08.04.22 Back to School by Orange Observer

Observer THE OBSERVER 2022

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2022 were diminished, and I started to love school because of those caring adults. It really was those caring adults (who) took care of me and believed in me. …It’s a way for me to also give back and honor the sacrifices that my parents made.”

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A new face Dr. Maria Vazquez will be Orange County Public Schools’ first Hispanic superintendent. ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

r. Maria F. Vazquez, current deputy superintendent, will serve as the new superintendent for Orange County Public Schools — as well as the first Hispanic superintendent in OCPS. Vazquez was humbled to be selected after OCPS had narrowed down its search to three potential candidates at the end of May. “I was overwhelmed with joy and excitement, because of the ability that I now will have to impact children on a larger scale,” she said. “I’ll be able to help children who have stories similar to my own, and it’s been an incredible journey up to this point. I have so many supporters, and I have heard from so many people. … It really shows the power we have to positively impact others if we can collaborate, if we can listen and

if we are genuine in what we are doing.” SHARING HER STORY Vazquez’s parents left Cuba to come to the United States before Vazquez and her sister were born. They left everything they owned behind to provide a better life for their family. Her parents worked two jobs to make a living. At the same time, they emphasized education to their daughters. “It was very clear to my sister and (me) — the value of education and the importance they placed on us on ensuring we took advantage of the opportunities afforded to us here,” Vazquez said. “They instilled in my sister and (me) that education was the most valuable currency we owned and that we couldn’t squander it.” When she started school, Vazquez did not speak a word of English. It was terrifying, but she soon learned she wasn’t alone. “There were such caring adults (who) believed in me, (who) must have understood how scared I was,” she said. “Slowly those fears

COLLABORATIVE CHANGE Leading the ninth largest school district in the country is no easy task, but Vazquez is excited for school to start. For her first 100 days, Vazquez plans to embed herself in getting to know the schools, parents, students, staff, administrators and stakeholders who support the district. Vazquez said her primary focuses will be on safety and addressing the gap in learning students experienced during the pandemic. She believes the best way to do this is by having the best teachers. That begins with salaries — especially for teachers, she said. “I am very excited that we were able to come to an agreement for a 6% raise … but salaries alone do not keep individuals employed,” Vazquez said. “It’s about feeling valued, it’s about making sure they have a seat at the table and that our employees are heard. We need to be able to address that in our schools.” Vazquez also places a large emphasis on mental health for not only students but also staff. “If we want them to take care of our children, we have to take care of them,” Vazquez said. To foster communication, Vazquez plans to utilize methods such as using face-to-face discussions, social media, websites, surveys, Facebook Live opportunities and meetings both online and in-person to reach the community. “Orange County has been a leader over the last several years … being able to offer opportunities to all of our children regardless of race, background or socioeconomic status,” she said. “This is an opportunity and a time where we will go back and see that education is at a pivotal moment … and that’s what excites me about this opportunity — to change how we educate our children so that they have choices that expand beyond our schools.”

CONTACT DR. MARIA VAZQUEZ: Maria.Vazquez@ocps.net

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HAMLIN ELEMENTARY

Meet the Hamlin Huskies Principal Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne is excited to welcome students to the new Hamlin Elementary School in Horizon West. ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

amlin Elementary School is one of three schools opening in West Orange this school year. The school, located at 16145 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden, relieves Water Spring and Whispering Oak elementaries and is opening for about 515 students with a student capacity of 837. Community members chose between three top names for the school: Hamlin Elementary, Hamlin Groves Elementary and Lake Ingram Elementary.

The school is in proximity to the Hamlin development and named after the Hamlin variety of orange trees that once grew in the area. The school’s construction includes an a d m i n i s t ra t i o n office, a multipurpose/cafeteria, kitchen media center, classrooms, art and music labs, computer lab(s), multipurpose lab(s), a covered play area, hard courts, playgrounds, covered walkways, an expanded parking lot, an expanded student dropoff loop, enhanced classroom technology including new computers and interactive touchscreen panels. The campus will

be secure with only one public entrance Hamlin Elementary will include special programs such as safety patrol, news crew and Battle of the Books. It also will include after-school care programs such as Champions, Amazing Athletes of Central Florida, Orlando Sports Academy and POW-R Karate. “I am so excited to open up this new school with such a wonderful community,” Principal Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne said. “One of the greatest honors you can have as a principal is being asked to open up a new school. You’re the first of everything, and it’s just such an honor.” The school is beautiful with a state-of-the-art facility.” Murphy-Osborne said the main goal for Hamlin Elementary is to be a collaborative school that aims at high academic stan-

16145 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden EMAIL: hamlin_es@ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne ARCHITECT: SchenkelShultz CONTRACTOR: Welbro BY THE NUMBERS

The minimum number of buses that the school can accommodate for on-site stacking

13.5

The number of acres of Hamlin Elementary’s property

23.2 MILLION

The dollar amount budgeted for Hamlin Elementary

255

The maximum vehicle stacking capacity through the middle school parking lot

146

The number of parking spaces

837

The school’s student capacity

88,900

The total size in square feet

The number of months it took to construct Hamlin Elementary

A MESSAGE FROM

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THE PRINICPAL

dards while concentrating on the social and emotional aspects of each student. “Our goal as a school family is to work together to provide our students with a rich learning environment,” she said. “My vision … is to always put kids first. Student success is attributed to the partnership and the relationships we build within our community. It truly does take a village. Education is a joint venture, and we greatly appreciate the support you provide for your children at home and at school to help them be successful.” Murphy-Osborne is no stranger as to what it takes to open a new school. She helped to open Independence Elementary in 2015 and served as the school’s principal

for seven years. Although she said the two schools have similar aspects, she said her approach to them will be different. “I’ve grown professionally — as a person and as a principal — from the experiences I’ve had from the students and the community at Independence,” she said. “I will take what I have learned at Independence, and I will implement it, make it better and tweak it as needed.” Murphy-Osborne said one of her main foci will be the social and emotional learning of the students. “I want to make sure the kids are learning, but I also want to look at their social emotional learning process and their happi-

PARENT INVOLVEMENT Silvia Goulart de Franca will serve as Hamlin Elementary’s first PTO president. Goulart de Franca was a member of the PTO at Water Spring Elementary and has a son who will be attending the new school. “It’s such a huge responsibility — especially when it’s a brand-new school,” she said. “We are starting from scratch, but it’s also a very big honor.” Goulart de Franca said because the school and the PTO start from zero, they are dependent on sponsors to make things happen. The first platinum spon-

Silvia Goulart de Franca PTO president

sors include Sakowitz Smiles, i9 Sports and Chophouse Martial Arts Horizon West. Murphy-Osborne will greet staff Thursday, Aug. 4, with a

ness,” she said. She wants to continue with programs Water Spring and Whispering Oak started. She has been working with those principals to find out what strategies they used and will mirror some of them. Although Murphy-Osborne said every teacher she interviewed was wonderful, she was looking for well-rounded teachers who “have the whole package” to create teams with different strengths so the school can meet the needs of all the students. Another huge part of her role has been working with the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization, which she said has been helpful and will ensure the school is community oriented.

lunch donated by the new Huey Magoo’s location in Horizon West. For the school’s Meet the Teacher event, the PTO has plans to have two food trucks to serve the staff, kids and parents. The PTO will be there to provide information about membership, campaigns, sportswear and more. For the first day of school, Publix Hamlin will donate breakfast for the staff and Celsius will provide energy drinks. The PTO has fundraisers and spirit nights already confirmed with places such as Sky Zone Clermont, Papa John’s, Twistee Treat, PDQ, Five Guys, Tijuana

“Our school motto is where every moment counts! We want to create a family school culture. We are working with our Parent Teacher Organization, staff and community partners to create events and opportunities for students to learn, have fun and grow personally and academically. Along with our basic core subjects, Hamlin Elementary will have art, music and physical education for our special area courses. Students will also have the chance to visit the media center to borrow some of the many new titles available. Our state-of-theart facility is equipped with the latest technology to enhance student education. We will have after school activities offered as well as an enrichment club. We hope that our students will be able to make achievements, memories and love our new school.” PRINCIPAL DR. ANGELA MURPHY-OSBORNE

Flats and Krispy Kreme. Planned events for this school year will include KG breakfast, Grandparents Bingo Night, Fun Run, Trunk or Treat, Family Party and boys/girls events with special family members. “The PTO looks forward to helping the school succeed in its first year,” Goulart de Franca said. “All the money raised in our events and fundraisers will be used to help the school and the kids. We look forward to seeing our kids’ happy faces, as elementary school is an unforgettable experience. We also hope parents, grandparents and staff work with us as a family to build a strong community.”

