Observer
1
THE OBSERVER 2020
BACK TO
SCHOOL 2020-2021
2
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
WE THINK BEYOND TRADITIONAL EDUCATION TO TRANSFORM LEARNING windermereprep.com
SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! (407) 905-7737 info@windermereprep.com 338419-1
Pre-K3 through Grade 12 Offering 5 and 7 Day Boarding International Baccalaureate World School
3
THE OBSERVER 2020
Schoo Lu nc h l Lady Re-Im agined ! We hav
e solut ions. Call us ! (407) 7 30-321 www.pa 2 mmiess ammies .com
Healthy*, Convenient & Affordable Lunch Options for Your Family Clean, Safe and Touchless Pickup
Various Plans to Fit Your Needs As frequently as every day...or just occasionally...create your own plan!
2 Convenient Locations Winter Garden & Dr. Phillips YMCA *We can customize to most dietary restrictions
e You
337277-1
Lov P.S. I
4
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
Digital solution Orange County Public Schools rolled out its distancelearning plan, called OCPSLaunchED@Home, for students who will be learning through a home computer. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
As Florida’s fourth-largest school district, Orange County Public Schools was tasked with creating educational options for more than 200,000 public-school students. The result is a three-pronged approach that includes face-toface, virtual instruction and a new model: LaunchED@Home. LaunchED@Home allows students to remain enrolled at their school but receive education from home. Many parents have opted for this amid concerns about sending their children back to crowded hallways and classrooms. In late July, OCPS announced that the first nine days would
be labeled Distance Learning Days, and all students registered for either face-to-face or LaunchED@Home would use the virtual platform at home. LaunchED is a full-time livestream program, and a camera is set up in the classroom tracking the teacher so students at home can feel like they are in the classroom with their peers. “This model is designed for families who don’t feel comfortable sending their children back to school but ultimately plan to rejoin their enrolled school in the future,” said Renée Burke, manager of media promotions for OCPS. “The OCPS LaunchED@ Home model was designed with the requirements of the Florida Optional Innovative Reopening Plan in consideration.”
The program follows a traditional bell schedule, and each lesson is live-streamed during standard school hours. Grades kindergarten through five will follow standard arrival and dismissal bells; grades six through 12 will follow traditional period-by-period bell schedule. Students use their district-issued device, and Burke said the only out-of-pocket expense for parents is a connection to Wi-Fi. The district has partnerships to help support those families who cannot afford it, she said. Some teachers are teaching from their home, and others are teaching from a classroom. Students are placed in classes where all students are learning from home or a portion of the class is learning from home. Every teacher has a laptop with a webcam that can be used for video conferencing. Using their LaunchPad, they have access to Big Blue Button and/or Microsoft Teams, both video-conferencing platforms. If there are enough students to make a full classroom, then all students will be learning from
home with live lessons from a teacher at their home school who can use the webcam on their laptop to share their video. Efforts are made to group students who select LaunchED@Home into classrooms together. To put this plan into action, the district was faced with spending $1.4 million on Swivl cameras and devices. Swivl is a robotic camera. An iPad mounts to the Swivl base, and it tracks the teacher’s movement and audio. The base is a robot, and the iPad would use an app, like Microsoft Teams, as the video-conferencing software. Teacher may use their laptops and webcams to share their video. “The district is looking to purchase Swivl devices to provide additional options to teachers who may choose to use its features as part of their lessons,” Burke said. With LaunchED@Home, students “report” to class at the scheduled time to watch lessons live. It is the teacher’s discretion if he or she chooses to record for students to watch later or have for reviews, Burke said.
Protect your family. Prepare for their future. Located in the Historical Town of Gotha, Florida Founded in ₁₉₉₉
Jo Barsh, Agent 317 West Road Ocoee, FL 34761 Bus: 407-299-0301 Fax: 407-578-6373 jobarsh.com M-F 8:30 - 5:30pm Sat and Evenings by Appoint
I can help with both.
The Crenshaw Advantage • College Preparatory School for K-12 • Small Class Sizes • Meets NCAA Academic Requirements • SEVP School for International Students
Stop by for your free State Farm Insurance and Financial Review . Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION. ®
®
Learn more
336596-1
www.crenshawschool.com • ₄₀₇-₇₅₇-₂₂₄₁ ₂₃₄₂ Hempel Ave, Gotha •
1001386.2
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
5
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
THE OBSERVER 2020 BAY LAKE ELEMENTARY 12005 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere PHONE: (407) 217-7960 baylakees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Myrlene Kimble MASCOT: Lions ENROLLMENT: 771 PTO PRESIDENT: Leah Fenton SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Art club, Battle of the Books, chess club, Lyrical Lions, National Elementary Honor Society, news crew, running club, safety patrols, STEAM club, student council FUN FACT: Each year, fifthgrade teachers select one student from their class who consistently goes above and beyond expectations. These students are nominated for the Heart of a Lion award, which was created to recognize the spirit of learning and citizenship within the school. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Hello Lions, we’ve missed you and hope that you’ve had a safe summer. We’re looking forward to learning lots of new things together this school year.” — Myrlene Kimble
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Bay Lake, because I have learned a lot with amazing teachers and I have made lots of great friends. Every year, there are fun activities for us and my favorites are Field Day and Multicultural Day. I feel safe and loved at Bay Lake. I am ready to go back to school and start third grade!” — Lara Momente, third grade
CITRUS ELEMENTARY 87 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 445-5475 citruses.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Robert Walker MASCOT: Honeybees ENROLLMENT: 520 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Student Council, chess club, art club, music club, book club, news crew FUN FACT: Citrus Elementary turns 21 this year. BAY MEADOWS ELEMENTARY 9150 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 876-7500 baymeadowses.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: GeRai Johnson Mays MASCOT: Koalas CASTLEVIEW ELEMENTARY 9131 Taborfield Ave., Orlando PHONE: (407) 612-4205 castleviewes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Dr. Julie Helton MASCOT: Dragons ENROLLMENT: 720 PTO PRESIDENT: Keri Bachman SPECIAL PROGRAMS: National Elementary Honor Society, House Council, chess club, STEAM club, coding club, Girls on the Run FUN FACT: Castleview has a house system where 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.
ENROLLMENT: 760 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Gifted program, extended day, run club, Scrabble club, art club, Troupe, strings, Accelerated Reader, FASTT Math FUN FACT: Bay Meadows Elementary celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Everyone (the staff) is so nice and because they have taught me so much. I love the house system, too! Go Wisdom!” — Wyatt Traylor, third grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We love you and miss you so much. The 2020-21 school year is going to be a great adventure, and we look forward to spending it with you.” — Dr. Julie Helton
DILLARD STREET ELEMENTARY 311 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5000 dillardstreetes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Tiffany Smid MASCOT: Dragon named Dougie ENROLLMENT: 474 PTA/PTO PRESIDENT: Andrea Austing SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Boys on the Track, Girls on the Run, patrols, after-school and Saturday school tutoring, Battle of the Books, garden club, Science Enrichment, art club, chorus club, strings, technology center project-based learning opportunities FUN FACT: Nearly all 650 students live within a two-mile radius from the school, making Dillard Street Elementary a true neighborhood school.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
6
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
DR. PHILLIPS ELEMENTARY 6909 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 354-2600 drphillipses.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Christine Rogers MASCOT: Eagles ENROLLMENT: 754 PTA PRESIDENT: Kyle Edmonds SPECIAL PROGRAMS: After-school programs include YMCA, chess club, Kidzart
(piano, guitar, STEAM class, art class), soccer, tennis, drama classes, Life Champs Martial Arts, Elevate Karate, Cub Scouts, Elevate Gymnastics and Dance, golf FUN FACT: Dr. Phillips Elementary was recognized last fall for being the top-recycling school in the Southwest Learning Community.
WILLIAM R. FRANGUS ELEMENTARY 380 Killington Way, Orlando PHONE: 407) 296-6469 franguses.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Decheryl Britton MASCOT: Jazz
SPECIAL PROGRAMS: AVID 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.
INDEPENDENCE ELEMENTARY 6255 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 217-7727 independencees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne MASCOT: Eagle ENROLLMENT: 750 PTO PRESIDENT: Danielle Taliaferro SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Eagle Anchor Chorus, chess club, golf, gymnastics, soccer
FUN FACT: Independence Elementary has a diverse student population with students from more than 30 countries.
