Reference Guide
Registration
Curriculum
• A child must be 5 years old on or before
Sept. 1 to go to kindergarten.
• A child must be 6 years old on or before
Sept. 1 and must have attended
kindergarten to enter first grade.
• To find out which school your child will
attend, as well as the documents you will
need to register your child, call Pupil
Assignment at 407.317.3233 or check the
district’s Web site at www.ocps.net.
Learning Communities
407.317.3600
• South Area Learning Community
6501 Magic Way, Building 700
Orlando, Florida 32809
407.317.3740
• East Area Learning Community
601 Woodbury Road
Orlando, Florida 32828
407.737.1490
• West Area Learning Community
1399 Windermere Road
Winter Garden,Florida 34787
407.905.3200
• Urban Cohort Learning Community
5146 N.Pine Hills Road,Suite 100
Orlando, Florida 32808
407.532.7970
Special Pr ograms
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Charter Schools
Exceptional Student Education
Gifted
Guidance/Home Education
Hospital/Homebound
Magnet Schools
Multilingual Services
Preschool Evaluation Center
School-Age Child Care
Student Assistance & Family
Empowerment (SAFE)
Parent/Community In
volvement
• Community Resources
• PTA Office
• The Foundation for OCPS
• Title I Parenting
407.317.3323
407.317.3200
Ext.2192
407.317.3261
407.317.3200
Ext.2855
Fr equently Called Numbers
• North Area Learning Community
1200 W. Colonial Drive
Orlando, Florida 32804
• Prekindergarten Program
407.317.3522
• Technical Education Centers 407.317.3400
407.317.3484
407.317.3229
407.317.3336
407.317.3314
407.317.3909
407.317.3484
407.317.3410
407.317.3503
407.317.3383
407.317.3327
• Assessment/Testing & Research 407.317.3284
• Community Relations
407.317.3237
• District Office
407.317.3200
• Health Services
407.317.3409
• Human Resources
407.317.3215
• Office of Public Assistance
407.317.3463
• Pupil Assignment
407.317.3233
• School Board Services
407.317.3236
• Student Alternative Programs 407.622.8240
• Transportation
407.317.3800
Other Important Information
• A school’s dress code usually is included in
handbooks or other documents produced by
the school.
• To qualify for free and reduced price lunches,
parents/guardians must meet income eligibility
guidelines set by the U.S.Department of
Agriculture. Applications are sent home with
students.
• The district office, called the “Educational
Leadership Center,” is located at 445 W.
Amelia St.in downtown Orlando.
• The district's Web site is: www.ocps.net.
• The Florida Department of Education Web site
is www.fldoe.org.
A Parent’s Guide
TO ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MISSION
STATEMENT:
Each student will acquire the
skills, attitudes and knowledg e
necessary to reach full potential.
The School Board of Orange County, Florida,does not discriminate in admission or access to or treatment or employment in its programs
and activities on the basis of race, color, religion,age , sex,national origin,marital status,disability or any other reason prohibited by law.
The Equal Opportunity supervisor responsible for compliance is Emma Newton,and she may be contacted at 407.317.3239.
TABLE OF
Welcome to our district
1
Getting started
How the district is organized
How to solve problems
Where to get help
Kindergarten and first-grade
registration
What school does my child attend?
Student records
When do I register my child for school?
How do I register my child for school?
Where can my child get
immunizations and health exams?
2
2
2
2
Health and Safety
Health forms for starting school
Health screenings
Accidents and illnesses at school
Communicable diseases
Head lice
Absences
School health services
Medication at school
Hospital/Homebound
School meals
Where to go for help
Standards of behavior
Code of student conduct
Transportation
Standards of Conduct for Students
transported by school bus
4
4
5
5
5
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
7
7
8
Curriculum
Comprehensive Academic Achievement Plan
Field trips
Elementary school
Elementary magnet programs
Charter schools
School-age child care
Character education
Middle school
High school
Block schedules
Magnet programs
Florida Virtual School
Workforce Education:Technical Training
2
3
3
3
3
4
8
9
9
9
9
10
10
11
11
11
12
13
13
14
14
Contents
Workforce Education: Adult Education
and Personal Enrichment
14
Special Pr ograms
Student Assistance
Multilingual Student Education Services
Title 1
Alternative programs
GED testing
Guidance
School Social Work Services
Exceptional Student Education Services
Programs for gifted students
Requirements for placement
in the gifted program
How are gifted services
delivered in Orange County?
School resource officers
15
15
15
16
16
17
17
18
18
18
Student Achie vement
Report cards and progress reports
Assessment
FCAT
Testing for the college-bound student
SAT
PSAT
ACT
PLAN
Achievement Tests
Advanced Placement Tests
20
20
20
20
20
20
21
21
21
21
21
Getting In volved
Showing an interest in school
Making home a school zone
Helping with homework
Staying in touch with school
How a conference can help your child
Arranging a school conference
Making the most of a school conference
School Improvement
Keeping track of progress
School Advisory Council (SAC)
Volunteering at school
Parent-teacher support groups
The Foundation for OCPS
OCPS is on the Internet!
Civility Policy
21
21
21
22
22
22
22
23
23
24
24
24
25
25
25
25
School Calendar
26
19
19
19
Welcome
to our district!
T
he Orange County public school system is one of the largest
districts in the nation.Because of our size and resources, we
are able to provide effective educational services for students
of all ages,whether they are 3-year-olds in a preschool
program or senior citizens in personal enrichment courses.
Although our schools are able to meet many needs,they
alone can't ensure student success.It requires a partnership
between the home, the school and the community to prepare our children for the future.
1
Getting Started
How the district is organized
To better serve students and parents,
the district is organized into five Learning
Communities,each including between 25 to 35
schools. Principals in these communities report
to an area superintendent,who reports directly
to the superintendent.
One reason for this type of structure is to
provide a more direct line of communication
between principals and the superintendent.In
addition,the smaller Learning Communities
allow the district to push resources closer to
the schools while at the same time maintain the
purchasing power of a large district.
You can contact the Learning Communities
at the phone numbers listed on the inside front
cover.
How to solve problems
Life is never free of problems, but most can be
worked out if we know who to talk to and how to
go about it. Like all large organizations, schools and
school systems have a chain of command and
procedures set up to deal with problems. Such
problems can be addressed most effectively when
parents follow these guidelines:
When there is a problem in a school or
classroom:
1. See your child’s teacher . Always see the
teacher first. Most problems can be solved
when parents and teachers work together;
both want students to succeed and feel good
about themselves.You also may want to see
the guidance counselor, who might be able to
help in a variety of ways. If your concern
involves discipline, you can speak with one of
the five area administrators.
2
2. If you are still concerned, see the school
administrator . Administrators want happy
students,parents and teachers and may often
be able to work out solutions and
compromises.
3. If you still do not feel comf ortab le with the
explanations or r esults, call your
administrator’ s area superintendent.
Administrators report directly to the area
superintendents who oversee the five
Learning Communities.
4. You may also contact the superintendent or
the school boar d. The telephone number to
the Educational Leadership Center is
407.317.3200.
If you are concerned about an issue rather
than a specific problem that relates only to your
child or one teacher, you can bring it to your
School Advisory Council, PTA or school board
representative.
Wher e to get help
The Office of Public Assistance is a clearinghouse for questions and/or concerns when you're
not sure where to call for help. Staff members can
either provide the information you seek or put you
in touch with the appropriate office to answer your
questions. They're ready to assist and can be
reached at 407.317.FIND (3463).
Kindergarten and first-grade
registration
Children entering kindergarten must be
5 years old on or before Sept. 1 of the school
year. Children entering first grade must be
6 years old on or before Sept. 1 of the school
year and, according to Florida law, must have
successfully completed kindergarten. Children who
are 6 years old but have not completed kindergarten must register for kindergarten.
obtain photocopies of your child's records for a
small charge.
When do I register my child for school?
What school does my child attend?
Kindergarten and first-grade students who are entering school for the first time may pre-register at their
assigned school during the pre-registration session held
each spring at every elementary school.You are encouraged to pre-register your kindergartner or first grader
because it helps the school in planning.
New students at all grade levels may register at their
assigned school Monday through Friday during school
hours.
Students who are promoted from elementary to
middle school or from middle to high school are registered for their new school by a guidance counselor
during spring orientation if they attended an OCPS
school during the previous year.
Your child's school assignment is determined
by your residential address.If you need to find out
which school your child should attend,call Pupil
Assignment at 407.317.3233.You will need to give
your address and your child's grade level.The staff
will use this information to identify your child's
school. School assignment information is also available on the district’s Web site at www.ocps.net.
How do I register my child for school?