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

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BAY LAKE ELEMENTARY 12005 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere PHONE: (407) 217-7960 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Lakeitha Mincey MASCOT: Lions MEET YOUR TEACHER: 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 ENROLLMENT: 771 PTO PRESIDENT: Tatum Delia SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Back to School Food Truck Night, annual multicultural event, Bay Lake Chorus Club, Art Club, National Elementary Honors Society, News Crew and Safety Patrols FUN FACT: Bay Lake hosts an annual multicultural event during which the school showcases a gallery of student projects, as well as performances and presentations from local musicians, dance groups, business and community clubs. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Greetings, Bay Lake family! We are looking forward to another successful school year! I want to thank everyone for their support and dedication as we are, again, an ‘A’ school. This coming school year, we will be teaching and learning the new B.E.S.T. standards. Parents, we invite you to check out the Parent Guides located on the FLDOE website. ‘All Heart, All Hustle, All Bay Lake!’” — Lakeitha Mincey

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Bay Lake! I have been here since kindergarten and learned so much from my teachers. This year, I was selected to be part of the National Elementary Honor Society.” — Dylan Santana, fifth grade

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love our school because it is so fun, and we get to learn at the same time. We have very nice teachers at Bay Meadows!” — Farah Alidina, fourth grade CASTLEVIEW ELEMENTARY 9131 Taborfield Ave., Orlando PHONE: (407) 612-4205 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: I 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Dr. Jonathan Rasmussen MASCOT: Dragons MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kindergarten, first and second grade: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; third, fourth and fifth grades 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 720 PTO PRESIDENT: Bethany Traylor SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Dual Language program. Students enrolled in the Dual Language program spend half of the day learning in English, and the other half of the day is

BAY MEADOWS ELEMENTARY 9150 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 876-7500 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Joann Dorries MASCOT: Koalas MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kindergarten, second and fourth grades: 8:30 to 10 a.m.; first, third and fifth grades 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 8. ENROLLMENT: 760

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Castleview is the best, because I learn new things in English and Spanish. I also like Castleview because I get to do iReady.” — Shalyce McCray, second grade spent learning in Spanish. A second grade Dual Language cluster will be added for the 2022-23 school year.

PTA PRESIDENT: Shannon Julian SPECIAL PROGRAMS: STEAM Career Academy magnet program FUN FACT: Bay Meadows Elementary celebrates its 32nd anniversary this year. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I’m excited to be your new principal and look forward to working with the community.” — Joann Dorries

FUN FACT: Castleview has a house system through which all staff members and students are sorted into one of four different houses. The students work to earn points for their house, and the school celebrates the overall house winner each quarter. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Dragons: I am so excited to be joining the Castleview family. I look forward to continuing the great work already happening as we continue to support all students to academic and social-emotional success. I can’t wait to have our staff and students back on campus.” — Dr. Jonathan Rasmussen

THE OBSERVER 2022 CITRUS ELEMENTARY 87 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 445-5475 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Robert L. Walker MASCOT: Honeybees MEET YOUR TEACHER: Fourth and fifth grade, 10 a.m. to noon; second and third grade, 1 to 3 p.m.; kindergarten and first grade, 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 520 PTA PRESIDENT: Jamie Folts SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Student Council, Safety Patrol, STEAM Club, Chess Club, Music Club, Art Club and News Crew FUN FACT: We are proud to BEE your “B” rated community school.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Citrus Elementary, because I feel like part of a family here. The teachers and staff are great. We are getting a really good education at Citrus.” — Owen Walter, fifth grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Hello current and future Honeybees. I hope you are having a fun and restful summer. It is truly my

pleasure to serve you as principal here at the hive. I cannot wait to see you all again and to meet our newest honeybees. I am so very proud of you for all your hard work and accomplishments last year and am looking forward to another amazing year of learning.” — Robert L. Walker

DR. PHILLIPS ELEMENTARY 6909 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 354-2600 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Christine Rogers MASCOT: Eagles

ENROLLMENT: 754 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: FUN FACT: Dr. Phillips Elementary was recognized for being the top-recycling school in the Southwest Learning Community.

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

DILLARD STREET ELEMENTARY 311 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5000 PRINCIPAL: Tiffany Smid MASCOT: Dragon named Dougie ENROLLMENT: 474 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C FUN FACT: Nearly all students live within a two-mile radius from the school, making Dillard Street Elementary a true neighborhood school. WILLIAM R. FRANGUS ELEMENTARY 380 Killington Way, Orlando PHONE: 407) 296-6469 PRINCIPAL: DeCheryl Britton MASCOT: Jazz MEET YOUR TEACHER: 2:30 to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 377 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C FUN FACT: The school community is known as the Frangus Jazz and has taken the saxophone as the mascot to honor Bill Frangus and his love for music. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “The theme for the school year is ‘Frangus is … An Oasis of Learning where RESPECT is Given and Received.’ Nurturing the fertile foundations of learning that each child and adult bestow — OASIS. Developing social and emotional learning skills/characteristics to work productively and collaboratively in our school and in society — RESPECT … Given & Received.’” — DeCheryl Britton

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HAMLIN ELEMENTARY 16145 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: TBD PRINCIPAL: Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne MASCOT: Huskies MEET YOUR TEACHER: Fourth and fifth grades, 9 to 10 a.m.; second and third grades, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.; kindergarten and first grades, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 PTO PRESIDENT: Silvia Goulart de Franca ENROLLMENT: 515 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Safety Patrol, News Crew, Battle of the Books; after-school care FUN FACT: The name Hamlin Elementary was suggested for its proximity to the Hamlin development and for the citrus grove area. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Hamlin Huskies: I’m excited to meet you for an amazing school year. Your teachers, staff, PTO and I have been working hard in preparation for this school year. I hope everyone had a happy and restful summer!” — Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “(I’m) so excited!” — Rodrigo Goulart de Franca, fourth grade

INDEPENDENCE ELEMENTARY 6255 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 217-7727 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Jeffrey Alan Peters MASCOT: Eagles MEET YOUR TEACHER: 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 ENROLLMENT: 750 PTO PRESIDENT: Deanna Bergamo and Marissa D’Aurio Hochberg SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Safety Patrol, News Crew, Chess Club and Battle of the Books FUN FACT: Our mascot is an eagle. Its name is The General. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am honored to serve as your principal. I would like to extend a special welcome to all of the KEENE’S CROSSING ELEMENTARY 5240 Keenes Pheasant Drive, Windermere PHONE: (407) 654-1351 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Sherry Donaldson MASCOT: Cougars MEET YOUR TEACHER: 3 to 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 1,219 PTO PRESIDENT: Stephannie Nazzaro SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Girls on the Run, Caring Cougars, karate and more FUN FACT: The school has received the Five Star School award every year since 2009. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “At Keene’s Crossing Elementary, we offer so much to our students: all-day gifted/enrichment

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love the teachers at Independence!” — Nickolas Pavone, first grade new families joining our school this year and welcome back all of our returning families, as well! Our goal at Independence is to work together to provide our students with a rich, positive and safe learning environment that also addresses their social and emotional needs.” — Jeffrey Alan Peters

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I like Keene’s Crossing, because I learn a lot, and I get to see my friends.” — Maya Malick, second grade cluster classes, STEM activities, chess, makerspace, robotics, NEHS — the list goes on. We are also a center school for autism and students with special needs supporting the goal of inclusion. Our focus is to provide the most well-rounded educational opportunities possible. GO COUGARS!” — Sherry Donaldson

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PANTHER LAKE ELEMENTARY

Welcome home, Panthers! The staff at Panther Lake Elementary is looking forward to welcoming its first students to campus. ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

reviously known as Site 114-E-W-4, Panther Lake Elementary is one of the five new schools opening their doors to the West Orange community this year. The two-story school will relieve o ve rc ro wd i n g at Castleview, Summerlake and Water Spring elementaries in Horizon West. “I feel privileged to be the principal

of Panther Lake Elementary and the opportunity to work with a high-quality dedicated team of teachers,” founding Principal Christine Szymanski shared with the new school community. Panther Lake’s building was designed to meet Green Globes sustainable building standards, which, according to the Green Building Initiative page, offer a different approach that provides

“in-depth support for improvements ideally suited to each project.” One of the benefits of this construction structure is that it will help the school to reduce operating costs, as it will be 10% more energy sufficient, will have high-efficiency chillers and the light-colored roof and thermal-efficient windows will help reduce heat gain as well as improve energy performance. The design of the school is one of four OCPS elementary school prototypes. The school has the same technological features as other OCPS schools. “(This) ensures students have the same opportunities regardless which school they attend,” said OCPS Senior Manager of Facilities Communications Lauren Roth. Founding faculty and staff at Panther Lake Elementary are