KEENE’S CROSSING ELEMENTARY 5240 Keenes Pheasant Drive, Windermere PHONE: (407) 654-1351 keenescrossinges.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Sherry Donaldson MASCOT: Cougars ENROLLMENT: 1,219 PTO PRESIDENT: Jamie Swick SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Girls on the Run, Caring Cougars, karate,
soccer, golf, tennis, dance, chorus, pottery, fitness, Film Academy, gymnastics, chess, Spanish, art, piano, guitar, coding, virtual reality, cheer, Life Champs, National Elementary Honor Society, Gifted program, strings, drama club, news crew, safety patrol, recorder club, chimes FUN FACT: The school has received the Five Star School award every year since 2009.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are extremely excited to see everyone and start the year on a successful note. Although we are going through some challenging times right now, together we will create an atmosphere of pride, respect and safety for all. Our community, parents, staff and students are the best in Orange County.” — Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne
LAKE WHITNEY ELEMENTARY 1351 Windermere Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-8888 lakewhitneyes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Elizabeth Prince MASCOT: Dolphins ENROLLMENT: 503 PTO CO-PRESIDENTS: Elvan Small and Jen Stanich SPECIAL PROGRAMS: ESE, Gifted, art club, math team, Battle of the Books Club, safety patrol, morning news crew, chorus, ORFF, yearbook, drama FUN FACT: Every year, Lake Whitney chooses a theme. This year, our slogan is, “We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.”
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Lake Whitney, because I have a lot of friends here.” — Luke Parker, fifth grade
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Ahoy! We are looking forward to sailing into this new school year together. Check out our virtual tour and meet our crew on our website. Full-steam ahead! — Elizabeth Prince
“The teachers here are so nice and so supportive, and everyone always helps each other.” — Addie Lucas, fifth grade
WILLIAM S. MAXEY ELEMENTARY VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS MAGNET 602 E. Story Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5020 Maxeyes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Carletta Davis-Wilson MASCOT: The Mighty “Wildcat”
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Maxey Elementary because it is a very active school. I love Maxey because the teachers, students and administrators are cheerful and caring.” — Arriana Hylton, fifth grade
ENROLLMENT: 486 PTA/PTO PRESIDENT: Carmen Wagstaff SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Visual & Performing Arts Magnet; full-day Voluntary Prekindergarten and full-day PreK ESE programs; National Elementary Honor Society; clubs, dance, art, drum, basketball, Jr. Lego League, recycling club program, mentoring FUN FACT: Maxey Elementary is a Kids for Peace Kindness Certified School. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Whether your journey this year will be in our building or through another option available, Maxey Elementary is still your school home. ... I am confident that our strength as a community will surpass any obstacle. Together, let’s show our Wildcat Pride and bring our best self on this year’s amazing learning journey.” — Carletta Davis-Wilson
7
THE OBSERVER 2020
Project-Based Learning Approach
Nature-Based Learning and Play Our Children's Arboretum serves as an outdoor classroom for creativity, discovery, problem-solving, and STEAM education.
Students work together to formulate questions, test hypotheses and discover answers through open-ended projects.
Water Exploration Lab (Water Atelier) Children will investigate the movement, sound and feel of water while learning about science, math and the environment with hands-on experiments.
Dedicated Art Studio (Atelier) Our Atelier offers children endless possibilities for interpreting and expressing their thoughts and ideas through different media.
State-of-the-Art Cleanliness Your health and safety are our #1 priority. We are proud to utilize the ZONO Sanitizing Cabinet and the Halo Disinfection System which eliminate 99.9% of pathogens found on classroom materials and surfaces.
www.KLAschoolsHorizonWest.com Nature-Based Learning and Play Our Children's Arboretum serves as an outdoor classroom for creativity,
Project-Based Learning Approach
339901-1
8185 Summerlake Groves St Winter Garden, FL 34787
Students work together to formulate questions, test hypotheses and discover answers
OCOEE ELEMENTARY 400 S. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 877-5027 ocoeees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Kandace Goshe MASCOT: Cardinals ENROLLMENT: 790 PTA PRESIDENT: TBD SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chess club, Music Ensemble, Boys on Track, Girls Run the World, tutoring, Safety Patrol, Junior Additions
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020 WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Ocoee Elementary has awesome teachers and friends that make learning fun every day! Also, P.E. is the best, because Coach Allen will let us have a Free Day.” — Godric Hopper, third grade FUN FACT: Ocoee Elementary has many families who have grandparents and great-grandparents who also attended Ocoee Elementary. Parents rec-
PALM LAKE ELEMENTARY 8000 Pin Oak Drive, Orlando PHONE: (407) 354-2610 palmlakees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: James Weis MASCOT: Bobcats ENROLLMENT: 650 PTA PRESIDENT: Catherine Brewer SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Kids Who Care, Mighty Mentors, National Elementary Honor Society, running club, art club FUN FACT: Palm Lake has a nature trail and outdoor classroom called the Bobcat Nature Trail.
ognize teachers at the school from when they were students at Ocoee Elementary.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Welcome to what promises to be a wonderful school year! I look forward to the various learning opportunities we will experience with our students and families at Ocoee Elementary School. Our mission is to ensure all students reach their highest potential through innovative instruction by collaborating with parents, teachers and community partners.” — Kandace Goshe
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I like Palm Lake, because the teachers are always nice, and they care about you. They always know when to help you and if you’re sad or need lifting up. I love my school for the fun activities, because you get along with the whole school, not just your class. You get along with the first-graders even if you’re in fifth grade.” — Amirah Simmons, fifth grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Welcome back Bobcats, old and new! We have missed you! Our teachers have been hard at work planning for the year, and we look
forward to learning and growing together at Palm Lake. I hope you are as excited as we are because it is going to be a great year!” — James Weis
EDUCATIONAL CHILD CARE WITH A PURPOSE! OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR THE NEW YEAR! ◆ State-of-the-art security system with cameras in every classroom ◆ Internet link between child’s room & your PC ◆ 6 weeksto VPK, plus before &after-school care for elementry-school ages ◆ Oversized outdoor Covered playground Structures with Softplay and a Splash Pad ◆ Faith-based learning center GIVE US A CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A TOUR Hours of Operations: 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Monday thur Friday
(407) 395-0077 ◆ 220 Windermere Road Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.ChildrensLighthousePOF.com ◆ Email: info@childrenslighthouse.com
339865-1
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
8
9
THE OBSERVER 2020
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are so excited to welcome you back to Prairie Lake Elementary. We have missed all of you and are excited to welcome our new students to our school family. It is going to be a great school year!” — Dr. Robert Strenth
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Prairie Lake is the best school, because there are lots of things to do, and the teachers are great. I like all of the House activities and other things we get to do.” — Briana Butler, fourth grade
though even animals want to come to school at Sand Lake!