The best way to register a student is to go to the
assigned school to complete and sign the necessary
forms.If you are unable to go to the school for registration due to work or illness,call the school to make other
arrangements.
You must pr ovide the following documents befor
e
your child can start school:
• Proof of residence — homestead exemption card,
declaration of domicile (for new residents),
lease agreement or notarized statement
• Verification of child’s birth date
• A copy of your child's last report card (if your
child has been enrolled in another school system)
• Proof that your child has had a medical
examination within the last year (only if your child
is entering a Florida school program for the first
time)
• A Florida certificate of immunization (Department
of Children and Families Form 680) with dates for
each immunization (Certificates from other states
and doctors’ notes are not acceptable.)
Student records
The Orange County public school system
maintains educational records on each student for
the purpose of planning instructional programs,
guidance of students, preparation of local, state and
federal reports,and research.
Each school maintains a cumulative record
folder for each student, as well as an automated
student record. Records of former students are
maintained at the district office. Student records
include information such as:name, address,names
of parents or guardians, attendance and courses
taken.Other information that may also be
contained in student records is health information,
honors and activities,and career plans.
You may review your child's records by making
an appointment with the principal or school
counselor. School personnel are available to
interpret student record information.You may
3
Where can my child get immuniza
tions and health exams?
-
In order to obtain a Florida certificate of immunization,children must complete the following series
of immunizations:
• 5 DPT (diphtheria,pertussis and tetanus)
• TD (tetanus/diphtheria) booster, grades
7 through 10
• measles vaccine, with a second booster,
preferably MMR,kindergarten through
grade 10
• mumps
• rubella
• HIB (H.Influenza Type B — for
prekindergartners)
• Hepatitis B (must have begun three-shot
series) for kindergarten,grades 1,2,7,8, 9
and 10
• varicella (chicken pox) for prekindergarten,
kindergarten,and grades 1 and 2
If your child has been immunized in another
state, you must show proof to a local doctor or the
public health unit in order to obtain the Florida
certificate.
Florida statutes require that all children entering a Florida school for the first time must have
proof of immunization and proof of a health
examination within the past year.You may use your
private physician or one of the Orange County
Health Department's special immunization clinics.
(Contact the clinics for dates and times of operation.)
Apopka Family Service
Center
555 W. Martin Street
Apopka,FL 32712
Phone:407.905.5580
Ocoee/Winter Garden
Clinic
1210 Plant Street,Suite 300
Winter Garden,FL 34765
Phone:407.877.4320
Central Clinic
832 W. Central Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32805
Phone:407.836.2600
Walk er F amil y Ser vice
Center
150 Amidon Lane
Orlando, FL 32809
Phone:407.850.5100
Eastside Clinic
12050 E.Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32826
Phone:407.249.6232
4
Health
and Safety
This section is based on policies of the Orange
County School Board.School principals and staff are
responsible for students while they are at school.
Contact your child's teacher or principal any time
you have questions.
Health forms for starting school
All children entering the Orange County Public
Schools,prekindergarten through 12th grade, must
have the following:
1. Certification of Immunization forms that are
available from your physician or the Orange
County Health Department.Prekindergarten
program students may not have completed all
doses. (Please see this page for required
immunizations.) A religious or medical
exemption to immunizations is available.
Parents must visit the public health department to obtain the form.
2. Proof of a health examination conducted
within one year before entering school that
has been signed by a physician.School
examination forms are available through your
physician or the Orange County Health
Department.This form is turned in once and
becomes part of your child's permanent
records.You are responsible for notifying the
school of any changes.
3. An Emergency Student Information form.
These forms are filled out at the beginning of
each school year.They are available at your
child's school.
Keep your child's school up to date on:
1. Provide the school with a phone number or way to
reach a parent or guardian during school hours.
Notify the school as soon as there is a change.
2. Inform the school of any changes in your child's
health,such as allergies,diabetes or new
medications.It is best to do this in writing and
follow up with a phone call or conference, if
necessary.
3. If your child has a contagious disease, such as
measles,hepatitis,tuberculosis,strep throat,
pink eye or chicken pox,please keep your
child at home and notify the school.Schools
should also be notified when students have
head lice.
Reinforce basic hygiene with your children. Talk about
washing hands and not sharing combs,clothing,cups or
eating utensils.Contact the health department for specific
information about infectious diseases.The school system
provides information about communicable diseases,including AIDS/HIV, and how to limit transmission.Parents are
urged to participate in the learning process.
Head lice
Head lice are easily transmitted from one person to
another. Head lice may be transmitted by direct contact
with a person with head lice or by coming into contact
with things used by a person with head lice, such as combs,
brushes,hats, sweaters,blankets,carpeting and upholstered
furniture. Many children have at least one infestation of lice
during their years at school.
Children found to have head lice and/or nits will be
sent home with instructions from the health department
for treatment.It is important to carefully follow all the
steps listed on the instructions.Call your physician,pharmacist or health department if you have questions.
A student may return to school after treatment with
proper medication,a shampoo or rinse that kills lice, and
after all nits are removed.Some schools may require a label
from the medication as proof of proper treatment.All
schools follow the no-nit policy recommended by the
health department.
Health screenings
The mandated grade-level screenings include the
following:students in kindergarten,first and seventh grades
receive screenings for vision and hearing;students in
kindergarten,first,second and third grades receive
screenings for growth and development;and students in
the seventh grade receive screening for scoliosis (Parents
will be notified prior to scoliosis screening.).
Health screenings are not limited to mandated grade
levels.Parents may submit a written request for students to
be exempt from health screenings for religious reasons.
Accidents and illnesses at school
Absences
If a child becomes injured or ill at school,the parents
will be notified.School staff members may give basic first
aid only.
If the injury or illness is believed to be serious and
parents are unavailable, the person in charge at the school
will arrange for the child to be taken to the hospital.You
should make sure the school has up-to-date information on
the Emergency Student Information form. All accidents are
reported to the principal.
School attendance is the responsibility of the parent
and student.Since there is a strong relationship between
attendance and academic performance, it is imperative that
parents take an active role in working with the school to
ensure their child’s attendance on a daily basis.
Schools provide information regarding attendance
policies and procedures at the beginning of the year.
Parents must contact the school each time a student is
absent.However, methods of notification vary among
schools.School board policy lists the reasons for which an
absence may be excused.
Minors between 14 and 18 years of age who accumulate 15 unexcused absences in any 90-calendar-day period
Communicable diseases
Watch your child for signs of communicable diseases.
Children with sore throats,coughs or fevers should be
kept at home.
5
will not be issued a learner’s permit or will have their driver’s license suspended.
If you have specific questions about attendance, call
your student’s school and ask for the attendance office.
days or longer, may be eligible for Orange County Public
Schools’ Hospital/ Homebound program.
Applications are available from the school guidance
counselor or the Hospital/Homebound office at
407.317.3909. Applications should be submitted as soon as it
is anticipated that a student will need these services.
School health services
The district funds expanded health care services in
local schools.Specially-trained school health assistants are
located at each elementary and middle school during
school hours to handle a wide variety of health-related
responsibilities,including first aid and basic care for ill
students,dispensing medications,specialized care for
chronically ill students,emergency care, health screenings
and other tasks.
In addition,each of the five learning communities is
assigned a full-time registered nurse to supervise the
school health assistants in their area schools and to
provide training.
School meals
If your child needs medication during school hours,
staff members may assist your child. A medication
permission form must be completed for each prescription
and non-prescription medication.The medication must be
brought to school by an adult in its prescription-labeled
bottle or original container with the pills counted.
All medication must have your child’s name and
instructions on the label.Any changes in medication
dosage or prescription require directions written by a
physician,a new permission form and new original
container. No loose pills are accepted.The principal will
assign a secure place to keep medications.
The goal of the School Meal Program is to provide
high-quality, nutritious,affordable meals to all the students
of Orange County. Lunch and breakfast are available to all
elementary school students.Secondary school students
may choose an a la carte breakfast and a well-balanced
hot lunch.They may also purchase meals from the snack
bars.Snack bar items include nutritious sandwiches, salads
and fruit-based beverages.
School meals ensure that your child is receiving
nutritionally-balanced meals in a pleasant environment.
School meals contain a variety of foods and offer students
exposure to new foods.The better-nourished child will
generally have better attendance, be more attentive in
class and have more energy to cope with the activities of
the school day. Children also learn good nutrition habits
that provide a basis for better health throughout their lives.
Hospital/Homebound
Where to go for help
Any prekindergarten through 12th-grade student whose
physician or psychiatrist certifies that the student:
• is under the care of that medical professional;
• is diagnosed as confined to home or hospital setting
and not able to attend his/her regular school;
• does not have a communicable disease, and
• is expected to be absent for fifteen (15) school
The Orange County school district has a variety of
programs to assist in the health care of students.