10151 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden EMAIL: pantherlake_es@ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Christine Szymanski ARCHITECT: BRPH CONTRACTOR: Williams Co. BY THE NUMBERS

837

Student capacity

28.2

Construction budget in millions of dollars

94,339

Panther Lake’s square footage

13.5

The size in acres of the school site

133

The number of parking spaces

The number of buses that will fit in the loop

215

The number of cars that will fit in stacking

THE OBSERVER 2022

CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE AUGUST 2020: Design

JANUARY 2021:

Permitting and bidding

JULY 2021:

Construction begins

APRIL 2022:

School is named

MAY 2022:

Logo and school colors revealed

JUNE 2022:

Project completed

AUGUST 2022:

School opens to public

excited to welcome the students in August. In early June, they met for the first time to begin planning the 2022-23 academic year to make it special for the new Panthers. The faculty is looking forward to enriching its students’ minds with amazing academic experiences, challenging projects and lasting friendships “Our commitment is not only to their academic growth but also their social well-being,” Szymnaski noted. The school will combine the nurture of academic growth with personal growth and work with parents to build children’s self-esteem, reach common academic and social goals, support every student, and make sure that all children are prepared to make the transition to middle school. PARENT INVOLVEMENT Panther Lake Elementary already has the members of its funding PTO Board chosen, and they already are looking forward to serving the students and the community.

“We all work amazing together,” founding PTO President Jacqueline Turner said. “We have so many amazing things planned. It’s going to be such a fantastic year for Panther Lake Elementary.” Turner added the goal of the board is to provide opportunities for students, families and staff to build long-lasting relationships and share experiences outside the classroom while supporting work inside the classroom through volunteer opportunities and fundraising activities. Szymanski said the PTO will be the best way for parents to get involved with the school, as well as participate in activities and meet other families. Parents who would like to receive the biweekly newsletter the school can subscribe at bit. ly/3RR53SD. “I look forward to getting to know you and working together in the best interest of you child,” Szymanski told her incoming founding families. “I know, together, we can make Panther Lake a great place to learn and grow.”

A MESSAGE FROM

THE PRINICPAL

“The Panther Lake teachers and staff are the most positive and energetic group of people I have had the pleasure to work with. They are committed to meet the academic and social needs of all the students in our community, doing whatever it takes for students to be successful. However, the community and parents are equally committed to the students and the school. We are very fortunate to have supportive families and an amazing PTO. Together, we will make Panther Lake Elementary a great place for students to learn and teachers to work.” — PRINCIPAL CHRISTINE SZYMANSKI

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

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LAKE WHITNEY ELEMENTARY 1351 Windermere Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-8888 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Dr. Pamela Crabb MASCOT: Dolphins MEET YOUR TEACHER: Pre-K: 8 to 9 a.m.; last names A-I 9 to 10 a.m.; last names J-Q 10 to 11 a.m.; last names R-Z 11 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 503 PTO PRESIDENTS: Jennifer Gerry and Colleen Czachorowski SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chorus, Orff, Math Club, Art Club, Junior Librarians, Patrols, News Crew, Battle of the Books FUN FACT: Principal Dr. Pamela Crabb was a teacher at the school when it opened. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Our Dolphins did an amazing job last year in all areas, and I can’t wait for the upcoming school year to get started!” — Dr. Pamela Crabb

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Lake Whitney, because all the teachers are nice and help me learn new stuff. We get to go on fun field trips and play with my friends at recess.” — Ryker Isley, third grade

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Maxey, because it has amazing academies that include art, music and dance. Our musicals make me feel like I belong. Most of all, Maxey has an amazing history that continues to grow on and on.” — Samarah Davenport, fifth grade WILLIAM S. MAXEY ELEMENTARY 602 E. Story Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5020 PRINCIPAL: Carletta Davis-Wilson MASCOT: The Mighty Wildcats MEET YOUR TEACHER: Pre-K through second grade, 3 to 4 p.m.; third through fifth grades, 4 to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 PTA PRESIDENT: Christine Hutchinson ENROLLMENT: 486 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Visual & Performing Arts Magnet FUN FACT: Each year, fifth-graders create a legacy art project to inspire and encourage the next generation of learners. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am excited to welcome returning families and eager to meet new ones. As always, fun learning opportunities await. — Carletta Davis-Wilson

OCOEE ELEMENTARY 400 S. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 877-5027 PRINCIPAL: Kandace Goshe MASCOT: Cardinals ENROLLMENT: 790

2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C FUN FACT: The school has many families with grandparents and great-grandparents who also attended Ocoee Elementary.

PALM LAKE ELEMENTARY 8000 Pin Oak Drive, Orlando PHONE: (407) 354-2610 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A

2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Jim Weis MASCOT: Bobcats MEET YOUR TEACHER: 4:30 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 650 PTA PRESIDENT: Meredith Fisher SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Kids Who Care, Chorus/Performing Arts, Running Club and more FUN FACT: Palm Lake has a Nature Trail that includes an outdoor classroom, butterfly garden and exercise equipment.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I’m looking forward to seeing my friends and meeting new friends. I’m also really excited about the field trip to St. Augustine at the end of the year!” — Luke Fisher, fourth grade

PANTHER LAKE ELEMENTARY 10151 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden PHONE: TBD PRINCIPAL: Christine Szymanski MASCOT: Panthers MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kindergarten through second grade, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; third through fifth grades, 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 8 PTO PRESIDENT: Jacqueline Turner ENROLLMENT: 765

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We’re looking forward to having the Bobcat Family back together for a great year of learning.” — Jim Weis

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I am excited to meet my new teacher, play on the new playground and see everything at my new school.” — Amelia Turner, first grade SPECIAL PROGRAMS: After-school programs and clubs will include soccer, dance, chorus and gardening, with more to be announced. FUN FACT: The staff has more than 600 combined years of experience in education. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Hello, future Panthers! I hope you have had a great summer, and I cannot wait to welcome you into your new school! All of your teachers have been working hard and planning fun things for you to do and learn this year. We can’t wait to hear about all the great books you read this summer.” — Christine Szymanski

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

PRAIRIE LAKE ELEMENTARY 8723 Hackney Prairie Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 884-2220 PRINCIPAL: Dr. Robert Strenth MASCOT: Panthers MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kin-

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love learning at Prairie Lake! I have been able to learn so much, and I enjoy seeing my friends and teacher each day.” — Kennedy Stafford, fourth grade

SAND LAKE ELEMENTARY 8301 Buena Vista Woods Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 903-7400 PRINCIPAL: Kathleen Phillips MASCOT: Stingrays MEET YOUR TEACHER: K through second grade, 4 to 5 p.m.; third through fifth grade, 5 to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 PTA PRESIDENT: Beth Hibbs ENROLLMENT: 573 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chorus, Orchestra, Girls on the Run, Chess Club, Battle of the Books, Garden Club and more FUN FACT: There was an otter in the gaga pit last year!He didn’t want to pass up the fun! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We look forward to connecting with our families to strengthen our community, create lasting memories and lead our Stingrays to success! I cannot wait to meet our new students and families, and to also connect with our returning ones!” — Kathleen Phillips SPRING LAKE ELEMENTARY 1105 Sarah Lee Lane, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 578-2085 PRINCIPAL: Aja Wilkins MASCOT: Blue Jays ENROLLMENT: 575

dergarten and first grade, 5 to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5; second through fifth grades, 5 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 PTO PRESIDENT: Allison Roberts ENROLLMENT: 900 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Prairie Lake continues to expand opportunities to celebrate students’ successes and offer new experiences. FUN FACT: Prairie Lake earned a B! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am so proud of the work our students did last year and earning us the ‘B.’ I cannot wait to welcome our returning students back and celebrate our new students joining our Prairie Lake family.” — Dr. Robert Strenth

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I like Sand Lake Elementary, because I get to see my friends every day. The teachers are really nice. I also think art class is really fun!” — Zach Parnell, fourth grade

“My favorite thing about Sand Lake Elementary is that the teachers are clever and they are very kind.” — Aurora Collins, second grade

2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C FUN FACT: Spring Lake has a house system, and all students are sorted into one of four houses.