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I like Sand Lake Elementary because I get to learn and see my friends. I can’t wait to see them again!” — Cara Walker, first grade
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Stingrays! I hope everyone has been enjoying their summer doing things like swimming, reading, relaxing and maybe even learning a new skill or two. While this school year may be a bit different than others, one thing still remains. Each and every one of you are unique and amazing. We care about you so much and cannot wait to see how much you continue to learn and grow this year!” — Kathleen Phillips
338176-1
SAND LAKE ELEMENTARY 8301 Buena Vista Woods Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 903-7400 sandlakees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Kathleen Phillips MASCOT: Stingrays PTO PRESIDENT: Laura Karklina SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Sand Lake Elementary offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities including Lego League, sports, coding and the arts. FUN FACT: There was once an alligator found in the bike rack. Wildlife officials came to remove the 4-foot creature. Seems as
ers, etc.) throughout the year. FUN FACT: Our school’s theme this year United! We are united to support one another as one school, one family.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
PRAIRIE LAKE ELEMENTARY 8723 Hackney Prairie Road Orlando PHONE: (407) 884-2220 prairielakees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Dr. Robert Strenth MASCOT: Panthers ENROLLMENT: 900 PTA/PTO PRESIDENT: Denise Kohmetscher SPECIAL PROGRAMS: We offer many clubs (robotics, SECME, gardening, art, comic book, NEHS, chess, etc.) and performance groups (chorus, record-
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
10 SPRING LAKE ELEMENTARY 1105 Sarah Lee Lane, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 578-2085 springlakees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Patty Harrelson MASCOT: Blue Jays ENROLLMENT: 575 PTA PRESIDENT: Shirley Rodgers SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Various clubs (running, book, art, dance, sign language, origami, robotics and STEM, coding, chess, science and math); multicultural events FUN FACT: Spring Lake has a house system, and all students are sorted into one of our four houses. Quarterly house competitions are something that everyone looks forward to. SUMMERLAKE ELEMENTARY 15450 Porter Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 554-1774 summerlakees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Delaine Bender MASCOT: Gators ENROLLMENT: 1,054 PTO PRESIDENT: Joseph Marrero SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Clubs in the works, including chess club, Battle of the Books, Student Council, art & music club FUN FACT: The student body comes from more than 21 different countries, with the farthest being more than 9,000 miles away. The students speak many different languages and, of course, Summerlake is opening a new school during a worldwide pandemic. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I look forward to welcoming all Gators and am excited about the ideas students have for building a community school. I can’t wait to meet all Summerlake Gators soon!” — Delaine Bender
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I am excited to see my friends and make new ones at Summerlake Elementary. I’m happy to have a school in my neighborhood now!” — Carson Baker, fourth grade
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Spring Lake, because being a Blue Jay brings joy to my heart.” — Valentina Lopez, second grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Blue Jays, we can’t wait to welcome you back to campus! We miss you and are ready to be together again as a Spring Lake family.” — Patty Harrelson
SUNRIDGE ELEMENTARY 14455 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-0809 sunridgees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Douglas Farley MASCOT: Sunny the Eagle ENROLLMENT: 695 PTA/PTO PRESIDENT: TBD SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Orchestra, tennis, karate, soccer, golf, drama, YMCA, chess FUN FACT: SunRidge Elementary has made it a tradition to bring snow to the school every December.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school because there is so much to do. There is almost an unlimited amount of clubs and events, from chess club to movie night.” — Will Carrel, fifth grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I cannot wait to meet each of you as your new principal. It has been a different last few months, and this year may have a unique look for each of you. But, working together as a team, we can overcome this — stay safe, keep learning and begin to SOAR again!” — Douglas Farley
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Sunset Park, because everyone loves and cares for me. All my teachers have made me smart and happy.” — EJ Pagan, fourth grade
SUNSET PARK ELEMENTARY 12050 Overstreet Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 905-3724 sunsetparkes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Jay Gangwisch MASCOT: Eagles ENROLLMENT: 950 (pre-shutdown) PTO PRESIDENT: Pamela Lowenthal SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Eagles United leverages social-emotional learning to promote positive relationships; National Elementary Honor Society; Student Council FUN FACT: Sunset Park Elementary has a house system to help promote community and social emotional learning. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Sunset Park Elementary is so much more than a building; it is your home now and forever. Even though we might not see each other in person, never forget that we still share the same home, and we are here for you no matter what.” — Jay Gangwisch
THORNEBROOKE ELEMENTARY 601 Thornebrooke Drive, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 909-1301 thornebrooke.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Christopher Daniels MASCOT: Barracudas ENROLLMENT: 700 PTO PRESIDENTS: Karissa Martin and Deena Reyes SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Award-winning visual- and performing-arts programs including strings; ESE cluster program for the area; many after-school events. FUN FACT: Last year, Thornebrooke Elementary had three Odyssey of the Mind World finalists and one world champion. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “At Thornebrooke, we love our wonderful students and can’t wait to see you again. We know there was an unusual end to last year with COVID, but we are proud of you and look forward to school with our wonderful students.” — Christopher Daniels
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love everything about a Thornebrooke. But, I especially love our big media center full of great books, going to P.E., and art class, too!” — Logan Hall, second grade
11
THE OBSERVER 2020
’S HAMLIN TOP FAMILY ONTIST ORTHOD
Specializing in Braces & Invisalign for Children and Adults
(407) 627-1187 I SakowitzSmiles.com
Straight and Confident Smiles are Waiting for Your Family.
DR. SAK OWITZ IS A BOA RD CERTIFIE D ORTHOD ONTIST
Come See Us! Now Accepting New Patients
FREE
$3,995
CONSULTATION AND X-RAYS FOR BRACES
INVISALIGN® TREATMENT
NEW PATIENTS ONLY. NO CASH VALUE. MUST PRESENT THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE PRICING. DISCOUNT APPLIES TO FULL PRICE ONLY. CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH INSURANCE OR ANY OTHER OFFER. OFFER EXPIRES 9/1/2020
NEW PATIENTS ONLY. NO CASH VALUE. MUST PRESENT THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE PRICING. DISCOUNT APPLIES TO FULL PRICE ONLY. CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH INSURANCE OR ANY OTHER OFFER. OFFER EXPIRES 9/1/2020
(CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH INSURANCE)
25 OFF %
BRACES TREATMENT NEW PATIENTS ONLY. NO CASH VALUE. MUST PRESENT THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE PRICING. DISCOUNT APPLIES TO FULL PRICE ONLY. CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH INSURANCE OR ANY OTHER OFFER. OFFER EXPIRES 9/1/2020
Winter Garden (Hamlin) Location Adjacent to Publix Supermarket 14416 Shoreside Way, Suite 130 Winter Garden, FL 34787
2nd Location in Lake Nona
Dr. Sakowitz
O% In-House Financing I No Referral Necessary I We Accept Insurance THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT. ADA CODE 8080, 8090. DR. SAKOWITZ LIC. #DN23103
Scan to Schedule Your Appointment, or Text “OBSERVER” to 72000!
336153-1
9161 Narcoossee Rd Suite 105-B Orlando, FL 32827
12
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
Welcome home, Gators! Summerlake Elementary is the newest school in West Orange — and the only one to have opened during a global pandemic. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR
“We’ll take good care of their kiddos. We’re looking forward to it. Everybody’s really very excited, given everything (going on). We’re going to do the best we can, and want to provide a great experience for our kiddos.” — Delaine Bender, principal
Although the first day of school looked different for everyone, the students and staff at Summerlake Elementary had an additional element to the beginning of their new year — a whole new school community. Summerlake Elementary is the newest school to open in West Orange. It relieves Independence, Keene’s Crossing and Water Spring elementary schools. The school sits on a 14.8-acre site off Porter Road in Horizon West’s Summerlake community. It has a permanent program capacity of 837, although it is projected to open with 1,054
students enrolled, according to Orange County Public Schools documents. Summerlake Gators have Delaine Bender at the helm as principal. Bender taught fourth grade for 10 years and has also served as a curriculum-compliance teacher, dean and assistant principal. Most recently, she served as principal of Citrus Elementary in Ocoee for 10 years. Being in charge of opening any new school is a large task, but doing so in the midst of a global pandemic has been an experience like no other, she said. “I would say it’s very different, obviously, because of the pandemic,” Bender said. “It’s a very exciting time. I’ve enjoyed
meeting the entire staff, although I’ve hired probably half in person and half virtually. … It’s a very exciting time to be able to build our community school, working with the PTO, getting that set up — and it’s all been done virtually.” Toward the beginning of the year, Bender was focused on hiring her staff and attending community meetings. Soon after she was named principal of Summerlake Elementary, the coronavirus pandemic was well underway. “After spring break would have been my opportunity to get to know the students coming to the school,” she said. “We had to do all of that though Google. It’s just different times. … I really like to meet the parents and the students in person. … I really miss that part
Personalized care with compassion and excellence.