Guidance counselors,social workers,public health nurses,
homebound instructors and psychologists are some of
the available personnel.The first step is to notify your
child's teacher or principal if you need help.They can
refer you to someone who can assist you.
Medication at school
6
Here is a partial list of resources:
• Orange County Public Schools Health Services -
including high school students attending either a technical
center in a dual-enrollment program or a community
school program for high school credit.Each OCPS student must obey district rules:
• while on school grounds
• while being transported to or from school at public
expense
• during school-sponsored events,such as field trips,
athletic functions and similar activities
• during the time students are on their way to and
from school or are presumed by law to be attending
school.
Each student attending Orange County Public Schools
receives a copy of the Code of Student Conduct.The various levels of infractions are described below. (For more
information on responses to interactions, please refer to the
Code of Student Conduct.)
407.317.3409
• Orange County Health Department - 407.836.2600
Provides various medical forms,a nurse to answer
questions,and low-cost clinics.
• OCPS Hospital/Homebound Program - 407.317.3909
Applications are available at each school.
• Student Assistance and Family Empowerment
(SAFE) - 407.317.3327
The SAFE Program works with students who are
exposed to or may be at risk for:
1) substance abuse or alcohol abuse
2) child abuse
3) pregnancy
4) economically disadvantaged or dysfunctional
homes
5) a violent or delinquent act
6) mental health problems
7) suicide
For more information about the SAFE Program,see
page 15 or contact the SAFE coordinator at your school.
Code of
Student Conduct
ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Standards of behavior
Schools must provide a learning environment that is
orderly, supportive and safe. Students and parents must
know what is expected of them and what will happen if
students break the rules.In order to establish reasonable
consistency in the schools,a uniform code of conduct has
been developed.Schools and teachers may develop individual rules and disciplinary practices that supplement the
district code and are not in conflict with it to deal with
individual school or classroom situations.
The Orange County Public Schools’ Code of Student
Conduct describes the rights and responsibilities of students,parents and schools in areas such as behavior, personal privacy, and procedures relating to disciplinary
actions.The code defines consequences for behavior in
violation of the rules,including those related to drugs,
alcohol,contraband and weapons.
Additionally, the code contains a section on civility and
a student Internet use policy.The code is available in
English and five other major languages.The code applies
to all students in prekindergarten through grade 12,
ELEMENTARY/SECONDARY/POSTSECONDARY
2003 - 2004
Code of Student Conduct
• Level I infractions are minor acts of misconduct
that interfere with the orderly operation of the
classroom,a school function,extracurricular
program or approved transportation.Level I
offenses might include, but are not limited to:
cheating,tardiness,disrespect for others and
profanity.
• Level II infractions might include repeated acts
of misconduct from Level I,fighting,gambling,
stealing or vandalism.
7
• Level III infractions are major acts of misconduct.
They might include repeated acts of lower level
offenses,serious disruptions of school and threats to
the health and safety of others in the school.Such
offenses might include:willful or malicious destruction of school system property or the property of
others;or fighting.
• Level IV infractions are the most serious forms of
misconduct.Such offenses might include:using,
possessing or selling alcohol,drugs or drug paraphernalia;arson;communicating false bomb threats
or fire alarms;or weapons possession.
limit,the parent should contact the Transportation
Services Routing Office at 407.317.3808.The routing
office will review the situation using state guidelines to
determine if busing can be provided.Other questions
about bus routes should also be addressed to the routing
office.
Standards of conduct for students
transported by school bus
Because of the school district's continuing efforts to
provide safe transportation for all students,whether for a
field trip, athletic function,etc. or to and from home,
students are expected to obey certain standards of
school bus behavior in addition to the Code of Student
Conduct.
These standards — which include rules like “obey
the bus driver at all times” and “stand off the roadway
while waiting for the bus” — are included in the Code of
Student Conduct.
Video cameras have been installed on many buses.
Students may be filmed at any time during their ride.The
tapes may be used to determine discipline violations.
Violations of bus behavior standards,the Code of Student
Conduct or any action or behavior by a student(s) to
substantially distract the driver which causes,or has the
potential to cause, a safety hazard on a moving bus may
be the basis for suspension from school and/or expulsion
from bus-riding privileges.
Students’ lockers may be searched if there is reasonable suspicion a student may be keeping firearms or other
unlawful items in the locker. Lockers are the property of
the school system.
Individual students or their belongings may be
searched if a principal has reasonable suspicion that the
student is carrying something that is against school board
regulations or against the law.
Parents will be notified when students misbehave.
Parents and students are encouraged to study the Orange
County Public Schools’ Code of Student Conduct,as well
as local school rules,to understand the responses to misconduct while in school or at school-related functions
and activities.
Transportation
The Orange County school system operates the
largest public transportation system in Central Florida.
The district provides transportation to and from
school for all students who live two miles or more from
their assigned school.The two-mile limit is determined by
traveling the most direct route between a student's house
and the nearest entry point to the school.
If a dangerous situation exists along the route for an
elementary school student living within the two-mile
8
Curriculum
Field trips
The district’s philosophy is to give all students the opportunity to experience academic
success and learn to respect themselves and others.This philosophy is reflected in all aspects of
the school experience, including the curriculum.
Educational trips extend learning beyond the
school.Some educational trips are provided by the
district to all children at a certain grade level or to
those who request it.Parents are notified about district-sponsored educational trips,but are not
required to sign individual permission slips.Other
educational trips will relate to specific areas of study
in the classroom. For these you must fill out a permission slip and return it to school in order for your
child to participate.There may be a fee to cover
costs,but often PTAs or schools provide funds so
that every child may go. If you need assistance for a
particular trip, please call your student’s teacher or
school guidance counselor.
Comprehensiv e Academi c Achie vement
Plan (CAAP)
Orange County Public Schools is committed to
educating all students so they can assume roles as
responsible, contributing members of a democratic
society.An effective curriculum is critical to the district’s success in meeting that goal.Through its
Comprehensive Academic Achievement Plan (CAAP),
OCPS has developed a curriculum that is consistent
throughout the district.The plan also provides instructional strategies that meet the needs of all students in
our diverse population,whether they are high academic achievers or need additional help to perform at
grade level.
The district’s curriculum is based on the Sunshine
State Standards.These standards,developed by the
State of Florida,outline what students should know
and be able to do at all grade levels and in all subject
areas,including language arts,mathematics,science ,
social studies, foreign language, art,drama, music, physical education,and health.
Each year, students in grades 3 through 10 take
the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test,commonly
known as the FCAT.The state test is based on the
Sunshine State Standards for reading, writing,mathematics and science.The FCAT helps teachers and
schools pinpoint areas in which a student may need
more help. It is also used to assess how well schools
are meeting the academic needs of their students.
Elementary school
All elementary schools include kindergarten
through fifth grade.The goals of elementary school
include providing children with the skills they need to
read,communicate orally and in writing, solve mathematics problems, and apply this knowledge to everyday situations.Elementary schools also work to instill excitement
and joy in the learning process.Thus,children might perform on stage, create an invention, run a school store,
enter an oration contest, write a book, sing in a chorus,
play a musical instrument, tutor other children,design
artwork, learn about careers and take educational trips.
A child usually has one classroom teacher with
whom he or she spends most of the day.This teacher
teaches reading,language arts,mathematics,science
and social studies.Many schools also have a media
specialist (librarian) and special area teachers for
music, art and/or physical education.Other areas of
study, such as computer instruction,are built into the
children's schedules.
9
Since elementary school personnel work to
develop the child socially, emotionally and intellectually,
each school has a guidance counselor on staff. In addition,
a psychologist is available to each school to assist in diagnosing any special learning needs a child may have, and
social workers are available to help solve problems.
If you have questions about any aspect of your
school's curriculum,please call your child's teacher.
Elementary magnet pr
ograms
During the 2003-04 school year, eight elementary
schools have magnet programs.They are:
• Arbor Ridge School, P re K- 8
• Durrance Elementary,Aviation/Aerospace
• Engelwood,Dual Language
• Hillcrest, Foreign Language
• Pinewood,Fine Arts Academy
• Princeton,Science
• Rock Springs,Economics Microsociety
• Windy Ridge School, P re K- 8
Students assigned to other schools within the
Regional Learning Community may apply to attend a
magnet program as long as seats are available.
can reach the Summit Charter School West campus at
407.293.5604.
The Summit Charter School Central
campus is
scheduled to open in fall 2003 and will serve students in
grades K-6.
Princeton House Charter School
operates a
school for autistic children ages 3 through seventh grade.
