Each year during senior retreat, the senior class participates in the highly anticipated bike build, a beloved Montverde Academy tradition that combines teamwork, philanthropy, and a bit of friendly competition. During the build, students work together in their advisory groups to assemble bicycles provided by the Academy. The completed bikes are then picked up by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, which in turn donates them to local children and families in need. This endeavor not only gives students an opportunity to give back to the community but also promotes a sense of unity as they work towards a common goal.
An exciting component of the bike build is the friendly competition that follows—the bike races. Representatives from each advisory group, having just completed the bike assembly, face off in a thrilling race to see which team’s bike can cross the finish line first. The event is a favorite among seniors, adding an element of fun and excitement to the retreat.
“This is a tradition that Montverde Academy has held for years, and I am so excited to be a part of it!” said Zoha Bajwa, senior class president.
Through this tradition, Montverde Academy seniors learn the value of teamwork, community service, and camaraderie, while directly making a positive impact on local families. The bike build is a memorable part of the senior retreat and a great example of the Academy’s commitment to shaping responsible, community-minded students.
“It’s different generations helping different generations,” remarked Ed Nathanson, Community Relations Specialist, Lake County Sherriff’s Office. “I don’t know who benefits more, the children who are involved in building them or the children receiving them. Either way, it’s a win-win.”