Office Hours:
Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM
By Appointment Only Saturday Mornings 8-12 Se Habla Español
1551 Boren Drive, Suite A • Ocoee, FL 34761 Call 407-395-2037 • www.OcoeeKidsDocs.com
338598-1
Wellington Esquea, PA-C • Dr. Bindu Kakkanatt Dr. Shaista Usmani • Dr. Shahid Usmani
13
THE OBSERVER 2020
Courtesy OCPS and Robin Hill
Summerlake Elementary in Horizon West relieves Independence, Keene’s Crossing and Water Spring elementary schools.
of it. … We’ve done a lot of it virtually though Zoom or Big Blue Button or things like that, but you miss that human connection with each other. I think that’s the biggest issue — opening a school and not being able to see and meet the kids. I think that has been probably the biggest challenge or hardest part. My business is kids, and not being able to really interact with them has been difficult.” Now, the staff — and community at large — has adapted to beginning the new year in a new way. Regardless of whether families opted for the face-to-face, virtual or OCPSLaunchED@ Home instructional models,
going back to school was much different than in years past. It’s a challenge Summerlake Elementary’s teachers and staff were ready to handle. Districtwide, OCPS staff underwent training on the virtual learning environment, how to approach and use OCPSLaunchED@Home, and how to make the best of educating Orange County students given the current situation. “We’ll take really good care of the kiddos,” Bender said. “Their mental health, I think, is going to be key during this time, because a lot of them have just spent the last five to six months at home with family. The fun part is to build
that excitement with opening a school. I want to create a very positive and safe atmosphere. I think that’s going to be key. … I feel we have a very unique experience, that’s for sure.” Part of creating that safe and nurturing environment includes encouraging social-emotional development. In fact, she and her staff recently completed a book study with her staff in which they focused on a book called “Culturize: Every Student. Every Day. Whatever It Takes.” In the book, author and education leader Jimmy Casas discusses how to cultivate a community of world-changing learners.
“It’s a focus on high expectations for students but with a focus on relationships with our kids,” Bender said. “We will be putting some positive behavior supports in place to recognize our students. There’s going to be a big focus on that social-emotional learning.” Despite the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and school operations, Bender wants to assure the Summerlake family that staff is prepared to take precautions and follow all guidelines in place for staff and student safety. “We just ask that everybody be patient with us as we try to open the school and implement all these procedures and try to train our families on procedures,” she said. “We’ll take good care of their kiddos. We’re looking forward to it. Everybody’s really very excited, given everything (going on). We’re going to do the best we can, and want to provide a great experience for our kiddos.”
NEA
-VIRTUAL EVENTS AUGUST 23- SEPTEMBER 13
Pretty Monsters- Kelly Link
VIRTUAL CONTESTS AT HOME CRAFTS OPPORTUNITIES TO GET A FREE COPY OF PRETTY MONSTERS AND TO MEET AUTHOR KELLY LINK VIRTUALLY ON AUGUST 23, 2 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: OCLS.INFO/BIGREAD
339932-1
. . .
NEA Big Read is a program of the NationalEndowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest. For more information on this speaker, please visit prhspeakers.com
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
14
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020 WEST OAKS ELEMENTARY 905 Dorscher Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 532-3875 westoakses.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Cherie Thompson MASCOT: Wildcats ENROLLMENT: 591 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Discover After School, National Elementary Honor Society, Morning Media, chess club, Girls on the Run FUN FACT: West Oaks Elementary opened in August 2004 as a relief school for Citrus Elementary.
TILDENVILLE ELEMENTARY 1221 Brick Road Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5054 tildenvillees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Agathe Alvarez MASCOT: Tigers ENROLLMENT: 550 PTO PRESIDENT: Annette Ayala SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Champions before- and after-school program FUN FACT: Tildenville employs a two-way dual-language program in which students learn in English and Spanish while receiving 45 minutes of French instruction a week. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are so excited to see our awesome Tigers back for the 2020-21 school year. We are going to dive into digital learning this year. We can’t wait to get started!” — Agathe Alvarez
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I enjoy going to Tildenville Elementary, because all my friends and teachers are there and make feel like home. I get to learn Spanish in a dual-language format as well as French. I also get to go to school with my mom.” — Makenzie Edwards, third grade
WATER SPRING ELEMENTARY 16000 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 554-1610 waterspringes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Amy Klaber MASCOT: Otters ENROLLMENT: 900 PTO PRESIDENT: Lindsay Feintuch
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “My teachers are nice, and the staff is friendly at Water Spring Elementary School. They also have a cute Ollie Otter mascot.” — Lyla Nguyen, third grade SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Dance, drama, chorus, ORFF ensemble, variety of sports, before- and after-care through Champions FUN FACT: Water Spring opened its doors in August 2019. Its mascot, Ollie the Otter, was created by a talented member of the community and named by its “Otterly Amazing” community. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “As we look ahead to the 2020-21 school year, know that the safety of our entire school family is top priority.” — Amy Klaber
WESTBROOKE ELEMENTARY 500 Tomyn Blvd., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-6228 westbrookees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Vidal Reyes MASCOT: Wildcats ENROLLMENT: 672 PTO CO-PRESIDENTS: Brooke Axtell and Christen Kuhlman SPECIAL PROGRAMS: After-school program, Kidsart, music, golf, gymnastics, tutoring FUN FACT: Westbrooke Elementary 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 continuous school spirit.
WHISPERING OAK ELEMENTARY 15300 Stoneybrook West Parkway, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-7773 whisperingoakes.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Lee “Kip” Montgomery MASCOT: Wildcats ENROLLMENT: 1,182 PTO PRESIDENT: Tremaine St. Hill
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Whispering Oak, because it is a very loving and caring school. I love that at WOE friends are kind.” — Hannah Hutchinson, fourth grade SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Dramatic Education, guitar, tennis, golf, chorus, STEM club FUN FACT: WOE is starting its 15th year of excellence FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Looking forward to seeing all of our Wildcats back for 2020. We will be ready to R.O.A.R. (Respectful, Organized, Attentive and Responsible).” — Lee “Kip” Montgomery
15
THE OBSERVER 2020
Martial Arts, Soundtek, LifeChamps Martial Arts, Kidz Art, Kids Cook, Drama Kids, Elevate Sports, American Sign Language, baton, Science Seekers, fencing, guitar, chess club, Girls on the Run FUN FACT: Windermere Elementary has served elementary-school students among the lakes and citrus groves of West Orange County since 1889.
Why Families & Kiddie Academy Find Each Other Our approach to early education is to capture the momentum of curiosity and involve parents in every minute of it.
That includes you.
Ready to See How? (407) 863-2147 15806 Shaddock Dr, Winter Garden FL 34786
Learning is personal and powerful, and confidence and creativity grow with every interaction in and out of the classroom.
KiddieAcademyOfWinterGarden
338724-1
WINDERMERE ELEMENTARY 11125 Park Ave., Windermere PHONE: (407) 876-7520 windermerees.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Diana Greer MASCOT: Mustangs ENROLLMENT: 711 PTO PRESIDENT: Leigh Andrus SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Piano, gymnastics, Bricks for Kidz, computer coding club, Finnegan Irish Dance, soccer, Victory
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Despite our circumstances, we still ended (last) year on a positive note. ... Thanks to your participation, we once again received the Golden School Award and continue to maintain the Five Star School designation! Now that the beginning of school is just around the corner, we are working diligently to get our school ready for our students. Student safety is our number one concern, so we want to ensure that our campus is clean and prepared for their arrival.” — Charles Jackson
www.kiddieacademy.com
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
WINDY RIDGE K-8 3900 Beech Tree Drive, Orlando PHONE: (407) 296-5100 windyridgek8.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Charles Jackson MASCOT: Silverhawk ENROLLMENT: 1,200 PTA PRESIDENT: Karen DePriest SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Magnet program for ESE students FUN FACT: This is a community school with lots of parent involvement, and some current teachers were students here themselves.
GRAND OPENING AUGUST 22 AT 10:00 AM We are excited to share the opening of our new Matthew’s Hope Chest Store & Boutique on Saturday August 22 at 10:00 AM! The Store will feature real wood furniture and decor, much of it custom built, repaired, refinished or repurposed in our Hope Chest Workshop. In addition, the store will offer wood furniture and decor that can be purchased as is, prepped for refinishing or we can completely refinish pieces to your specifications. The Hope Chest Store will also feature a Boutique of higher end clothing that has been donated to Matthew’s Hope but is not useful to our homeless friends. These items will be sold to purchase the items we do need. To learn more, make a donation of wood furniture, decor or clothing, please contact Sharlene@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org This is not a Thrift Store and Donations cannot be left at the Store location.
MATTHEW’S HOPE CURRENT VOLUNTEER NEEDS 1. LAUNDRY TEAM Tuesdays 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM 2. HAIR SALON Tuesdays/Thursdays 8:00 AM-11:30 AM 3. LAWN CARE Preschool/Transitional Homes Every Day
Due to the COVID-19 Crisis, we are very, very limited in the number of volunteer opportunities and number of volunteers we can use, however we do have some specific needs. Everyone is required to adhere to CDC Guidelines.