SUMMERLAKE ELEMENTARY 15450 Porter Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 554-1774 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: I 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Delaine Bender MASCOT: Gators MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kindergarten, 10 to 11 a.m.; first through fifth grades, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 1,054 PTO PRESIDENT: Linda Harmon SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chess Club, Aladdin Play and various after-school activities such as soccer, golf, coding and Sunshine State Book Club FUN FACT: Summerlake is blessed to have students from around the world that speak 12 different languages! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am so excited to welcome our students back to Summerlake Elementary! I look forward to meeting new students and SUNRIDGE ELEMENTARY 14455 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-0809 PRINCIPAL: Douglas Farley MASCOT: Sunny the Eagle ENROLLMENT: 695 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: I FUN FACT: SunRidge Elementary has made it a tradition to bring snow to the school every December.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Summerlake, because I always have so much fun at school! We get to do so many fun things like experiments in science. I love all my teachers! I just like everything about my school!” — Harper Fischer, second grade families who will be joining us for the first time. The Parent Teacher Organization has many fun events planned for this school year, and I encourage families to get involved by volunteering, joining the PTO or by serving on the School Advisory Committee.” — Delaine Bender SUNSET PARK ELEMENTARY 12050 Overstreet Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 905-3724 PRINCIPAL: Stacey Price MASCOT: Eagles MEET YOUR TEACHER: Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 950 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B FUN FACT: Sunset has a house system to promote community and social emotional learning.

THE OBSERVER 2022

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love our school, because I’ve met many new friends over my years there. I really like going to specials, gifted and helping others.” — Logan Hall, fourth grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am extremely excited to welcome back our students and families for the 2022-23 school

year. I know this school year will be filled with phenomenal memories for our students, and they will continue to show success both in and out of the classroom. This year, we are focused on ‘Making our Mark,’ and we can’t wait to see where it will take our students.” — Korey Bawden

TILDENVILLE ELEMENTARY 1221 Brick Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5054 PRINCIPAL: Agathe Alvarez MASCOT: Tigers ENROLLMENT: 550 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A

2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A FUN FACT: Tildenville employs a two-way dual-language program in which students learn in English and Spanish while receiving 45 minutes of French each week.

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am very honored to be starting my first full year as principal of Water Spring Elementary. I can’t wait until our halls are filled with all of our Otter Family! We are set to have an amazing year!” — Matthew Hendricks

WESTBROOKE ELEMENTARY 500 Tomyn Blvd., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-6228 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Vidal Reyes MASCOT: Wildcats MEET YOUR TEACHER:

ENROLLMENT: 672 FUN FACT: Westbrooke awards the Tomyn Award each year to students who show outstanding effort in all academic areas, possess leadership qualities, consider both peers and community, and have continual school spirit.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “My teachers are super nice! I like going to specials and learning about science.” — Garrett Carlson, second grade

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WATER SPRING ELEMENTARY 16000 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 554-1610 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: I 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Matthew Hendricks MASCOT: Otters MEET YOUR TEACHER: Pre-K through second grade, 10 to 11:30 a.m.; third through fifth grade, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 900 PTO PRESIDENT: Jarrod Walters SPECIAL PROGRAMS: The school offers dance as part of its special rotations. The students all have the opportunity to take this course. FUN FACT: Last year, the school was the largest elementary school in OCPS.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

THORNEBROOKE ELEMENTARY 601 Thornebrooke Drive, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 909-1301 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Korey Bawden MASCOT: Barracudas MEET YOUR TEACHER: 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 700 PTO PRESIDENT: Jennifer Julian SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Odyssey of the Minds, Chess Club, Drama, Dance, Girls on the Run, Boys on Track and more FUN FACT: The school will celebrate its 20th anniversary this year.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

WHISPERING OAK ELEMENTARY 15300 Stoneybrook West Parkway, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-7773 PRINCIPAL: Lee “Kip” Montgomery MASCOT: Wildcats MEET YOUR TEACHER: 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 PTO PRESIDENT: Kari Bell ENROLLMENT: 1,182 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Dramatic Education, Guitar, Keyboards, Karate and Chorus WINDERMERE ELEMENTARY 11125 Park Ave., Windermere PHONE: (407) 876-7520 PRINCIPAL: Diana Greer MASCOT: Mustangs MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kindergarten: 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.; first grade: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; second grade: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Friday Aug. 5. Third grade: 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.; fourth grade: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; fifth grade: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 PTO PRESIDENT: Maile Aiwohi-Castro ENROLLMENT: 711 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chorus, Strings, Art Club, News Crew, Zoo Crew, Robotics, Tech Club, Safety Patrols and Chess Club FUN FACT: Windermere was established in 1887 as a one-room schoolhouse. The school was later moved to a larger complex, but the original schoolhouse still is standing as a historic landmark on the corner of West Seventh and Main streets.

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

FUN FACT: Whispering Oak was named a Best Elementary School in 2022 by U.S. News & World Report FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Welcome back, Wildcats! We look forward to an exciting 20222023 school year at Whispering Oak Elementary. We will Inspire, Engage and Encourage each other! Students: You are the most important people entering our school, and we can’t wait to begin our learning adventure. See you soon.” — Lee “Kip” Montgomery

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Windermere Elementary, because it feels like a family to me. Windermere Elementary has teachers that make learning fun and friends who make it the best school ever!” — Colin Boyd, fifth grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Our teachers and staff are ready to provide students with enriching and engaging experiences that will lead them to a promising future. I look forward to working with our families, parent organizations and the community to ensure Team Windermere Achieves Excellence Together.” — Diana Greer

WINDY RIDGE SCHOOL K-8 3900 Beech Tree Drive, Orlando PHONE: (407) 296-5100 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Dr. Karena Chunoo MASCOT: Silverhawks MEET YOUR TEACHER: Kindergarten orientation: 8:30 to 9 a.m.; kindergarten and ESE 9 to 10 a.m.; first, second and third grades: 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.; fourth and fifth grades: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; sixth grade orientation: 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.; middle school: 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 1,200 PTO PRESIDENT: Karen DePriest SPECIAL PROGRAMS: The school offers several enrichment opportunities for students including band, strings, orchestra, guitar, dance, art, world languages and the Project Lead the Way programs. As part of its international focus, the school offers different international cultural experiences through project based learning and immersive opportunities for all students. FUN FACT: The school’s mascot is a fictional animal nicknamed “Hawkeye.”

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I like the school, because the environment is a very welcoming place, making it easier to learn. The teachers are very amazing, and always make sure you understand the class, and have the ability to ask for help when needed.” — Sydney Kelly, eighth grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am very excited to be your new principal here at Windy Ridge K-8! I am looking forward to our Silverhawks soaring to new heights together. As an International School of Innovation, we are going to have a great year immersing ourselves into international studies and cultures. I can’t wait to welcome everyone back to school and kick off our new year!” — Dr. Karena Chunoo

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

BRIDGEWATER MIDDLE 5600 Tiny Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 905-3710 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Amy Klaber MASCOT: Bobcats MEET YOUR TEACHER: Sixth grade: 2 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4; seventh and eighth grade: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 2,079 PTO PRESIDENT: Bradi Kenner SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Agriculture, STEM, Dance, Theater and Musical Theater, YMCA after-school clubs FUN FACT: Just under four years ago, Bridgewater Middle was the largest middle school in the nation. This year, the school is looking forward to removing a majority of portables on campus as the area welcomes Hamlin Middle. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are looking forward to welcoming our Bobcats back for the 22-23 school year. For more information about our school and upcoming events, please visit our website at bridgewaterms.ocps.net.” — Amy Klaber

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Bridgewater was like my second home — not only attending school but the YMCA summer zone and after-school zone. The encouragement and love I received from my teachers and staff, as well as the long lasting friendships, will forever be in my heart.” — Emma Friese, eighth grade

CHAIN OF LAKES MIDDLE 8700 Conroy-Windermere Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 909-5400 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C PRINCIPAL: Dr. Bob Walker MASCOT: Ospreys MEET YOUR TEACHER: Monday, Aug. 8 PTSA PRESIDENT: Gaby Speller ENROLLMENT: 1,220 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chain of Lakes holds quarterly Outstanding Osprey celebrations to celebrate students who excel. It is the only school in the country with Futsal court lines in its gym — thanks to a partnership with a local program that holds camps and activities at the school. FUN FACT: Chain of Lakes has GOTHA MIDDLE 9155 Gotha Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 521-2360 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Monica Emery MASCOT: Grizzlies MEET YOUR TEACHER: 3 to 6 p.m. Aug. 8: face-to-face for sixth grade and new students, virtual for seventh and eighth grade PTA PRESIDENT: Karissa Martin ENROLLMENT: 1,143 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: A variety of visual and performing arts and academic electives. FUN FACT: Every year, the Grizzlies put together a school-wide lipdub. The 2019 lipdub was featured on the

one of the best middle school performing-arts departments in the county. Its orchestra was the only middle school orchestra to receive straight superiors while performing high school-level music. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I could not be more honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve as your new principal. 2022-23 will be my 18th year in education and first as a principal. Prior to joining the Osprey family, I served as the assistant principal of instruction at Howard Middle School Academy of Arts in downtown Orlando. I am excited for the year ahead and look forward to soaring to new heights together. Fly high, Ospreys!” — Dr. Bob