You can reach Princeton House Charter School at
407.245.7550.
Lake Eola Charter School
offers educational
services to K-8 students in the downtown Orlando area
and focuses on rigorous curricula. You can contact the
Lake Eola Charter School at 407.246.0900.
Rio Grande Charter School of Excellence
serves
students in grades K-5.The school enhances academic
learning through an emphasis on fine arts and performing
arts programs.The school may be contacted at 407.649.9122.
Westminster Academ y serves children from
ages 3 to 21 whose educational program or progress has
been interrupted or impeded by medical problems or a
traumatic injury.The phone number for Westminster
Academy is 407.841.6560.
HOPE Charter School meets the needs of students by assessing modality and uses unit teaching to provide remediation or enrichment as assessed for each
child.You can reach HOPE Charter School at
407.656.4673.
Nap Ford Community School
is a K-3 health and
Charter schools
In 2003-04, 16 charter schools are serving students
in Orange County.
Charter schools are public schools that are privately
run and operate free of some state rules and regulations.
They are sponsored by a school board and receive state
tax dollars to operate.
The Passport School focuses on providing
instruction to both exceptional and regular education
students in a fully inclusive school.You can contact the
Passport School at 407.841.4814.
The Summit Charter School Maitland
campus
serves K-8 students identified with specific learning disabilities (SLD),with an emphasis on directed remediation
to advance students to their grade level in reading,writing
and math.You can reach Summit Charter School Maitland
campus at 407.599.4001.
The Summit Charter School West campus is
located in the Pine Hills area and serves grades K-6.You
10
wellness school with an integrated curriculum that
emphasizes health.You can reach Nap Ford Community
School at 407.245.8711.
NorthStar High School provides instruction to
both exceptional and regular education students in a fully
inclusive school serving grades 9-10. You can reach
NorthStar High School at 407.273.1188.
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
provides comprehensive services for children from birth through kindergarten with developmental delays.You can reach UCP at
407.852.3333.
The United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Pine Hills
campus is scheduled to open in fall 2003 and will serve
children from birth through kindergarten.
MESTA Charter School’ s mission is to address
the academic and developmental needs of students in
grades 6-8,and will target those who are functioning
academically at one or more levels below their grade
level.You can reach MESTA Charter School at
407.298.6378.
Origins Montessori Charter School’
s mission is
to meet the academic, social and physical needs of
Orange County children with varying learning styles and
abilities.The school offers a Montessori curriculum for
students in grades K-5. You can reach Origins Montessori
at 321.235.3739.
West Orange County Elementary Charter
School’ s mission is to offer parents,teachers and students in grades K-5 a caring,learning community focused
on helping each student achieve his or her full potential.
You can reach West Orange County Elementary Charter
School at 407.654.2039.
Children remain at school,enrolled in a safe, convenient,affordable program.Adult staff members provide
careful supervision.The Extended Day Enrichment
Program is offered at 89 elementary school sites. For
more information about fees and hours of operation,
contact your child's elementary school.
Character education
All Orange County schools have a character
education curriculum appropriate for different grade
levels.Certain character traits are identified — such as
citizenship, trust,caring, responsibility, fairness and respect
— and classroom materials that provide suggested
activities to reinforce each trait are distributed to the
schools.
This curriculum is not intended to be an “add-on”
program — another thing for the instructor to teach.
Rather, the materials are designed to be included in
lessons and assignments the teacher has already
scheduled.Schools are encouraged to be innovative and
creative in the kinds of activities they use to encourage
these character traits.
Middle school
School-a ge child car e
Middle schools include grades 6-8 and are designed
to be a supportive place for pre-teens who are going
through physical and emotional changes.The middle
school curriculum allows students to explore their interests, yet is less specialized than that of the high school.
Natural relationships among subjects are emphasized,
helping students learn about one subject through another.
In middle school,students continue to master subject
content and grow academically, and they also grow per-
The Extended Day Enrichment Program offers
supervision and a variety of enrichment activities for
children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Some
schools offer grades K-8,and Extended Day is provided
at those schools as well.) The program is fee-supported
by those using its services.Daily activities include homework time, supervised free play, art,drama,crafts, music,
dance and organized games.
11
sonally and socially, learning to solve problems and make
appropriate decisions.Each middle school has opportunities for teachers to get to know, listen to, and discuss
issues important to the students.
Teachers are grouped into teams of four, usually with
science, social studies,language arts and mathematics
forming each core group.These teachers see the same
students,and they have joint planning times each day in
order to discuss individual student progress and needs
and to coordinate teaching efforts.
Besides the core subjects that all students take each
year, middle school students are encouraged to explore
other subject areas,such as reading,physical education,
health,computer education, vocational education and fine
arts.Guidance counselors help students work through
difficulties and plan for future academic and vocational
success.Psychologists and social workers are available
when needed.
In addition,exploratory classes such as keyboarding,
computers, foreign languages,art,band,chorus,orchestra,
ule, students have six periods in a school day to take
courses.Each year-long course a student takes and passes
is worth one credit.In order to graduate with an Orange
County diploma, students must earn 24 credits,including:
• 4 credits of language arts
• 3 credits of mathematics
• 3 credits of science
• 3 credits of social studies
• 1/2 credit of personal fitness
• 1/2 credit of physical education
• 1/2 credit of fine arts
• 1/2 credit of practical arts
• 1/2 credit of life management skills
• 8 1/2 credits of electives
Electives include academic, cultural and vocational
courses such as foreign languages, music, art,driver education,engineering,business education,computer program ming,agriculture, marketing education,health occupations,
home economics,industrial education and technology
education.
To graduate students must earn a passing score on
the FCAT in addition to earning the required number of
credits.Students who earn the required credits but are
unable to pass the state test will receive a Certificate of
Completion instead of a regular diploma.
In order to meet the statewide graduation requirements and be awarded a high school diploma,students
must attain a 2.0 cumulative grade point average.
Honors diplomas are awarded to students who meet
the requirements for a diploma and have a 4.0 grade
point average.They are also awarded to students who
meet the requirements for a diploma,obtain a score at
the seventh stanine or above on an approved standardized achievement test using national norms, and have a 3.0
grade point average.
Florida sponsors several awards programs that offer
certificates and scholarships to outstanding students.To
participate in the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship
Program, students must earn 24 credits, meet specific
course requirements, and attain the required score on an
admissions test. For the Academic Scholars Award,students
must also perform 75 hours of community service. The
agriculture, and technology education give students
opportunities to find areas of particular interest to them.
Students also can participate in sports and clubs offered
at school.
If you have any questions about the middle school
curriculum,please call your child's guidance counselor.
High school
High schools include grades 9-12.Some high schools
have separate ninth grade centers.In a traditional sched12
Block schedules
Gold Seal Award recognizes outstanding vocational students
who complete a three-credit job preparatory program and
maintain a specified grade point average. Additional information is available from high school guidance counselors.
In addition to participating in standard high school
programs, dual enrollment program students can spend part
of their day at a high school and part at a vocational-technical school studying a field of interest not offered on a high
school campus. Programs also are available for students who
want to attend school part-time and work part-time.
All high schools offer the Tech Prep program.The goal
of this program is to better prepare students for employment and postsecondary education. It integrates academics
and technical education and enables students to apply what
they are learning to real problems and situations.
Each school offers a variety of programs designed to
meet the needs of its students. All schools offer the
Advanced Placement Program, which gives selected students
the opportunity to take entry-level college courses. National
exams in advanced placement courses are given at the end
of the school year. If a student scores well enough on the
exams, the courses may be used for college credit.
In addition, each school may offer dual-enrollment
courses for academically talented students through an
agreement between the Orange County School Board and
local colleges. Eligible, dually-enrolled students earn high
school and college credit upon successful completion of
dual-enrollment courses.The student does not pay the
college’s application fee or for tuition and books. Seniors also
may spend half a day each day for a semester as an intern in a
business through the Executive Internship Program.
Extracurricular activities and school clubs also are an
important part of a high school experience. Students who
have specialized interests may join clubs such as math,
computer, foreign language, business, science or drama. Most
clubs are open to any student, although some require
enrollment in a specific class or a certain grade point average.
Each spring, students will receive a course directory
listing the following year’s courses. Please call your student's
guidance counselor for specific information about programs,
courses, requirements and help in planning for your child's
future.
Some high schools in Orange County use block
scheduling so students can spend longer periods of
uninterrupted time in their classes:
• 4 x 4 schedule
With the 4 x 4 schedule, students register for four
courses in each term of the school year. Classes meet for
90 minutes every day. Under this plan,a full-year course is
completed in one semester and students can earn up to
eight credits in a school year.
The 4 x 4 schedule provides students with more
choices than can be accommodated within a traditional sixperiod schedule.