4. CLEANING Outreach/Preschool/Transitional Homes Every Day
You may offer your availability by emailing us at Volunteer@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org.
5. SORTING DONATIONS Monday/Tuesday/Friday
If you have a specific area of interest, skill set or a question please let us know atVolunteer@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org
6. PACK ITEMS FOR DISTRIBUTION Monday/Tuesday/Friday
Please be patient with us as we are a small volunteer staff with high volume. If we do not reply immediately, please allow us time to field your request. We appreciate the continued support during this time when our community and staff can use it the most.
We can also use help from people working from home willing to bake cookies or brownies, prepare breakfast Burritos or Sandwiches, or lunch Sandwiches for our homeless friends.
Hope Chest Store Tri City Center 1027 S Dillard St & West Colonial www.facebook.com/groups/MatthewsHopeChest/ Matthew’s Hope 611 Business Park Blvd. #10, Winter Garden, FL 34787 Phone: (407) 905-9500 www.matthewshopeministries.org
18
MIDDLE SCHOOLS
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
BRIDGEWATER MIDDLE 5600 Tiny Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 905-3710 bridgewaterms.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Andrew Jackson MASCOT: Bobcat ENROLLMENT: 2,079 PTSO PRESIDENT: Christi Johanneman SPECIAL PROGRAMS: YMCA, National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, soccer, volleyball, basketball, track, intramural sports FUN FACT: Bridgewater Middle was designed as a relief school for Lakeview Middle and Gotha Middle. It opened in 2006.
CHAIN OF LAKES MIDDLE 8700 Conroy-Windermere Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 909-5400 chainoflakesms.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Cheron Anderson MASCOT: Ospreys ENROLLMENT: 1,220 PTSO PRESIDENT: Kimberly Gowanloch SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Ospreys Who Care, Beta, Thespians, STEM, Orchestra, YMCA, Project Lead the Way FUN FACT: Chain of Lakes has 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: “This year will look very different. Our students will receive top-notch instruction. This is going to be a fantastic year no matter how that may look.” — Cheron Anderson
GOTHA MIDDLE 9155 Gotha Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 521-2360 gothams.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Monica Emery MASCOT: Grizzlies ENROLLMENT: More than 1,100 HORIZON WEST MIDDLE 8200 Tattant Blvd., Windermere PHONE: (407) 554-1570 horizonwestms.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Michelle Thomas MASCOT: Hornets ENROLLMENT: 1,270 PTO PRESIDENT: To be announced SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Dance, Accelerated Courses, CTE, arts and photography, Spanish and French, performing arts FUN FACT: More than 42,000,000 pounds of concrete were used to build Horizon West Middle. That is the same as 42 fully loaded
SPECIAL PROGRAMS: YMCA; Clubs include NJHS, Student Council FUN FACT: Every year, the school creates its annual LipDub video that includes staff, teachers and students. Last year’s video went viral and was on the “Today” show.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school, because I get to see all my friends. I enjoy being able to choose my electives that I will take and the teachers and staff are really nice and helpful.” — Valentina Carreiro de Melo, eighth grade
Boeing 747 jets. And more than 300,000 man-hours from construction workers were used to build the beautiful school. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are excited to see our students and teachers back on campus in the near future. We will continue to provide first-rate education, albeit in variety of ways! We have demonstrated our resiliency while facing the challenges that we have been faced with in the recent months.” — Michelle Thomas
LAKEVIEW MIDDLE 1200 W. Bay St., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 877-5010 lakeviewms.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Tony Roman MASCOT: Red Devils SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Boys and Girls Club After-School Zone; Fellowship of Christian Athletes; National Junior Honor Society; Student Council; Spanish Honor Society; the following clubs — Book, Chess, Cooking, Drama, Intramurals, Jazz, Special Olympics, various sports OCOEE MIDDLE 300 S. Bluford Ave., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 877-5035 ocoeems.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Samuel Davis MASCOT: Cardinals ENROLLMENT: 1,326 PTA/PTO PRESIDENT: TBD SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Multiple digital electives earning Digital Tools Certificates and Industry Certification, FFA Program with an agriculture Land Lab FUN FACT: Ocoee was built as a demonstration school for the state. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “One of the things that we try to instill in our students is the concept of determination. I always tell them: ‘If being great was easy, everyone would be doing it! Being successful takes effort. It takes grit!’ This year will test that determination, but together, we will navigate the coming challenges. Together, with grit and determination, we will succeed.” — Samuel Davis
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “Ocoee Middle is a good school, because we are able to build meaningful relationships in the student body.” — Laura Curry, eighth grade
19
THE OBSERVER 2020
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I can’t wait to see our amazing Sea Lions back on campus!” — Raymond Yockel
Problem Based Learning and Student Voice and Choice FUN FACT: The 2020 eighthgrade class left a legacy by designing SunRidge Rocks! They can be found around campus next year. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am honored to be a part of the SunRidge family. Our teachers, staff and leaders are among the
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love to learn math and new things at school. My teachers are knowledgeable, nurturing and supportive.” — Jaylen Poole, seventh grade
best! Welcome to our incoming sixth-graders, and new and returning students. We are excited you chose SRMS. I am looking forward
to a fantastic year of learning and growing together through innovative practices and experiences.” — Amy McHale
Now Offering Virtual Appointments
332136-1
SUNRIDGE MIDDLE 14955 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-0794 sunridgems.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Amy McHale MASCOT: Eagle ENROLLMENT: 1,385 PTSO PRESIDENT: Shaune Poole SPECIAL PROGRAMS: School of Innovation focused on
MIDDLE SCHOOLS
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love going to Southwest, because we have great teachers and they offer so many choices for electives. Theater has been my favorite class so far, and I hope to be in another play!” — Peyton Dodds, seventh grade
SOUTHWEST MIDDLE 6450 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 370-7200 southwestms.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Raymond Yockel MASCOT: Sea Lions ENROLLMENT: 1,510 PTO PRESIDENT: Chelsea Dodds SPECIAL PROGRAMS: AVID National Demonstration School and Site of Distinction, Autism Spectrum and Intellectual Disabilities Center School FUN FACT: Largest student council of any OCPS middle school
20
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
IMMUNIZATION AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS REQUIREMENTS
KINDERGARTEN TO SIXTH
PRE-KINDERGARTEN
SEVENTH THROUGH 10TH
n Physical exam within one year of school entry. n Valid Florida DH 680 Immunization Form (Any color paper is acceptable for the DH 680 form; blue paper is not required.) All series must be completed prior to entry into kindergarten n DTaP Series* n Polio Series* n Hepatitis B Series n H. Influenza Type B (HIB) Series* n Pneumococcal Conjugate Series (PCV)* n 1 dose of Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) n 1 dose of Varicella (Chickenpox) * Age-appropriate doses
n DTaP Series n Polio Series n Hepatitis B Series n 2 doses of Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) n 2 doses of Varicella (Chickenpox) n DTaP Series n 1 dose of Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) n Polio Series n Hepatitis B Series n 2 dose of Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) n 2 dose of Varicella (Chickenpox)
11TH AND 12TH
n DTaP Series n 1 dose of Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) n Polio Series n Hepatitis B Series n 2 dose of Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) n 1 dose of Varicella (Chickenpox)
NOTES
n DTaP Series: If final dose was administered before 4 years of age, an additional dose is required. n Polio Series: If last dose was administered before 4 years of age, an additional dose is required. A fourth dose is not required if the third dose is administered at 4 years of age or older. If the fourth dose was administered prior to the fourth birthday, a fifth dose of polio is required. n Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis Booster (Tdap): Tdap may be administered prior to seventh grade starting at age 7 years. Please contact the Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s School Health Program at (407) 858-1438 or the Immunization Program at (407) 836-2502.
