goals. For Samantha, it’s been the perfect place to grow—not just as a student, but as an athlete.
Follow Samantha’s journey and see how DME Academy helps student-athletes excel—inside and outside the classroom. Learn more.
DAYTONA, Fla.– DME Academy stands out as one of Florida’s premier high school options, offering a fully accredited program for grades 6-12 and post-graduates. With a mission to provide a world-class education, DME combines rigorous academics with elite athletic training, ensuring students excel both in the classroom and in their sport. At DME, students don’t have to choose between their future in academics or athletics—they can pursue both with the support of experienced educators and coaches.
Our curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP), and dual-enrollment courses, as well as SAT/ACT prep, ensuring students are prepared for college and beyond. With a blended academic and athletic schedule, DME provides the structure and support students need to succeed in the classroom and on the court.
DME’s experienced educators and state-of-the-art facilities create an environment where students thrive. Our diverse community, with students from over 40 countries, offers a global perspective that enhances both learning and personal growth. Alumni have advanced to the pros and top collegiate programs, reflecting DME’s commitment to excellence in academics and athletics.
Florida parents can take advantage of the Step Up For Students program where the awarded amount starts at $7,000. This state-funded scholarship program helps eligible families afford private school tuition, opening the door for more local students to join the DME community.
If you’re ready to give your child the tools to succeed, DME Academy is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our academic programs and how the Florida Step Up program can make a difference for your family. Click to Learn More About DME Academy
Commitment to Student Success
Mike Panaggio, co-owner of DME Academy and respected businessman in Volusia County, is fully invested in shaping the next generation of leaders. His commitment to student success led to the creation of “A Passion for Excellence,” a class that equips young athletes with the values and mindset needed to excel in both sports and life
Unique Learning Opportunities
Drawing from his experience building 15 successful companies, Panaggio teaches that success in business, like in sports, comes from hard work, discipline, and a love for what you do. Through engaging discussions and real-world insights, students gain practical lessons on teamwork, perseverance, and joy in the process.
Panaggio’s Passion for Student Success
Panaggio’s passion for developing young leaders goes beyond athletics, preparing them for the challenges they’ll face in life and their future careers. His dedication is a reminder that being part of a team means striving for something bigger than yourself.
To learn more about our academic programs or to speak to an admissions counselor click the link here to learn more.
In the spirit of recognizing and honoring exceptional dedication, hard work, and positive attitudes, DME Academy is thrilled to announce its Students of the Month for November. These three students exemplify the core values of DME Academy, showcasing not only their skills in their respective sports but also their commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
Hailing from Brazil, Gabriela Novais Medeiros de Carvalho stands tall at 6’0″ as a right-side hitter for DME’s volleyball team. Her unwavering commitment to her academics matches that of her sport, and is evident in her daily efforts on the court. Gabriela finds joy in playing volleyball every day, and her passion for the game is an inspiration to her peers.
Originally from Tel Aviv, Yoav Levy is a standout point guard on DME men’s basketball’s High School Gold team, standing at an impressive 6’1″. Beyond his physical prowess on the basketball court, Yoav embodies discipline, as reflected in his favorite quote: “Discipline is choosing between what you want now or what you want the most.” His dedication to both academics and athletics is truly commendable.
Representing the girls soccer team, Bailey Wilson, a freshman center back from DeBary, Florida, has left an indelible mark on DME Academy. Her favorite quote, “Be a goldfish,” taken from the popular TV show Ted Lasso, reflects her positive outlook on life. Bailey aspires to become a pediatrician after college, showcasing her determination not only in sports but also in her academic pursuits.
These Students of the Month are shining examples of DME’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.
DME Academy is dedicated to shaping students for success at the next level, emphasizing excellence not only in the classroom but also on the field. As we celebrate these outstanding students, we look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success as they embody the values of DME.
Interested in reaching your full potential in the classroom and beyond?
DME Academy is pleased to highlight two outstanding students who have made a significant impact on our community during the month of October.
Ceylone Brooks, a postgraduate student from Columbus, Ohio, is not only excelling in her studies but also leaving her mark on the basketball court as a key player on DME’s girls’ prep team. Beyond her athletic achievements, Ceylone is recognized for her leadership and support for her peers. Her inclusive approach creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable and heard.
Seif Kirker, a high school student from Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, brings his passion for basketball and a global perspective to DME’s High School Gold team.
Both Ceylone and Seif go beyond their roles as athletes; they are outstanding citizens who make a positive difference every day. Their commitment to supporting their peers and contributing to the inclusive culture at DME reflects the values that define our academy. We congratulate Ceylone Brooks and Seif Kirker for their exceptional achievements and contributions to the DME community.
Interested in becoming a student at DME Academy? Connect with us!