• Alternate day scheduling
This type of schedule resembles a college schedule.
Students take six classes during the school year. Class
periods are longer, with classes meeting every other day.
For example, a student might attend a world geography
class from 9:30-11:30 a.m.on Tuesday and Thursday this
week.Next week,the class would meet at the same time
on Monday,Wednesday and Friday.
Magnet pr ograms
Magnet programs provide an opportunity for students
to engage in intensive study in specific areas.Programs are
designated as Level I (attracting students from across the
district) or Level II (attracting students within the learning
community).
Level I magnet programs include:
• Electronics and Design Engineering – Evans High
• Engineering, Science and Technology – Edgewater
High
• International Studies – Dr. Phillips High
• Medical Careers – Apopka High
• Law and Finance – Boone High
• Veterinary Animal Science and Services – Colonial
High
• Visual and Performing Arts – Dr. Phillips High
• Academy of Business and Industry – Jones High
• Aviation and Aerospace – Oak Ridge High
• Global Information and Future Technologies –
University High
13
Robert F. Hungerford Preparatory High School is a
district magnet high school that offers four programs:
Agricultural Biotechnology, Global Business,
Information Systems and International Culinary Arts.
Level II magnet programs include:
• Engineering, Science and Technology, Apopka High
• Information Technology, Colonial High
• Hotel Management, Oak Ridge High
• International Baccalaureate – Cypress Creek High,
University High,Winter Park High
• Sports Medicine and Management – Jones High
Workforce Education:
Technical Training
More than 100 training programs are available
through the four Orange Technical Education Centers.
They are designed to prepare students (ages 16 years and
up) for employment.Programs are based on Central
Florida industry needs and are designed to provide
technical training to those seeking entry-level employment,those wishing to upgrade their current workplace
Florida Virtual School
Florida Virtual School went online in 1997.Its purpose was to provide Internet-based instruction to high
school students throughout the state of Florida.
Today, Florida Virtual School has a faculty of more
than 100 and offers 75 courses.The courses are offered
free-of-charge to Florida students.The courses offered by
Florida Virtual School cover a wide range of subjects—
from Advanced Placement courses to SAT Preparation.
Access to the Internet via computer and permission from
parents and a school counselor are required for enrollment.Florida Virtual School also offers adult education
courses online, such as the GED preparation.
All students are assigned to an instructor who monitors and guides their progress. Teachers communicate
weekly with each student by phone and e-mail. Grades are
performance based.Students are evaluated solely on the
degree to which they achieve specified course objectives.
All of Florida Virtual School’s courses are delivered
online. As a result,there is an exceptional degree of flexibility in the learning process.The school’s motto is “Any
time, any place, any path,any pace.” This refers to each
student’s ability to study at any time of the day, in any
location,and at a pace appropriate to his or her needs.
For more information about Florida Virtual School or
to register, check out its Web site at www.flvs.net or call
the school office at 407.317.3326.
skills and those wishing to retrain for a new job. Job
placement services are available for those who complete
the program.Educational opportunities include:architectural drafting,practical nursing,hospitality services,plumbing,computer networking,automotive technology, and
electronics.Programs vary in length from six-week courses,such as home health aide, to one-year courses,such as
surgical technology.
For information about locations and program offerings,please call 407.841.TECH (8324).
Workfor ce Education: Adult Education and
Personal Enrichment
The Orange Technical Education Centers and the
Adult and Community Education Centers (ACE Centers)
offer courses for all community members who are seeking
to earn a GED, improve their English language skills,or to
strengthen their reading or mathematics skills.In addition,
a wide variety of Personal Enrichment – “just for fun” –
14
courses are available to Orange County residents.
Some classes,such as dance, are created for children
and others,such as ceramics,are designed for all ages.
ACE Centers offer high school credit courses for high
school students who need additional credits to graduate. SAT and FCAT prep courses are also available.
For information about locations and course
offerings, please call 407.841.TECH (8324).
intervention,pharmacology, resiliency, conflict
resolution, child abuse and indicators of domestic
violence.The training is open to parents as well as representatives from community agencies.
To provide support for parents,Family Education
Centers are located at four community schools.The
centers provide family counseling and support groups.
For more information on the program,call
407.317.3327.
Special
Programs
Multilingual Student Education Services
Language Enriched Pupils (LEP) in OCPS are provided comprehensible instruction through English for
Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL),One Way
Developmental Bilingual Education (K-8), Two Way
Developmental Bilingual (K-5),and Sheltered
Instruction and Basic Mainstream Instruction with
ESOL strategies.
Students are identified for LEP specialized programs by their answers to home language survey
questions.These questions are as follows:
• Is a language other than English used in the
home?
• Does the student have a first language other
than English?
• Does the student most frequently speak a
language other than English?
Students who answer “yes” to any of the questions will take an English Language Proficiency Test.
This test is given at the student’s home school.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
instruction enables all LEP students to develop listening,speaking, reading,and writing skills in English.
Students in bilingual instruction continue to develop
concepts in their native language while acquiring
English proficiency. Research shows that while the students are learning English,home language strategies
combined with ESOL strategies provide students with
an opportunity to acquire concepts in math,social
studies,and science for the appropriate grade level.
In Bilingual Education programs,children study
science, math,and social studies in the home language
and work on listening,speaking, reading,and writing
Student Assistance
The goal of the Student Assistance and Family
Empowerment Program, or SAFE, is to provide a
comprehensive continuum of prevention services for
students and their families, as well as intervention
services for students who are at risk.
The programs are delivered through SAFE teams
located in each secondary school and through counselor-coordinated programs located in the elementary
schools.The SAFE team is composed of teachers,
resource officers, New Horizons counselors, guidance
counselors, administrators and other staff members, with
the student assistance coordinator serving as the team
leader.This team focuses on student needs in the areas
of alcohol, tobacco, drug and violence prevention,in
addition to providing support groups at each secondary
school.
The Student Assistance Program provides peerbased programs that focus on maintaining drug-, alcoholand violence-free campuses. Educational programs also
are provided in the areas of positive discipline, cooperative discipline, class meetings, peer mediation and Peace
by Piece curriculum.
The Student Assistance Program also provides
training in the areas of prevention and intervention to
district and school-based staff.This training includes
workshops in crisis prevention, grief and loss, suicide
15
skills in English every day. Physical education, music, art,
and other electives are taken in English with peers in the
same grade level.Students spend between one and six
years in these specialized programs,depending on their
level of English language proficiency and literacy in the
native language.When Bilingual Education programs are
not feasible, the district offers comprehensible instruction
to LEP students through the use of ESOL strategies in
content classes,Sheltered Instruction and/or
ESOL/Language Arts.The sheltered instruction approach
uses English at the student’s level of English proficiency to
teach grade level subject areas courses.
Since more than 150 languages are spoken in our
schools,ESOL is offered at elementary, middle, and high
schools.The students receive instruction in English from
an ESOL teacher each day, but are placed in regular classrooms for their academic courses,and teachers use ESOL
strategies.At the secondary level,the LEP student may
also take ESOL,listening, reading,writing,speaking,and
elective courses that focus on English language acquisition
skills.In addition,all instructional teachers who deal with
students who are not fluent in English will receive 60
hours of training in ESOL strategies and teaching techniques in order to ensure that comprehensible instruction
is provided.
existing curricula with additional materials,staff development,parental involvement,highly qualified staff and
resources otherwise not available.
The new Title I has one overriding goal:to improve
the teaching and learning of children in high-poverty
schools to enable them to meet challenging academic
content and performance standards.
The Title I Migrant Education Program is a supplemental/compensatory program designed to address the
educational and social needs of migratory students in
grades prekindergarten through 12 and their families.
Secondary schools with a significant number of
migrant students have an on-campus migrant advocate.
These advocates are liaisons between migrant students,
parents and school personnel.They visit students' homes,
get to know the family, and assist with referrals for
various types of social services.
Migrant students receive tutoring in math,English,
and other academic areas.There also is a Mentor
Program that pairs volunteers in the community and/or
schools with migrant students to help them in establishing
and achieving educational,career and personal goals.
Alternative pr ograms
Some students need extra attention or encouragement to stay in school.These students often are uninterested in school,late or absent a great deal,do only
enough to get by, and/or have repeated a grade at least
once.They may be very bright children,but school isn’t
where they put their energy. Student alternative programs
are available to meet the needs of these students.