21
THE OBSERVER 2020 JANUARY
AUGUST
n Monday, Aug. 10: First day of school via LaunchED@Home n Friday, Aug. 21: First day of face-to-face learning
n Monday, Jan. 4, 2021: Teacher workday/student holiday n Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021: Students return to school. Begin second semester/third marking period n Monday, Jan. 18, 2021: Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (schools and district offices closed)
SEPTEMBER
FEBRUARY
OCTOBER:
MARCH
NOVEMBER
MAY
n Monday through Friday, Nov. 23-27: Thanksgiving Break
DECEMBER
n Friday, Dec. 18: End of second marking period n Dec. 21 to Jan. 1, 2021: Winter Break
n Thursday, March 11, 2021: End of third marking period n Friday, March 12, 2021: Student holiday/teacher workday n Monday to Friday, March 15 to 19, 2021: Spring Break (schools closed; district offices open) n Monday, March 22, 2021: Begin fourth marking period n Tuesday, May 25, 2021: End of fourth marking period/last day of school for students n Wednesday to Thursday, May 26-27, 2021: Post-planning for teachers n Monday, May 31, 2021: Memorial Day holiday (schools and district offices closed)
Offering: Aรงai, Pitaya, Spirulina and Kale Bowls, Smoothies, Fresh Juices, Parfaits, Banana Splits, Avocado Toast, Kombucha and Coffee
761
n Friday, Oct. 9: End of first marking period n Monday, Oct. 12: Teacher workday/student holiday n Tuesday, Oct. 13: Begin second marking period n Friday, Oct. 30: Teacher professional day/student holiday/ teacher non-workday
n Monday, Feb. 15, 2021: Presidents Day holiday (schools closed; district offices open)
0pm
n Monday, Sept. 7: Labor Day holiday (schools and district offices closed)
where healthy meets delicious!
eet!
OCPS 2020-2021 CALENDAR
BAD WEATHER MAKE-UP DATES CURRENT USE Professional Day Thanksgiving Break Thanksgiving Break Thanksgiving Break Presidents Day Holiday Spring Break Spring Break Spring Break Spring Break Spring Break
SPECIALIZING IN
338157-1 332838-1
352 Moore Rd, Ocoee, FL 34761
Open 7 days a week: 9:00am to 9:00pm (407) 654-6898
SE HABLA ESPAร OL
Offering catering & space for groups to meet!
grainandberry.com
ADHD I Asthma I Same Day Sick Visits I Sports Physicals Well child checks I Immunizations I Newborn Circumcisions
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 2/26/2020
IMG_2668.jpg
M - Th 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 8 - 12 Appointment Only 1128 Kelton Ave, Ocoee, FL 34761 (407) 290-5533 CentralPediatrics.com
Board Certified Pediatricians
331133-1 331134-1
Central Pediatrics
Muhammad A.Saleem,MD Saif A Haque,MD Veronica Garcia ,PA-C
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#sent?projector=1
1/1
le Bowls, na Splits, ffee
DATE Oct. 30 Nov. 23 Nov. 24 Nov. 25 Feb. 15, 2021 March 19, 2021 March 18, 2021 March 17, 2021 March 16, 2021 March 15, 2021
332838-1
PRIORITY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
22
HIGH SCHOOLS
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
DR. PHILLIPS HIGH 6500 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 355-3200 drphillipshs.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Suzanne Knight MASCOT: Panthers SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Advanced Placement (AP), Air Force JROTC, AVID, Business Academy, Medical Academy FUN FACT: Dr. Phillips High School 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.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love being at Dr. Phillips because it’s a high-performing athletic and academic school. Coaches and teachers are great developers of students. I miss being with my teammates and friends. Can’t wait to get back to school and to the field!” — Ledger Hatch, senior
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school because the school spirit is so strong. Nobody loves their school like Ocoee students love Ocoee!” — Zale Lugo, sophomore
OLYMPIA HIGH 4301 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 905-6400 olympiahs.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Christy Gorberg MASCOT: Titans SPECIAL PROGRAMS: APEX Academy, AVID, 26 Advanced Placement Courses, 33 Honors Courses FUN FACT: Since the school’s opening in 2001, Olympia High School has been the pride of the community, where high expectations and parental involvement support the school’s academic and extracurricular programs. This collaborative effort has consistently produced highly successful, exceedingly academic, well-rounded students. Olympia has been recognized as a Five Star School as a result of the community’s continued support.
OCOEE HIGH 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 905-3000 ocoeehs.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Lisa Karcinski MASCOT: Knights SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Digital Learning Pilot School FUN FACT: Last basketball season, Ocoee made it farther than it ever had in postseason play, as the Knights made an appearance in the regional final for the first time in school history. The Knights finished the season at 22-8.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Olympia for several reasons. First of all, I love the location. It is only five to 10 minutes from where we live, so I don’t have to wake up so early. I love that all my friends that I grew up with were all zoned for that area. But most of all, I love the fact that Olympia’s golf team has had a great reputation, so we get invited to invitationals (18-hole matches) compared to most schools who only play nine holes.” — Aaron Leach, sophomore
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love how selfless the teachers and staff are. Even with COVID, they are doing everything they can to make sure every student gets a full learning experience in the classroom or, if needed, from home. I also love how they appreciate and notice athletes/teams for their accomplishments. One of our athletic teams could win a game and to other people it may not mean a lot, but to the athletes it means the world. So to be recognized for accomplishments like that is really appreciated by athletes at West Orange.” — Lexi Scalzo, senior
WEST ORANGE HIGH 1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 905-2400 westorangehs.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Matthew Turner MASCOT: Warriors PTO PRESIDENT: Cheryl Roesch SPECIAL PROGRAMS: AVID FUN FACT: West Orange High is a true community school that has a large number of parent volunteers donating more than 20,000 hours of service each year.
23
sTuDenT physiCAls $30 On-site services include X-Rays, IV rehydration, drug screens, work & DOT physicals, auto accident evaluation & injury care, and FDA approved Covid-19 testing.
Office Now Open 9am-7pm, 7 Days a Week Walk-In Clinic
HIGH SCHOOLS
WINDERMERE HIGH 5523 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 347-0980 windermerehs.ocps.net PRINCIPAL: Douglas Guthrie MASCOT: Wolverines ENROLLMENT: More than 3,600 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Advanced Placement; Project Lead the Way; pre-major programs: accounting and business, agriculture, AICE, biomedical science, digital design, engineering, liberal arts, fine and performing arts, and tourism marketing and management FUN FACT: The state-of-the-art campus features technology-integrated classrooms, a state-of-the art media center, a performing-arts suite, an auditorium, a television-production studio, a gymnasium, a stunning cafeteria/student union, and an athletic complex, in addition to an off-site football/soccer/lacrosse field.
FDA Appr
TELEMEDIC INE AVAILABLE 407-960-218 8 Quality healt h at your finge care Seven Days rtips, a Week 9am-7pm
24
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
Courtesy photo
Orange County Public Schools will open two new high schools in West Orange and Southwest Orange in 2021.
An education in economic impact A recent report by Orange County Public Schools found that from 2014 to 2021, the county will see an economic impact of $2.3 billion. Nearly $763 million of that affects West Orange and Southwest Orange. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR
With the immense growth taking place in Orange County — especially in the southwestern part of the county — so comes the need for more schools. Since 2014, West Orange and Southwest Orange have become home to eight relief schools — including the recent renovation of Southwest Middle School and addition of Summerlake Elementary. That doesn’t include the two new high schools coming next year. Throw in multiple other schools that received comprehensive renovation or replacement, and you’re looking at a lot of construction work. With so much work going on to get schools built, an Orange County Public Schools board
member asked Lauren Roth — senior manager of facilities communications for OCPS — about creating an economic-impact report, something that had not done since 2013, Roth said. “I was able to point to this thing in 2013, and they were like, ‘That’s a really long time ago, and multipliers are probably different and the way our industry is shaped is probably different,’” Roth said. “So we went ahead and got this study and started it in 2014 — because the first year we didn’t have any data on — and we went forward through 2021, because that is money that is already encumbered. “There was a desire to highlight that even through this downturn, school construction is continuing,” she said. “There is so much growth in Horizon West and
beyond — I think that the board and OCPS want to make sure that people know that we are still contributing to the economy and that we are still building the schools that are needed.” The county contracted with PFM Group Consulting LLC to examine every aspect of how school construction has affected — and will affect — the county from 2014 to 2021. The firm used formulas specific to Orange County and to education construction, the amount of spending on each school and quantifying how much of that would typically be spent in Orange County. Based on that, they were also able to put job numbers to that, Roth said. According to the report, the total local construction expenditures with Orange County from 2014 through 2021 was $1.49 billion, with a total economic impact — including direct, indirect and induced spending — being $2.27 billion. Based on the numbers, there will be an average of 1,930 jobs per year. And that’s on the conservative side. “The impacts might actually be bigger, because they were assuming that 75% of each dollar is spent in Orange County,” Roth said. “I think one takeaway we had was this was an absolute minimum.”