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school, because the staff and teachers are so nice and caring and the teachers make lessons fun.” — Olivia Reyes, seventh grade

Today Show. The 2022 lipdub features resilience: youtu.be/ cZy0sIpIBjc.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I am excited to have a new principal (who) cares deeply about music as much as I do. We have one of the best orchestras in the county, and I am one of the cellists. Looking forward to the new school year.” — Natalya Speller, eighth grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am incredibly proud of the hard work and perseverance of all our students, teachers, staff and community members. Last year was not an easy one, as we all worked together to begin bouncing back from unprecedented pandemic teaching and learning. As a school, we increased our student achievement indicators by 45 points to earn a school grade of a B! I am looking forward to a bigger and better 2022-23 school year! As we say every day, ‘It’s a GREAT day to be a Grizzly!’” — Monica Emery

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

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MIDDLE SCHOOLS

HAMLIN MIDDLE 16025 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: TBD PRINCIPAL: Dr. Suzanne Knight MASCOT: Coyotes WELCOME AND SNEAK PEEK: 2 to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. This event is for students/parents to walk the campus, meet teachers and meet District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould, who will be on campus from 3 to 5 p.m. PTSO PRESIDENT: Jeanina Van Brunt ENROLLMENT: 1,215 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Electives including science, business education, computer technology, Spanish, TV production, HORIZON WEST MIDDLE 8200 Tattant Blvd., Windermere PHONE: (407) 554-1570 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: I 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Michelle Thomas MASCOT: Hornets MEET YOUR TEACHER: Last names A-K: 9 a.m. to noon; last names L-Z: 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 1,340 PTSO PRESIDENT: Beth Siegmann SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Acceleration, STEM, award-winning performing arts and visual arts programs, county championship athletic programs, high-school level courses, development language arts for ESOL students, Genius lab-organized internship FUN FACT: HWMSHornets earned their first official school grade of an “A” for the 2021-22 school year! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are so very excited to have all our Hornet students join us back on campus for the 2022-23 school year. Our goal and responsibility

and visual and performing arts classes; clubs and organizations, such as Boys and Girls Clubs; and athletics FUN FACT: The mascot is the coyote, which is plentiful in this area. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am excited and humbled to have been selected as your principal. Together, we will build a culture of excellence through academics, athletics and an array of enrichment opportunities from technology to the visual and performing arts. Coyotes, we are about to embark on a great adventure!” —Dr. Suzanne Knight

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Horizon West Middle School is the best school, because the teachers, administration and staff are all supportive of my education. I love that there are so many electives to choose from. There is a place for everyone to express themselves.” — Cody Corneau, seventh grade

is to help each student develop a passion for learning, a respect for self and others, and the skills to become a creative independent thinker and problem solver. We look forward to seeing all our Hornets buzzing around campus and leading the way to another successful school year.” — Michelle Thomas

Observer

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Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com

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The West Orange Times & Observer and West Orange Observer are published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Observer papers can also be found free in many commercial locations. If you wish to subscribe to the West Orange Times, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our offices at 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden, FL 34787. To advertise, please call (407) 656-2121 or email contact@OrangeObserver.com.

THE OBSERVER 2022

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HAMLIN ELEMENTARY

HAMLIN MIDDLE

Home of the Coyotes

16025 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden EMAIL: hamlin_ms@ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Dr. Suzanne Knight ARCHITECT: Hunton Brady CONTRACTOR: Welbro

Close to 1,200 students will walk through the doors for the first time as Hamlin Coyotes when school starts Aug. 10.

BY THE NUMBERS

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

range County Public Schools opened three new relief schools in 2021 — and is doing the same this fall. Hamlin Middle School, located in the Horizon West/ Town Center area, is one of those three and will welcome new students on the first day of school Wednesday, Aug. 10. The school’s principal, Dr. Suzanne Knight, is anticipating much success in the new year at a new school. “The excitement started with being selected as the principal,” she said. “It was an honor to have been entrusted with

this task. It’s been exciting to watch the building of Hamlin Middle School from the ground up, the school-naming process, selecting the mascot and school colors. “I am excited to lead the students and faculty in establishing the culture and the branding of Hamlin Middle School that will define Hamlin as a school,” Knight said. The school, at 16025 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden, shares a large piece of property with Hamlin Elementary, another new school (see page 6). It was built to relieve overcrowding at Bridgewater Middle by about 500 students and SunRidge Middle by about 100. Hamlin Middle opens with a student capacity of 1,215. Knight has been with OCPS for her entire 34 years of education, with 12 years at the high school level and 22 in middle schools. Her first principal’s position was at Odyssey Mid-

192,408

The school size in square feet

41.3 MILLION

The total construction budget in dollars

1,215

The number of students who will call Hamlin Middle their school when it opens

dle in 2012. “It was during my time at Odyssey when I decided that I wanted the opportunity to open my own middle school someday,” she said. “While I was principal of Dr. Phillips High School, the opportunity arose with MS-132-W-4 (now Hamlin). I knew that this was the time to pursue my goal of opening a new middle school. I have spent the majority of my

THE OBSERVER 2022

Dr. Suzanne Knight Principal

career in the Southwest/West area of Orange County. “This area has always been home to me, and that made it a perfect fit,” Knight said. “I am humbled and honored that the district selected me as principal to lead Hamlin Middle School.” The school is located in an area once covered in orange groves. Coyotes frequently roam the land, which is why this animal was chosen as the mascot. HuntonBrady Architects and contractor Welbro designed and built Hamlin Middle. It has 192,408 square foot in gross floor area and was budgeted at $41.3 million. The project included con-

struction of the administration office, a multipurpose room/ cafeteria, kitchen, media center, gymnasium, art and music labs, computer and multipurpose labs, hard-court track and field space, covered walkways, and an expanded parking lot and student drop-off loop. Enhanced classroom technology includes new computers and interactive touch-screen panels. Every student will have his or her own device for a traditional 1-1 digital education. The campus is secure with one public entrance. “I am excited about my vision for Hamlin, which is to provide a safe learning environment for all students; to ensure that students are provided with rigorous standards-based academics and a variety of enrichment opportunities through electives, athletics, clubs and organizations,” Knight said. Hamlin Middle will offer a selection of electives, including science, business education, computer technology, Spanish, TV production and visual and performing arts classes; clubs

Courtesy photos

and organizations, such as Boys & Girls Clubs and its AfterSchool Program; and athletics, including soccer, volleyball, basketball, and track and field. Before school starts, each new school will host a sneak peek for students, parents and the community. Hamlin Middle students can tour their new school

and meet their teachers from 2 to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould will be on campus to meet families from 3 to 5 p.m. OCPS is the nation’s ninth-largest school district and now has 210 schools operating in the 2022-23 school year.

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

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LAKEVIEW MIDDLE 1200 W. Bay St., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5010 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C PRINCIPAL: Antonio Roman MASCOT: Red Devils MEET YOUR TEACHER/ORIENTATION: Seventh and eighth grade, 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5; sixth grade, 3 to 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 PTA PRESIDENT: Becky Grieser ENROLLMENT: 821 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Lakeview is a World Language Magnet Academy with two parts: Dual Language and the World Language Academy. The Dual Language is for students with background knowledge in Spanish or who have been in the program in elementary. The World Language Academy is for students with limited or no prior knowledge of Spanish or French. FUN FACT: Lakeview opened in 1927 as a high school. It became a junior high in 1975 and a middle school in 1986. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am honored to be the principal at Lakeview Middle School. I am glad that you are part our amazing Lakeview Family. I hope everyone has had an opportunity to relax and spend time with family and friends. Our teachers are planning and preparing to welcome you to this great year. We have many great programs and clubs, and I encourage you to get involved. If you have any ideas of things you would like to see at your school, don’t hesitate to let me know. We can’t wait so see you during our device distribution and orientation days. Let’s make this a marvelous Lakeview year!” — Antonio Roman

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Lakeview, because it is such a fulfilling and caring environment to learn and make friends through the years.” — Leah Negron-Ramos, eighth grade

OCOEE MIDDLE 300 S. Bluford Ave., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 877-5035 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C PRINCIPAL: Samuel Davis MASCOT: Cardinals ORIENTATION: Sixth grade, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3; seventh and eighth grade, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 PTSA: The school is building the organization and is looking for parents interested in serving. ENROLLMENT: 1,326 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: OMS has a fully operational Land Lab with cows, chickens and ducks FUN FACT: Ocoee Middle School was designed as a Demonstration School for the state. It is a one-of-a-kind campus.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I really love Ocoee Middle School, because it’s fun, the people are nice and the atmosphere is energetic. I got to play basketball for my school team and loved my season with Coach Phillips. I like to go to the Boys & Girls Club After-School Zone for their sports and video games, too! You really feel loved when you come here. I really love OMS; it’s amazing over here!” — Julian Garber, eighth grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “One of the fallouts we have seen from the pandemic centers on interpersonal interactions. Students have shown reluctance to communicate and collaborate in academic settings. Even staff members have expressed missing the automatic collegiality they enjoyed previously. The 2022-23 school year will

see a focus on getting back to ourselves. We need to connect again! Positive relationships and positive connections between teachers, students and the community are critical for overall student success. Together, we can truly lead our students (and ourselves) to success!” — Samuel Davis

Since 2019, OCPS has opened three middle schools in the Horizon West community.