Two school-to-work programs are located at
Universal Studios and the Florida Mall.Students in these
programs earn full high school credit while attending
school half a day and working half a day.An adjudicated
program operates at Goodwill Industries.Two program
sites are available for teen parents and their children,in
addition to a competency-based teen parent curriculum
at all high schools. Twelve high schools offer the GED high
school exit option.Youth involved in six juvenile justice
commitment programs and nine social agencies are
served by Orange County teachers.If you would like
Title 1
The Title I Program,the largest federal program of
assistance to elementary and secondary schools for the
education of disadvantaged children,provides supplementary, compensatory services for educationally-disadvantaged students in grades prekindergarten through 12.
Educational components include early childhood,basic
skills (reading, language arts,mathematics,and science),
higher-level skills,challenging subject matter and parental
involvement training.
As more is learned about the effect of positive parenting on children,it becomes even more important for
Title I to assist teachers and schools in reaching out and
involving the family as an integral part of the total educational process.Title I provides educational resources for
parents to use at home with their children.The focus of
Title I services has always been to supplement already
16
information about these and other alternative programs,
please call 407.622.8240.
In addition,many schools have “school-within-aschool” teams,where students are in smaller classes,
work with fewer teachers,get positive support,have an
integrated curriculum and do community service. Several
school-based programs focus on reading and math enrichment.One high school offers the Jobs for Florida’s
Graduates program,which is affiliated with the National
Jobs for America’s Graduates.The Orlando/Orange
County Compact program in nine high schools pairs
selected students with a mentor from the business community.
Community Education Partners,Inc. (CEP) operates
two alternative schools serving 650 students in grades
6-12 at each site.A middle school behavior center and a
center for students (grades 6-12) who would otherwise
face expulsion are operated by Excel Alternatives,a private agency. Other programs exist in cooperation with
two juvenile justice programs and one social agency. If
you would like information about such centers,please
call 407.317.3484.
test date. To register, prospective testers must be 18
years of age, have a valid State of Florida ID/driver’s
license and social security card,and pay a test fee.
Individuals 16 and 17 years of age may request to take
the test by submitting proper paperwork to the GED
Chief Examiner of Orange County Public Schools.
Prospective underage testers must have an extraordinary
circumstance that would prevent them from continuing
their regular high school studies. It is highly recommended that students speak with their high school guidance
counselor before withdrawing from school to attempt the
GED course of study.
The GED Test is under the domain of the Florida
Department of Education. Individuals who successfully
complete the GED Test will be awarded a State of Florida
High School Diploma. The GED office is located at 434
North Tampa Ave. For more information,please call
407.317.3531.
Guidance
The primary goal of the Comprehensive Guidance
Program is to promote and enhance learning for all students of Orange County.The school counselor, a certified
professional with a master's degree, is the organizer and
coordinator of the Comprehensive Guidance Program.
School counselors support students in their efforts
to learn,assist them in their personal and social growth
and guide them in their transition from school to careers.
They teach many “life” skills,including test taking,decision
making,demonstrating respect for the feelings and beliefs
of others,college and career planning,locating sources for
career and job information,anger management and conflict resolution.They conduct small group sessions focusing on issues such as “changing families,” test anxiety,
making friends and poor self-image. Counselors consult
with families,teachers and community members in an
effort to help students achieve.
School counselors are located in every middle
school and high school and the majority of elementary
schools.They share the same goal as parents:to ensure
that students acquire the skills,knowledge and attitudes
GED testing
The GED 2002 Series Tests cover information that is
relevant to the skills employers expect from a high school
graduate. GED Preparation classes are offered free of
charge at Orange County Technical and Adult Education
Centers. Any individual wishing to take the GED 2002
test must attend a two-hour pre-test orientation. During
the orientation,individuals will be assigned to a specific
17
necessary to reach their full potential.Parents are
encouraged to contact their counselor.
Eligible students are served in the least restrictive
environment, as appropriate to the student's identified
needs. An exceptional education teacher may deliver
services by helping a general education teacher adapt
materials and instruction or by working directly with a
student several times a week.Children needing more
attention may be taught in a full-time ESE class or even in a
special school.
Exceptional Student Education Services offers screening, evaluation and referral services to any preschool child
age 3 or older through the Early Intervention Services
Center. Parents who feel their 3-year-old may need special
help can contact the center by calling 407.321.3503. Schoolage children needing evaluation services are referred
through their school guidance counselor.
Florida Diagnostic Learning Resource System (FDLRS pronounced “Fiddlers”) serves as a resource for parents and
teachers of students with disabilities. FDLRS provides a
library, computer software for preview, resource catalogs, a
referral system for parents and specialized training
opportunities.
The Florida Department of Education offers a
“Parent Choice” program for ESE students.It is the John
McKay Scholarships for Students with Disabilities. For
specific information about the program, you may visit the
state’s Web site at www.opportunityschools.org or
call 407.317.3312.
For more information about ESE programs and
services, please contact your child’s guidance counselor, the
staffing coordinator or the placement specialist at the
school.You may also contact the Exceptional Student
Education office at 407.317.3229, or visit the Web site at
www.ese.ocps.net.
School Social Work Services
School social workers serve as liaisons between home,
school and community by providing casework services to
address the problems of students and families. Social
workers assist in the development of programs to
encourage regular attendance, work with school personnel
and parents regarding student adjustment, conduct parent
conferences, and make referrals to appropriate community
agencies.
School social workers often visit the home to determine the causes and develop strategies for addressing problems. In addition,they may help students who have a need
for glasses, dental work, medical care, clothes or financial
aid.
Students and families can access social work services
through their learning community office.
Exceptional Student Education Services
Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Services address
the needs of students with disabilities.There are several different services available to eligible children from age 3
through age 22. Eligible children include those with autism,
deaf-blindness, emotional handicaps, hearing impairments,
mental handicaps, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairments, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities,
speech or language impairments, traumatic brain injuries and
visual impairments. Children with vision and hearing disabilities are eligible from birth. Related services, such as physical
and occupational therapy, are also available to help students
with specialized education services.
The primary focus of ESE is to help students acces the
general education curriculum.A student’s primary educational need(s), identified in an Individual Education Plan
(IEP),are met through the use of nationally-recognized curricula and behavioral approaches that are research-based
and exemplify best practices.Technology also is an integral
part of ESE Services and is used in many innovative and creative ways to meet student needs.
Pr ograms for gifted students
Orange County Public Schools is committed to an
educational program that recognizes the unique value,
needs, and talents of individual students — including students identified as gifted. Gifted students need a qualitatively
different educational program that takes into account their
unusual intellectual abilities and provides them with a greater
range of challenges than those offered by the standard
18
curriculum.The gifted curriculum should meet the objectives of challenging and stretching students’ academic talents,developing in them a desire for excellence and fostering greater self-awareness and self-esteem by varying
the:
a) content taught,
b) instructional strategies used to teach it,
c) environment in which it is taught,and
d) student’s role in learning.
Therefore, the overarching goal of the gifted program
is to enable gifted children to become independent,lifelong learners who are prepared to assume roles as leaders of,and active participants in,a world of rapid change
and complexity.
through content-based gifted classes such as gifted English or
gifted Social Studies. Some schools also offer gifted elective
classes, such as Advanced Academic Skills, that focus on
enrichment through teacher-selected exploratory content.
High school gifted students may participate in such advanced
programs as International Baccalaureate,Advanced Placement
classes,dual-enrollment college courses or Gifted Studies
elective courses that emphasize such elements as problemsolving skills, advanced research, independent study skills and
leadership development.
For more information about Orange County’s Gifted
Program, contact Gifted Services at the Exceptional Student
Education department at 407.317.3336.
What are the eligibility requirements for
placement in the gifted pr ogram?
School r esour ce officers
In Florida,students are eligible for gifted services if
they meet the criteria outlined in Florida Board of
Education Rule 6A-6.03019, FAC.A gifted student is one
who has superior intellectual development and is capable
of high performance.Approximately 3-4 percent of all students will meet the eligibility requirements for being classified as gifted.Eligibility criteria include a demonstrated
need for the program,a majority of gifted behavioral characteristics as indicated on a standard scale or checklist
and superior intellectual development as measured on an
individually administered test of intelligence.
How are gifted services delivered in
Orange County?
Orange County focuses on a combination of enrichment and accelerated curricula in Gifted Services.Teachers
for gifted services are required to attend five speciallydesigned gifted education courses that lead to a state-level
endorsement in Gifted Education.
At the elementary level,most students participate
with other gifted students in a one-day-per-week resource
room setting.Students work individually and in groups on
activities which enrich the regular school program and
challenge students with units of study that are beyond the
scope of the regular program.The gifted resource room
may be in the student’s home school or he/she may travel
to a nearby gifted center.
At the middle school level, students are typically served
Officers from eight local law enforcement departments
work with students in kindergarten through high school in
Orange County.