But the most impressive statistic was the magnitude of just how school construction was benefitting West Orange and Southwest Orange. Out of the $2.3 billion impact on the county, $762.8 million affects this area. This year, the impact total was about $290.2 million. It increases to $314.4 million next year because of two new relief high schools — one in Dr. Phillips (Site 80-H-SW4) and the other on Seidel Road (Site 113-H-W-4) — planned for the area. “These are just really big numbers, because OCPS is just building so many years,” Roth said. “Next year is the year that we are opening two high schools, so the economic impacts are very large. We are hiring a tremendous number of construction workers, architects, construction managers. … There’s additional money being used to buy the materials that are going into the schools. “High schools are by far the most expensive type of campus to build,” she said. “They have their own auditorium, they have beautiful athletic facilities — both indoors and outdoors — they have a cafeteria that also serves as a social hall for many of these schools. … A high school is definitely a more in-depth project than a middle school or elementary school, so therefore it involves more spending on materials, construction workers and design, so it has a larger impact.” This will be the first time since 2009 OCPS has built two new high schools; the county has not added a high school since Windermere High was built in 2017. The two new high schools will help relieve the already-full Windermere High, as well as Dr. Phillips High School, among others. Roth said the biggest takeaway from report is that the numbers show the positive effect OCPS schools has on the community. “These numbers reflect real effects on real lives,” Roth said. “These are jobs that are available to people in our communities, and these are schools that kids are going to go to and graduate from and make memories in. We’re just very lucky — in Orange County — to have the taxpayers’ support to build these wonderful schools that will make such a difference.”
25
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
THE OBSERVER 2020 CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 700 Good Homes Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 850-2322 cfcaeagles.org PRINCIPAL: Pam Theobald MASCOT: Eagle SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Student clubs include art, Bible, chess, debate, poetry, praise band, step team, student government FUN FACT: On average, CFCA’s senior class has been awarded more than $1.5 million in college scholarships each year. THE CRENSHAW SCHOOL 2342 Hempel Ave., Gotha PHONE: (407) 757-2241 crenshawschool.com PRINCIPAL: Tanya Williams MASCOT: Stallions VIRTUAL MEET YOUR TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 21 ENROLLMENT: 80 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Video editing, Live virtual or on campus classes. FUN FACT: Students now go all over the world with our virtual field trips. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “All of us are so excited to see each other after what seems to be a forever summer. For those who attend classes on campus, it will be fun to see if we can recognize everyone as they sport their new Fashion-on-the-Face. For those who are going virtual, we will be able to recognize you. You can’t hide! We will have a lot of new safety guidelines in place. Remem-
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school, because our teachers educate us with love. I look forward every morning to walk into my classroom and see my teacher and friends.” — Siham Kaddoura, third grade
FAMILY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 671 Beulah Road, Winter Garden (407) 656-7904 familychristianschool.org PRINCIPAL: Terri W. Schneberger MASCOT: Rams
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love FCS because I get to learn about Jesus, everyone is nice to each other and my teachers are kind. It’s also not a bad thing to get sent to the office because the secretary is sweet.” Aaron Deal, fourth grade ENROLLMENT:120 PTO PRESIDENT: Lize Landis SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Chess Club, Art Club, Girls in the Middle, God’s Girls, Mountain Movers, Hill Climbers. FUN FACT: We have a school dog! Her name is Aubie, and she is the sweetest pup around! FROM THE PRINCIPAL: This year promises to be a different school year with some unique challenges. We are excited to see how the Lord will lead us through as a school fami-
THE FIRST ACADEMY 2667 Bruton Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 206-8600 bit.ly2VWoY7q PRINCIPALS: Jennifer Jackson, Lower School; Dr. Natalie Holter, Middle School; Dr. Shayne Grove, Upper School; Dr. Steve Whitaker, Head of School MASCOT: Royals PTO PRESIDENT: Katherine Johnson SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Royal Academy of the Arts and Enrichment for Lower School students to fine arts, athletics, aquaponics and Apple Genius Bar programs for Middle and Upper School students FUN FACT: More than 25% of the kindergarten class are second-generation Royals. Their parents attended and graduated from TFA. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We have missed our students. They are what make TFA such a special place. Our planning
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love TFA, because it’s a place where I can learn about Jesus in class with all my friends. I definitely think that a big factor in why TFA is such a great school is the fact that we’re a community and we support each other. This school is amazing, and I can’t wait to spend the next four years here.” — Hope Woods, ninth grade
and work this summer has been singularly focused on providing a safe, engaging, and joyful experience for our families when they return.” — Dr. Steve Whitaker, Head of School
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
26 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 foundationacademy.net PRINCIPALS: Sarah Reynolds, Upper School; Angel Whitehead, Lower School, Plant Street Campus; Amanda Donaho, Lower School, Lakeside Campus MASCOT: Lions ENROLLMENT: 905 students across three campuses PTO PRESIDENT: Celeste Carr SPECIAL PROGRAMS: New entrepreneurial program from Junior Achievement; offering the Naviance curriculum; a college and career readiness program; a new partnership with Orange Technical College offering credit for trade classes FUN FACT: Foundation Academy has been offering a Christ-centered education since 1958 and has been voted Orlando’s No. 1 private Christian school three consecutive years. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am so excited to get our students back into our classrooms and start the year. While we didn’t finish the year as anyone could have expected, the students persevered through the distance learning and finished strong. ... I am looking forward to making new memories as we open our doors for another school year.” — Sarah Reynolds, Upper School Principal
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I have been at Foundation Academy since fourth grade. ... I have felt as if I am a part of a loving community. I feel completely supported by my peers and by my teachers. ... They are available any time I need them.” — Rachel Hipskind, senior
HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5125 S. Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 876-2211 hfcschool.com PRINCIPAL: Sister Dorothy Sayers MASCOT: Lions ENROLLMENT: 650 PTO MEMBERS: Adrina Marshall, Annie Nuno, Sandra Visbal SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Altar servers, Catholic Youth Sports Athletics, band, choir, Kids For Jesus (K4J), Odyssey of the Mind, ScienceMath Olympiad, oration contest, science fair, school musical FUN FACT: Throughout the year, Holy Family Catholic School’s students participate in numerous charity events, such as food drives and fundraisers, to help those in need through Catholic Charities.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Holy Family Catholic School, because the teachers are so caring. I am thankful to start another year of learning academics and the Catholic religion. I am looking forward to seeing all my friends in person!” — Dylan Marrotte, sixth grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “We are looking forward to welcoming back the smiling faces of our students, teachers and families for a wonderful school year.” — Sister Dorothy Sayers
LIGHT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Main Campus: 1105 N. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee; South Campus: 2450 Citrus Oaks Ave., Gotha PHONE: (407) 656-6314 mylcac.com PRINCIPAL: Rebecca Smith MASCOT: Sharks MEET YOUR TEACHER OPEN HOUSE: 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at the Main Campus ENROLLMENT: 108 (main campus) SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Soccer, basketball, archery, flag football, track and field FUN FACT: The school has a new basketball pad this year. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am so excited to start this year! We have missed our students over this summer break and look forward to what this new year holds.” — Rebecca Smith
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school, because I get to study the Bible and science. I also love that I get to see my friends and teachers every day.” — Abigail Jones, third grade
27
THE OBSERVER 2020
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school, because it is truly unique in its values. Its emphasis on a healthy synergy of knowledge, character and community has provided me with lifelong values. Having recently moved to Montverde, Florida, from Canada, I consider myself extremely lucky to have found a family like MVA, where I have been encouraged to avidly explore my academic and athletic passions.” — Pavlos Tentomas, 11th grade FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “At the heart of an MVA experience is an engaging and challenging academic program that ignites students’ desire to gain the skills needed to achieve at the highest level. ... With its cultural diversity, the academy attracts students from around the world, creating an exciting international dimension to our environment” — Dr. Kasey C. Kesselring, Headmaster
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
MONTVERDE ACADEMY 17235 Seventh St., Montverde PHONE: (407) 469-2561 montverde.org HEADMASTER: Dr. Kasey Kesselring MASCOT: Eagles LOWER SCHOOL MEET AND GREET: Tuesday, Sept. 1 MIDDLE SCHOOL ORIENTATION: Thursday, Sept. 3 UPPER SCHOOL MEET AND GREET: 8 a.m. to noon Thursday, Sept. 3 ENROLLMENT: 1,300 PTO PRESIDENT: Charlotte JeBailey SPECIAL PROGRAMS: 34 Advanced Placement courses, Distinguished Scholar Program for students dedicated to pursuing the highest level of scholastics, Six Study Area Concentration Diplomas for students who have identified a study area of interest that could be their major field of study in college
VICTORY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1601 A.D. Mims Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-1295 vcaocoee.org PRINCIPAL: Jason Davis ENROLLMENT: 100 SPECIAL PROGRAMS: A Beka Book curriculum FUN FACT: This year marks Victory Christian Academy’s 35th anniversary.