SOUTHWEST MIDDLE 6450 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 370-7200 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: I PRINCIPAL: Raymond Yockel MASCOT: Sea Lions MEET YOUR TEACHER: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 1,510 PTO PRESIDENT: TBA SPECIAL PROGRAMS: The school is an AVID National Demonstration School for college and career readiness and a center for students with autism and intellectual disabilities FUN FACT: The voice actor for the popular Star Wars animated character, Ashoka Tano, is a former student! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am looking forward to a wonderful 2022-23 school year with our Sea Lions!” — Raymond Yockel

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Southwest Middle School, because I love learning from the amazing teachers there.” — Delaney Fatkin, seventh grade

THE OBSERVER 2022

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MIDDLE SCHOOLS

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022 SUNRIDGE MIDDLE 14955 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-0794 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Amy McHale MASCOT: Eagles CAMPUS WALK: Noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, for returning students CAMPUS WELCOME: 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, for new students only PTSO PRESIDENT: Elvin Smail ENROLLMENT: 1,385 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: School of Innovation focused on problem-based learning, financial literacy and entrepreneurship FUN FACT: SRMS has a student musical group called the Ukuladies! This group performs for audiences on ukuleles throughout the school year. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are very excited to begin a new school year with our students on the first day of school, Aug. 10. I am honored to be a part of the SunRidge family. Our teachers, staff and leaders are among the best! Welcome to our incoming sixth-graders, new and returning students. We are honored you chose SRMS. I am looking forward to a fantastic year of learning and growing together through innovative practices and experiences.” — Amy McHale WATER SPRING MIDDLE Temporarily at Horizon High campus, 10393 Seidel Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 992-0597 PRINCIPAL: Andrew Jackson MASCOT: Wildcats WILDCAT WANDER: Orientation for all grades 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 PTA PRESIDENT: Katie Dukes CAPACITY: 1,215 SPECIAL PROGRAM: PreAICE Cambridge International Curriculum FUN FACT: Water Spring Middle is the only OCPS middle school to be completely formed and solidified two years before having our own school building. FROM THE PRINCIPALS: “We cannot wait for our Wildcats to have engaging learning experiences, participate in and help create new traditions, and expe-

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL

“I love that I get to attend SunRidge Middle School. One of my favorite things about being an Eagle is that the teachers and staff are all really nice and supportive!” — Micky Nepywoda, seventh grade

“I love SunRidge Middle School, because I have a lot of friends there and the teachers and staff are really nice. I look forward for seeing my schedule for the new school year and meeting my teachers.” — Jasmine George, eighth grade

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love how Water Spring Middle School feels like a small family. All the teachers knew us, and they made sure we had a great year and were successful in our classes. #Slay #GoWildcats!” — Caroline Fromentin, eighth grade

rience the close and supportive family-based community that is Water Spring Middle School.” — Andrew Jackson and Brian Sanchez-Corona

Let us get your teen ready to succeed as a safe and confident driver.

UCP CENTRAL FLORIDA — WEST ORANGE CAMPUS 1297 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Suite 110, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 904-0135 WEBSITE: ucpcfl.org PRINCIPAL: Thomas Brickel MEET YOUR TEACHER: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9 PTO PRESIDENT: Katie Folsom MASCOT: The West Orange Wave PROJECTED ENROLLMENT: 300 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Arts integration, technology integration and inclusive classrooms FUN FACT: UCP added sixth grade this year.

KB DRIVING SCHOOL DRIVER EDUCATION KB Driving School is Central Florida’s premier driver education training destination. We offer behind-the-wheel on the road driving lessons. Packages from 1 hour to 100 hours are available, as well as, training and scheduling for the Florida Road Test at the local Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office. All Driving Instructors are Florida State Certified. Learn more at KBDrivingSchool.com or call (407) 766-2603

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SPECIAL EDUCATION

THE OBSERVER 2022

HIGH SCHOOLS

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH 6500 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 355-3200 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C PRINCIPAL: Jackie Ramsey

MASCOT: Panthers ENROLLMENT: 3,857 FUN FACT: Dr. Phillips almost was not named as it is today due to a decision made by the Orange County School Board to stop naming schools

after individuals. However, a convincing presentation by former Dr. Phillips Charities President Jim Hinson to the School Board resulted in naming it after a thriving community.

HORIZON HIGH 10393 Seidel Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 992-0597 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Andrew Jackson MASCOT: Hawks HAWK WALK: 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 CAPACITY: 2,776 PTO PRESIDENT: Brooke Hasher

SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Cambridge AICE, Advanced Placement, Project Lead the Way, Orange Technical College Culinary (post-secondary) and more FUN FACT: Horizon’s school colors were selected to honor the land on which our school was built, which used to be an orange grove. The school added purple, because this is a common color present in a sunrise and sunset on the horizon.

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH 11305 Daryl Carter Parkway, Orlando PHONE: (407) 315-7940 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C PRINCIPAL: Dr. Guy Swenson MASCOT: Vipers CAPACITY: 2,776 FUN FACT: This school is one of the district’s newest prototype designs and was built to relieve overcrowding at Dr. Phillips and Freedom high schools.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Something I love most about attending Horizon High School is the positive community — inside the school and out. The first day of school, I began to warm up to the new environment and the people in it. The new teaching staff and principal were very welcoming to me and the other students, along with the coaches.” — Jacob Brown, senior

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Hawks: I am humbled and honored to serve as your principal of Horizon High School. As we begin our second year as a school, I look forward to continuing to establish the foundation to what I know will be recognized as one of the best schools and communities in the state. We will deliberately focus on strengthening our positive culture and climate by building community to create the best learning environment possible. I believe this is going to be a great year. I cannot wait to see each of you on campus as we Elevate the Pursuit.” — Andrew Jackson

OCOEE HIGH 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 905-3000 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: C 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Lisa Karcinski MASCOT: Knights KNIGHT FEVER: 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 2,479 PTSA PRESIDENT: Valita Fullerton SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Ocoee has an amazing performing arts department (with a world-class band), award-winning AG department with more than 400 students, Cambridge AICE Program, Doggy Daycare, preschool, 3DE and more FUN FACT: Ocoee has morning pep rallies every Friday in the fall.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school, because of the safe space that it is; there is literally a club for everyone. My school is a reflection of the world around me and gives me an opportunity to express myself and have a strong educational foundation I really feel I couldn’t get anywhere else.” — Robin Young, senior

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “The ‘B’ grade is a major achievement in OHS history. Our success is even more noteworthy in that we were dealing with a very challenging school year given the many side effects brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Congratulations is certainly due first to our wonderful students and their fiercely dedicated teachers, but with great support from the administration, support staff, counselors, coaches and the community, including our parents/guardians, volunteers and partners in education.” — Lisa Karcinski

THE OBSERVER 2022 OLYMPIA HIGH 4301 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 905-6400 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Christy Gorberg MASCOT: Titans

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love everything about Olympia! Everyone has always been very welcoming. It’s fun to be a part of our school spirit, and I appreciate the diversity of our students. I love my school and have had a great experience here, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!” — Luke Lakes, senior

WEST ORANGE HIGH 1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 905-2400 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B PRINCIPAL: Matthew Turner MASCOT: Warriors WARRIOR WELCOME: 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 2,449 PTSA LEADERSHIP: Patti Tozzi and Rose Sirois SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Start Up Studio, entrepreneurship, aerospace technologies and drone navigation and more

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love West Orange High School for its diversity, rich history, plentiful opportunities and its supportive teachers and staff. It is a place where I have always felt safe to grow my education and pursue subjects that matter to me.” — Sophia Maritz, senior

