Eight high schools reflect student interest in creating peer-focused solutions for opioid awareness
Nov. 2, 2026 - The University of North Florida (UNF) MedNexus has selected four Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) high school teams from 45 applications representing eight schools to participate in the second annual DCPS Innovation Challenge. Centered on the theme “Friends First: Early Action for Opioid Awareness,” the challenge will bring together students from Mandarin High School, Jean Ribault High School, Stanton College Preparatory School, and Paxon School for Advanced Studies to develop peer-focused solutions that promote opioid awareness, identify early warning signs of misuse, and connect young people with support.
With guidance from UNF faculty mentors, students will strengthen their research, collaboration, problem-solving, and presentation skills before showcasing their ideas at a public pitch competition on Nov. 12 at the FSCJ Deerwood Center.
“Opportunities like the UNF MedNexus Innovation Challenge allow our students to take what they are learning and apply it to issues that affect their own generation,” said Paula Renfro, DCPS chief academic officer. “Our students bring valuable perspectives and tremendous creativity to the table, and we are excited to see the ideas they develop when given the opportunity, mentorship, and resources to turn those ideas into action.”
The event will also feature the separate MedNexus Future Healthcare Scholarship Drawing, which will award five eligible DCPS seniors renewable scholarships worth up to $2,500 per year for up to four years, for a maximum of $10,000 per recipient. The scholarships support eligible students planning to attend UNF and pursue approved healthcare-connected majors, expanding opportunities for students to prepare for future careers in healthcare.
About UNF MedNexus
UNF MedNexus connects university talent and discovery with regional partners to build workforce pipelines, advance healthcare innovation and strengthen Northeast Florida. For more information visit: UNF: Newsroom
About Duval County Public Schools
DCPS serves more than 125,000 students in Jacksonville, Florida, and is one of the largest public-school districts in the nation. Guided by its mission to provide educational excellence in every school, in every classroom, for every student, every day, DCPS is committed to academic achievement, student well-being, and preparing every student for success in college, career, and life. Through dedicated educators, innovative learning opportunities, and strong partnerships with families and the community, DCPS works to ensure every student has the support and resources to reach their full potential. Learn more at duvalschools.org.