Through the Drug Awareness and Resistance Education
(D.A.R.E.) and the Super Kids program, one officer is assigned
to each elementary school on a part-time basis and may serve
three or four schools each week.The officers teach weekly
sessions that focus on decision making, resistance to peer
pressure and conflict resolution without violence to every
fifth-grade student in Orange County public schools.
Each middle school is assigned a full-time police officer.
They teach classes that are related to topics such as careers
in law enforcement, reasons for laws and rules, the consequences of crimes, prevention of crime, violence and arson,
and substance abuse education.They also serve as resources
for other classes, talking about anything that is related to the
law and working toward preventing accidents by teaching bike
and pedestrian safety.
Each high school is normally assigned two law enforcement officers.They do not teach their own classes, but are
invited by teachers to talk about law enforcement-related
topics.Most importantly, the officers are available and
accessible to students at all levels,providing informal
counseling and proactive programs to prevent problems.
In addition,they are involved in school activities and other
community relations functions.
19
Florida Comprehensiv
(FCAT)
Student
Achievement
e Assessment Test
The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test
(FCAT) is designed to assess how well students have
met the Sunshine State Standards and Grade Level
Expectations adopted by the State Board of Education.
These standards and expectations set out what students
are expected to know and be able to do at each grade
level.The FCAT is given to students in grades 3 through
10 and includes a test of reading and mathematics. A
separate writing test is given in grades 4, 8 and 10 and a
science test is given in grades 5, 8 and 10.
The FCAT for some grades has multiple choice
items along with short answer and extended response
items.These grades include grade 4 reading, grade 5
math and grades 8 and 10 reading and math.The FCAT
tests for other grades have only multiple choice items.
Students who graduate in following years will need
to pass the FCAT in order to receive a high school
diploma.They will have six opportunities to pass before
graduation.
A second component of the FCAT is a norm-referenced test administered by the State of Florida in grades
3-10.This test includes a reading and math test and compares students to a national norm group.
In addition to the FCAT, additional reading tests are
administered during the year at grades K-10 to monitor
a student’s progress.
Report cards and pr ogress reports
Report cards are sent home every nine weeks.
(Schools that differ from this schedule will notify you
when to expect report cards.) They are intended to
provide information about your child's progress in
school, including grades, behavior and attendance.
Grades reflect a teacher's assessment of your child's
classroom performance, and teachers may include tests,
projects,checklists,classroom assignments, homework
and classroom observations in determining the grades
for your child.
A teacher also may indicate on the report card
that a conference is needed. Some schools even arrange
for a parent conference to go over the report card.
Midway through the grading period, each child
takes home a progress report so that the student and
the parents or guardians will have an idea of how the
student is doing. If needed, a parent and teacher may
arrange to have weekly progress reports sent home.
Although you will receive four progress reports
and four report cards each year, the best information on
your child's progress, work habits, socialization skills,
strengths and weaknesses comes from a conference
with the teacher.
Testing for the college-bound student
(Please consult your student's guidance counselor for
recommendations about which tests to take and when to
take them.)
Assessment
Most tests that the children take will be selected
or designed by the teacher to determine whether the
students in a particular class understand what they have
been studying. Standardized tests, on the other hand, are
tests that are given to large numbers of children in a
standard way: the same directions, the same test conditions, and the same amount of time allowed.Parents will
receive information about any standardized tests that
their children take.
SA T
According to The College Board, the creator and
publisher of the SAT, this multiple-choice test is designed
to measure general verbal and mathematical abilities. It is
taken by high school students for college admissions.The
abilities tested develop from both in-school and out-ofschool experiences.Thus, the test does not
20
measure the quality of a high school education or
knowledge of specific courses of study. It is designed
for college-bound juniors and seniors and is used by
many colleges to supplement students' academic
records because different schools may vary greatly in
curriculum and grading practices. According to The
College Board, using SAT scores and high school
records together is a more accurate predictor of how
a student will do in college than using either measure
alone.
ment in many subject areas.Students who successfully demonstrate high achievement may receive
college credit,advanced standing in a subject
required in their college curriculum,or both.The
tests are generally given in May. (Please see your
child's guidance counselor for specific information and
advice.)
Getting
Involved
PSA T
The PSAT is designed for sophomores or juniors.It can be used as practice for the SAT, which
the student will take the following year. In the 11th
grade, it is used to determine which students will
participate in the National Merit Scholarship
Program.The State of Florida pays for all sophomores to take the PSAT.
Showing an interest in school
This test also is used for college admission.It is
designed to measure classroom achievement in four
areas:English,mathematics, reading and science.
Support your child’s education by showing
interest in school.Ask about school activities,and
encourage your child to talk about school successes and problems.Praise extra effort as well as
achievement.Ask your child to bring home test
papers and project grades to show you.You will be
able to spot and correct problems early when you
keep a close watch over your child's schoolwork.
PLAN
Making home a school zone
Like the PSAT, the PLAN,previously called the
P-ACT, is designed for sophomores and juniors as a
practice test for the ACT.
Many everyday activities at home can help a
child succeed at school.Children learn to read and
understand things better when their parents:
• Read,talk and listen to them
• Tell them stories and play games
• Discuss news,TV programs and school
activities
Reading is especially important.You can make
reading an important part of your child's life by visiting the library together, giving books and magazines as gifts, reading aloud to each other, and discussing what has been read.
If you want to know more about how you can
make your home a school zone, call your child's
teacher – he or she can help.
ACT
Achie vement tests
Achievement tests in various subject areas are
offered in conjunction with the SAT.The best time
to take an achievement test is just after finishing the
course so the information is fresh. (Please see your
student's guidance counselor for specific information and
advice.)
Advanced Placement tests
AP examinations allow students enrolled in
AP courses to demonstrate college-level achieve-
21
Helping with home
vidually about your child's unique needs.During a
conference, the teacher or guidance counselor can
provide information,answer questions and help solve
problems.
work
Homework reinforces skills practiced in the classroom.You can encourage good homework habits by
setting aside a regular homework time, providing materials and a well-lighted place to do homework and by
helping plan ahead for project deadlines.
Most children need help with homework from
time to time.Your willingness to help shows your child
that education is important to you.There are many
ways you can help. For example, quiz your child on
spelling words, help organize a science project or work
on math problems together.Your child's teacher can
give you ideas and advice on how you can assist your
child with homework.Many schools also have parent
resource centers with materials that might give you
some tips on helping with homework.If you are not
able to answer homework questions, encourage your
child to get help.You can call your school to find out if
a tutoring program is available.
How a conference can help your child
Success in school often results from the combined
efforts of the most important people in a student's life
– parents and teachers.Conferences are an important
way to keep the lines of communication open between
parents and teachers.
Parents can call a teacher to share information or
discuss concerns such as academic progress, classroom
behavior, personal or family situations that affect a student's life at school,or attitudes toward self,school and
peers.Teachers interact with students on a daily basis
and often are among the first to notice changes.Parents
should confer with their child’s teacher(s) at least once
a year.
Parents can contact the guidance counselor for
help in such areas as academic planning and adjusting to
a new school or community. Guidance counselors can
help by counseling students and families or by referring
them to programs and services outside the classroom.
Guidance counselors also provide information about
careers,colleges and job opportunities.Guidance counselors in some schools offer evening parenting classes.
Staying in touch with school
Your involvement,especially at the beginning of
the school year, will help your child get off to a good
start.Be sure to read carefully all of the material that
your child brings home from school.Some important
information will be needed from you,including your
current address,emergency phone numbers and emergency medical authorization.If your address or phone
number changes,please remember to keep your child's
school informed.
You will receive information periodically from your
child's school about holidays,employee planning days
(student days off),special school activities and testing
dates.Many schools share this information through an
annual calendar or a monthly newsletter.
Parent/teacher nights and school open houses are
good times to meet your child's teachers and see the
classrooms.Your attendance at school activities,such as
plays,concerts and athletic events,is also very important.Children appreciate the interest and pride that
their families show in their school life.
School conferences provide a chance to talk indi-
Arranging a school conf erence
A telephone conference with the teacher or guidance counselor can be a simple and effective way to solve
22
a minor problem,find out about special school activities
or exchange information.When a longer discussion is
needed,or if it would be helpful to include more members
of the school staff,a school conference can be arranged.
There are occasions when it becomes very important
that a parent contact the school and arrange for a conference.The following situations are some examples of learning or behavior problems that call for immediate attention: if your child doesn’t want to go to school;is upset
about something that has happened at school;has behavior problems in the community (problems with police or
courts);or has sudden changes in behavior, such as aggressive behavior or sudden changes in sleeping patterns—
these are all signals that a conference is needed.