FRESHMEN FRENZY: 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2 NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION: 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2 MEET THE TEACHER: 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 3,144 PTSA PRESIDENT: Brooke Benson SPECIAL PROGRAMS: APEX, Titan TV, building construction, robotics, Project Lead the Way Biomedical, Project Lead the Way Engineering, Army JROTC and more FUN FACT: The original school colors were black and silver; teal was added later. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I hope you have all had an enjoyable and restful summer. Our teachers and staff have been hard at work planning and preparing, and we are ready to fill this campus with the excitement a new school year brings. We cannot wait to welcome back our Titans for the 2022-2023 school year!” — Christy Gorberg FUN FACT: Did you know West Orange was founded in 1976 and is the best high school east of the Pacific?! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “At West Orange, we pride ourselves in developing the whole student and ensuring they are prepared for a competitive world but also supported socially and emotionally. Our goal is for every student to have the opportunity to thrive academically but also be involved in any extracurricular activity they choose — and be equally supported in those endeavors.” — Matthew Turner

WINDERMERE HIGH 5523 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 347-0980 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: A PRINCIPAL: Andrew Leftakis MASCOT: Wolverines CLAW DAY: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, for freshmen and new students ENROLLMENT: More than 3,600 PTO PRESIDENT: Christine Crenshaw SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Biomedical program, Cambridge AICE program FUN FACT: Windermere is the first high school in the nation to have the lime (poison green) in its color scheme. Last year, we had more than 200 AICE graduates, the largest graduating class in OCPS history. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Here at WHS, you will receive a world-class education while having the opportunity to take part in phenomenal extracurricular activities, music and athletic programs, and student clubs. We strive to build strong relationships with our students to ensure a rigorous and relevant academic and so-

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Windermere High, because it offers so many opportunities for students — whether in Student Government, athletics, performing arts, clubs, academics or more. With this, I have been given a platform to become the best version of myself, and I feel truly blessed to be part of such a welcoming environment, including — but not limited to — the amazing teachers, staff and students.” — Savanna Schenk, SGA president, senior

cial-emotional experience during their high school career. From AP classes to our AICE program, we will stretch students academically. Our goal is to successfully prepare students for college and career on their path to graduation.” — Andrew Leftakis

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 700 Good Homes Road, No. 6600, Orlando PHONE: (407) 850-2322 WEBSITE: cfcaeagles.org PRINCIPAL: Pam Theobald MASCOT: Eagles MEET YOUR TEACHER: Tuesday, Aug. 9 ENROLLMENT: 227 PTO PRESIDENT: Heather Camp SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Robotics, graphic design, computer programming (coding) and a production class that will incorporate multi-cam live video streaming of school/ athletic events, as well as live play-by-play announcing FUN FACT: CFCA will be celebrating its 50th year. THE CRENSHAW SCHOOL 2342 Hempel Ave., Gotha PHONE: (407) 757-2241 WEBSITE: crenshawschool.com HEAD OF SCHOOL: Tanya Williams MEET YOUR TEACHER: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 250 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: ESOL, entrepreneurship, Dance Stars FUN FACT: The accredited kindergarten-through-12 college-preparatory school was founded by Brenda Crenshaw, who was a private instructor to Justin Timberlake and Lance Bass.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love being a CFCA Eagle! I enjoy using all of the technology in my classroom. My classmates and teachers are like one big family, and I can’t wait to see them again when school starts!” — Grayson Wills, fifth grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “CFCA begins its 50th year determined to glorify God as FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are so very excited to welcome you back for the 2022-23 school year. I hope you have recharged your batteries and are ready to start your engines! I can’t wait to see all of the positive energy and smiling faces walk into school on Aug. 8. We are so excited to have you back in the classroom with the same enthusiasm you bring to us each year. My prayer is that each child will feel safe, welcome and connected at our school, and that each staff member will feel the same. Let’s have a great school year!” — Tanya Williams

we inspire, educate and equip every student to know and serve our Lord. We believe this year will be one of the greatest years in our history! We have had a great head start to our ‘banner year’ with the passing of our accreditation this past year with Association of Christian Schools International and Cognia, with many commendations of excellence. Over the summer, we have had the opportunity to assess several areas and make improvements. We have upgraded equipment and technology throughout our classes and extracurricular areas. As school administrator, I can confidently say that our administrative team has diligently prepared for an amazing year. Go Eagles!” — Pam Theobald FAMILY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 608 W. Oakland Ave., Oakland PHONE: (407) 656-7904 WEBSITE: familychristianschool.org PRINCIPAL: Terri Schneberger MEET YOUR TECHER: 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 PARENT OPEN HOUSE: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 PTO PRESIDENT: Ashlee Grimes-Geltz FUN FACT: Family Christian is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year on its new Oakland campus.

THE FIRST ACADEMY 2667 Bruton Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 206-8600 WEBSITE: thefirstacademy.org HEAD OF SCHOOL: Dr. Steve Whitaker MASCOT: Royals MEET THE TEACHER: Monday, Aug. 8 FIRST LOOK FRIDAY OPEN HOUSE: Friday, Sept. 16 ENROLLMENT: > 1,450 PARENT ASSOCIATION PRESENT: Lauren Sorenson SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Concurrent courses (courses with university credit); dual enrollment (college courses) and Advanced Placement (college credit); K-12 fine arts and athletic programs; middle- and upper-school student leadership program; student-led Bible study cohorts; gifted program; hydroponics curriculum FUN FACT: TFA has a 100% college acceptance rate for the Class of 2022, with more than $75 million in total scholarship offers. The class also had 16 student-athletes committed to playing in college. FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL: “We are grateful for the opportunity to serve the wonderful school family we call The First Academy. Our students are what make TFA so special; they are positive role models and community leaders. As we celebrate the coming year, we are brimming with hope and gratitude, and we can’t wait to welcome students back!” — Steve Whitaker

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love the environment at TFA and have made some of the best memories alongside my classmates over the last few years. I am excited for my senior year and all that is in store.” — Mackenzie Rearden, Upper School president, senior

THE OBSERVER 2022

FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT: “Summer is always a busy time in preparation for the beginning

revolutionizing healthy food WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love FA, because my fellow students are inclusive and create a family-like community. In addition, FA teachers work to make class interesting and show compassion through their interactions with students. I’m glad to be a part of the FAmily!” — Chase Randall, 10th grade

of a new school year. While we appreciate the time to complete the many tasks on our checklist, our summer days are missing something — that something is you, our students, families and teachers. The car line is lacking cars filled with smiling faces, hallways are too quiet, the workrooms are void of teachers collaborating, and classrooms are missing the sounds of laughter and learning. So while you are enjoying these last days of summer, know that we are eagerly waiting for our FAmily to return to our campuses. We are blessed to partner with you and look forward to what God has in store for our new year together.” — Carol Grosshans

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FOUNDATION ACADEMY Upper School: 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden; Lower School: 125 E. Plant St., Winter Garden; Lakeside Campus: 8464 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: Upper School: (407) 877-2744; Lower School: (407) 656-3677; Lakeside Campus: (407) 204-9672 WEBSITE: foundationacademy.net PRINCIPALS: Upper School: Sarah Reynolds; Lower School, Plant Street Campus: Angel Whitehead; Lower School, Lakeside Campus: Amanda Donaho MASCOT: Lions MEET YOUR TEACHER/OPEN HOUSE: Tilden Campus: 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8; Plant Street Campus: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8; Lakeside Campus: 8 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 905 across three campuses PTO PRESIDENT: Jessica Robb SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Broadcast journalism, TV production, Student Leadership Institute, elementary sports program. speed and agility, garden environmental learning experience FUN FACT: Foundation Academy is the largest ministry of Winter Garden’s First Baptist and has a rich history in education dating back to 1958.