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.
WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 6189 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere PHONE: (407) 905-7737 windermereprep.com HEAD OF SCHOOL: Dr. Steven Lyng MASCOT: Lakers ENROLLMENT: 1,500 PTO PRESIDENT: Sandy Hauck SPECIAL PROGRAMS: MIT — STEAM in Action, Global Campus, Juilliard FUN FACT: This is the 20th anniversary of the school. During the 2019-20 school year, the Lakers won four district championships, two conference championships, one regional championship and one state runner-up, while Windermere Prep had eight fine-arts students who were chosen for The Applause Awards sponsored by the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Windermere Prep ... is offering two academic programs, our traditional on-campus program, and our new Campus Connect program. Campus Connect allows
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love WPS, because of all the opportunities and experiences that one is able to engage in with not just classmates, but a variation of students from different grade levels! We all come together and use the four C’s, which are creativeness, critical thinking, communication and collaboration to work as a team!” — Emma Bergren, eighth grade
families who choose or need to keep their children at home the ability to maintain a direct connection to their classrooms, teachers and peers.” — Tiffany Alrefae, Assistant Head of School. Director of Curriculum & Instruction
28
CHARTER SCHOOLS
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
HOPE CHARTER/ LEGACY CHARTER HIGH 1550 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-4673 hopecharter.org PRINCIPAL: Kristy Castellanos, Legacy; Allen Quain, Hope Charter MASCOT: Eagles ENROLLMENT: Legacy: 225, Hope: 435 PTO PRESIDENT: Dawn Boyd SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Hope and Legacy specialize in individualized education, remediating and enriching as necessary and assisting all high school students to meet graduation requirements, maintaining a 100% graduation rate.
INNOVATION MONTESSORI OCOEE 1644 N. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee PHONE: (407) 654-2045 innovationmontessori.com PRINCIPAL: Patrice Cherico MASCOT: Owl ENROLLMENT: 800 PTO PRESIDENT: Jackie Lee SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Montessori, private preschool program, project-based learning (middle school), Innovation Incubator (high school), Restorative Justice, PEACE education, yoga/ mindfulness, band, winter guard, basketball, theater, art, running club FUN FACT: A determined group of middle-school students asked if they could start a basketball team last year, undeterred by the fact that we don’t have a court
FUN FACT: Hope Charter School was funded in 2000 and started educating students in 2001, making us 20 years old.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “When we were suddenly thrust into crisis mode last March because of COVID-19, everyone was forced to stay home, removed from normal routines and activities. Parents and students were compelled to adapt to schooling at home. Teachers were constrained to devise and execute strategies for distance learning. .... But, in spite of the difficulties and disappointments, we pulled together and made the best of a dire situation. However, none of us ever imagined that the pandemic would extend into the 2020-21 school year. ... Even so, our dedicated staff is facing the challenges of this new school year.” — Allen Quain, Hope Charter
just yet. They worked together with coach Jamie LoFiego to find practice opportunities. Not only did their participation in the district’s
co-ed charter school league provide lots of fun and excitement for everyone in our school, but they went on to decisively win that league.
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love my school because of my teachers who show me new things and my friends who make me laugh. I enjoy our weekly peace circle where we exchange beads for showing kindness to each other.” — Linley Osterberg, third grade
FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Our yearbook theme last year was ‘A Galaxy of Possibilities.’ This school year certainly presents just that — lots of possibilities! As we start the year off with both anticipation and uncertainty, we want our students to know that that we will work together to make it a great year. We look forward to the excitement of helping you to realize your potential and the prospect of opening up future possibilities to you. We love you and have missed you all, and look forward to seeing you either in person or online soon.” — Patrice Cherico
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love being at Hope, because everyone is so nice to me — especially the teachers.” — Adalynn Wiggers, fourth grade
OAKLAND AVENUE CHARTER SCHOOL 456 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland PHONE: (407) 877-2039 Oaklandfl.gov PRINCIPAL: Pamela Dwyer MASCOT: Eagle ENROLLMENT: 535 PTO PRESIDENT: Kacie Hough SPECIAL PROGRAMS: VPK; gifted Class; after-school clubs — Lego, Minecraft, American Girl, Guitar and Art; Discover After School Care; additional after-school activities (even if not enrolled in program) such as Cooking Club, Science Club and Kid Preneur Club. FUN FACT: Students are grouped into “nests” — Trustworthiness, Integrity, Perseverance and Generosity. The groups are brought together monthly. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “I am looking forward to having my Eagles back in their nest!” — Pamela Dwyer
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love Oakland Charter because I have so many friends and would never want to leave them!” Giuliana Vargas, third grade
29
THE OBSERVER 2020 RENAISSANCE CHARTER SCHOOL AT CROWN POINT 83 West Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 573-1080 crownpointcharter.org PRINCIPAL: Brett E. Taylor MASCOT: Royals ENROLLMENT: 1,140 PTC PRESIDENT: Eneida Cortez NEW PROGRAMS: AVID, aquaponic farming interactive class FUN FACT: Renaissance Charter at Crown Point is the first school in CSUSA history to have an aquaponic farm on its campus. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Greetings, RCCP family and others. We look forward more than you know to starting this school year off with a bang. With safety precautions in place, we know that our students, teachers and family are up to the new challenges that lay ahead. I look forward to seeing all of you very soon, either mobily or face-to-face.” — Brett E. Taylor
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I like the teachers because they are very nice. I like the events and interaction with the teachers and students. The work is tough, but the teachers are quick to guide if needed.” — Julianna Ranck, sixth grade
Locations in Ocoee, Windermere, and Winter Garden
8 AREA LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!
15504 Stoneybrook West Pkwy Winter Garden I 407-656-2934
271 West Road Ocoee I 407-654-0014 8894 West Colonial Drive Ocoee I 407-291-4994
1569 East Silver Star Road Ocoee I 407-297-0560
13350 Summerport Village Pkwy Windermere I 407-905-6741
2468 South Maguire Road Ocoee I 407-654-4986
7315 Winter Garden Vineland Rd Windermere I 407-654-4244
339974-1
Corner of S. Dillard St and W. Colonial Dr Winter Garden I 407-877-2662
30
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
SPECIAL EDUCATION UCP CENTRAL FLORIDA — WEST ORANGE CAMPUS 1297 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Suite 110, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 904-0135 ucpcfl.org PRINCIPAL: Thomas Brickel MASCOT: The West Orange Wave ENROLLMENT: 180 PTO PRESIDENT: Houda Marchani SPECIAL PROGRAMS: Flexible instructional delivery both on campus and online; services to students with special needs; speech, physical and occupational therapy; clinical counseling; behavior-support services; 21st Century after-school enrichment program; morning care and after-school care; Movie Club FUN FACT: The school is moving to a new building in August 2021. FROM THE PRINCIPAL: “Students: We are thrilled to see you on campus for the new school year! Your teachers and I cannot wait to ‘Ride the West Orange Wave’ with you again.” — Thomas Brickel
WHY I LOVE MY SCHOOL “I love doing math at school; my teachers give me manipulatives so I can add and subtract. I also love playing on the swings and using the learning apps like iReady.” — Nathaniel Montano, fourth grade
“I like UCP, because my teachers help me learn a lot. My therapists help me get stronger. Sometimes we do fun activities. Also, the logo is really cool.” — Christian Igyarto-Ners, fifth grade
Observer Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor / Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Associate Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives / Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Iggy Collazo, iggy@orangeobserver.com Creative Services / Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com To Advertise, please call (407) 656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com.
339975-1
CONTACT US
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.
31
337267-1
THE OBSERVER 2020
BACK TO SCHOOL 2020
338156-1 338156-1
32