Parents should take the initiative by calling the school
office and leaving a message for the teacher or guidance
counselor. If you are not available to talk by phone during
the day, you can send a note with your student.
A teacher, guidance counselor or other school staff
member who is concerned about your student may also
arrange for a conference. If you receive a request for a
conference, be sure to respond and let the teacher know
when you can schedule one. If you cannot attend,please
call to reschedule.
Making the most of a school conf
erence
Here are a few tips on how to get the greatest benefit
from a school conference:
• Write down the information that you want to
share at the conference, such as important changes
in the family or special needs, such as medication.
• Write down questions you want to ask about your
child or the school program, such as the homework
and grading policy.
• Let your child know you are having a conference.
Find out from your child if there is anything specific
you should discuss. Make sure your child is not
worried and understands that the conference is meant
to be helpful.
• Decide if it would be helpful for your child to attend
•
•
•
•
•
all or part of the conference.You can talk this over
with school staff in advance.
You may bring someone with you, such as another
family member or another parent, if it makes you
feel more comfortable.
Maintain eye contact, listen carefully and take notes
during the conference.If you don't understand
something a staff members says, request clarification.
Keep the focus of the conference on resolving
problems.Try to remain calm and in control of your
feelings. It is better to adjourn and schedule an
additional conference for another time if the
meeting becomes uncomfortable.
Before you leave,check your list to make sure all
items have been covered. Discuss future plans,
including what you, your child and the teacher/
counselor will do.
Keep the lines of communication open. Plan a way
to keep in touch with the teacher/counselor, such as
daily or weekly progress reports,e-mail, notes or by
phone.
School Impr ovement - Planning for the
futur e
Each Orange County public school invites parents to
get involved in our schools.The 1991 legislature passed a
law called “Blueprint 2000” that requires each school to
develop a plan for improvement, focusing on what students need to know and be able to do. At each school,
the School Advisory Council (SAC) works on this plan.
Improving a school calls for creating a plan for the
future. Schools need to know where they are, where they
want to be, and how they can best get there.The school
district has a strategic planning process that is designed to
help figure this out.The process helps school advisory
councils set goals and establish strategies for reaching
those goals.It helps the school,parents and students
create a shared vision and provide each other with support for achieving success.
23
Keeping track of pr ogress
Teachers, education support employees,students and
parents are elected to the SAC by their peer groups.
Community members are selected by the principal,acting
as an agent for the school board.
The SAC assists in the preparation and evaluation of
the school improvement plan.If the SAC feels that a state
law or district rule is a barrier to implementing a school
improvement plan,it may initiate requests for waivers
through the Charter School District process. A waiver is
permission to forgo a district or state requirement.Not
all laws or rules,however, are eligible to be waived.In carrying out its functions, the SAC seeks the participation of
other school staff,parents,community members and students.
After a school improvement plan is developed and
approved by the superintendent and school board,it
doesn't just sit on the shelf! Schools then put their plans
into action.Since school improvement is a continual
process of examining where you are and where you want
to go, an important part of the process involves checking
to see what's working,what's not and what adjustments
need to be made.
Schools are constantly changing.New students
arrive, communities change, attendance zones are
redrawn and educators learn new things about how children learn best;all these affect school plans and actions,
so evaluation needs to be an ongoing process.In addition,
a school will be evaluated on how it meets its objectives
and state accountability standards.
The district and learning community will provide
support for schools as they implement their plans.Most
schools will be on track,but the school board will help a
school having trouble reaching performance goals.A system of school reports will keep everyone informed about
improvements,plans and progress.
Volunteering at school
Another way to get involved in your child's education is by volunteering at school.No special skills are
needed,just a desire to help.Volunteers contribute at
school in many ways,including accompanying classes on
field trips, helping as a classroom assistant,serving on the
School Advisory Council or becoming a PTA/PTSA member or board member.
Parent volunteers get a close-up view of their child's
school. Seeing how children are taught also can give you
ideas on how to help your child at home.This program is
called the ADDitions School Volunteers program.
The Partners in Education program links businesses
and organizations with schools in relationships that
enhance student learning and promote school improvement.OCPS is always looking for businesses to join us in
educating our young people for a better tomorrow.Your
organization may provide schools with tours,speakers,
internships,financial support and much more.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in a
school or adult education program,contact Community
Resources at 407.317.3323.
School Advisory Council (SAC)
Each school must have a School Advisory Council
that is ethnically, racially and economically representative
of its community.This council is an umbrella group that
brings all the stakeholders together to work on improving a school.
Members of the SAC are selected according to procedures established by the school board and in compliance with the requirements of state statutes.Each SAC is
composed of the principal and representatives of teachers,education support employees,parents,community
members,and students.High schools and vocational-technical centers must have students on SACs.Student
membership on middle and elementary school SACs is
optional.
24
Parent-teacher support groups
For more information on programs or becoming a
volunteer or donor, contact the Foundation at 407.317.3261
or visit its Web site at www.foundationforocps.org.
Schools also have schoolwide parent-teacher support groups. As a member of a parent-teacher support
group, you can provide much-needed help to your local
school and get to know and assist classroom teachers.
Most of these support groups are Parent-Teacher
Associations or Parent-Teacher-Student Associations and
are part of the Orange County Council of PTAs/PTSAs,
Florida PTA and National PTA.In addition to providing
parent education and training,the PTA gives parents a
voice in school activities.The PTA also pursues legislative
initiatives adopted by its members.
Some schools also establish booster clubs to support extracurricular activities,such as band,chorus or
athletics.Some even have foundations that help with,or
sponsor, fund-raising activities for the school.
Orange County Public Schools is on the
Internet!
To find out more about our schools,departments
and programs,check out the district’s Web site at
www.ocps.net. You'll find school calendars,test scores,
zoning maps and lots of other useful information when
you log on.
Another Web site that might be of interest belongs
to the Florida Department of Education — the address is
www.fldoe.org .
The Foundation for Orange County Public
Schools
Since 1987, the Foundation for Orange County Public
Schools has been supporting local schools in delivering quality education. Its goals are to strengthen and enhance the
learning environment of every student by providing additional funding and other resources; encourage the active involvement of individuals, businesses and civic groups; and foster
communication between students, educators and the community.
The Foundation has directed over $8 million into
Orange County schools through such programs as Orange
County Scholars, a high school scholarship program for atrisk students, and Read2Succeed, a second-grade reading
tutoring/mentoring program. It also provides more than
$70,000 annually in grants to classroom teachers.
As a parent, you can help the Foundation support public
education.Purchase a “Support Education” license plate for
your car, and your $15 donation goes directly back into
classroom projects.
Civility Policy
In September of 2001 the Orange County School
Board approved the Code of Civility requiring that all
communication between students,OCPS faculty and staff,
parents,guardians and other members of the community
be conducted with courtesy, respect and kindness.The
code also provides for options that are available when
civility is lacking.
The Code of Civility represents many months of
work by district staff and members of the community and
was reviewed by the Interfaith Council of the National
Conference for Community and Justice. For a copy of the
Code of Civility, contact Community Relations at
407.317.3237
w w w. o c p s . k 1 2 . f l . u s
25
School Calendar
2003-2004
Monday-Friday
Wednesday
Monday
Monday
August 4-8
August 6
August 11
September 1
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
October 15
October 16
October 17
Monday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Friday
Two Weeks
Monday
Tuesday
Monday
October 20
November 26
November 27
November 28
December 19
Dec. 22 - Jan. 2
January 5
January 6
January 19
Monday
Thursday
Friday
Monday-Friday
February 16
March 11
March 12
March 15-19
Monday
Friday
Monday
Tuesday
March 22
April 23
April 26
May 25
Wed.-Thursday
May 26-27
Teacher Preplanning
Staff Development Day
First Day of Class
Labor Day Holiday
(Student/Teacher Holiday)
End 1st Marking Period (47 days)
Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
Statewide Professional Day
Student Holiday/Teacher Non-Workday
Begin 2nd Marking Period
Bad Weather Day*
Thanksgiving Holiday
Student/Teacher Holiday
End 2nd Marking Period (42 days)
Winter Holidays
Student Holiday/Teacher Workday
Begin 3rd Marking Period
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Student/Teacher Holiday
Student Holiday/Teacher Non-Workday
End 3rd Marking Period (46 days)
Student Holiday/Teacher Workday
Spring Holidays
Student/Teacher Holidays
Begin 4th Marking Period
Spring Holiday
Student Holiday/Teacher Non-Workday
End 4th Marking Period (45 days)
Last Day of School
Teacher Post Planning
*This will be part of Thanksgiving break if school district does not close for bad weather.
26
ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Community Relations
445 W. Amelia St.
Orlando, Fl 32801
407.317.3237
Web site: www.ocps.net