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5125 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 876-2211 WEBSITE: hfcshool.com PRINCIPAL: Sister Dorothy Sayers MASCOT: Lions MEET THE TEACHER: 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9 BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT: Parent only 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26 ENROLLMENT: 650 PARENT SCHOOL ASSOCIATION: Angela Callan, Maria Guzman Story, Ashley Niesslein, and Natasha Stallone FUN FACT: The school just celebrated its 25th anniversary. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Dear students: I pray that each of you have enjoyed your summer vacation! For the first time since the pandemic, I have traveled home to England to visit my dear family. We have had a wonderful time together and have made

FALL AUDITIONS

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WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Holy Family Catholic School has been my home away from home since I was 3 years old. I love walking through gates each day knowing I am safe, respected, and challenged to develop all the gifts God has blessed me with.” — Logan Murphy, eighth grade

memories I will cherish forever. ... I can’t wait to hear all about your travels when we return to school in just a few short weeks. Savor your last days of summer — rest and relax. The faculty, staff and I cannot wait to welcome everyone back to campus. God bless you!” — Sister Dorothy Sayers

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LIGHT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Main Campus: 1105 N. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee; South Campus: 2450 Citrus Oaks Ave., Gotha PHONE: (407) 656-6314 WEBSITE: mylcac.com PRINCIPAL: Bishop Thomas Odom MASCOT: Sharks ENROLLMENT: About 300 MEET YOUR TEACHER: South Campus: 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5; grades 1 to 12: 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8; Main campus 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5; kindergarten: 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 FUN FACT: This school year, LCA will have 48 kindergarten students — double the amount of our entire student body when it opened in 2009-10.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Light Christian Academy, because of the teachers, chapel and spirit week.” — Matthew Greyson Jones, fourth grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am so excited for this year. I am ready to meet all of our students! We are looking forward to having an excellent academic year!” — Bishop Thomas Odom

THE OBSERVER 2022

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WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “My favorite thing about Montverde Academy is the diversity of students. We have students representing (more than) 90 nationalities!” — Aamirah Higgins, sixth grade

FROM THE PRESIDENT: “The experience here is rooted in the ideals of Knowledge, Character and Community, and our culture is based on one primary objective — to achieve excellence in all that we do. Our students will encounter adversity, perhaps even failure, which is all part of the journey. ... Being willing to take on challenges ... is founded on the expectation that in our students, we will develop a work ethic complemented by character qualities that acknowledge diversity, respect and tolerance, and a commitment to the community.” — Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring

VICTORY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1601 A.D. Mims Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-1295 PRINCIPAL: Jason Davis MEET YOUR TEACHER: 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 ENROLLMENT: 100 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: A Beka Book curriculum FUN FACT: This year marks the academy’s 37th anniversary. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am so excited about this new school year and all that the Lord will do through our students. It will be a great year filled with fun and exciting adventures!” — Jason Davis

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Our school is a family. The students care about each other, and our teachers care about us. My favorite thing at my school is our annual walk-a-thon.” — Jacob M.

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MONTVERDE ACADEMY 17235 Seventh St., Montverde PHONE: (407) 469-2561 WEBSITE: montverde.org PRESIDENT: Dr. Kasey Kesselring MASCOT: Eagles REGISTRATION: New students: 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Aug. 18; returning students: 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 19 OPEN HOUSE: Lower School: 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 14; Middle and Upper School: 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 24 ENROLLMENT: 1,300 DIRECTOR OF EVENTS: Kalena Meyers SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Thirty-one AP courses available, Study Area Concentration Diploma, Distinguished Scholars program, 11 honors courses, dual enrollment with University of Florida, 41 clubs and societies, 100% college acceptance rate FUN FACT: The MVA Lady Eagles and men’s basketball programs both won the GEICO National Championship in 2022.

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

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THE OBSERVER 2022

BACK TO SCHOOL 2022

WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 905-7737 HEAD OF SCHOOL: Dr. Mitchell Salerno MASCOT: Lakers MEET YOUR TEACHER: Monday, Aug. 8, and Tuesday, Aug. 9 ENROLLMENT: 1,500 WPVA PRESIDENT: Michelle Catalan SPECIAL PROGRAMS: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, fine arts program, STEM lessons, Global Games, Juilliard collaboration FUN FACT: The school has 52 nationalities representing its student body. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “In a few weeks, we begin another school year at Windermere Preparatory School, with 1,600 students arriving on campus and in our boarding facilities — full of energy, excitement and enthusiasm. Students from PK3 through grade 12, as well as their parents, will be looking forward to the new school year with hope and

anticipation. There is much to experience, with new friendships being made, and established ones continuing to blossom and grow. The excitement of new performances, programs, competi-

tions and exhibitions, along with amazing educational opportunities to study, learn and explore, all set us up for what is sure to be a great year!” — Dr. Mitchell Salerno

YOU’RE INVITED! OPEN BOATHOUSE August 20 from 9am-12pm 2457 Maguire Rd, Windermere Take a tour of our boathouse, talk to coaches and rowers, and learn about programs for Middle and High School students and adults. See if crew is the sport for you!

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CHARTER SCHOOLS

37 HOPE CHARTER/ LEGACY CHARTER HIGH 1550 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-4673 WEBSITE: hopecharter.org 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: Legacy: B, Hope: A 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: Legacy: B, Hope: B PRINCIPAL: Kristy Castellanos, Legacy; Allen Quain, Hope Charter LEGACY PICK-UP: A to L: 8 to 10 a.m., M to Z: 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 8 HOPE MEET THE TEACHER: 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 MASCOT: Eagles ENROLLMENT: Legacy: 225, Hope: 435 FUN FACT: Hope Charter School was funded in 2000 and started educating students in 2001, making it 21 years old.

INNOVATION MONTESSORI HIGH SCHOOL 1475 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 654-2045 PRINCIPAL: Jared Stewart MASCOT: Florida Panthers MEET YOUR TEACHER: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 ENROLLMENT: 180 PTO PRESIDENT: Marni Fisher SPECIAL PROGRAMS: IMHS’s mission is to provide a game-changing high school education to cultivate independent, inspired and innovative leaders through purpose-driven project-based learning, a Montessori focus on a global perspective and a four-yearlong Innovation Incubator. FUN FACT: The school is moving to its new campus on Silver Star Road for the 202223 school year.

OAKLAND AVENUE CHARTER SCHOOL 456 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland PHONE: (407) 877-2039 WEBSITE: bit.ly/3uOqhqa PRINCIPAL: Pamela Dwyer MASCOT: Eagles MEET YOUR TEACHER: 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 ENROLLMENT: 535

INNOVATION MONTESSORI OCOEE 1644 N. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 654-2045 PRINCIPAL: Cathy Tobin MASCOT: Owls MEET YOUR TEACHER: Primary: 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4; Lower Elementary: 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8; Upper Elementary: 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4; Middle: 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 ENROLLMENT: 800 PTO PRESIDENT: Marni Fisher SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Crochet, band, thespian troupe FUN FACT: Innovation is a school created for children, by parents, using one of the most child-centered educational philosophies in the world — Montessori. Children are at the heart of everything we do, and the best interests of our students are the basis of every decision we make.

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “This school, even from the very beginning, taught me not only how to learn and be hard working, but to be independent and compassionate, as well. The learning environment at Innovation Montessori is unique in the best way, (because) it lets any student hone (his or her) own personal skills and strong suits with the guiding hand of the caring teachers and staff. From the start, I was allowed to pursue my own interests, in addition to the

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love IMO, because everyone is so friendly, and I can move freely around the classroom while I am working.” — Shae Fishpool, seventh grade

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We ready for a wonderful year, with a focus on community and connection. We are excited to continue the work of supporting the development of informed, innovative, creative, kind and inclusive global citizens. We have missed seeing your smiling faces over the summer and look forward to seeing you soon.” — Cathy Tobin

valuable skills that come with educational experience. This led me to be self-motivated, and captivated a true love for learning which will definitely be useful to me in the future. I am who I am today because of this school, and I couldn’t be more thankful.” — Milena Lynch, senior

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am thrilled to be joining the Innovation team. The 2022-23 school year is set to bring many exciting changes, including the move to our new campus. We are ready to continue the work of our Innovation Incuba-

tor program, which provides opportunities for students to learn and grow; challenge and guide students to explore, envision, engage, enlighten and enjoy themselves, others and the world.” — Jared Stewart

PTO PRESIDENT: Lynn Orem 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: B SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Partners with the Oakland Nature Preserve for instruction on environmental science. FUN FACT: OACS is proud to instruct all students K through 5 in cursive writing.

FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I cannot wait to launch the 2022-23 school year. I am looking forward to seeing classrooms full of activities and ideas that challenge and inspire our Eagles.” — Pamela Dwyer

RENAISSANCE CHARTER SCHOOL AT CROWN POINT 83 West Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 573-1080 WEBSITE: crownpointcharter.org PRINCIPAL: Brett Taylor MASCOT: Royals MEET YOUR TEACHER: K through fourth grade: 4 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, fifth to eighth grades: 4 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 ENROLLMENT: 1,160 PTO PRESIDENT: Monique Lamboy 2019 SCHOOL GRADE: B 2022 SCHOOL GRADE: C SPECIAL PROGRAMS: A.V.I.D. and aquaponics farm FUN FACT: Renaissance utilizes the Ron Clark House System. Students and staff are all a part of one of the four houses. The teams are Isibindi, Amistad, Reveur and Altruismo. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Welcome back to our adventure in learning. I cannot tell you how excited we are to begin this school year. We look forward to challenging, supporting, and nurturing our students as we grow powerful minds for the 21st century. We are Point, We are Proud.” — Brett Taylor

WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “What I love most about school is writing in my journal, feeling loved and seeing my friends.” —Bentley Feliciano, first grade

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2400 South US Highway 27, Suite 101, Clermont, Florida 34711

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THE OBSERVER 2022

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